The summer between my junior and senior years of college, I attended the FSU Study Abroad Program in Florence, Italy and it was fantastico! I hit the jackpot with the excellent professors and of course, my fellow students who are still my friends over two decades later.
I remember the elation that I felt when I received my acceptance letter from the International Programs office, the anticipation that kept me from sleeping on the overnight flight to Rome and when we touched ground in Firenze, I had that distinctive “this is it” feeling.
Being surrounded by a language that is not mine; surrounded by the aroma of garlic sautéed in olive oil wafting from the trattorias and being surrounded by astounding architecture, statues, art and adornments at every turn took my breath away and still does whenever I am in my second favorite city. The adventure that I took over twenty years ago opened my eyes, mind and senses to Italy and Italian culture. I try to visit a new city or region each time I am there but I make sure to always include a return to Firenze.
When visiting Firenze, there are the must-sees: Cathedral of Santa Maria del Fiore (also known as the Duomo), which should be admired from a 360-degree perspective on the outside and inside, from the ground to the top of the dome ( 463 steps up) to take in views of the city. Take another climb to the viewing platform at the top of the Campanile (Bell Tower) and visit the Baptistery. Your “to do” list should include Michelangelo’s David in the Galleria dell’Accademia , Galleria deli Uffizi, San Lorenzo, San Marco, Palazzo Vecchio, and every.single. Piazza. Depending on how long you visit (or revisit), I highly suggest exploring the Oltrarno area on the south side of the Arno River by taking any of these three bridges: Ponte Santa Trinita, the famous Ponte Vecchio, and Ponte Alle Grazie. Highlights are the Piazalle Michelangelo, San Miniato al Monte, Pitti Palace, Boboli Gardens and an abundance of charm.
Whichever side of the River, I am a big enthusiast of strolling! Veer off the main streets to explore. While it is very difficult to get completely lost in Florence, one should try to get a little bit lost, as you never know what you may discover!
NEXT: Stay tuned for The Candi Dish Firenze Faves!
a presto! ciao!