Florence is a compact city, with much of the buildings that were built in the 14th century still in use. The historical palaces and cathedrals remain a fundamental part of Florentine life. The finest Renaissance architecture is located in the Piazza della Santissima Annunziata.

History
Piazza del Duomo is a great place to start a tour that will uncover some of Florence's historical beauty. The Baptistery, dedicated to St. John the Baptist, is one of the first sights you will see along with the Santa Maria del Fiore cathedral, built in 1296. The Uffizi Gallery, founded in Florence in 1581, by the De Medici family, is one of the oldest museums in the world and holds the largest existing collection of Tuscan Renaissance paintings.

Recreation
Several walking tours are available around Florence if you are looking for a bit of exercise. The Pitti Palace is great to wander around; this huge palace with 10 acres of Italian gardens also includes several museums and galleries. From the Pitti Palace you can walk to the Uffizi Gallery which will take you over the oldest bridge in Florence, the Ponte Vecchio, built in 1345.

Food and Drink
If you are looking for an old fashion Italian restaurant with a taste of authentic local cuisine, then make your way down to the historic district of Santa Croce and visit the Il Cibreo. The Gelateria Vivoli is a great place to taste some of Italy's finest ice cream. For a taste of the local wine we recommend La Barrique wine bar which has an extensive wine list.