Florence

Florence, the cradle of the Renaissance, is a city where history, art, and elegance blend seamlessly. Every corner tells a story, from the majestic Duomo di Firenze with its breathtaking dome to the artistic treasures housed in the Uffizi Gallery and Accademia, home to Michelangelo’s David. The Ponte Vecchio, lined with glittering jewellery shops, offers stunning views over the Arno River, especially at sunset. Exploring Palazzo Vecchio and the serene Boboli Gardens gives a glimpse into Florence’s royal heritage, while charming cafés like Caffè Gilli and authentic trattorias such as Osteria Vini e Vecchi Sapori and Il Guscio capture the city’s culinary soul. For fine dining, Il Palagio and Borgo San Jacopo redefine Tuscan flavours with Michelin-star excellence. Shopping in Florence is a delight, from the luxury boutiques on Via de’ Tornabuoni to the vibrant Mercato di San Lorenzo and the grand Rinascente department store on Piazza della Repubblica. Whether admiring world-class art, savouring authentic Italian cuisine, or simply wandering through cobbled streets lined with Renaissance architecture, Florence exudes timeless charm and romance. It’s not just a destination, it’s an open-air museum where every step feels like walking through history.

My time in Florence felt like living inside a Renaissance painting, vibrant, romantic, and full of soul. I stayed at the elegant Villa Cora, a luxurious retreat surrounded by lush gardens and timeless beauty. Each morning began with the soft chime of church bells and the aroma of fresh espresso drifting through the air. Exploring the city was pure magic. Standing beneath the magnificent Duomo left me in awe, while the Uffizi Gallery and Accademia brought me face-to-face with masterpieces I’d only ever seen in books. Walking across the Ponte Vecchio, with its glittering jewellery shops and golden sunset reflections on the Arno, was unforgettable. Meals in Florence were just as enchanting, from wood-fired pizzas at Il Pizzaccherie to fine dining at Il Palagio and Borgo San Jacopo, each bite celebrated Tuscan flavours. I loved wandering down Via de’ Tornabuoni, admiring high-end boutiques and local artisans’ leather goods. Evenings spent at cosy cafés like Caffè Gilli or Osteria Vini e Vecchi Sapori captured the city’s charm perfectly. Florence, to me, wasn’t just a destination, it was a feeling of art, passion, and beauty that stays in your heart long after you leave.