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Florence's lofty domes and sacred art will make your senses reel.
The cultural and historical impact of Florence (or Firenze) is overwhelming. Close up, however, the city is one of Italy's most atmospheric and pleasant, retaining a strong resemblance to the small late-medieval centre that contributed so much to the artistic and political development of Europe.
'Everything about Florence seems to be coloured with a mild violet, like diluted wine.' - Henry James
Its striking buildings, formidable galleries and treasure-crammed churches attest to the Florentine love of display. Even long after it had set on the political and economic horizon, Florence upheld its elegant appearance: its skyline, all russet rooftops and lofty domes, is indeed picturesque.
Florence is the capital of the region of Tuscany, on Italy's northwest coast. A good reference point for navigating your way around is the central train station, Santa Maria Novella, although the Duomo is impossible to miss. The city has two airports: Amerigo Vespucci is 5km (3.1mi) northwest of the city centre and Galileo Galilei (for international flights) is about 75km (46.6mi) west of the city, near Pisa. You can walk from one end of the city centre to the other in about 30 minutes.
