If you are planning a trip to the Italian city of Florence, it's important to make sure that you give yourself time to visit some of the city's most historical landmarks and attractions. Here are 4 historic places in Florence you need to check out:
Ponte Vecchio
Ponte Vecchio is the oldest and most photographed bridge in Florence. It provides a crossing over the Arno river. The ancient Etruscans initially built the bridge, but the Florentines rebuilt it in the fourteenth century. The arches are a key design feature as they create stunning reflections in the water when the light hits them from a certain angle. You can walk over the bridge and there are shops built all along it. It is 32 meters wide and 30 meters long.
The Uffizi Gallery
This is one of the most famous art museums on the planet. It houses a collection of renaissance treasures and first opened its doors in 1765. Inside the gallery, you can see artworks from Michelangelo Buonarroti, Sandro Botticelli, Leonardo da Vinci, and Titian.
Piazza della Signoria
This stunning square was the site for many important political and historical episodes. Just standing in the squares you can admire all the surrounding historical buildings, as well as take in the view of the Fountain of Neptune and sculptures of the Hercules and Cacus and Perseus with the Head of Medusa.
Palazzo Vecchio
The Palazzo Vecchio is a very important building in Florence. Built during the early 12th century, this palace overlooks the Piazza della Signoria. Inside is a wealth of artworks and artifacts.
There are dozens more historical landmarks and sculptures to see during any trip to Florence. Some more of the most important include Santa Maria del Fiore, Florence Cathedral, Basilica di San Lorenzo, Palazzo Pitti, Boboli Gardens, Piazza Santa Croce and Piazzale Michelangelo. You can check out any detailed Tuscany travel guide online to find out more information about those sites.
Keep in mind that Florence can be an expensive city to visit and it is best explored by foot. In fact, many key sites are only accessible on foot. It is advisable to book admission to the city's most popular museums in advance to avoid disappointment.
Don't forget to explore Florence's nightlife when you are in the city. Clubbing in any European city can be a real experience if you are visiting from a different continent. There are lots of dance clubs in Florence and you can party until the early hours. Just make sure you take note of any dress codes before you arrive at a club and keep in mind that drinks in the city can be costly.
Other key cities that you should consider visiting while you are in Italy are Rome, Venice, and Milan. Italy is generally a safe country for international tourists and the only crime you really need to worry about is pickpocketing. Also, don't worry if you can't speak any Italian as most people in the region can understand basic English.