The train is the ideal way to travel in Italy. The train stations are easy to navigate, are clean, and helpful English speaking employees are everywhere. Don’t be afraid to utilize this relaxing way to travel. We took the train from Venice (Venezia) to Florence (Firenze) on Italo treno Italo, italian high-speed train | Book no service fee | italotreno.it. I booked our tickets ahead of time to ensure that we would be in a car with luggage storage and that seat assignments were available. We arrived at the train station in Venice in plenty of time to enjoy a nice glass of chianti and a sandwich (seating upstairs is vast and heated).
Upon our arrival in Florence, we took a 10 minute walk to Hotel Pendini Hotel Pendini official website – Book now at the best price which is located in Piazza della Repubblica. This was a great hotel in the heart of the city within easy walking distance of all major attractions.
Now that you are here it’s time to explore! Make a reservation ahead of time to see Michelangelo’s David at Home – Galleria dell’Accademia di Firenze (galleriaaccademiafirenze.it). This was such a surreal moment to see David and many of Michelangelo’s other sculptures. I recommend paying the small fee for the audio tour as it was super informative and gave history to these incredible pieces. We spent about two hours here.
Next, take a walk over to the famous Santa Maria Novella Pharmacy Officina Profumo-Farmaceutica di Santa Maria Novella Florence Via della Scala – Officina Profumo Santa Maria Novella (smnovella.com) and indulge in the many different scents that’s roots trace back to 1221. This location at Via della Scala is breathtaking and you won’t leave empty handed. I recommend the Muschio (musk) scent!
Then, head over to “The Leather School” Scuola del Cuoio. Florence is known for its leather and there are hundreds of shops (many are not authentic so beware) all over the city. If you want a true leather experience where you can watch the products take shape then go here. This school has an amazing history and even though the pieces aren’t as cheap as you would find in the marketplace, you will have quality craftsmanship that will last. They will even engrave your piece for you!
The clothes shopping in Florence is plentiful and the prices are very reasonable. It’s no wonder why Florentine people are dressed beautifully and appear to have just walked out of a magazine. Don’t be intimidated, support their local economy and make some purchases. I can’t think of better souvenirs!
I’m sure you are hungry by now, so prepare to have a meal that you will think about for months to come at Home – Osteria Giglio d’oro (osteriagigliodoro.it). May I recommend following my lead? We shared a 20€ bottle of Chianti which did the trick to warm us up after a day out in the December chill. Next, we started with an appetizer of burrata with salmon shirt. Then, I moved on to pappa al pomodoro (my favorite Italian soup). For the main course, I had pappardelle with wild boar. You guys, run to this restaurant! We spent hours here enjoying the gorgeous ambiance, impeccable service and fresh food. Huge chef’s kiss!
For your second day in Florence, you need to learn how to make the delicious, amazing food that you ate last night. Do yourself a favor and book Florence Cooking Class and Lunch at a Farmhouse in Tuscany with Local Market Tour Florence Cooking Class and Lunch in Tuscany with Local Market tour (walkaboutflorence.com). Read my full review of this tour.
After your tour, you’ll need to walk off all of that amazing food so explore Florence and check out the gorgeous Christmas decorations. You will feel like you are in a movie and there are so many photo opportunities. Also, take some time to listen to the super talented street musicians that are on most corners.
I love a tip based tour and the ability to fit more in after dark. Dark Side of Florence: Mysteries & Legends with Free Tour – The Dark Side of Florence – Mysteries & Legends – Florence | FREETOUR.com checks both boxes. Learn about local conspiracies, superstitions and unexplained mysteries as you walk around Florence with your guide. These tours are free but be sure to tip your guide well!
You may need to warm up and have a snack before heading back to the hotel for the night. Take advantage of one of the little trattorias and pop in for a quick pizza and glass of house chianti. In Florence, patrons tend to order a pizza per diner. Do it, you’re in Florence! Buona notte, Firenze.
