Florence

Florence bursts at the seams with art and culture

Florence is Italy’s Renaissance city—home to Michelangelo's David, Botticelli's Birth of Venus, and Raphael's Madonnas. It's where Fra' Angelico painted delicate Annunciations in bright primary colors and Giotto frescoed monks wailing over the Death of St. Francis. The city is so dense in art, history, and culture that even a short visit can wear out the best of us. Take a hint from that great pragmatist Mark Twain, who, after acknowledging the genius of Michelangelo, said "I do not want Michelangelo for breakfast—for luncheon—for dinner—for tea—for supper—for between meals. I like a change occasionally."

Don't necessarily pass up the Uffizi or take a rain check on David and the Accademia, but do take the time to enjoy the simple pleasures of Florence. That is, wander the medieval streets in Dante's old neighborhood, sip a cappuccino on Piazza della Signoria while people-watching, haggle for clothing items at the street market around San Lorenzo, or simply immerse yourself in the greenery of the Boboli Gardens.

© 2008, Wiley Publishing, Inc.