Slow Lane in Florence

On your tour of Italy you may have reserved a day or two to see Florence. The names are probably already echoing in your mind: Piazza delle Signorie, Palazzo Pitti, Giardini di Bobboli, Galleria degli Ufizzi, Il Duomo, Davide, Dante...

But even if you've been running around Italy trying to see and do everything, I advise you to take it slow once in Florence. Relax and enjoy the city at the heart of Tuscany.

Start with a passeggiatta (stroll) along the river Arno where you can enjoy the sun and a refreshing breeze. The river is the main artery of the city, although the pair have a somewhat troubled relationship, considering that Florence has been flooded a few times (the last time was in 1966, and it was disasterous - you can still see the flood waterline marked on buildings along the river).

On your walk along the river, you will see many beautiful and famous bridges. The Santa Trinita bridge, for example, was built by Bartolomeo Ammannati who was inspired by Michelangelo. The Ponte Vecchio bridge consists of three segmental arches and is noted for having many jewelers' shops, as well as for offering a beautiful view. I have heard that the concept of bankruptcy originated here. Basically, the merchant who couldn't pay his debt had his banco (display stall) rotto (meaning, broken) by the soldiers and without a stall he could not sell anything. Hence the word 'bancarotta', bankruptcy.

Once you reach the Piazza delle Signorie, you'll feel as if you were the center of the world and everything revolved around you. People look so peaceful there and many will probably ask you to take their picture (but if you're asking somebody to take a picture of you, make sure that it's not some sketchy little rascal or else it will be the last time you'll see your camera).

Not to be missed is the galleria degli Ufizzi, although I'd suggest you set an appointment beforehand to avoid waiting for hours in line to get in. It is advisable to call for an appointment well in advance (possibly even before you depart for Italy).

Another "slow spot" to hit is the Giardini di Boboli - hopefully, it won't be under construction when you're in town and you'll be able to see lots of sculptures scattered around the traditional Italian gardens. When you're inside, walk all the way to the far end of the gardens - there is a beautiful rose garden there with an amazing view of Florence.

Now, take a walk up to the top of the hill for some ice cream and views that will remind you of renaissance-era paintings. Actually, walking will be about an hour-long death march, so you may want to consider taking a cab. The trip in a cab will run you 15 euros.

Last thing, don't eat in Piazza delle Signorie or in the restaurants around Duomo. Look on the side streets instead and you'll find many excellent places to eat. Leave the piazza for the eyes and treat your stomach somewhere else.

Posted by Alban in Florence on 15/Jun/2006

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