The birthplace of the Italian Renaissance, Florence abounds in cultural, artistic and architectural appeals. It is the capital of Tuscany and, in many ways, was the most important city in Europe from the 14th to the 16th centuries. Its bankers financed world explorers while its scientists made groundbreaking discoveries and artists flourished under the patronage of the powerful Medicis.

Sites of interest range from the world-famous Duomo (which marked the transition from the Middle Ages to the Renaissance), countless other churches filled with important artworks, and more than 80 museums, including the legendary galleries of The Uffizi and Pitti Palace. Michelango’s David is displayed at the Accademia.

Shopping is a major pastime in Florence. Visitors will find endless temptations in the jewelry stores of the historic Ponte Vecchio that spans the Arno River, along the famous shopping streets of Via Tornabuoni, Via del Parione and Via Maggio, as well as hidden delights tucked along the city’s small side streets.