Three Must-Do’s While in Florence

I’ve been wander lusting about Italy and especially Tuscany. I love the city of Florence with all the art and culture within. When traveling to Florence, one must see the Uffizi, Duomo, walk the river and eat pasta. But there are a few other experiences one must have while in this historic, gorgeous city. I wanted to share three of my favourite must-dos while in Florence.

My nonna’s family is from Lucca, about 40 minutes away West towards the water. It’s another beautiful town, surrounded by medieval walls you can bike, walk or run on. But the city of Florence is a whole other experience with vibrant history and art everywhere. So I hope for anyone traveling there soon will take my suggestions and have a great time!

My Three Must-Do’s While in Florence

EAT

Hotel Lungarno

This hotel, since 1997, has been situated along the Arno River near the Ponte Vecchio and has had a recent makeover. It’s a fabulous place to stay, but also houses two fantastic spots to dine and drink. The Picteau Lounge Bar has been providing entertainment to guests since 2011, while the restaurant Borgo San Jacopo, awarded with a Michelin Star in 2015, has given guests the possibility to savour a tasty menu by the highly rated chef Peter Brunel and attend events such as the Serate Spoon. I have put this spot on my radar for my next trip, what can beat views of the Ponte Vecchio while sipping wine?

Hotel Lungarno also houses a Michelin star restaurant, Borgo San Jacopo, ran by Chef Peter Brunel. You can eat dessert prepared by internationally renowned pastry shop Loretta Fanella, and sign up for culinary evenings with awarded chefs like Nadia Santini, Emanuele Scarello, Pino Cuttaia and Giancarlo Perbellini. Being a foodie, this hotel sounds like the perfect place to stay. For more information on the Lungarno Hotel and the amazing culinary experiences they offer, read more here!

Spoon Event Image (Borgo San Jacopo)

SEE

Officina Profumo-farmaceutica di Santa Maria Novella

After visiting a bustling Firenze go-to like the Academia Gallery that houses Michelangelo’s David alongside in-the-know local guides, be sure to pop into the Officina Profumo-farmaceutica di Santa Maria Novella, a pharmacy founded by Dominican friars in 1221.

This hidden gem is hard to find – the only branding is its name etched lightly into the glass panels of the entry door – but the history, architecture (the location: inside a Catholic church), and unique products for sale make it 100% worth your while.

Who wouldn’t put a trip to a perfumery that started out as a pharmaceutical workshop for the adjoining convent at the top of their list of must-sees? Word of advice: bring plenty of cash; between the extracts and essences, soaps, potpourri, cosmetics, fragrances, candles, and more, you are sure to leave laden with memorable goodies, each of which has its own story.

DO

Picnic at Giardino delle Rose

This little garden tucked between Piazzale Michelangelo and San Niccolo offers visitors a green refuge from the stone walls, cyclists, and wandering crowds of the city. The park spans a hectare and within it you’ll find more than 350 varieties of roses, a dozen sculptures, lemon groves, and a Japanese garden—plus unparalleled views of the city.

There are grassy spaces to bring a few snacks and a some wine. The best time to visit the garden is in the late spring and early summer, when all is in full bloom and the weather is just right.

So next time you are visiting Florence, try to carve out time to do these three things on my list. And I also suggest to spend a day strolling around the city, with no plan. Take a moment, and take it all in!

Don’t forget to check out my 3 Simple Tips to Packing Your Carry-on and My Stress-Free Vacation Checklist

This post was created in partnership with Hotel Lungarno but all opinions are my own.