Dating back to the 14th century, Ponte Vecchio is well-known as one of the most famous landmarks in Florence - and it can be a truly unique experience to walk across the bridge lined with jewellery shops (many of which would be centuries-old artisanal productions). However, personally, I prefer to admire it from afar (it can get pretty crowded) and take pictures from further down the riverside walk, in the direction of Ponte alle Grazie (there are different points between the two bridges where you can snap amazing shots, so keep experimenting!).

Upon seeing the palace for the first time it’d made sense if you asked yourselves: “Why in the world this palace, located further away from the city center where the power was concentrated, is so big and impressive?” Believe it or not, but it has - once again - something to do with the Medici family. According to the legend, Lucca Pitti, the then-head of yet another banking family, wanted the windows of his new palace to be bigger than the main entryway of the Medici palace and that the courtyard could have contained the entire Strozzi Palace inside. Well, if this is true it only shows how people have, essentially, always been the same, driven by the same motives, right?

There’s one more curious fact to the Palazzo Pitti though: il Corridoio Vasariano. This once-secret passage is connecting the Pitti Palace to the Uffizi Gallery - pretty impressive, isn’t it? Built in 1565 by Georgia Vasari in only five months, this 760m-ling passage runs above the city of Florence and river Arno, passing through the other palaces on its way. It was commissioned by Lorenzo the Magnificent’s descendant, Duke Cosimo I de’ Medici to celebrate the wedding of his son Frances and allow him and his wife to move safely between their residence in Palazzo Pitti and Palazzo Vecchio, the seat of the city government.

Visiting the Boboli Gardens feels like stepping into a lush outdoor museum. Originally designed for the Medici family, this historical park opened to the public in 1766 and is filled with statues, fountains, and caves from various periods. It's a perfect spot to wander around, soak up some history, and enjoy the beautiful greenery. Plus, the views of the city are pretty spectacular too and would make for a perfect insta-spot!

The Sistema delle Rampe del Poggi is a restored 19th-century gem that was once left to crumble like a forgotten fairytale castle. Originally designed by architect Giuseppe Poggi as a grandiose hillside complex of grottoes, fountains, and ornamental stonework, the landmark has been painstakingly brought back to life with a touch of modern magic. Thanks to a dedicated team of experts and a hefty donation, this romantic ruin now dazzles visitors with its fantastical rock formations, lush flora, and a hydraulic water system that would make even the Renaissance masters proud. It's a true Cinderella story for a Florentine treasure that's finally getting its happily ever after <3

Be prepared to climb up quite a bit - but as you climb up the stairs to get to the top of the hill, think of what lies ahead! Once you reach Piazzale Michelangelo, I promise you, you’ll never forget the first time you see Florence from there. It’s hard to describe with mere words: you need to feel it. The awe that’s washing over you as you take it all in: centuries of grandeur, all laid out in front of you. You can see the whole city from this square and if there’s one place I would be climbing up again and again for, it’s this one. No matter how many times I’ve been there, this place never stops to amaze me. And I know, it’ll be the same for you - I have yet to meet someone who felt indifferent towards Piazzale Michelangelo!

Here’s a tip, if you’re driving a car: you can actually get there by car. And there’s even a car park! So if you don’t want to walk up - or can’t walk up for whatever reason - it doesn’t mean you won’t be able to take in this awe-inspiring beauty. Rent a car, take your own up there, or take the taxi (or even the bus!) - you won’t regret it, promise. If you can (and are willing to) climb up there though, there’s a certain delayed gratification effect to the whole ordeal of climbing up 463 steps, so… You can totally do it, too, hence me starting from the “toughest” option!

Curious fact: the square has several copies of the famous statues displayed there, among which the copy of Michelangelo’s David - and you can find the original in Florence, inside the Accademia Gallery. Another copy is located right in front of the Palazzo Vecchio, but of course, people from all over the world come to Florence to see the original. Still, some historians say that 18 bulls were used to bring all the statues up to Piazzale Michelangelo and it’s a shame not to mention them, right?

Basilica San Miniato al Monte offers another angle to admire the view of the city and it won’t disappoint you as well as the basilica itself. Built in 1013, it is full of legends and mysteries having once been the central place for esoteric studies, often conducted by the monks in secret. In fact, there are several esoteric symbols that can be found almost everywhere around the city: like the number five constantly present in its architecture or the symbol of the sun. You’ll also find numerous symbolic animals here and there inside the church, and I’m sure every mystery-lover would be enchanted by the huge floor mosaic of the zodiac signs.

Basilica di Santo Spirito, despite not drawing much attention from the outside, is another architectural wonder by Filippo Brunelleschi - actually, it is his last masterpiece. But what’s even more exciting is the piazza that lies in front of the church - this is the true beating heart of the entire district. Full of little cafes and bars, it also hosts artisanal and farmers markets on different days of the week. And in the evening, this whole piazza is flooded by locals and expats who tend to particularly enjoy this district.

The Brancacci Chapel is a hidden gem in Florence, showcasing stunning Renaissance frescoes that tell the story of San Peter. Commissioned by merchant Felice Brancacci in the 15th century, the chapel features works by Masolino and Masaccio. With its intricate storytelling and vibrant colors, this chapel offers a unique glimpse into the art and history of the Italian Renaissance.

Il Conventino is a charming cafe tucked away in a small convent, offering a unique experience beyond just coffee. With vintage charm and a peaceful atmosphere, it's the perfect spot to study, relax, or enjoy delicious pastries. You can also explore artisan workshops, attend events like poetry readings, and soak up the beautiful views of Florence from the outdoor seating area. It's like stepping into a tranquil oasis away from the hustle and bustle of the city streets.