Florence, Italy is a gorgeous place in Europe with its centuries old art, delightful Italian cafes and the wonderful local markets to shop for leather items such as handmade bags, leather journals and coats in. Even though American currency is not too good in Europe right now, the travel deals and bargains on flights and hotels will more than make up for the weak dollar. If you have never been to Italy, be certain Florence is one of the cities you go to as many tourists only think of going to Rome and Venice. If you are flexible and can go anytime during the year, the Fall is the best time as the weather is not too hot and the crowds are all gone from the hectic summer tourist season.

Even if you are not a art connoisseur, the different museums to see some famous types of art and architecture are defintiely recommended. Two of the best museums of art to see in this Italian city are the Uffizi gallery and the Accademia gallery. The Uffizi has much of the most famous Renaissance period art in the world with many pieces by Leonardo Da Vinci, Botticelli and Michelangelo. The Accademia gallery houses the most famous sculpture in the world and that is Michelangelo’s statue called David. The lines to see David are long so make sure to go there right when it opens. There are aditional art museums but if you are limited on time, make sure to go to both of these two museums.

There are other great sights to see to take in the gorgeous art and architecture that Florence is known for is the Duomo and the Pitti palace. The Duomo is a spectacular cathedral in Florence that is the most recognized structure in the city. Make sure to go inside to see the whole structure. The Pitti palace has a great collection of art in many forms from paintings, period costumes and sculptures and is a magnificent structure. Directly behind the palace are the Boboli gardens which is a great place to rest and have a picnic.

Besides, the grand art in Florence, the food and wine here is some of the most delicious things you will ever taste. You may want to get some of the recommendations from guide books for the top restaurants but some of the best places are the more casual trattorias that you can simply stroll by serving up scrumptious pastas and pizzas. Also, make sure to go to at least one gelateria which will serve you a refreshing and delicious Italian gelato, kind of like ice cream, but better.

Before you leave Florence, take the time to shop at their large market in the city’s main area. The local shops offer some of the specialties that Florence is famous for its Italian leather products. The quality of the leather here is so much better than in the US and shoes and coats are huge sellers in addition to the regional chianti wine.