After the city of Pisa, where I set foot in Tuscany, I now have a colorful and magnificent city on my route. Florence, one of the tourism capitals of Italy that you all know well !
This is more than a city. Where da Vinci, Michelangelo and many others found themselves, the land of the Renaissance sun. You can read my general impressions of this city and places to visit in my travel notes in Florence, along with my adventure. >
Monday, June 30After half a day’s sightseeing in Pisa, it’s time to set off for Florence.. Arriving at Pisa Centrale Train Station. These trains are the best way to reach Florence from Pisa.. You can travel between these two cities in just one hour, accompanied by a delightful Tuscan view.
It might be a bit complicated to reach Florence from our country. There is no airline that operates direct flights to Florence Airport from Turkey. , but don’t worry! Florence is located near Italian cities such as Bologna, Pisa, Rome, Milan and Genova. There are frequent flights to each of these cities from Istanbul and other cities.. Transportation in Italy is both cheap and easy with trains.
My suggestion is to take an Italy route from north to south. You can explore from Milan to Rome and even Naples and Sicily !
Pisa Centrale Station / While Waiting for my Florence Train
From Pisa to Florence
My ticket to Florence from Pisa Station I’m buying. I pay 8.40 euro for this trip. I confirmed that the price is also up to date for 2018
Our train is moving, we follow the Arno River along the way. There is such a beautiful view that I start to see the Firenze signs before I realize how the time passes.. “Firenze” I said yes! That’s the Italian name of this city. If you pronounce Florence and Florence you may run into trouble Italians can get a little angry about this.
On the way from Pisa to Florence / By Train
Where is Florence?
Now about Florence I will give information. This is an important city in the north-central part of Italy.. It is also the capital of the Tuscany Autonomous Region. Its population is about one million with the small settlements around it.
The history of Florence goes back to before Christ.. It is said that by the order of Julius Caesar, this area on the banks of the Arno River is given to the retired soldiers, and then the city of Florence is established. 15 golden letters to the history of the region. Written as of the 19th century and the Renaissance. The innovative art movement that emerged in this period made Florence famous all over the world with its art and beauty.
Florence, which is one of the most famous and popular tourism centers in the world, just as in its history. still continues its culture and art movement. In addition, the fertile, wet lands of the Tuscany Region makes this place an agriculture and wine paradise.
Florence General View / The Photo I Take on a Street Leading to the Duomo
First Impressions
We continue on our way after a little information that you can understand Florence better. My train has already arrived at Florence Santa Maria Novella (SMN) Station.. This is a very crowded and large station.. Since Florence is geographically located in the central part of Italy, it can be said that there are flights everywhere.
The front of the station is at least as crowded as the inside. Buses to different parts of the city depart from here.. Since my accommodation is on the opposite side of the river and a little bit on the hill, I hop on one of the buses.
You can get a ticket from the station when you get on the bus, but this time I use my experience and get on for free This is my second time to Florence >. I explored this city for two days when I was doing the interrail, now I will interpret Florence in more depth and convey it to you.. This place is not as simple as a half-day stroll !
Florence SMN Train Station / The First Time I Landed
Where to Stay in Florence?
After 15 minutes we’re going up that famous Michelangelo Hill. There is a camp-hostel in this part of the city mostly preferred by young people. I’ve been seeing this concept frequently in the south of Europe lately.
There are so many options for accommodation in Florence.. This could be the starting point of the boutique hotel concept. There are hundreds or even thousands of tiny hotels and guesthouses.. Luxury hotels and hostels are also available for those who prefer. But this time, I will experience an alternative accommodation.
Actually, it is referred to as a hostel in most places, but this is a tent accommodation. I will pay 20 euros per person for two nights at Camping Michelangelo, just behind the Michelangelo Square.. This price is the lowest I’ve seen in the city. Besides, with the hot July weather and the beautiful vegetation of Tuscany, I think it’s not a bad idea !
Michelangelo Camping / On Our Way / Of course we didn’t stay in these tents
Places to Visit in Florence
Those who come from my Pisa notes will know, my close friend Furkan is with me on this trip.. With the quickness of both of us, we immediately leave our belongings in our tent and start walking around.
We are at Michelangelo Square as the first point to visit in Florence.. This is a nice square on the southeast hill of the city. You know this important personality the famous architect, painter or whatever you call it, after which it is named. As you can imagine, there is a statue right in the middle of it.
Michelangelo Square and The Unclear Me
Michelangelo Square
The most beautiful feature of the square is its magnificent Florence View.. From here, you can watch special structures such as Ponte Vecchio and Duomo along with the Arno River.. You can’t say you’ve seen Florence before you come here.
It’s time to go down! There’s a cute way down Michelangelo. Here you will see the Giardino delle Rose, that is, the rose garden.. Florence is a fairy-tale place, it wouldn’t be without flowers.
The Path Down from Michelangelo
Florence in the South
I’m on the south bank of the river. This is the part of the city that stays on its own.. To the north of the Arno, the main center of Florence. With the last day in Pisa, it started to get dark. The sun that hits from an oblique angle made my view even more beautiful, I’m enjoying it and watching the surroundings.
The sun is setting ! The day ends with the sun penetrating through the clouds and the Vecchio bridge.. Today I just watched the city to feel like I came to Florence. Tomorrow I will continue to explore places to visit in Florence, now sleep sweet.
The Sunset of My First Day / Arno River and Ponte Vecchio in the Back
Tuesday, July 1. I think it’s a privilege to wake up to the day in Florence. Our tent, hit by the sun, got a little warm. After I shower and have breakfast, I’m ready to experience this city.
I’m in Michelangelo again. While walking along the rose-scented paths, we take lots of photos.. I don’t always have my camera with me, today I have it, the weather is nice, the surroundings are colorful, so dance !
One of the Roses in the Rose Garden / Vecchio Palace in the Back
From the Ponte alle Grazie bridge in the east of the city i’m crossing north florence. We agreed that Ponte meant bridge.. Since I mentioned these issues in more detail in my travel notes in Pisa, which I visited the previous day, I do not go into much.
Today is very busy.. You’re likely to see hated tourists andItalians on their bikes in Florence. After a few photos I took on the bridge, it goes straight ahead and I arrive at the first place I will visit today.
Florence from Michelangelo Hill
Santa Croce Basilica
Santa Croce Basilica is not Florence’s most famous structure. But it is certain that it is one of the most important churches.. 13. This church, which was built at the end of the century, was the most important point of the Franciscan sect.
Basilica of Santa Croce
In the courtyard of the church, there are graves of important people such as Michelangelo, Galileo, Gentile and Marconi. exists. That’s why the Italians call it the “Temple of Bragging”.
The marble walls of the church, which was built with the architectural style called Neo-Gothic, will attract your attention at first glance.. Also worth seeing are the adjacent Pazzi Chapel and the Florence National Library on the south side.
The Monument in Front of Santa Croce Basilica
Borgo dei Greci
From the alley across the church I’m heading west, this is Borgo dei Greci Street. It can be tried on Greek Street. If you go a little further and turn around and look at the Church of Santa Croce, you will understand the wonderful harmony.
You have to get used to these narrow streets.. These charming streets in Florence reflect the old atmosphere of the city and provide shopping opportunities with modern shops.. There is a nice atmosphere that welcomes me at the end of Greek Street !
Borgo dei Greci Street
Square Signoria
I am at Piazza della Signoria. When you come here, you can say that I am in Florence now.. There are hundreds of people in this small square.. All around you are colorful houses, historical artifacts and shops…
Signoria offers you a panoramic experience. Take your camera and immortalize this unique moment, no matter the location or direction, everywhere is fascinating !
Signoria Square
Palace of Vecchio
Palazzo Vecchio, the most important member of the square without a doubt. Many of you know this palace from TV series, movies or games. What you know rises before me and this is incredible.
Palace of Vecchio
Palace of Vecchio is a remarkable building with its medieval castle-like architecture. 13. It was built with a high bell tower to dominate the city at the end of the century.
The interior of the palace is as interesting as its exterior.. You can access the entrance section for free.. The columns and embroideries here are quite nice. Those who want to examine this building, which is used as the city hall today, need to buy tickets in advance.
Signoria Square
Florence Museums
Actually, I need to open the ticket issue.. There are so many museums, palaces and churches to visit in Florence that you have to spend weeks here to visit them all. Most structures are not as simple as 5 minutes.. Even every little painting on the walls belongs to world-famous painters here.
My advice is to experience the city first in Florence, like me.. Then you should reserve special days for museums and historical artifacts.. Chief among these is the Uffizi Museum, the riverside neighbor of the Vecchio Palace.. Would it be okay to go back without visiting the Uffizi?
Visiting Section of the Vecchio Palace
Uffizi Gallery
Uffizi Gallery is a place you will never meet. This is one of the most visited and cared museums in the world.. What the Louvre and Orsay are in Paris, the Uffizi is at that level a museum, a gallery. To visit the Uffizi, you must make a reservation well in advance, otherwise you may have to wait in line for hours.
Paying separately for so many museums and structures in Florence is a bit ridiculous.. If you buy the Florence City Card, which is sold by Italian official institutions, you can visit these points at a much more affordable price in total.
After Signoria Square, I start walking improvised.. I can’t name you a street or a spot in this part of Florence, they are all worth seeing.
The Road to the Uffizi and the Museum District
Republic Square
I follow the crowd and the shops. I can recognize the door from the end of the street wherever I see it!
Now I’m in another square of the city, Piazza della Repubblica. I don’t need to reveal the name This square reflects yet another touristic and lively face of Florence. With lovely restaurants under the yellow and orange buildings, Florence says you should take a break and taste an Italian flavor now!
The Street Leading to Piazza della Repubblica / The Door I Mentioned Behind Me
What to Eat in Florence?
Not without a rest and a snack. When I’m talking about Italy, I always say “you already know”. Today, I will eat pasta with a special sauce from Italian Cuisine.
If you are in a restaurant in Italy, “do we like this dish?”, “if we are hungry?” do not doubt. Food and sauce cultures are so similar to us that I don’t hesitate to try something new that I haven’t heard of.
I was right this time too! 3-5 giant pasta grains and served with a ravioli-like sauce. Does it taste good too
Piazza della Repubblica and Fairy Weather
Meanwhile, I’m examining Florence’s Republic Square. There is a fairground atmosphere here, the tiny merry-go-round and the painters’ stands are already a classic.
The most special structure of the square reminded me of the entrance to the Vittorio Emanuele Gallery in Milan.. I think it’s a pleasure to walk through the center of this building, part of which is now used as a hotel.
Florence Cathedral
Duomo Square
I’m walking north again from here. Florence Cathedral and Piazza del Duomo, which are synonymous with the name of the city, are now in front of me.
Duomo Square can be described as the historical center of the city.. It is home to Florence’s most iconic structure, Florence Cathedral. The shops and houses around the colossal cathedral all reflect a unique trend here.
Duomo Square and Florence Cathedral and
Florence Cathedral
Florence Cathedral, or Duomo, is undoubtedly the most important structure of this city.. This church, which is familiar to even those who have not been to Florence before, is extremely impressive with its gigantic dimensions.
Like other important structures in the city, 13. Transitions of Gothic and Renaissance Architectures can be seen in the church, which was built in the late 19th century.. It may take hours to fully examine the Duomo, where I see traces of the Romanesque understanding I mostly encountered in Western Europe.
Florence Cathedral / The Most General State of My Frame
Santa Croce’ at the eastern end of the city. Unlike the cathedral, which has more details and decorations, this is a big complex with its baptistery and bell tower next to the cathedral.
Florence Cathedral will surprise you the first time you see it, I’m sure.. Because it is so close to the houses around it and so big for them as if it did not belong to this location.
Taking a decent photo with the cathedral is a bit difficult, I should add that the beauties came out of the Michelangelo I was there in the morning.
Florence Cathedral
Journey to the Top of the Duomo with the Photo I Taken by Michelangelo the Night Before. But when I first came here, I did it for free While I was observing the inside from the turnstiles at the exit of the church, I realized that there was no one and I went up to the top!
In the interior, you go up the stairs up to the domes tens of turns.. In the meantime, it was a little funny that we encountered tourists trying to get off from the opposite direction.. With the energy of youth and sincerity, I think everyone gave way, I have reached the top.
You can watch the interior of the cathedral from the top in a fascinating way. But don’t think that I will see a view outside In addition to being a sweet memory and adventure for me, I also made such a recommendation to you.
The Photo I Taken From the Top of the Duomo / My 2013 Interrail Trip
Mercato Centrale
After the Duomo, I’m moving further north of the city, it’s getting secluded. There are dozens of churches, small squares and palaces to explore in this area.. I have now come to a point that interests me !
I am at Mercato Centrale. I am in the hall building of the city, which is seen characteristically in Europe.. The most important example I can think of is the Market Hall in Budapest.. But this one is a little different. There are small shops where you can taste the wines of this region, where you can try local delicacies on foot.
Inside Mercato Centrale
There is also a small bookstore and cafe.. I think it is one of the different places to be seen in Florence with its atmosphere reminiscent of a delightfully built hangar.
My time is approaching 5 pm. When it is afternoon in Florence, you have to get close to the river! You can see the fairytale texture of this city. There is no other place to live.
On the way to Ponte Vecchio / The Colorful Streets of the City
Ponte Vecchio
From the Central Market, I descend straight towards Arno. My journey is to the city’s most lyrical and self-contained member; Ponte Vecchio.
Bridges have always fascinated me, they are often the ones who create cities in my eyes.. Golden Gate is the heart of San Francisco, 25th April Bridge is Lisbon’s. The Freedom Bridge in Budapest is what keeps the city alive for me. But none of them is like this bridge, Ponte Vecchio is another…
Vecchio Bridge
14. The Vecchio Bridge, which was completed in the 19th century, is a very difficult structure to be seen in the world.. It has a concept named after itself, with a shop and a house on it.
The bridge has been the scene of wars and many important events.. Most interestingly, despite the bombing of his brothers in the Second World War, he was not attacked or he was not.
On the Vecchio Bridge
Ponte Vecchio is a bridge connecting Florence from north to south today. It’s like a street. It is famous for the jewelery shops on it.. Also, those who know the joy of watching the sun set on the Arno River over this bridge, know.
I cross the south end of the bridge, a little further west of the point where I started my day.. The houses here seem a little more intimate. While the north of the city is more touristic, my place is like its old quarter.
It’s getting dark now, it’s time to go to Michelangelo from the shore of the Arno.. There are nice parks and cafes on this bank of the river. These cafes are under trees, they are like tea gardens. There is also a market on the corner.. I go in and buy myself a nice wine.
Photo of Vecchio from the Other Angle
Wines of Tuscany
I didn’t talk much about wines. A place famous for Tuscany Wines. I have always come across Tuscany Wines in most places I have been to in the world.
You can findlocal versions of these wines in Florence markets.. The prices are also very affordable, you can buy the bottle for 3-5 euros.. Coming here and returning without drinking wine at sunset ?
Climbing up to Michelangelo on the way back can be a bit tiring But if you are here at this time of the day, you won’t mind the tiredness.
Wine Prices in Florence Markets / There were more suitable ones too
Michelangelo Stairs
Michelangelo also has stairs, this is the best spot to watch the sunset in Florence, in my opinion. The whole city and the Arno River are in front of you.
The stairs are very crowded in the evening hours, there is a street artist in front of the people sitting in a way that resembles an amphitheater.. She plays and sings like a concert. The songs are familiar to tourists, Wild World, Hotel California and the like…
Michelangelo Stairs
Sunset in Florence
A little lucky today i can be. At sunset, with the weather a little cloudy, the way the sun looked at us became even more beautiful. Lots of photos, some music, and I’m immersed.
My Sunset Shot in Florence 1
As the sun goes down, the city seems to go into a great silence, then you immediately see the specially illuminated Ponte Vecchio and the Duomo. You will be able to choose.
My Sunset Shot in Florence 2
We’re going back to our campsite. Don’t look we’re back, it has a pretty fun atmosphere. In the evening everyone staying here is sitting and chatting in a party mood, is it okay without joining us
My Sunset Shot 3 in Florence
This is how my second day in Florence ended So, are the places to visit finished? Of course not, now some fun at the campsite, continue where we left off tomorrow.
My Sunset Shot in Florence 4
Wednesday, July 2nd. You can’t sleep much in a tent ! The sun has turned it into an oven again. I keep saying tent but it’s not what you think. They have made a special system with bunk beds inside, we have electricity or something
We are climbing Michelangelo through the lush trees. Today, there are luxury vehicles of Italian brands in the square.. They are exhibited as a tourist attraction and you can take a tour for 100 euros.
Via Ponte Vecchio / My Second Day
I’m going to visit Ponte Vecchio in more detail, where I went for the sunset yesterday, and to see the daily life and shops.. You should visit many times, each view draws attention to something different.
I’ve been to the north of the city. Today I will move further to the west point, I see people painting on the ground on the street, Even the streets in Florence are paintings!
South Shore of the City
Santa Maria Novella Basilica
Santa Maria Novella Basilica near the station came into my sight. This building was Florence’s first major basilica.. The church was especially famous for the paintings of Gothic and pre-Renaissance Period artists.
The side of the church facing the station is a bit older and has an architecture that is contrary to the general view of Florence.. When you come to the front, you may think that you are there at the Santa Croce Church, which I talked about yesterday.
The front marble faces and surroundings of these the two churches are so similar that even I was stunned for a moment.. When I examine it in detail, the truth emerges.. St.. The embroidery on the front of the Maria Novella Basilica is even more beautiful !
The Different Side of Santa Maria Novella Basilica Facing the Station
Pitti Renaissance Palace
There is now one last point I want to see in the city.. This is Pitti Palace at the other end of the Arno.
Pitti Palace 16. It is mentioned as a Renaissance Palace built in the 19th century.. Unlike other structures in Florence, it has a modern appearance and brick-colored stones.
Pitti Palace also has the Boboli Gardens, which spread over a large area. Today, there are dozens of Renaissance Paintings and various artifacts that you can see in the palace.. It’s free to go inside, for a fee.
Pitti Renaissance Palace
Florence Viewpoints
This way, I’ve completed the places to visit in Florence, now I’m going to one of the city’s bridges before sunset; Ponte Alla Carraia
Carraia Bridge, one of the arch bridges on the west side of the city. The best feature is that it is it is a bit far from the city hustle and tourist attention. Here you are literally alone with Florence.
Ponte Alla Carraia
The houses in this part of the Arno are more colorful, also You didn’t think you could see Ponte Vecchio standing on it! to watch Vecchio And this is a beautiful spot.
There are also occasional rowers passing over the river, it is obvious that they add pleasure to the view.. Meanwhile, when the wind stops, Arno is like a sheet and reflects whatever is on her right and left. I too am overwhelmed with excitement and immortalize this moment over the wall by the river
The Moment I Immortalized on the River / Florence
Carlo Goldoni Square
You should not skip Carlo Goldoni Square at the northern end of Carraia Bridge.. Here there are houses forming triangular blocks and they look pretty cute.
I am now nearing the end of my tour of Florence.. I am taking a general walk in the city, while the carriages near the Duomo attract my attention.. One of the touristic activities in Florence can be touring.
From the Delightful Streets of Carlo Goldoni Square
Florence Street Activities
To watch the sunset at Michelangelo again i am determined. We’re going up the hill again without being lazy! This time the atmosphere is more lively.. And the performer has changed, too. It’s not a bad idea to watch the city softly before leaving Florence.
The sunset is even more beautiful today, because it is saying goodbye with a rainbow-like landscape. us the sun. Because it is behind the clouds, The Moon also showed its face early.
While Listening to Music on the Michelangelo Stairs
Why Go to Florence?
With the sunset, I have finished my Florence trip.. To sum it up, Florence is at the top of the must-see cities in Europe.. I am a person who goes and loves most of Italy, but this place has a special place.
Florence has a language, atmosphere and atmosphere.. If you’re a lover of art and history, but also a little emotional, like me, it’s impossible not to be impressed. You can even come to Florence just to watch the sunset.
The Rainbow Sunset of My Second Day in Florence / Michelangelo
Is Florence Expensive?
I ate, drank, traveled all day, and how much did I spend on these? ? Florence is not an expensive city contrary to expectations. Of course, it is euro, it is not known how cheap 4.5 TL can be.. But it is definitely more suitable than Northern and Western Europe.
For example, you can get pizza for 15-20 euros in restaurants in the touristic areas of the city, and 6-7 in boutique and quiet places. you can eat up to euro. Besides, Florence’s ice cream is different, I almost forgot! There are famous and good ice cream places on the coast at the south end of Ponte Vecchio, let me tell you.
The Early Moon After Second Sunset <
Florence Nightlife
A calm, peaceful and romantic holiday plan can always be considered in Florence.. That’s why I’ve never been into entertainment.. In my opinion, this romantic atmosphere of the city until dark!
There are dozens of pubs and nightclubs, especially on the streets that go up the bridges in the east of the city.. You can see the seemingly innocent buildings chirping in the evening hours.
My Friend with whom I Wandered in the Middle Furkan Tarım / With Florence Streets and Two Italians
Apart from that, there are more shabby places on the south shores of Arno and a little inside. . More beer and wine is consumed, there are also alternatives where you can have fun while eating.
If you are coming to this city in the summer like me, you don’t need the venues, either, grab your wine and go up the Michelangelo Stairs. Go to You will come across dozens of young people like you around you !
Florence and Me Via Ponte Vecchio
When to go to Florence ?
While it’s the season, we need to open it. The best time to visit this city is summer, preferably June and July.. Because this is the period when you can watch the sunset over Arno and Ponte Vecchio
You should be prepared for crowded streets and tourist invasion in summer. Those who say they want a quieter family tour may consider the spring months.. Can you come to Florence in winter? I think you can come in all seasons, but it seems like you can’t get the pleasure of this article in winter.. Does the idea of visiting beautiful galleries and museums in winter make more sense?
Streets of Florence / People Painting on the Ground
Places to See around Florence
Lastly, places to visit around Florence there is. First of all, I think You wouldn’t return without visiting the City of Pisa, but not just the Leaning Tower of Pisa.. Pisa is a place that deserves to be visited completely.
Other than that, Rome, Venice, Verona, Milan are places that everyone will recommend. My suggestion is Bologna ! The most “underrated” city I have ever seen, that is, it is known under its potential.. Bologna is one of my favorite cities in Italy, a must go.
La Spezia and Cinque Terre, located on the west coast of Italy, are beautiful cities to visit, especially in summer..
On Ponte Vecchio / Arno River and Colorful Florentine Houses
This is how I end my travel notes in Florence. I tried to give information to guide your Tuscany and Florence trips.. At the same time I hope I was able to convey the excitement of my own story and impressions
This is how my Tuscany Route ended. I advise those who do not read to review my notes on Pisa, the starting point of my trip. Since these two cities complement each other, I have sprinkled some topics in these two travel notes, also valid for Florence and Pisa..
YI suggest you also read the notes of my trip to Sicily, Italy, which I took just a week ago.. As Goethe said, “To see Italy without seeing Sicily is to never see Italy.” Have a nice day !
The Previous Day: My Travel Notes to Pisa, ItalyContinued: My Travel Notes to Sicily, Italy
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