Visit Florence in Winter
The city of Florence is pervaded with culture, art, history, tradition and wealth. Each and every corner of the capital of Tuscany hides an incomparable beauty. And I really want to tell you that visiting Florence in winter has a special charm and offers many benefits that you will not find in any other season of the year.
The biggest advantage of visiting Florence in winter is that you will save time and money. You won’t have to wait in long lines to visit a museum or eat at the restaurant. You can also stroll in the amazing streets and alleys, enjoying every detail without having to move among thousands of tourists. But of course you must not forget warm clothes! Winter temperature in Florence are low, the climate is humid but not cold. A pair of gloves, a scarf and your desire to have fun is all you need to spend unforgettable days in one of the most beautiful cities in the world.
What to do in Florence in winter
Be assured that, whatever your likes and passions, the city of the Renaissance will not disappoint you: it is truly an open-air museum. For example, Piazza del Duomo is a must, it is the heart of the city, part of the UNESCO World Heritage. Don’t miss the Cathedral of Santa Maria del Fiore, Giotto’s bell tower, the baptistery of San Giovanni and the other majestic buildings, museums and historic monuments.
Don’t forget to take the opportunity to enjoy the Uffizi Gallery, the Museum of San Marco and the Palazzo Vecchio, located in the beautiful Piazza della Signoria. On a sunny day take a look at the picturesque view from Piazzale Michelangelo or San Miniato al Monte. And when it’s time for food, you might enjoy a visit to one of the many cellars and taste a cup of excellent Chianti. Last but not least: Florence is perfect for shopping! If you happen to be in Florence at Christmas for the festive season the shops decorate their windows with beautiful gifts, perfects for your friends or family.
You have a wide range of possibilities at your disposal because there are so many things that you can do in Florence in winter. It is a lively city that offers you shows, theatre plays, concerts, sport events, football matches and many other ideas to have fun.
And besides discovering the city’s monuments, museums, palaces, squares, bridges and parks, you must definitely explore Florence local cuisine. Local street food includes flatbread (“schiacciata fiorentina”) stuffed with your favourite filling, or local “lampredotto” that is a sandwich filled with tripe. Need to warm up? Then ask for a “ribollita”, the most famous Tuscan soup. And of course you should taste the jewel of the crown: the Florentine steak.
Where to sleep in Florence
If you do not know where to stay in Florence during your Winter trip, I recommend you chose the Oltrarno district, where the real Florentine life takes place: the area of trattorias, craft and antique shops and markets. The Oltrarno area is also known as Diladdarno, and is divided into several districts, less crowded and cheaper. It is perfect for eating and sleeping well at a good price!
You will also breathe the true essence of Florence, just across Ponte Vecchio where the meat market was, but today it is populated by crafts shops, goldsmiths and jewellers. You will be charmed by the many churches and palaces that you will find on the way. The Pitti Palace overlooks the Boboli Garden and is a true wonder. Also worth seeing is the Church of Santa Felicita, the Church of San Frediano in Cestello and Piazza del Carmine. Piazza Santo Spirito is the perfect place for a break or a drink before going to dinner.
In short, visiting Florence in winter is a fabulous experience and you will probably want to come back… Let the warmth of “Florence la bella” warm up your winter!
