Florence (or Firenze in Italian) is one of Italy’s most beautiful and romantic cities. It’s no wonder, then, that this stunning destination is a top spot for honeymoons and getaways for couples.
If you only have 48 hours to spend with your significant other in this elegant and luxurious city, here are some of things you need to see and do on your short break.
Explore the arts
Not all couples will want to gaze at art for hours on end, but lovebirds who adore the romantic style of renaissance paintings simply must visit the Uffizi Gallery.
The gallery’s walls are lined with stunning pieces from famous artists like Giotto, Piero della Francesca, Leonardo da Vinci, Raphael, Michelangelo and Caravaggio. You’ll certainly be enchanted as you wander the lofty halls, taking in the beautiful work. Hours can easily be whiled away here – and you’ll forever have the romantic memory of seeing these artworks with your sweetheart.
A visit to the Galleria dell’Accademia is also a must – here, you’ll get to see Michelangelo’s world-renowned Statue of David.
A lover’s stroll
One of the most pleasurable activities in Florence is simply heading out the front door and embarking on a walk.
By all means carry a map and visit a few key sites, but don’t be afraid to let yourselves get lost, either. (After all, that’s all part of the fun of being in a new city!)
Intimate cobbled lanes, lofty cathedrals and traditional Italian architecture are bound to leave you feeling amorous, with a new delight nestled around every corner. Take some photos in some of Florence’s most beautiful scenery – it’ll be a romantic memento of your honeymoon or getaway for two!
Make sure you include the Ponte Vecchio on your walkabout, which is the city’s oldest bridge that passes over the Arno River. Not only is the medieval stone bridge a beautiful sight, but it’s now home to a vibrant mix of people including live musicians and salespeople. There have been shops on the bridge since the 13th century, and you can still buy gold, jewellery, souvenirs and other goods as you walk by.
You might also want to add your own lover’s padlock to the bridge, which like many other European counterparts now hosts padlocks with couples’ initials engraved linked onto it. Follow tradition and secure your lock onto the link, then throw the keys over the bridge into the water for good luck. Eternal romance and eternal love is sure to follow.
Indulge in taste sensations
It goes without saying that Florence is one of the most amazing cities for food and wine. Everywhere you turn, there is an abundance of romantic, candlelit restaurants ready to spoil you.
Head to the banks of the River Arno for some particularly delightful views while you dine.
Feast on your Italian favourites, such as the traditional tomato sauce bolognese or a margherita pizza – and be sure to ask your waiter for a great wine recommendation.
You can’t go wrong with Italian desserts, either. Tiramisu is a national favourite, with its rich mascarpone filling offset by strong espresso, but you should also try your favourite flavour of gelato. There’s nothing like this authentic, creamy ice cream – so go on, indulge! You might even want to try a few different eateries or flavours and decide on the best. You have 48 whole hours, after all.
Explore the Duomo
Florence is home to the Duomo, a cathedral built over the period of hundreds of years. A ticket to the overall ‘museum’ of attractions includes access to the main Cathedral of Santa Maria del Fiore, plus Brunelleschi’s Dome, Giotto’s Bell Tower, the Baptistry of San Giovanni, the Crypt of Santa Reparata and the Gallery of the Opera del Duomo.
Get swept up in the awe-inspiring art and architecture, and be sure to climb to the top of the Dome, for jaw-dropping views of its artwork and out over the orange roofs of Florence.
Good luck not falling in love all over again on your short break to Florence!
