We wrapped up a magnificent cruise on the HAL Nieuw Amsterdam this year with a train ride from the port of Venice into Florence, where we spent two amazing days before traveling on to Rome.
Florence is one of the most walkable, beautiful cities in the world and is a Top 10 favorite destination for us. We have visited several times by land, or on shore excursions from the Port of Livorno. We never tire of Firenze, as the locals call it, because with so much to see, we find something new each time we are here. I like to stroll through at least one of the Museums, but the Churches are treasure troves of artwork from all the Masters, and those buried here have tombs which are themselves often sculpted by their students (often Masters in their own right!)
Back on our 10th Wedding Anniversary, we had stayed at the Westin Grand (now called the Excelsior), a luxury property worth the money for anyone desiring authentic Florentine accommodations right down to the frescoed walls, and in a premium location. This year, however, we opted for the Hotel Santa Maria Novella a 4-star boutique hotel closer to the train. The location is ideal - taxi travel in Florence's "old city" is not always practical or even available. The eponymous hotel occupies a place of privilege on Piazza Novella, and the photo was taken from my window in our Deluxe Mini-Suite.
There was ample wireless internet service, a gorgeous marble bath, separate living room with sofa and coffee table and even turn-down service with pillow chocolates. We truly enjoyed the hospitality and service of the Novella, who steered us to more than one great restaurant, and managed our every need, so much so that this "felt" quite five-star to me. Dozens of clients we have sent here completely agree!
I pre-purchase the annual Amici Degli Uffizi (Friends of the Uffizi) membership if I will be in town for more than a day. The "Amici card" is not only a great value, but the funds are applied to art conservation efforts throughout Florence. The card does take up to 3 weeks to arrive, so order it well in advance. It will get you directly into the Uffizi and several other highly-sought-after museums whenever you like (read: no lines, and no pre-set arrival times!), surpassing even the advance bookings which can still have a short wait before entry.
In addition to the big museums, there are dozens of less crowded but amazing venues to see, and no limit to the art and history to be found in Florence's churches, where so many priceless works can be seen "in situ" as they were really meant to be viewed.
There are also numerous gems like the Baptistery interior (everyone stops to admire Ghiberti's Doors, but the beautiful interior mosaic ceilings are certainly worth a look).
We love providing our clients with intimate custom itineraries in Florence and throughout Italy, where we share so much of our own personal experience when planning these incredible vacations!