OT - MgoBloggers Guide to Florence, IT
Hello fellow MGoBloggers. I have had success using this forum in getting some travel tips in the past and thought I'd come back to the well. I am heading to Florence, Italy on business next week. I arrive Saturday afternoon, and will have all day on Sunday to explore before heading to Prato, Italy Monday- Wed. I was hoping I could get some direction on things I must see, food recommendations, etc...
I was thinking about trying to get a round of golf in early morning Sunday but that's as far as I have gotten. Any direction from those who have been would be great.
My favorite city in Italy! Definitely just walk around, and you can choose almost any restaurant at random (like we did) and it will be fabulous...!
I've been twice. A high school trip abroad, and my honeymoon. I second the general guidance coming from all others, but would put in an additional plug for the Boboli Gardens.
When I picture Italy in my mind I picture looking out over the fields and hills visible from the rose garden on top of the hill in the Boboli Gardens.
Enjoy!
Re: Gelato
Since we are all in agreement this is something one should try when in Florence, I would take Rick Steve's advice which includes the following:
• Generally avoid the gelato right on the main tourist paths (with some exceptions). If they are big, fluffy and have a lot of "stuff" on top, DO NOT get them.
• Instead, look for artigianale in the name as these are the artisanal gelato shops. Tend to be more humble looking establishments. Also, if you order the smaller size (piccolo) then you can try multiple shops in one day for the the equivalent of a couple big scoops of American style ice cream.
Hope this helps.
Speaking of Rick Steve's I highly recommend the OP pick up the Rick Steve's Florence guidebook. Well worth the $10 even for just a day.
By far the best food/restaurant recs of any guidebook or source, since he focuses on traditional, family-run, less-touristy places that are usually better tasting, more fun and more affordable than places that are tourist traps.
He also has great walking and museum tours in his books.