The Ultimate Florence

Find bliss among Florence’s extraordinary masterpieces of art and architecture on a visit to the museum that holds Michelangelo’s David and to the striking sanctuaries located in the UNESCO World Heritage site historic center. You’ll explore the Galleria dell’Accademia, where Michelangelo’s iconic David, carved from a single piece of marble, keeps eternal watch over myriad masterworks. Delight in the Cathedral of Santa Maria del Fiore, also known as Il Duomo, which is crowned with a superb octogonal cupola designed by the Renaissance architect Brunelleschi. Nearby you’ll find the painter Giotto’s soaring 14th-century campanile, or bell tower, and the Romanesque baptistery, which boasts stunning bronze doors by Ghiberti that are known as the Gates of Paradise. Marvel at Basilica di Santa Croce, Italy’s largest and most renowned Franciscan Gothic church, where many of Italy’s illustrious citizens are entombed, including Michelangelo, Galileo, Rossini and Machiavelli. Learn that one of the church’s most prized works of art is Donatello’s Annunciation, a moving sculpture in carved and gilded stone. Complete your enchanting day with ample time at your leisure for additional exploration of gracious Florence.

• Wear casual, weather-appropriate clothing and comfortable walking shoes.
• Dress appropriately to visit a religious venue; shoulders and knees must be covered.
• Bring a hat, sunglasses and sunscreen.