Impressions of Florence (Italy)

It's long been said that Florence is one of the world's most beautiful cities, which is why I found it particularly difficult to find suitable images to portray it... most photographs don't really do it justice. The Tuscan capital is one of my favorite places in the world and even though I only spent a few days there this time, it was enough to make me feel like I just had a relaxing week away. Long known as being the birthplace of the Italian Renaissance, the vibrant city is full of amazing architecture, brimming with culture and - of course - home to many many shops and restaurants. While Milan lacks the typical Italian charm thanks to its gray office buildings , and Rome, despite its beauty is almost too over the top with the amount of monuments, statues and other sights it contains (i.e. it's one large outdoor museum), Florence strikes just the perfect balance between enchantment (behold all the narrow quaint streets) and glamour (large piazzas and castles). Which explains why it's a favorite destination for tourists, but I'm guessing it was always a special place, considering how everyone from Michelangelo to Galileo called it their home.

View of Florence's lush gardens surrounding Palazzo Pitti.

Like most areas in Italy, you won't starve in Florence, making it a great place for foodies. As an added bonus, shopping is fantastic. If you have time, you can head a little further afield to get some bargain-priced designer pieces in the many outlets between Florence and Pisa. If you're short on time, there are plenty of stores in-town, though the focus lies more on luxury brands and a few high-street labels. Vintage and indie stores are less prominent, but there are many stores specializing in handmade leather goods or gourmet goodies should you need a souvenir that's a little more unique.

One of the city's most famous landmarks: the Santa Maria del Fiore cathedral, aka. the Duomo.

The Uffizi Gallery from the front (left) and viewed from the narrow courtyard. One of the finest art galleries in the world, it houses masterpieces by Botticelli, Michelangelo and Leonardo Da Vinci.

Palazzo Vecchio (town hall) overlooking Piazza del Signora.

Some of the statues on Piazza del Signora include a copy of Michelangelo's David (above) and various other copies and originals.

The medieval Ponte Vecchio bridge, which still houses shops (mainly jewelers and souvenir stores).

Jewelry stores along Ponte Vecchio (left) and one of the smaller streets on the South bank occupied by a fortress-like building (right).

Some of the smaller shopping streets in the historic center.

More grand architecture...

Some of the bigger streets filled with luxury boutiques, including the ultimate designer destination via Tornabuoni (right).

One of Florence's many local designers includes proud native Roberto Cavalli who also has his own coffee and chocolate shop in the city. Of course the foodie gifts come packaged in animal print.

Palazzo Pitti (above) and a grotto in the area (below).

This was one of the many places that displayed giant mountains of ice-cream... some sold up to 9 scoops in a very large cone (left). And of course this wouldn't be Italy without some incredibly tasty fresh pasta (right).

Near the Pitti Palace... I included this pic because I loved the colors.

View of Ponte Santa Trinita as seen from Ponte Vecchio.