Brimming with romance and nostalgia, few honeymoon destinations can compete with the sophistication, splendour and charm of the enchanting, historic Italian city of Florence.
Florence is the capital city of Tuscany, an area full of beautiful rolling countryside peppered with medieval towns, rustic villages and outstanding vineyards. Easily reached by air the ancient city is a destination in its own right, but also a great base from which to explore the best of north and central Italy, including Milan, Venice, Rome and Pisa, the home of the famous leaning tower.
The cradle of the renaissance, Florence is bursting with gardens, museums, palaces and churches that house some of the greatest and most precious artistic treasures in the world. With an array of chic hotels and great restaurants throughout the historic city and along the meandering Arno River, Florence is one of Italy’s most mesmerising and romantic destinations.
For sightseeing, the old city boasts an endless supply of majestic sights. Must-sees include a fine example of Michelangelo’s architectural genius, the Laurentian library, which contains over 11,000 manuscripts and 4,500 medieval books within its elaborate chambers, and the iconic Florence Cathedral, one of the most impressive structures in Italy.
From the Cathedral, head towards the river and Uffizi Gallery and meander through one of Italy’s most inspiring collections of ancient sculptures and paintings. The gallery dates back to 1580AD and is home to works by Leonardo de Vinci, Raffaello, Michelangelo and Caravaggio. Just across the river the wonderful Pitti Palace and the tranquillity of Boboli Gardens awaits, home to a remarkable collection of garden sculpture including Lorenzi’s iconic 1568AD Fountain of Neptune.
For gastronomes and oenophiles Florence has everything from wine-bars and bistros to family-style pizzerias and the finest Michelin-starred restaurants.
With spectacular views, and offering classic cuisine from around Italy, check out the sophistication of Il Palagio at Four Seasons Hotel or, if you really want to push the boat out then explore the romance and exquisite cuisine of the exclusive three-starred Enoteca Pinchiorri or the Champagne Lunch Ritual at the Michelin-starred Winter Garden by Caino at The St. Regis, Florence.
Naturally Tuscan food is popular and one of the favourite restaurants is found in the cellars of Alle Murate where ancient fresco-painted vaults, brick walls and rustic seating provide the perfect setting to enjoy classic pasta and meat dishes complemented a superb range of local wines.
Accommodation is varied and stylish with rooms and suites available for every taste and budget. Offering something quite distinctive, enter the fantasy world of the immaculately-restored Villa Cora. The grand style of The St. Regis, Florence is always popular, while the luxurious J.K. Place Firenze, a suave townhouse hotel offers romance with a delightful dose of warmth and elegance.
For honeymooners, visiting Florence is an experience that will create memories that last a lifetime.
