We love Florence and Tuscany year-round, but there’s something extra special about visiting in the cooler months. The crowds thin, the countryside turns golden and quiet, and the food—oh, the food—becomes the star of the season. From slow-cooked soups to hearty pastas, it’s the kind of comfort cooking that warms you right through. So when we heard about the new cookbook Winter in Tuscany by Florence based author Amber Guinness, we couldn’t wait to dive in.

Following her gorgeous cookbooks A House Party in Tuscany and Italian Coastal, this book is all about the flavors and rhythms of life in Southern Tuscany and Florence during the quieter months. It’s a celebration of cooking and savoring life at a gentler pace. Beautifully illustrated throughout, the recipes will make you want to pull up a chair and stay awhile. And then roll up your sleeves, tie on an apron and get to work making them at home!

What makes Winter in Tuscany such an enjoyable cookbook just to sit down and read is how well it goes beyond recipes. It’s filled with snippets of history and local lore, tracing Tuscan cuisine all the way back to its ancient Etruscan roots. You’ll find practical guidance, too, like how to stock your pantry for Tuscan-style cooking at home. Simple ingredients that go a long way are key, from lentils and beans to grains, olive oil and herbs. There’s plenty here for vegetarians as well, since so much of Tuscany’s traditional fare relies on hearty, plant-based flavors. And yes, there’s a whole world of Tuscan soups beyond ribollita – plus pastas, roasts and even a spaghetti made with Chianti that is perfect for a chilly evening.

We love how Guinness has captured the feeling of being in Tuscany in the off season. It’s full of art, travel inspiration and the kind of details that transport you straight to Florence’s cobblestoned streets or a cozy trattoria in the hills.

Even if you can’t make it to Italy this winter, this book is a great way to bring a little piece of Tuscany home. Winter in Tuscany is also a perfect gift for anyone who loves Italian food, travel and the simple joy of a good meal shared. Or it might just inspire you to plan your next Tuscan getaway! Keep the inspiration going with a look at our Florence vacation rentals and dreamy villas in Tuscany.

The post Bring the Flavors of Tuscany Home This Winter appeared first on Italy Perfect Travel Blog.

Beautiful Florence views in every season at the Concerto.

One of the biggest Italy tips we share with guests trying to decide when to visit Italy is that Florence is the perfect size to enjoy during the winter. Even with cooler temps, when you’re staying right in the historic center you’re never very far from world-class museums like the Uffizi or one of the many smaller museums and hidden gems in Florence. It is a city so rich with history, beauty and tempting restaurants, and there’s no better time to enjoy an in-depth visit (the best kind!) than during the winter months. Looking for a cozy and inviting place to stay? Here are some of our top choices for a winter escape in Florence this year!

Enjoy a dream location near the Ponte Vecchio and Uffizi at our Concerto, Amore & Allegro apartments.

Set on a historic street right between the Ponte Vecchio and the Uffizi museum, our Concerto, Amore and Allegro apartments are all beautifully remodeled and decorated with a designer’s touch. It doesn’t get more central than this! In moments you’ll be strolling along the Arno or walking over the Ponte Vecchio. You’re just minutes from the entrance to the Uffizi while the Piazza della Signoria and Duomo are just a short walk away. Even better, you can enjoy beautiful views from each one of the apartments over the rooftops of Florence.

Concerto

The Concerto is a stunning place to call home in Florence.

Settle in to a stay surrounded by history and style at the stunning two-bedroom, two-bathroom Concerto apartment in Florence. The decor is a lovely blend of contemporary comfort and antique touches that perfectly embodies Florentine style. The comfy L-shaped sofa and additional seating make the living room an appealing spot for catching up with family and friends or simply relaxing after a day of sightseeing.

Luxurious details in one of the Concerto’s beautiful bedrooms.

Step outside to enjoy 180-degree views over the rooftops of Florence and the Duomo from the long wrap around balcony. While the outdoor relax space and dining area are especially lovely in the warmer months, you’ll love it just as much in the winter. There’s nothing like stepping out and seeing Florence stretch out before your eyes. At night, you’ll have a view of Brunelleschi’s dome and Giotto’s bell tower of the Duomo beautifully lit up. View more photos of the Concerto apartment in Florence here.

Amore

Stunning Florence views from the penthouse Amore apartment.

For sweeping views over Florence that capture the heart any time of the year, enjoy a stay at our two-bedroom, two-bathroom Amore apartment. Take in gorgeous views of the Duomo in one direction and then walk around to the other side of the terrace to see the hills of Fiesole and the Forte di Belvedere. These remarkable views become the backdrop to a marvelous stay as you can admire them also from the living room and even the kitchen!

Bright and sunny Amore apartment in Florence.

You might even find yourself inspired by the view to pursue an artful adventure in Florence during your stay. With a well-designed open plan living room with dining area and kitchen nearby and two beautifully decorated bedrooms, you’ll feel right at home at Amore. View more photos and take a video tour of the Amore here.

Allegro

The warm and inviting living room at the Allegro.

For Florentine charm with a fantastic central location, the two-bedroom, two-bathroom Allegro apartment is the perfect choice! Elegantly designed and beautifully appointed, the Allegro is a welcoming home away from home after full days of sightseeing, dining and shopping. If you’re planning a larger family vacation or reunion in Florence, the Allegro is conveniently located in the same building as the Concerto and Amore. Book all three apartments for family time together along with comfortable private spaces and stunning views from each terrace.

Cute terrace with historic views at the Allegro.

The Concerto, Amore and Allegro apartments are located in a building that was constructed around a historic medieval tower – the Torre Lambertesca. The building’s elevator even runs up the tower! Surrounding the apartments, you’ll also see other impressive medieval towers, which makes the view even more unique.

Memoria

The colors of Florence fill the Memoria!

Enjoy a remarkable location and view even closer to the Ponte Vecchio from the beautiful two-bedroom, two-bathroom Memoria apartment. Our guests rave about the views, looking out over the famous Vasari Corridor over the Ponte Vecchio bridge and the colorful buildings along the Arno. Even better, you’ll enjoy this view from the living room and its private terrace as well as from the dining room and both bedrooms. The Ponte Vecchio is so close you’ll feel like you can reach out and touch it!

Wake up to this dreamy view from the Memoria.

If you’re planning a winter stay in Florence or would like to visit other destinations in Italy, explore our beautiful Italy Perfect vacation rentals. Our team is ready to help you plan an unforgettable Italy stay! Contact us or email us directly at reservations@italyperfect.com to book now.

The post Where to Stay for a Winter Escape in Florence appeared first on Italy Perfect Travel Blog.

Explore Florence’s creative side this winter! (credit)

When it comes to traveling in the Bel Paese, we’re not shy about sharing how winter is the best kept secret in Italy. While you’ll probably want to save a leisurely holiday at a Tuscan villa for the warmer months, winter is one of our favorite times to enjoy exploring the cultural treasures and historic streets of Florence and Rome. Come for the festive Christmas atmosphere or plan a visit during the quieter winter months after the holidays to experience the top attractions without the peak season crowds. Discover a palette of cultural delights, from special exhibitions to cozy cafes, as you explore the creative side of two of Italy’s most captivating destinations this winter!

Art and History Brought to Life in Florence this Winter

See Florence’s top sights this winter. (credit)

See the Duomo without the Crowds

Seeing the beautiful Cathedral of Santa Maria del Fiore, also called the Duomo, is a must while in Florence. However, there’s so much more to see than just the outside – even if the exterior is a marvel in itself! Be sure to go inside the Duomo, which is always free to visit, to gaze up at the marvelous 16th-century frescoes decorating the inside of Brunelleschi’s dome by the Italian Renaissance painters Giorgio Vasari and Federico Zuccari. Even better, following the spiraling staircase to the top of the dome for a stunning view over Florence. Of if you’ve already been to the top of the dome, why not burn off a gelato or two getting a close-up view of Giotto’s bell tower, which rewards your climb with a great view – especially of the red-tiled cupola of the Duomo. Separate from the Duomo, don’t miss the chance to visit the Baptistery to see its golden mosaics or the surprisingly good Opera del Duomo Museum.

TIP: Get yourself a Brunelleschi Pass, which gives you access over 3 days to all the experiences at the Duomo with one ticket, including the Baptistery of San Giovanni, Giotto’s Bell Tower, Brunelleschi’s Dome and the Opera del Duomo Museum.

Visit Michelangelo’s Secret Space

This winter don’t miss the chance to be among the first visitors to see Michelangelo’s “secret room” at the Museum of the Medici Chapels. Discovered in 1975, these hidden away rooms with charcoal drawings created by Michelangelo Buonarroti are being opened for the first time – and just for a limited time. Only four visitors will be allowed at at time with advance reservation now until March 30, 2024. Read more about Michelangelo’s Secret Room in this excellent piece by The Florentine.

 

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Create Your Own Art in Florence!

While strolling around Florence, you’ll surely spot shop windows full of beautiful marbled paper. One of our favorites is Giulio Giannini e Figlio, a gorgeous shop in the Oltrarno just across from the Pitti Palace. Located in the same spot where it was founded in 1856, it’s now run by Maria Giannini, the 6th generation of the family. While the handmade paper, stationary and marbled paper covered journals make excellent gifts, you can also try your hand at creating a very special souvenir with a marbled paper workshop.

Feeling even more creative? Learn firsthand about the fresco painting process that artists like Michelangelo used and create your own masterpiece during a Florence Fresco Painting Class. Or, if you’re not feeling brave enough to try your hand at painting or marbling paper, experience the creative side of Florence on an Artisan Walk in Oltrarno.

Exploring Rome’s Eternal Charms

See the Galleria Borghese – one of Rome’s most impressive museums!

Rome Art Exhibits You Don’t Want to Miss

Any season of the year is a good time to be swept away by the beauty of the Galleria Borghese in Rome. Whether you’re getting a close of look at some of Caravaggio’s most famous paintings or the unbelievable sculptures by Bernini, like Apollo and Daphne, or works by renowned artists such Titian, Raffaello, Correggio and Bronzino, there’s so much to discover here. We recommend booking a Galleria Borghese Private Tour for an in-depth and personalized private tour. Visit now through February 18, 2024 for an even richer experience during The Touch of Pygmalion: Rubens and Sculpture in Rome exhibit. This exquisite exhibit showcases the lush paintings of the Flemish Baroque master in one of Rome’s most lavish settings. It’s exactly the sort of exhibit that Rome does perfectly!

 

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For a more modern experience, don’t miss the massive Escher retrospective at the Palazzo Bonaparte now through April 1, 2024. With over 300 works by M.C. Escher, it’s the largest exhibition ever dedicated to this unique Dutch graphic artist who lived in Rome for 12 years. Or head to the Museo dell’Ara Pacis for Helmut Newton Legacy, an impressive photography exhibit in an epecially photogenic setting.

Book a Rome for Foodies Tour for a tasty experience in the Eternal City!

Discover the Delicious Side of Rome

Good food is art in Italy and Rome has enough culinary tempations to keep you coming back time and again. Stop by Osteria da Simmi for delicious Roman fare and excellent seafood. Don’t miss seeing the cellar with ancient historical artifacts and the Goddess of Abundance! It’s located just around the corner from our beautiful Sonata apartment in a charming location in the historic center.

Or while exploring the Testaccio neighborhood, stop at the Testaccio Market, which is full of food vendors and excellent spots to eat and enjoy a glass (or two!) of wine like da Corrado al Banco 18. Or head to Piatto Romano, also in the Testaccio area, which is a classic but always great restaurant choice. Or if you’re exploring the Vatican area, head to Romanè in the Prati neighborhood, which is a new and highly rated restaurant dedicated to traditional Roman recipes.

Discover Italian wine on a Rome Wine Tour.

For a fun gastronomic experience, we have two must-try tours that offer a taste of Rome. Dive into the world of Italian wines on a Rome Wine Tour & Tasting, enjoying exclusive tastings of Italian varietals led by a trained sommelier. If you’re a food enthusiast, the Rome for Foodies Private Tour is your ticket to the city’s culinary secrets. Navigate local markets and indulge in authentic Roman dishes guided by an expert. Whether an in-depth tour or simply an aperitivo in a charming cafe tucked away on a little piazza, there are so many satisfying ways to enjoy Rome’s cultural and gastronomic essence.

Find fabulous deals during the Italy winter shopping sales. (credit)

Bonus: Shop During the Winter Sales in Florence and Rome!

A winter visit to Italy has one extra treat that’s a favorite with shoppers. On January 5, 2024 winter sales start all across Italy and run through February or early March. Explore the historic streets of Florence, where both renowned boutiques and local shops offer irresistible discounts. From high-end fashion to exquisite handcrafted goods, the city becomes a haven for savvy shoppers. Or head to Rome, where the winter sales add an extra layer of excitement to the Eternal City’s vibrant shopping scene. Explore the iconic boutiques along Via del Corso and Via Condotti, where you’ll be tempted by Italian fashion at enticing prices.

Ready to book a winter stay in Florence or Rome that’s full of cultural delights and fantastic shopping deals? Check out our beautiful Italy Perfect vacation apartment rentals or contact our team to plan your perfect stay!

The post Artful Adventures in Florence & Rome this Winter appeared first on Italy Perfect Travel Blog.

Rome enchants in the winter.

While so many of Italy’s iconic experiences, like soaking up the Tuscan sun and lounging on a colorful Amalfi Coast beach, are best during the summer, so many of Italy’s charms are at their best during the off-season months. Spend your time in winter exploring the famous museums and sights without summer crowds, warm up in a cozy trattoria and enjoy the city life locals love in Rome, Florence and Venice. Even better, you can plan a trip during the holidays to experience the festive Christmas season and enjoy a taste—always delicious—of the holidays Italian-style. Check out some of our favorite reason why the holiday and winter season in Italy should be on your travel radar this year!

Enjoy local life in Florence off season! (credit)

Florence: Where Renaissance Art Meets Holiday Magic

In Florence, the historic city center comes alive with twinkling lights and festive markets for the winter season. If you’re visiting during the Christmas holidays, Piazza Santa Croce hosts a traditional Christmas market, offering handmade crafts, local delicacies and artisanal gifts. But the off-season period from November through early spring is a quieter time that’s the best for exploring Florence’s many museums, from the world-class collections at the Uffizi to the many smaller hidden gems throughout the city.

Festive decorations in Florence’s Piazza Santa Trinita.

Looking for something fun and different? Here are some of our favorite local experiences that are ideal during the cooler winter months:

–   In a city of artistic inspiration, why not take an art class at the Leonardo Da Vinci Art School during your stay? Find out more ways to experience the vibrant expat culture scene in Florence here.

–    Learn how to make your own artisan leather products at the historic Scuola del Cuoio near Santa Croce. They offer a variety of leather workshops from one and two days to longer courses.

–    Create your own unique scent at a custom perfume making class at Aquaflor. Enjoy an exclusive private workshop with an olfactory specialist or a shorter yet fascinating experience creating your own custom scent.

–    Spend a day cooking in Florence with a chef on this private from market to table cooking class.

For more winter inspiration, check out our guide to what to see and do each season of the year in Florence.

Christmas magic at St. Peter’s Basilica.

Rome: Winter Wonder Amidst Ancient History

The Eternal City shines during the winter with holiday lights lining the street adding an extra glow. For Christmas, you can witness the grandeur of St. Peter’s Square adorned with a towering Christmas tree and nativity scene. Explore Rome’s iconic landmarks, including the Colosseum, Roman Forum and the Pantheon, without the summer heat and crowds. With so many fine museums to visit for those rainy days, winter is ideal for experiencing Rome’s history at a leisurely pace. When it’s time to warm up, head to a café for a steaming cup of rich Italian coffee or hot chocolate or indulge in hearty Roman dishes like pasta carbonara in welcoming trattorias.

The Colosseum is impressive in any light! (credit)

Ready to see Rome’s artistic side? Here are some ideas for exploring more in-depth and unexpected sides of the Eternal City:

–    Marvel at masterpieces by Caravaggio, Raphael and Bernini on a private tour of the magnificent Galleria Borghese, one of Rome’s artistic gems.

–    Can’t get enough Caravaggio? Rome is the place to learn more and this Caravaggio in Rome walking tour led by an art historian brings the dramatic artist’s work and masterpieces to life.

–    Think you’ve seen it all in Rome? Go underground and explore the depths of Rome’s history and archaeology on a tour with an expert archaeologist.

–    After visiting Rome’s archaeological sites, take a day trip to Pompeii from Rome to walk among the streets of the ruined ancient city

Rome is having its own renaissance and winter is the perfect time to find out why. Check out even more tempting reasons to rediscover Rome!

Winter light in Venice. (credit)

Venice: Mystique in the Floating City

Embrace the atmospheric allure of Venice’s winter fog, which adds an enigmatic quality to its enchanting canals and historic alleyways. Called “La Serenissima,” which means “The Most Serene,” Venice truly is at its most serene during the quiet off-season period. Yet don’t let that stop you from exploring this enchanting city. Follow our art lover’s guide to Venice to explore the artistic side of the islands or enjoy the simple pleasures of meandering along quiet canals. Winter provides a romantic and more intimate setting for this quintessential experience.

And, yet, Venice bursts to life after a winter slumber with the world-famous Carnival season. Witness the city come alive with colorful masks, parades and elaborate costumes – and join in the fun!

Enjoy the wintry charms of Venice. (credit)

Planning a winter trip to Venice? Check out these unique tours and experiences to add a creative touch to your holiday:

–    Spend a day learning about the history of glassmaking with an expert guide and visit the Murano Glass Museum and Island of Murano.

–    Make your own Venetian mask and discover the ancient technique of making a Venetian papier-mâché from experts during a Carnival Mask-Making experience.

–    Enjoy a private gondola ride along the canals of Venice.

–    Enjoy Venice’s musical side on this tour to the Music Museum to see the collection of violins made by the greatest Italian luthiers and attend a chamber concert.

See Italy this Winter Season!

Christmas and winter in Italy offer a captivating alternative to the bustling summer months. Whether you choose to stroll through Florence’s festive markets, immerse yourself in Rome’s ancient history, or wander the misty canals of Venice, you’ll discover a different, equally enchanting side of these iconic Italian cities. Find your perfect place to truly feel at home during your stay at one of our Florence vacation rentals, Rome vacation rentals or Venice vacation rentals. Contact our team at reservations@italyperfect.com for help planning a beautiful winter stay in Italy!

The post Discover Italy’s Off-Season Charms this Winter! 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.

Discover why we love February in Florence! (credit)

Looking for a fun way to kick off your Italy travels this year? Winter is the best kept secret in Italy, and there’s no better place than Florence in February to find out why. Sure there might be some drizzly days, they’re also punctuated by the loveliest clear skies and crisp air. You’ll have plenty to do thanks to the city’s late-winter fun and, especially, Carnival celebrations. Better yet, with the sights and streets being emptier than usual, February in Florence will feel like your own little secret.

Winter Fun in Florence

Winter is an unexpectedly ideal time to visit Florence. If you’re met with February’s typical rain showers and cool temperatures, fret not: There are plenty of things to do on a rainy day in Florence. Whatever your weather app tells you, this is the perfect time of year for enjoying the city’s historic treasures – and so much more.

Café Hop for Hot Chocolate

Go out (or, rather, in) for a cioccolata calda and a book break at one of Florence’s many cafes specializing in chocolate. Rivoire (Piazza della Signoria, 5/R), Coccole Cioccolato (Via de’ Ginori, 55/57r), and Pasticceria Dolci e Dolcezze (Piazza Cesare Beccaria, 8/R) are a few addresses chocolate lovers won’t want to miss.

 

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Eat Seasonal Specialties

Browse the fruit and vegetable stands at Mercato Centrale or Mercato di Sant’Ambrogio for something to whip up at your Florence apartment rental, like hearty Tuscan soups swimming with velvety pumpkin or vibrant black kale, or a light tasting of winter pears with pecorino. And if you’d rather go out, now’s the easiest time of year to snag a reservation at local institutions like Trattoria Cammillo (Borgo S. Jacopo, 57/r), Vini e Vecchi Sapori (Via dei Magazzini, 3/r) and Cibrèo (Via del Verrocchio, 8r). Don’t miss out on menu items featuring in-season artichokes, radicchio and citrus. Check out these Florence favorite dining spots from Italy Perfect founder Lisa Byrne.

 

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Shop on Sale (or Not)

With sale season starting in early January and extending through February, now’s the time to have our Personal Shopper take you to the best places for Florence’s famous leather boots and jackets, marbled paper and other artisan-made goods for a deal. Prefer to browse market stalls for unique treasures? Head to Piazza Santo Spirito on the second and third Sundays of the month for art, crafts and foods from organic farms. For antiques and vintage clothes, try the Fortezza da Basso market (every third weekend of the month) and Cascine market (Tuesday mornings).

Explore Florence’s museums with fewer crowds. (credit)

Enjoy Less Crowded Streets, Sights & Museums

Save for a few study-abroad groups, Florence’s most popular churches and museums are quiet in February. Enjoy having the Uffizi, Bargello and Pitti Palace to yourself, and take advantage of the cooler weather to climb the Duomo or Giotto’s Bell Tower without breaking a sweat. And when the weather’s good, it’s passeggiata time: Take a stroll to uncover Florence’s hidden gems, followed by an early sunset at Piazzale Michelangelo.

Head to Special Events in 2023

If you’ve already enjoyed Florence’s perennial offerings and want to take advantage of the season’s special events, you’re in luck this year:

• Celebrating Valentine’s Day in the city? Treat yourself to an expertly made cocktail or a bottle of sparkling wine at Procacci ( Via de’ Tornabuoni, 64/r). Many restaurants offer special tasting menus for the holiday; call ahead for a reservation.
• Through February 26, Banksy’s street art will be projected on the walls inside the former Santo Stefano al Ponte church. Your ticket includes the chance to put on a VR headset and “spray paint” the walls like Banksy.
• Until April 18, the Salvatore Ferragamo Museum will have a Women in Balance exhibit dedicated to Wanda Ferragamo, the famous Florentine designer’s wife who helmed the fashion house after his death, and Italian women of the 50s and 60s.

Carnival Celebrations in Florence

And now for the main event: Carnival season. While you might only think of Venice’s Carnival celebrations, during the month of February Italians all over the peninsula celebrate their last few weeks to eat meat, indulge in sugar and hold elaborate parties and parades before the Lenten season begins. In 2023, the main Carnevale dates to know are those from Giovedi grasso (Fat Thursday) on February 16 to Martedi grasso (Fat Tuesday) on February 21 – though you’ll find plenty of festivities sprinkled throughout the month.

Feast on Fried and Sugary Delights

For those with a sweet tooth, February is the best time of year to be in Florence, when bakeries and cafes churn out fried and sugar-coated Carnival sweets all month long. Look out for classic treats like frittelle di riso (bite-sized balls of deep-fried rice pudding, sometimes filled with custard), cenci (“rags” of fried dough, dusted with powdered sugar), and schiacciata alla Fiorentina (a local sheet cake with Chantilly cream filling, decorated with the Florentine fleur-de-lis). You’ll find these at most traditional coffee bars and bakeries, but Pasticceria Giorgio (Via Duccio di Buoninsegna, 36) a little outside of the city center is particularly famous for its Carnival offerings.

Delight in a Carnival Parade

Hang around Piazza Signoria on the weekend before Lent to catch Florence’s annual Carnival parade. You’ll know it when you see it: Groups of revelers, dressed in elaborate masks and 18th-century costumes, will march, dance and wave flags along the streets – trailed by bands, confetti and papier-mâché floats. Enjoy a glimpse of the holiday fun in this video from the 2020 Carnival in Florence:

If you’re up for a day trip, one of Italy’s most famous Carnival celebrations is just over an hour away by train. The coastal town of Viareggio attracts hundreds of thousands of visitors to its annual Carnival parades, which just rang in their 150th anniversary. This year’s celebrations fall on six different dates in February and, as usual, promise larger-than-life papier-mâché floats, towering as tall as buildings and intricately decorated around the 2023 theme of “dreams, hopes, and desires for a better world.”

See a Concert

If the weather isn’t on your side or you’d rather celebrate Carnival indoors, a seasonal concert is a wonderful idea. This year on February 21, the Orchestra della Toscana will play a Carnival concert at Teatro Verdi near Santa Croce.

The post Florence in February: Winter Fun and Carnival Celebrations! appeared first on Italy Perfect Travel Blog.