Historical Architecture Aficionado Travel Guide to Florence, Italy

Call it Florence, Firenze or Florentia; a Florence map situates the historically significant Italian city squarely in the region of Tuscany. A Mecca for architecture students and aficionados, no Florence travel guide would be complete without highlighting significant structures.

Ponte Vecchio

Nicolas Janberg outlines that this structure dates back to 1335. The bridge spans the Arno River and connects the south bank's Altrarno district to the older historical portion of Florence. It is only 98 feet long, which makes it perfect for a leisurely stroll at dusk. Its width of 105 feet enables the presence of stores, which sell anything from touristy trinkets to fine art. Of all the things to do in Florence, Italy, a stroll across the Ponte Vecchio is a must for the lover of historical architecture.

Basilica di San Lorenzo

Aside from its considerable size and history dating back to the year 393, the Basilica di San Lorenzo is historically significant for being the Medici family burial place. Visit the Medici Chapels -- Sagrestia Nuova and Cappella dei Principi -- from 8:15 a.m. to 4:50 p.m., except on the first, third and fifth Monday of the month, when the chapel is closed to the public. Please note that admission calls for an additional 6.00 Euros. Notice the court art of the latter and the tell-tale architectural designs of Michelangelo in the former.

Palazzo Pitti

Visit the Palazzo Pitti for its Renaissance architecture and hodgepodge of room additions and side yard modifications. Enjoy the Boboli Gardens and do not forget to also take a look inside the costume gallery and the porcelain museum. What used to be a palace in the time of the Medici is now actually a museum complex. Allow an entire day for the experience to do justice to the artifacts and architectural feats.

Eat with Artists and Rebels at the Giubbe Rosse

Visit the Piazza della Repubblica and eat breakfast, lunch and dinner at the Giubbe Rosse. The average main dish costs 15 Euros. The venue has the distinction of having been a hot spot among the elite of the intellectual movement from the early 20th century. Do not neglect to give the Piazza della Repubblica a good once-over as well. Granted, it is a rather touristy area, but it is also steeped in the city's -- and the region's -- history.

Stay at the Savoy

Nearby is the luxurious Hotel Savoy, which makes walking tours in and around the Piazza della Repubblica quite convenient. This is a five-star entry for this travel guide to Florence, Italy. It is in the center of the city and close to all important attractions and architectural marvels. For some lighter entertainment, do not hesitate to ask the concierge for things to do in Florence; new clubs and restaurants are opening frequently, and architectural admiration should not take up all of your time in Tuscany's capital.

Destination Information

Basilica di San Lorenzo

Piazza San Lorenzo in Florence (near the Mercato di San Lorenzo)

Open Monday to Saturday from 10 a.m. to 5 p.m.

Pay 2.50 Euros for an admission ticket

055 06 49 15 11

Palazzo Pitti

Via della Ninna, 5 in Florence

Open Tuesday to Sunday from 8:15 a.m. to 6:30 p.m. in April, May, September and October; winter closing time is 4:30 p.m., while summer closing time is 7:30 p.m.

Pay 12 Euros for admission to all galleries

055 94 48 83

Giubbe Rosse

Piazza della Repubblica 13/R-14/R in Florence

Open daily from 7 a.m. to 1:30 a.m.

055 21 22 80

Hotel Savoy

Piazza della Repubblica, 7 in Florence
055 27 3 51