Unforgettable Florence

On my first visit to the Capital of Tuscany, it was easy to understand why this gem of a city continues to captivate the heart of so many visitors year after year. Best seen on foot, a guided walk will take you on a relaxed tour of the city highlights. As you walk around the beautiful streets and enchanting alleyways, each turn you will find yourself face to face with a piece of history. World famous renaissance sculptures, stunning architecture dating back from medieval Europe or churches from various periods in history will have you mesmerised, especially the masterpiece that is The Basilica di Santa Maria del Fiore - or "Duomo" for short. I was lucky enough to stay in a piece of such history thanks to Classic Collection Holidays. The stunning 4* Hotel Brunelleschi boasts a prime location in the historic centre, and has perfectly preserved the oldest building in Florence as part of it's structure. On my visit to 6 hotels, each uniquely beautiful, I experienced fine dining at its best with outstanding hospitality. If a city centre hotel is not for you, a 10 minute drive will bring you face to face with a number of magnificent villa hotels. Set in landscaped gardens, historical mansions such as "Il Salviatino or the "Villa Cora" certainly have the WOW factor! Florence is a shoppers paradise: leather goods, Murano Glass, Burano Lace and everything in between. Ponte Vecchio, the famous medieval bridge over the Arno River, houses numerous jewellers, art dealers and souvenir shops and has it's own place in history... a story for your own discovery! For the less adventurous there is an abundance of coffee shops, cafes and restaurants dotted around the magnificent Piazzas where you can sit and people watch whist you absorb the charming atmosphere, and plan your next steps. So a stand alone city break or as part of a tour/twin/multi-centre holiday, Florence is a must for your next European adventure. Perfect for visitors of all ages and interests.