Dreaming of your next summer getaway? We're reminiscing about our trip to Florence, Italy...the dream spot for great food, history, design, and style! If you're looking for some inspiration for your next Italian vacation, then read more about our time in this exceptional Renaissance era city.

You'll never go hungry in this spectacular city, that's for sure! The Florentine Steak is one of the city's most beloved meals, and you can get a great quality meal while looking out onto The Duomo after scaling The Cathedral of Santa Maria del Fiore's 463 steps to the top. And how could you go to Italy without grabbing some amazing pizza! We loved every meal we had in Florence, but be sure to ask the locals what their favorites are...they'll be sure to lead you in the right direction that even the most trusted tour guides won't be able to find. Scan the local farmers markets, various neighborhoods, and street vendors and you'll definitely be able to find some of Florence's hidden gems.

With a variety of artisanal shops and local artists, Florence is bustling with creative expression. You can find just about anything in the countless shopping squares of this city and be sure to seek out the family-owned businesses along the Arno River, some of these stores have had their doors open for five generations! The museums in Florence are also a treat. The Gucci Garden and the Salvatore Ferragamo Experiences were amazing to see first hand the history of these Italian fashion houses and the excitement they bring to the city. If you're a fashionista or just have an appreciation for the art of Italian fashion, then be sure to check these two out! It seems as though this city is oozing with artistic expression and history, you don't want to miss out on the excitement of what keeps this historic town turning at the wheels.

If you're looking to expand your trip beyond Florence, then a quick day trip from this city includes Cinque Terre and Lerici. In Cinque Terre, you can explore the beautiful five towns of this coastal village set up by train and enjoy time at some of the local beaches. The colorful buildings and multitude of cats walking along the terraces make this place feel that more beautiful. A tip for summer goers, be sure to bring your own water and get in line early for the train home, you don't want to miss the last train out and be stuck there overnight! The crowds are no joke but if you seek out the furthest town to the South, Riomaggiore, then you'll find more private beaches and less people. Work your way up North to Monterosso for more beach time once the crowds have gone. In Lerici, you'll also find exquisite beaches and scenic views. Be sure to visit the Cháteau de Lerici, a beautiful 1214 castle dominating the port and enjoy lunch overlooking the hillside. You can wonder the shops or hop into the sea at one of the various beaches. Enjoy the quiet and peace away from the hustle and bustle of Florence and the train will take you back directly to Florence Station by night. All you need is sunscreen and beach towels and you'll be set to take on this cute town!

We hope you enjoyed our mini recap of one of the most beautiful cities: Florence, Italy! With so much to explore and so much to do, this city is wonderful for all age. We hope everyone gets a chance to wonder the streets of Firenze at least once in their lifetime.

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