According to UNESCO, a third of the world’s art treasures are located in Florence.
From Ghiberti’s intricate Gates of Paradise to the modern Aria Art Gallery, Michelangelo’s iconic David to the revered Biagiotti Arte Contemporanea, Florence is an art lover’s utopia filled to the brim with masterpieces.
As the very birthplace of paved streets, navigating through the medieval city by foot is the most rewarding way to explore. You never know what quirky stall or local boutique may be hiding around the corner. Internationally celebrated for its fashion industry established by Tuscan designers such as Guccio Gucci, Florence has tourists happily emptying their wallets for beautifully handcrafted ornaments, garments, jewellery and so much more. The best place to experience these artisans is the Ponte Vecchio, one of Italy’s most recognisable bridges and the perfect place for a day of shopping. This was the only bridge in the city that was left standing after World War II, as Hitler stated that it was too beautiful to destroy.
Other essential Florence attractions include the grand Piazza del Duomo, home of the red domed Duomo (a cathedral that took almost 140 years to build) and the ornate Cathedral of Santa Maria del Fiore, the renowned Uffizi Gallery and the striking Palazzo Vecchio.
How better to end a day out in Florence than experiencing delicious Tuscan food and exquisite wine produced locally in hilly vineyards that surround the city. Finish the night off with some Italian Gelato, the iconic sweet treat invented by Bernardo Buontalenti, a native of Florence. From the king dish of the city, the Bistecca Fiorentina steak, to the Ribollita vegetable soup - considered to be the epitome of Tuscan cuisine, Florence will not let visitors down with its incredible cuisine.
Often referred to as ‘the birthplace of the Renaissance’, it is little wonder why the whole city centre is a UNESCO World Heritage Site. The city is awash in a rich cultural history evidenced by buildings such as The baptistery of John the Baptist initially built in the 4th century. The city is also known for its deep musical history, being the birthplace of opera in the late 16th century and home to the first piano invented by Bartolomeo Cristofori in the 18th century. This musical flair lives on today with guests embracing Florence’s love for opera and classical music. Another notable claim to fame is that the city is the birthplace of Leonardo Da Vinci, who was born near the Arno river in 1452. Visitors will struggle to stick to their planned itinerary with so many captivating nooks and crannies to be discovered in the culturally dense city. If you know a friend, family or couple visiting the wonderful city of Florence, Gifting Owl has got you covered for the perfect present with a wide variety of unique and unforgettable experiences.
A great introductory tour for newcomers to the city is the affordable Hidden Florence Walking Tour With Guide. A knowledgeable local guide will help lead visitors to Florence’s most famed attractions while uncovering historic tales and captivating mysteries of the city’s attractions. Your giftee will learn about local legends such as the Miracle of the Flowering Tree and the Bull and the Baker. Not only will visitors get the chance to see all the essential attractions such as the Duomo, Church of Dante and Michelangelo's David but they will also explore some of Florence’s best-kept secrets.
It would be a shame if your giftee left Florence without experiencing the incredible Uffizi Gallery and what better way to do it than an enlightening guided tour. The Florence Uffizi Gallery Guided Museum Tour brings to light many of the fascinating secrets and stories behind the masterpieces that reside in the 25th most visited art gallery in the world. Arm your giftee with essential Renaissance knowledge to not only appreciate the works but to impress all their friends (including you) back home.
It wouldn’t be a trip to Florence without an unforgettable food experience or two! If your giftee is a certified foodie Gifting Owl is brimming with tantalizing encounters that they are bound to revel in. A stand out example is the Mercato Centrale Market Tour And Cooking With A Florentine Chef. Professional chef, Alessio takes great pride in sharing his local cuisine expertise and Fiorentino traditions with travellers. With a wide repertoire of Florentine dishes that tourists may struggle to find in restaurant menus, this experience is one hell of a culinary ride! Florence Beef Steak Dinner In The Oltrarno Neighbourhood is another delectable choice in which giftees will devour an authentic Bistecca Alla Fiorentina, with a local guide who will help you learn all about their regional traditions.
What goes hand in hand with delicious Tuscan cuisine? Incredible Tuscan wine of course!
For the wine connoisseur (even if self-proclaimed) or anyone who loves a superb glass, the Florence Aperitivo Time & Wine Tour is a must. Combining charming local culture and mouth-watering wine and aperitivo, this tour includes an afternoon stroll around local neighbourhoods as guests discover the best of what the region has to offer. The menu includes famous Tuscan reds such as Chianti and Brunello alongside an exquisite range of white wines and every Tuscan’s favourite pre-dinner drink, aperitivo.
Every traveller to Florence leaves planning their next trip back as you simply cannot fit everything into one visit. No matter who you are buying for, Gifting Owl will have an unforgettable Florence experience just waiting for your giftee to enjoy. All vouchers are completely interchangeable so have no fear when booking your giftee the experience of a lifetime. Happy gifting!
