Some of the most meaningful artistic moments in Florence, for us, are tied to Fra Angelico. There’s nothing quite like standing before his luminous paintings in the Uffizi or being surrounded by the frescoes he painted for the monks of San Marco where his frescoes still radiate a sense of peace nearly six centuries later. If you’re not familiar with this Renaissance master, this fall and winter is the perfect time to discover him as Florence celebrates with the first major exhibition of his work in more than 70 years. Plan your trip now to experience this extraordinary cultural event in the city he called home!

Fra Angelico at Palazzo Strozzi & Museo di San Marco

Opening September 26, 2025, and running through January 25, 2026, the Fra Angelico exhibition will take place at two of Florence’s most remarkable cultural venues: the elegant Fondazione Palazzo Strozzi and the Museo di San Marco. More than four years in the making, the exhibition reunites altarpieces that have been separated for centuries, presents masterpieces freshly restored through an ambitious conservation campaign, and showcases works drawn from some of the world’s most prestigious museums and collections. To see them gathered together in Florence—the city where Fra Angelico lived, prayed and painted—is a rare and unforgettable opportunity.

Alongside his works, you’ll have the chance to experience the rich artistic world of Renaissance Florence, by seeing Fra Angelico in dialogue with other masters like Masaccio, Filippo Lippi, Ghiberti and Luca della Robbia. It’s a chance not only to encounter the beauty of his art, but also to understand how profoundly he shaped the course of painting in Florence and beyond.

Why You’ll Want to Be Here This Fall & Winter

What makes this exhibition even more special is its timing, stretching from the beauty of autumn in Florence right through the holiday season. These are our favorite times of year, when the pace slows and there’s space to savor it all. You can spend a quiet morning immersed in Fra Angelico’s art, then enjoy the simple pleasure of a warming bowl of ribollita or an evening stroll beneath festive holiday lights. If you’re looking for a reason to plan that next trip to Italy, this once-in-a-lifetime exhibition is a great reason!

Learn More About Fra Angelico

If you’d like to delve deeper, Florence-based art historian Alexandra Lawrence is offering a six-week lecture series, Heaven Bound: The Life and Art of Fra Angelico starting September 4, 2025. Whether preparing for your visit or joining from afar, her lectures are a wonderful way to understand the artist who became known as the “Angelic Friar.” Pope John Paul II once described Fra Angelico as the painter who best “translated into color the eloquence of the word of God,” and Alexandra’s insights illuminate exactly why his work continues to move us today.

Book Your Florence Stay Now

Plan a perfect Florence stay at the Galvani.

With an exhibition of this importance, tickets are expected to be in high demand. We recommend booking in advance so you don’t miss the chance to be part of this remarkable cultural moment. It’s also the right time to plan your stay, so you can enjoy the season just as we love it most. Browse our Florence apartment rentals to find your home away from home and plan ahead for an unforgettable visit!

The post Plan Now for Florence’s Landmark Fra Angelico Exhibition appeared first on Italy Perfect Travel Blog.

Book now to enjoy Rome this autumn! (credit)

Italy’s charm is timeless, but there’s something truly magical about experiencing its beauty in the autumn. As the summer heat lets up and the weather turns pleasantly cooler, it’s the perfect time to explore Rome, Florence and Venice. Picture yourself wandering through Rome’s historic streets with a crisp breeze, savoring Florence’s renowned art without the summer tourist rush or gliding through Venice’s canals under a golden autumnal light. Fall in Italy not only offers a more relaxed pace and more comfortable temperatures but also a chance to indulge in seasonal culinary delights and vibrant local festivals. Don’t miss out on the unique beauty of autumn in Italy – book your vacation rental now while dates are still available!

ROME

For your fall Roman holiday, a stay in the Spanish Steps area is as convenient as it is charming. This central location offers easy access to Rome’s top attractions as well as delightful shopping streets to explore. It’s also well-connected by public transport, making it an ideal base for seeing the city. Here are just a few beautiful apartments near the Spanish Steps, but you can see all of our Rome vacation rentals here.

Ginevra

2 Bedrooms | 1.5 Bathrooms | Sleeps 5

Enjoy a beautiful stay at the bright Ginevra apartment, set on a lovely street very near the Spanish Steps. The higher floor setting (with an elevator!) means excellent views over the delightful neighborhood while the three balconies across the front of this apartment create the perfect spot to sit and take it all in during your stay.

Corelli Charm

2 Bedrooms | 2 Bathrooms | Sleeps 6

The Corelli Charm apartment’s prime location in the coveted Spanish Steps area provides a great home base in Rome. If you’re planning a family getaway and need more space, you’ll also find the beautiful Donizetti Dream and Rossini’s Wish apartments in the same building. Whether you fancy a stroll in the lush Borghese Gardens, a day at the Roman Forum, or the must-see Vatican Museum and Saint Peter’s Basilica, you’ll find this location to be wonderful for sightseeing, dining and shopping.

Valentina Grande

5 Bedrooms | 5 Bathrooms | Sleeps 10

A stunning stay for larger families or groups of friends, the beautiful Valentina Grande apartment boasts a super elegant location on the corner of Via Condotti near the Spanish Steps. The large windows look up Via Condotti towards the Spanish Steps and overlook Hotel d’Inghilterra. Perfect for a cozy autumn stay, both of the living rooms have gas fireplaces that feature stonework from southern Italy. The hand-hewn ceiling beams have been exposed to display the space as it was originally designed – another gorgeous touch!

FLORENCE

If you’ve been dreaming of Florence this year, now is the time to be an early bird and book an autumn stay. Our inside tip is to pick a vacation rental with a terrace so you can enjoy gorgeous views overlooking the historic center every moment of your stay. Autumn is the perfect season to savor morning coffee or an evening glass of wine on your private terrace – truly la dolce vita! You can see all of our Florence vacation rentals here.

Maestro

2 Bedrooms | 2 Bathrooms | Sleeps 4

This autumn you have the rare chance to stay in our gorgeous Maestro vacation rental with a dreamy terrace and unbelievable central location near the Ponte Vecchio. With a comfortable sitting area and an table for dining al fresco, there’s plenty of space to enjoy those perfect fall days in Italy. Book your October stay now!

S Croce Miravista

2 Bedrooms | 2.5 Bathrooms | Sleeps 4

With a stunning view overlooking Piazza Santa Croce and its beautiful church, S Croce Miravista is a dreamy spot for an autumn stay. This remarkable apartment is set in a 16th-century palazzo that is full of rich historical details, Renaissance murals, family heirloom antiques, and beautiful decor.

S Croce Belvedere

2 Bedrooms | 2 Bathrooms | Sleeps 5

Located in the same historic palazzo, the cheerful S Croce Belvedere apartment welcomes you with comfort and a sunny terrace to relax and enjoy cocktails at sunset as you hear the church bells toll across the city. With the Piazza Santa Croce outside your door, you’re perfectly situated to explore Florence’s top sights on foot.

VENICE

A city that seems designed for romance, Venice is even more magical when shared with your family and friends. Plan an autumn in Italy getaway in one of these spacious and comfortable apartments. Or find even more options by seeing all of our Venice vacation rentals here.

Cassia Quattro

4 Bedrooms | 3 Bathrooms | Sleeps 7

Soak up those unbelievable Venice views from the Cassia Quattro apartment with a private rooftop terrace, beautiful canal views and a style that blends classic Venetian architecture with modern comfort and bright, colorful highlights. There’s also a large terrace that is shared by this apartment and the other three in the building, Alloro, Menta and Zenzero, if you need more space for your group stay this autumn in Italy.

Palazzo Tiziano

3 Bedrooms | 3 Bathrooms | Sleeps 6

For a rare Venetian experience, Palazzo Tiziano offers the chance to stay in an entirely private 16th-century palazzo in Venice’s coveted San Marco neighborhood. This elegant four-story palazzo exudes history while also boasting every modern convenience for a comfortable stay. The perfect finishing touch is the altana, a traditional Venetian terrace, where you can gaze over the rooftops of Venice. Just beyond a 12th-century bell tower you’ll even spot the Grand Canal!

The post Inspiration for a Perfect Autumn Stay in Italy appeared first on Italy Perfect Travel Blog.

Fall in love with autumn in Italy this year. (credit)

While summer in Italy often captures all the attention, we think one of the very best times of year to visit is from September to October. Italy’s historic cities and the peaceful countryside beckon with fewer crowds and beautiful weather. September is still quite summery yet cooler and autumn really kicks off in October. Savor seasonal delights like truffles and chestnuts and enjoy the wine and olive harvest season in person. Whether wandering the charming streets of Florence, exploring the ancient history of Rome or driving through the Tuscan hills, Italy in autumn offers an authentic and unforgettable experience!

See Florence this autumn. (credit)

Fall in Florence

We love Florence in every season, but in the autumn it’s even more inviting. Explore the Uffizi Gallery and see Michelangelo’s David without the summer crowds. It’s a lovely time of year to stroll through Florence’s historic streets, which offer a glimpse into the city’s rich history and Renaissance art. Local cafes and trattorias serve delicious seasonal dishes, and the weather is still ideal for an outdoor aperitivo. Find out the best things to see and do in Florence in the fall or plan your trip to coincide with a special event like the Florence Art Biennale from October 14-22, 2023.

Looking for the perfect place to stay this autumn? We have a carefully curated selection of Florence vacation rentals, including the stunning new Concerto and Allegro apartments in the heart of the historic district. Or book a stay in our new three-bedroom Pierino apartment with dates now available for autumn 2023. Florence in the autumn is a culturally rich experience – don’t miss it this year!

See the autumn colors in Rome. (credit)

Rediscover Rome this Autumn

Set off to Rome this fall to experience the Eternal City without the summer temps and crowds. Spending time strolling through the ancient cobblestone alleys becomes a delightful experience, and the pleasant weather encourages outdoor activities. Enjoy a walk that takes you from ancient baths to timeless gardens or head out on a walking tour through Trastevere and Gianicolo that ends with fabulous views. Or spend time simply shopping and strolling through the heart of Rome.

Our Rome vacation rentals put you right in the heart of the city with all the comforts of home. Even if you’ve already spent time in Rome, find out why this year is the perfect time to rediscover the Eternal City.

The colors of pure enchantment in Tuscany. (credit)

Autumn Flavors in Tuscany

In autumn, Tuscany offers a rustic charm and the abundance of the harvest season. The hills and vineyards transform the already beautiful views into the stuff of dreams. Foodies know it’s the tastiest season in Tuscany, with grapes and olives being gathered for winemaking and olive oil production. Spend time visiting the best vineyards or stopping by little trattorias to try the season’s hearty dishes like ribollita, a vegetable soup, and pappardelle pasta with wild boar sauce. Locally sourced ingredients like chestnuts, figs and truffles feature in delicious seasonal dishes. These are just a few of the reasons why autumn is the perfect time for a Tuscan getaway. Find your perfect villa stay in Tuscany to enjoy the region’s natural beauty and savor its authentic flavors amidst the picturesque countryside.

Venice is magical in the fall! (credit)

See Venice in the Best Light

A city of golden light, Venice is beautiful in autumn. Catch the autumn colors reflected in the canals and enjoy the city outside of the peak season. Go island hopping in the Venetian lagoon or discover the artistic side of Venice during one of the prettiest times of the year. Book an incredible stay for your family or friends at the historic Palazzo Tiziano, a private 16th-century palazzo. Or enjoy stunning canal views from our Alloro or Serenata vacation rentals. Venice in the autumn exudes timeless beauty and a serene allure …enjoy it yourself this year!

The post Discover Italy’s Timeless Charm this Autumn appeared first on Italy Perfect Travel Blog.

Discover the beauty of Florence every season of the year! (credit)

Any frequent traveler to Florence likely has their favorite season to visit Italy’s famous Renaissance city. Food lovers flock in the fall, flower enthusiasts adore the spring and everyone can find something to love about the winter holiday festivities and summertime dolce vita. In short, you’re spoiled for choice when picking a good time to stay in Florence. Each season has its highlights, so consider this our case for spending at least one autumn, winter, spring and summer in the capital of Tuscany.

Put an autumn visit to Florence on your calendar.

Autumn

You don’t want to miss the harvest time in Tuscany, which runs from late September to mid-October and yields some of the most delicious things to taste in Florence’s restaurants. The vendemmia, or grape harvest, sees farmers picking grapes to not only bottle into Tuscan wines, but also to bake into schiacciata con l’uva—a sweet and sticky flatbread you’ll be able to sample at the bakeries around town.

The early Tuscan olive harvest, meanwhile, guarantees that you’ll start to see bottles of deep green, peppery oil popping up with the “olio nuovo” (new oil) label in Florentine shops and restaurants. The best way to taste it? On a slice of toasted, unsalted Tuscan bread.

Autumn is a tasty time to visit Florence! (credit)

These harvests—in addition to all the fresh truffles, porcini mushrooms, chestnuts and pumpkins growing in the countryside—make autumn the best time to dine in Tuscany. With temperatures hovering in the comfortably cool 50s to 70s range, the mood is just right to tuck into a plate of tagliolini al tartufo, pappardelle with wild boar sauce, or pumpkin ravioli and fried porcini. Taste the bounty at Florence’s many trattorie, or visit Tuscan fall festivals in nearby towns like Greve, Impruneta and San Miniato.

As for what to do between meals, the fall means Florence’s theaters reopen after their summer breaks. Film buffs may want to check out the 50 Giorni di Cinema a Firenze, a festival running from early October to mid-December and showcasing international filmmakers. In the mood for the theater? Teatro della Pergola, Teatro Verdi and Teatro Puccini begin their seasons in September and October.

Falling in love with winter in Florence. (credit)

Winter

You’ll need a coat and an umbrella if you’re visiting Florence between late November and February—but fear not, there are tons of things to do on a rainy day in Florence. Better yet, as the high tourist season ends and the holiday festivities begin, winter reveals itself to be the best-kept secret in Italy.

Though you’ll thoroughly enjoy escaping the rain by popping into one of Florence’s countless cafes for a cup of rich hot chocolate or one of the 72 museums for art and history, there’s plenty of outdoor fun to be had this time of year. Starting in late November, for one, Florence’s main Christmas market in Piazza Santa Croce opens. Grab Polish sausages or Czech pastries—and a steaming cup of Italian mulled wine to wash them down—all while shopping for ornaments and relishing the holiday cheer.

Christmas festivities in Piazza Santa Croce.

The days surrounding the Immaculate Conception on December 8, a national holiday, mark the lighting of the towering Christmas tree in Piazza Duomo. All month long, you’ll want to bundle up for glorious evening strolls to admire twinkling lights all over the city. Highlights include the decorations on Ponte Vecchio and along the luxury Via de Tornabuoni shopping street, the nativity scenes at the Santo Spirito and Santa Maria del Fiore churches, and trees at Palazzo Vecchio and Piazzale Michelangelo.

Want more holiday fun? There’s an ice-skating rink, Florence Ice Village, near the Fortezza da Basso every year, as well as smaller Christmas markets and local events throughout December. The festivities culminate with Christmas Eve and Day Mass in the Cathedral of Florence, then settle down after January 6—the day of the Epiphany. This national holiday includes a parade reenacting the journey of the wise men to the nativity, plus glimpses of La Befana, the old woman who delivered gifts to Italian children the night before.

After a quiet January, Florence in February marks the beginning of Carnival season. This lively time of year means you’ll be able taste typical pre-Lent treats—like frittelle di riso, or fried rice pudding balls—and delight in traditional parades. While the most famous are in Venice and Viareggio, Florence’s own Carnival procession happens the weekend before Lent in Piazza Signoria, and it promises plenty of masks, 18th-century costumes and papier-mâché floats.

Cascades of wisteria blooming in Florence.

Spring

With daytime temperatures in the 60s and sweet-smelling wisteria and jasmine blooming all over the city, sunny spring is a fabulous time to be in Florence. The season kicks off with Easter, which is really a two-day affair thanks to Pasqua on Sunday and Pasquetta (little Easter) on Monday. This gives you two excuses to book a long lunch of lamb, torta pasqualina, asparagus and local fava beans served with pecorino. On Sunday morning, don’t miss the 300-year-old tradition of the Explosion of the Cart, when a dove-shaped rocket is shot at the cart from the inside of the Florence Cathedral—creating a fireworks display right in front of the Duomo. On Monday, grab a traditional dove-shaped colomba cake to take to a picnic at one of the gardens below. Florence’s major museums are open on both Sunday and Monday, making this holiday weekend particularly spirited.

Spring is the perfect time to enjoy scenic walks in Florence. (credit)

If your ideal Italian vacation involves strolling around gardens, then you’ll definitely want to plan your Florence trip for around late April or early May. This is when the somewhat under-the-radar Iris Garden, tucked behind Piazzale Michelangelo, opens for its annual four-week window. Free of charge, sit on a bench to admire irises of all hues, which attract horticulturalists from all over the world. This is also the best time of year to visit the Bardini Garden, as its mesmerizing, Instagram-famous wisteria pergola is in full violet bloom. For a full day of soaking up fragrant flowers, buy a ticket for both the Bardini and Boboli Gardens, which have plenty of flower-speckled hillsides for lounging on a blanket. Finally, stop at the Rose Garden on your way back to the city center, whose 350 varieties of roses are at their peak in the spring.

Sunny summer days in Florence.

Summer

Summers in Florence are hot, which means it’s the ideal season to wake up early, stay out late and take full advantage of afternoon siestas. Wear cool clothing and slather on the sunscreen, and you’ll have plenty of fun experiencing Florence’s high season.

Any local will tell you that the highlight of summer in the city—besides cooling down with an Aperol spritz or a cone from the best gelaterias in Florence—is the exhilarating local game of Calcio Storico. This traditional sport is an intense combination of soccer, rugby and wrestling, and it sees 27 brave volunteers from each of the four districts of Florence—Santa Maria Novella (the red team), Santo Spirito (white), Santa Croce (blue) and San Giovanni (green)—battle it out in the name of pure love for their city. If you’re lucky enough to snag a ticket to the semifinals and final match in June, you’ll sit in the stands overlooking a sandy field set up in Piazza Santa Croce. Otherwise, book one of our apartments in the piazza for a bird’s eye view of the action. The June 24 final begins with an afternoon parade through Florence, when medieval costumed players (and their rowdy supporters) make their way toward Santa Croce to the beating of drums and much fanfare.

Cool off with a gelato in Florence. (credit)

On the same day, Florence celebrates the Festa di San Giovanni, or the feast day for its patron saint, St. John the Baptist. The day begins with mass and a civic parade from Palazzo Vecchio to the Baptistry of Florence. If you’re in the mood for a climb (and a rewarding view), one lesser known perk of the holiday is the reopening of San Niccolò tower, a fixture of Florence’s ancient city walls that can be seen in a guided small-group tour. After dinner, grab a spot along the Arno to watch the annual fireworks display—perhaps the only time of year when you get to see the Ponte Vecchio illuminated by dazzling fireworks.

Ready to discover Florence in every season? Enjoy living like a local at one of our beautiful Florence vacation rentals. Or truly own your own slice of Florence with the Maestro, a fractional co-ownership property from Italy Perfect Shared. Contact our team to find out more!

The post A Year in Florence: What to See & Do in Each Season appeared first on Italy Perfect Travel Blog.