Florence
The cradle of the Renaissance, where every street is a brushstroke from a master.
About Florence
Florence is pure, concentrated beauty. This is the city of Michelangelo's David, Botticelli's Venus, and Brunelleschi's magnificent Duomo. It's a compact, walkable city where art and history ambush you at every turn. But Florence is more than the Uffizi. It's a living city of high fashion, modern artisans, and incredible food. A local plan helps you see the masterpieces with intention, then escape the crowds to the Oltrarno, the "left bank" of the city, to find the real Florentine soul.
Best Time to Visit
Spring (April-May) or Autumn (Sept-Oct). The summer heat and crowds can be intense. Visiting in winter (Jan-Feb) is a great local move—it's quiet and clear.
Local Tips
- See the other David.
The Uffizi is overwhelming. A local will tell you to visit the Bargello Museum instead—an incredible collection of sculpture (including Donatello's David) with a fraction of the crowds.
- Find the other Duomo view.
Everyone climbs the main Dome. A local will send you to the tower at Palazzo Vecchio or the nearby San Miniato al Monte for an equally stunning view of the skyline (and the Duomo itself).
- Eat Bistecca the right way.
A local will tell you to never order a Bistecca alla Fiorentina "well-done" and will book you at a family-run trattoria in the San Frediano or Santo Spirito neighbourhoods, far from the tourist menus.
Highlights
(the local lens)
Meet the Local Experts
Your on-the-ground insiders. The ones who know the enduring favourites, the quiet corners and what’s worth your time.
Francesca
Bologna, Ravenna +6
👋 Hi, nice to meet you! My name is Francesca, I'm 28 years old and I live in a small town in the province of Ravenna. I speak English and French. 🎨 I'm an art expert because of my two degrees in Cultural Heritage and Visual Arts at the University of Bologna, where I've lived during my studies. This is the main city I chose to speak about in this platform because I've lived it with a student life's eyes (so pubs, restaurants, places to have fun, listen to some music, dance...) but also because I love art through that part of me too (museums, art galleries, history, traditions, culture...). ✈️ After University I've decided to take a break and I've moved to Canada where I've lived for more than one year, then I came back to become a Travel Designer thanks to a course in Milan. 🧳 This year I've also got the certification to be a Tour Leader with the goal to go with families, groups of friends or couples during their travels to show them more than they expect!
Michele
Florence, Siena +1
Hi. My name is Michele, I was born in Naples, the city of pizza, and I used to work as a bartender. After working in cocktail bars and 5-star hotels in Tuscany, I fell in love with Florence and decided to capitalize on my passion for history, art, languages, foreign cultures, and above all, my passion for creating human connections. I then became a professional tour guide. I now work primarily in Florence, Tuscany, and occasionally in Naples. I love creating personalized and unique experiences to share with my guests. What are you waiting for? If you're looking for a friend, a consultant, and an experienced guide to help you plan your trip to Italy... here I am! It will be a pleasure to plan together!
Amanda
Lucca, Pisa +1
Foreign Language Teacher and National Tourist Guide officially authorized by the Italian Ministry of Tourism. I combine my experience in language education with a deep passion for cultural heritage and historical interpretation. My main areas of interest include Florence, Pisa, and Lucca, as well as the theme of shifting boundaries in history, culture, and landscapes. I have been living in Tuscany for over 32 years, although I am originally from Southern Italy. This personal and professional background allows me to offer a broader perspective on Italian culture and to help travelers discover not only Tuscany but also Naples and the surrounding area. If you are planning a trip to Italy, feel free to contact me. It will be a pleasure to help you design a meaningful and memorable journey.
Manuela
Palermo, Florence +13
Born and raised in Rome, with family roots in Sardinia, I developed a deep appreciation for Italy’s regional diversity and cultural identity from an early age. For years, I have accompanied my guests across Italy, gaining hands-on knowledge of the country’s landscapes, traditions, and local communities. My approach is rooted in authenticity, meaningful connections, and a true understanding of how Italy works beyond the surface.