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Travel Guide » Europe » Florence

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Florence

(Italy)

Florence's lofty domes and sacred art will make your senses reel.

The cultural and historical impact of Florence (or Firenze) is overwhelming. Close up, however, the city is one of Italy's most atmospheric and pleasant, retaining a strong resemblance to the small late-medieval centre that contributed so much to the artistic and political development of Europe.

Its striking buildings, formidable galleries and treasure-crammed churches attest to the Florentine love of display. Even long after it had set on the political and economic horizon, Florence upheld its elegant appearance: its skyline, all russet rooftops and lofty domes, is indeed picturesque.

At a Glance

	When to Visit:

	The best time to visit Florence is in the low season, from April to June and in September/October, when the weather is usually good, prices are lower and there are fewer tourists - if you come in July or August, expect a Renaissance Disneyland experience and plenty of sweat in your socks. Early winter, in December, can also be surprisingly pleasant, with crisp air and sunny days and far, far fewer people clogging up the piazzas.

	Orientation

	Florence is the capital of the region of Tuscany, on Italy's northwest coast. A good reference point for navigating your way around is the central train station, Santa Maria Novella, although the Duomo is impossible to miss. The city has two airports: Amerigo Vespucci is 5km (3.1mi) northwest of the city centre and Galileo Galilei (for international flights) is about 75km (46.6mi) west of the city, near Pisa. You can walk from one end of the city centre to the other in about 30 minutes.

	Getting Around:

	A city bus runs every half-hour from the main train station to Amerigo Vespucci airport. There's a train service between the main station and Galileo Galilei airport. Buses service the city centre and Fiesole in the hills northeast of town. Traffic is restricted in the city centre, so it's best to park a little out of town and walk around - parking in the more central areas is very expensive.

	Weather:

	Florence's position in a river basin, walled in by hills to the south and the foothills of the Apennines to the north, largely determines its climate. In summer the city is a like a pressure cooker as heat and humidity soar. July is the worst month (closely followed by August) and there are days when there is not a whisper of air. The average highs hover around 31°C (88°F). Occasionally you can enjoy the temporary relief of a cracking good thunderstorm. Winter, on the other hand, is cool and often wet, although mercifully it doesn't last too long. Average temperatures in January range between 1°C (33°F) and 10°C (50°F) and snow is rare.