Prada, Ferragamo, Fendi, Pucci… these brands are as synonymous with Italy as gelato and gnocchi. Fashion is a high priority for Italians, second only to food. Luckily a trip to Florence can satisfy both your need for fashion and food. Once you get your food fixed covered head to the outlet malls.

Thirty minutes south of Florence on the A-1 in the beautiful hills of Tuscany you can find The Mall. The drive alone is worth the trip, the golden fields are peppered with century old stone castles: it’s truly postcard perfect. The Mall however is a relatively modern looking building in a nice park like setting. The parking is free and plentiful; there is an ATM machine and even a café. Walking through the mall is like thumbing through a Vogue magazine: Gucci, Yves Saint Laurent, Stella McCarthy, Marni, Burberry, Armani, Tod’s, Balenciaga. The storefronts all look similar, big glass doors with perfectly coifed, smiling sales people awaiting your arrival.

The prices are as impressive as the fashion. Most items are roughly fifty to seventy percent off and if you walk to the back of many of the stores you will find further reduced items. However, the selection is what impressed me most. I was expecting last fall’s discounted thigh-high black boots, but I found this summer’s must-have sandals, dresses and accessories. Again, all for fifty to seventy percent off retail prices. You can take the bus, train or drive. If you take the train, head towards Rome stop at the Rignano and take a taxi to The Mall. If you take the bus, the SITA bus leaves directly from the main station in Florence and delivers you to The Mall doorstep, there are buses several times a day and the cost is roughly 5 euro round trip. If you drive, take the Incisa exit. The Mall is open Monday through Saturday all day, as well as Sunday afternoon. Via Europa 8, Leccio Reggello Tel 055.865.7775

Another twenty minutes down the A-1 outside the town of Montevarchi you will discover the Prada/Miu Miu outlet. It’s a little bit harder to find than The Mall, as it’s labeled ‘Space’, but you will know you have found it due to high number of black Alfa Romeos in the parking lot. Again, the building is modern and the sales people are coifed and friendly, there is also a café. As you enter, take a ticket, as there are only a certain amount of shoppers allowed in a time. Your number is also used to hold your items at the counter, so you don’t have to carry them while you browse. The prices can’t be beat, fifty percent off and the selection seems endless. The store is massive and the shoe salon alone is fit for a princess. Signature black Prada purses and bags for as low as 200 euro. You feel as though you have stumbled in from 5th Avenue rather than a town outside of Tuscany. It’s truly an experience. If you drive take the Valdarno exit from the A-1 and head through Montevarchi. If you take a train, stop at the Montevarchi station and take a taxi to the outlet. Open seven days a week. Loc. Levanella –S.S. 69, Montevarchi (AR). Tel 055.978.9481

Florence is such a beautiful city with so many things to see and do... it would really take a lifetime to experience all of it. If you're really serious about getting intimate with Florence, you should move here rather than just visiting!

But if all you can do for now is the occasional Florence holiday escapade, you may want to know about some of the most interesting places that most tourists don't usually hear about. To that effect, we have prepared this article showcasing 5 places you should visit off the beaten path in Florence.

1) San Lorenzo Food market

For anyone looking to experience the flavors and scents of Florence, this is one of the best places. Roaming around this colorful and expansive market, you’ll get to mingle with the locals and see which ingredients are most popular in the Florentine cuisine. The San Lorenzo food market is a highly recommended attraction, if you enjoy watching people and purchasing fresh food - all at once.

2) Biblioteca del Palagio di Parte Guelfa

This charming building has been around for over a thousand years, and it has been meticulously reconstructed, consecrated, preserved… and recently turned into a library. Once owned by the local clergy, it used to be house for the Captains of the Guelphs. The building features one of the last remaining displays of a double-sided entry staircase, which was once very common in Florentine churches.

3)Porta del Prato

Once upon a time, the area marked by this stone gate (Piazzale il Prato) was the setting for Florence’s livestock fair. To this the gate stands proudly as one of the oldest in the city, and is very known locally as one of the city’s historical icons.


4) Fontana dello Sprone / del Buontalenti

Located in the Oltrarno district, to the south of River Arno, this fountain does not fail to attract the attention of visitors. Not only because it features an impressively grotesque mask, but also because the fountain is regarded as a masterpiece of Bernardo Buontalent, who is one of the most popular Florentine architects from the Renaissance period.

5)Biblioteca delle Oblate

This beautiful library isn’t usually featured in the touristic guides, which means that it’s relatively unknown by visitors. One of the highlights of the building is a roof terrace that offers an exquisite view of the surroundings, whose atmosphere is absolutely magical and precious.

bonus attraction:
6) Panino con Lampredotto

This is not a place to visit, but rather a local delicacy which can be purchased at several street food vendors. In simple terms, it’s boiled cow stomach inside a fresh roll, with special green sauce. Locals swear it’s delicious, but the question remains: are you brave enough to try it? Let us know if you do!

Also… if you are planning to visit soon, check out this website for low cost flights to Florence! It should be useful, if you’re on a modest budget.

If you are looking for an accommodation in Florence we can suggest you a 3 stars Hotel with Arno view.

Enjoy your Travel in Florence!

 

 

Florence: The name conjures up images of history, adventure, and romance. A wonderful place to visit at any time of the year, Florence offers a magnificent backdrop for travellers of many types, including great Valentine’s Day getaways. With so many things to see and do, Florence is an amazing holiday experience. Churches, palaces, and museums define the history and culture of this magnificent city. Complimented by hidden streets and large, public squares, Firenze (Florence) provides a romantic escape for the young and the young-at-heart.

The most popular attractions in Florence, regardless of the time of year, include the Accademia, the Uffizi Gallery, and the Duomo and Baptistery. The Accademia is home to many of Italy’s most famous works of art, including Michelangelo’s statue of “David” and Botticelli’s “Madonna and the Sea.” The Uffizi Gallery houses works of art by many of Italy’s most famous artists and is a must see on any visitor’s list. Artists include Michelangelo, Botticelli, Raffaello, and many, many more.

The photo above shows the Accademia in Florence, make it a part of your Valentine’s Day getaway.

The church of Santa Maria del Fiore, commonly referred to as the Duomo, with is complimenting Baptistery, provide a beautiful backdrop for lovers and history seekers alike. Built in 13th century by Arnolfo di Cambio, this gothic style cathedral is the vision of Florence. With its towering dome dominating the skyline of the city, which was added in the 15th century by Filippo Brunelleschi, the Duomo has become a major attraction and spiritual experience for many visitors. Open to visitors on most days (excluding Holy Days and major national holidays) for a nominal fee, visitors can tour the interior of this magnificent cathedral and even add a trip up the massive dome for a view like no other.

Image Courtesy: http://www.flickr.com/photos/mchotin/5948202362/  

No romantic trip to Florence would be complete without a stroll along the riverbanks to the Ponte Vecchio. Originally built by the Romans and then rebuilt in 1345 after a flood, this bridge is the centre of Florence’s shopping district. The bridge was originally constructed to provide the ruling family with a route from Uffizi across the Arno River to the Palazzo Pitti. Providing a perfect location to grab some gelato stroll hand in hand with your beloved, no trip to Florence would be complete without visiting this historic area. For romance seekers, a great time to see this wonder is at night. The lights and the ambience provide a romantic backdrop for whatever you have planned.

For lovers visiting during Valentine’s Day, Florence is the perfect city for declaring your love. Florence is
the setting for one of the world’s greatest love stories. Dante, a poet, who was married to Gemma, and Beatrice the woman of his heart. Many visitors leave love letters and requests for their love to be sent to them by these star-crossed lovers at her grave. Beatrice is buried in the Church of Santa Margherita de Cerchi.
Away from the main tourist attractions, there are two spots that Florence has hidden away for lovers: the Piazzale Michelangelo and Fiesole. Perfect at sunset, the Piazzale provides lovers with a beautiful view of the city. The large terrace and the spectacular views of the city afford couples an opportunity to be together in this lovely city without all the hustle and bustle of tourists. A short climb brings visitors to the San Miniato al Monte Church provides with the same view from a higher vantage point.


Above a photo of the San Miniato al Monte Church in Florence.

Across the city from the Piazzale Michelangelo is the Fiesole. On Valentine’s weekend, February 13 and 14, this location has their annual chocolate festival. Well worth the short 20-minute bus ride from the centre of Florence, this location promises pure delight for the chocolate lover. For a unique view of Florence, make the climb up to the Convent of San Francesco. A small garden, complete with benches, provides a spectacular view of the city.

There are many accommodations available for visitors to the city. Florence Bed and Breakfasts as well as mainstream hotels offer travellers with a variety of options at affordable rates. If you are planning a longer stay, or simply desire more privacy and flexibility in your schedule, renting an apartment in Florence would be an option to consider. With many rental companies available to choose from, and if you are planning on cooking some yourself, this is an affordable option for any budget.

Florence is indeed a city for lovers. With many things to see and do, and a backdrop that induces romance, this is a perfect location for a Valentine’s Day getaway with the person you love.

 The markets of Florence, Italy are a myriad, allowing the visitor incredible variety and bargains. In fact, there are dedicated zones in Florence where the markets stay open all day and late into the night unlike most towns in Tuscany where market days start in the early morning and finish by noon. Some of the more well known are the San Lorenzo Market, Sant’ Ambrogio, Mercato “Delle Casine” and finally, Mercato Delle “Pulce.” There are also at least three holiday markets worth a quick discussion: The German Christmas’ Market in Piazza Santa Croce, Florence Noel, and Fierucola di Natale Christmas Fair in Piazza S. Spirito.

The San Lorenzo Market occupies space from Piazza S. Lorenzo to via dell’Ariento, surrounding the Basilica of San Lorenzo. Initially, the idea for the market was generated out of Il Risorgimento or the unification of Italy when Florence became the capital in 1860. Unfortunately, there wasn’t sufficient space for a new market so the old neighbourhood of Camaldoli of San Lorenzo was torn down and an innovative architect, Giuseppe Mengoni, designed the current arcade space filled with light. Now, in this show piece of glass, the visitor has access to probably the finest selection of leather goods and clothes at bargain prices of anywhere in Florence. In the covered portion of the market, food, fruits and vegetables abound. And there is another benefit: English is spoken throughout the stalls. Additionally, Florence apartment rentals are located near the old town centre easily accessible to the San Lorenzo Market.

 

Co-located in the Piazza Ghiberti and Piazza Sant’Ambrogio is both an indoor and outdoor market where fruits, vegetables, clothes, flowers, fresh meat, fish, and cheese exist in abundance. Here one is shopping among the locals without the benefit of tour groups blocking the aisles; however, few of the vendors speak English and one must rely on gestures as the central method of communication.

Probably the least expensive market in Florence, Mercato “Delle Casine,” is open only on Tuesday; however, it is the largest market where one will certainly find what is sought. Fruits, vegetables, clothes, house ware, antiquities and more are to be found in this market located on the banks of the River Arno in Parco delle Casine, 118 hectares of vegetation which sports facilities for the professional and amateur runner as well as the famed market. Additionally, best Florence Hotel Accommodation are located close to market area.



Finally, there is a reputed flea market, Mercato Delle “Pulce,” positioned in Piazza dei Ciompi where the Ciompi (wool carders) began their revolt in 1378. In a working class neighbourhood of Florence north of Piazza Santa Croce, this market is also very close to Piazza Sant’Ambrogio. It emanates from the 16th century and includes Vasari’s Loggia del Pesce as well as small sheds converted to the selling of antiques, art, books and other curiosities. Although the flea market is open on weekdays, on the last Sunday of each month, there is a larger market with vendors displaying their wares in the streets surrounding the square.

During Advent, the Christmas or holiday markets are in full festival mode. Holiday ideas abound at the German Christmas Market where one can find typical ornaments for the tree, as well as traditional sweets from Germany. Next is the Florence Noel: Christmas Market which is the first week in December. Here there is the House of Santa Claus for the children where scenes from the North Pole are replicated. Lastly, on the Sunday before Christmas, Fierucola di Natale: Christmas Fair in Piazza S. Spirito hosts a market of agricultural products. This piazza is one of the most beautiful in Florence, a city which is truly magnificent during the Christmas season.

Since thin sidewalks, broken paving, sidewalks without slides, steps, stairways and other obstacles pose many challenges to the visitors with limited mobility, different Florentine authorities have taken various measures to make the city barrier free.

Almost all city transport buses feature space for a wheelchair and flatcar deck. A door-to-door minibus services is available for differently-abled visitors for a fee, but there is no staff to help with wheelchair.

So. Co. Ta, an Italian taxi company, offers a 6-seat special van with an electronic platform compatible with all types of wheelchairs upon request. Book the van two days in advance on weekends.

Manual and electric wheelchairs are available on rent in the beautiful Tuscany city. Accessible Italy is one of organizations that arrange wheelchair rentals. Accessible Italy, a non-profit entity, organizes Italian tours and provides tourism services for differently-abled tourists and travelers.

The city has fourteen public conveniences with accessible facilities for differently-abled travelers. Usage fee is as low as EUR 0.60 per person. Some of these also have shower facilities, which may cost extra.

Xlibris Corporation has published a 300-page book “The Accessible Guide to Florence”, written by Cornelia Danielson that covers various related aspects. You can find hotels with roll-in-showers, addresses of wheelchair rental shops, accessible museums, wheelchair-accessible paths in some of the city gardens etc. Both hardback and paperback editions of the guide are available.

Florence has many wheelchair accessible hotels, including Hotel Savoy (5-star), Lungarno Suites (4-star) and Loggiato Dei Serviti (3-star).

Differently-abled visitors and their companions get free entry at the state museums like the Accademy and the Uffizi. They can also enter the churches of San Lorenzo, Santa Croce and Santa Maria Novella free-of-charge.

Italian Voluntary for Artistic and Tactile (VIVAT) organizes guided tours for the blind travelers.

Florence has recently introduced trams. Highlight of the new local transport mode is tram platforms / stops are at the same level as the floor of the tram. Differently-abled travelers, thus, can board and alight easily.

Complimentary parking spaces are earmarked with yellow lines on the ground in the public car parks. Special signboards are placed to indicate the spaces.

Before booking an hotel in Florence and / or entry and event tickets, ask the concerned authorities about special facilities available at the property / venue selected.



Info
Author: Abha