48 Hours In Florence

Topic	48 Hours In Florence
Read Time	5 Minutes
Author	Laura Radford, Travel Writer

Florence, the birthplace of the Renaissance, is a city brimming with artistic treasures, historical landmarks, and culinary delights. With 48 hours to explore, you can immerse yourself in the best this enchanting city has to offer. This guide will take you through different themes of exploration, ensuring you experience Florence's diverse and captivating charm on your Italy rail holiday.

ARTISTIC HERITAGE

The Piazza del Duomo, the symbolic heart of Florence, is home to the Cathedral of Santa Maria del Fiore (the Duomo), a masterpiece of Gothic architecture with its iconic dome designed by Brunelleschi. Climb to the top for a panoramic view of the city that will leave you breathless. Don't forget to visit the Baptistery of St. John and marvel at the intricate bronze doors known as the Gates of Paradise.

Next, head to the Galleria dell'Accademia to witness Michelangelo’s David. This iconic sculpture, representing the biblical hero, is a testament to the genius of Renaissance art. Take your time exploring the gallery, which houses other significant works by Michelangelo and his contemporaries.

A must-visit in Florence is the Uffizi Gallery, one of the most famous art museums in the world. The Uffizi's vast collection includes masterpieces by Botticelli, Leonardo da Vinci, Raphael, and Caravaggio. Highlights include Botticelli’s "The Birth of Venus" and "Primavera". Be sure to book your tickets in advance to avoid the long queues, however many of our rail holidays to Italy include these for ease.

HISTORIC QUARTERS AND LOCAL MARKETS

Visit the historic Oltrarno district, known for its artisan workshops and bohemian vibe. Stroll around the Pitti Palace, the former residence of the Medici family, now home to several museums and the beautiful Boboli Gardens. Spend your morning exploring the palace's rich art collections and walking through the lush gardens, which offer spectacular views of the city.

Cross the beautiful Ponte Vecchio, Florence's oldest and most famous bridge, lined with jewellery shops. Be sure to stop by the Basilica di Santa Croce, the final resting place of notable Italians such as Michelangelo, Galileo, and Machiavelli. The church is a stunning example of Gothic architecture, with beautiful frescoes by Giotto.

For lunch, we recommend heading to the Mercato Centrale. This bustling market is a food lover’s paradise, offering a wide variety of fresh produce, meats, cheeses, and prepared foods. Try a panino con lampredotto, a traditional Florentine tripe sandwich, or sample some local cheeses and cured meats.

CULINARY ADVENTURES

Continue your culinary journey through Florence and join a cooking class to learn how to make traditional Tuscan dishes like pappardelle al cinghiale (pasta with wild boar sauce) or ribollita (a hearty vegetable and bread soup).

Alternatively, dine at one of Florence’s renowned restaurants. Il Palagio at the Four Seasons Hotel offers a luxurious dining experience with a menu that highlights the best of Tuscan cuisine, using fresh, local ingredients.

Florence is a city that captivates the heart and soul with its rich tapestry of art, history, and culinary delights. In just 48 hours, you can immerse yourself in the Renaissance treasures, explore historic quarters, and enjoy the flavours of Tuscany, so why not start planning your Italy rail holiday to take in all these treasures and more.