They think they’ve seen it all before: the Uffizi, the Duomo, Santa Croce and Santa Maria Novella. You have a busy day at work, but your folks are in town and you want them to see a different side to the city you have decided to make your home. Here are a few tips for your loved ones to share your passion for the contemporary Renaissance city.
The museum city
Uffizi Gallery | ctj71081 Flickr cc
Your mom might have seen Botticelli’s Primavera and Birth of Venus, but she probably skipped many of the Uffizi’s other little-known gems for the simple reason that she didn’t know they were there. Italy Travels offers a great overview of Florence’s best museums when searching for the right one to spend a few hours roaming around in. Let them tell your mamma juicy details about the Uffizi Galleries, the Accademia Gallery, home to more than just Michelangelo’s David, and the bronze treasures of the Bargello Museum.
Insider’s tip: you can purchase your entrance tickets right on their website, saving your precious time for the city and not the queue.
The food city
Bistecca | Gail Flickr cc
Your brother is all about bistecca fiorentina: he’s basically visiting your adopted city to sink his teeth into the mother of all steaks. Set him salivating by sending him The Florentine’s definitive guide to ordering bistecca. Morning-long sightseeing is bound to work up a hearty appetite, so rest your weary feet over a long lunch without breaking the bank at one of the city’s countless cheap lunch spots.
The Instagram city
Artisan workshop | Brad Knabel Flickr cc
Your younger sister is Instagram obsessed. Florence is likely to send her over the edge with perfect photo ops of the city’s Renaissance and modern beauty. Exile your folks to the narrow streets and expansive piazzas. Suggest a peek around the artisan shops in the Oltrarno, shop at the market in Sant’Ambrogio or head a little further out to see the residential Campo di Marte neighbourhood for a glimpse at local life. If your family prefers something more structured, treat them to a guided walking tour for an insider’s view of some of Florence’s greatest treasures. Be warned, your entire family will be experts in no time.
