Florence, Italy

Florence (Firenze in Italian) is a cradle of Western culture and artistic tradition. This great city is one of Europe's preeminent cultural destinations, holding claim to some of the world's greatest works of art. This was the birthplace of the Renaissance in the early 15th century, when the study of the glory that was Greece and the grandeur that was Rome became a Florentine passion. This cultural and artistic rebirth brought with it a new respect for learning and creativity, a remarkable moment in history that is still in evidence everywhere in Florence today. Politician and historian Niccolò Machiavelli, artist Botticelli, and sculptor Donatello all lived and worked here during that great time. And the wonders didn't cease after the Renaissance. It is in Florence that you'll also find works by Leonardo, Raffaello, and others, including Michelangelo's David, perhaps one of the most famous works of art in all the world.

Florence has much to offer from the modern day as well, successfully adapting to the demands of 21st-century life while managing to retain its Medieval architecture dominated by fortress-like facades and infrastructure of cobblestone streets. Nestled in the heart of Tuscany, Florence is a historical and cultural treasure trove that excites your sensibilities and awakens within you a Renaissance of your own!

Areas Within the Destination

Old City: Travelers to Florence can feel as if they have stepped out of time, enjoying the beauty and awe-inspiring structures that have survived the centuries. The pre-Renaissance and Renaissance architecture makes for a rewarding sightseeing experience. Just walking around will reveal this magnificent city's ancient urban structure, evolved from the historical center characterized by roads of Roman origin. Surrounding walls date back to the 12th and 14th centuries.