Explore Tuscany

Florence

There are endless ways to explore this historic city — if you’re looking for some ideas to fill your free time, here are a handful of suggestions on what to see, where to eat, and more.

Museums & Experiences

  • Uffizi Gallery

    You could spend a whole day here — don’t miss seeing Sophie’s favorite painting, Primavera by Botticelli!

  • Galleria dell'Academia

    Most famous for being the home of David, this gallery has an incredible sculpture collection.

  • Duomo

    This one is hard to miss, but can’t go without mentioning! Walk up to the top of the Duomo or the Bell Tower to get your steps in! If you hike the Bell Tower, you’ll be able to get a great shot of the cathedral!

  • Accademia del Caffè Espresso

    Perfect for espresso lovers like us! Learn about the history and evolution of espresso machines or attend a coffee tasting.

  • Ferragamo Museum

    A museum that celebrates Italian style, what could be better!

  • Pitti Palace & Boboli Gardens

    Located across the river from the hustle and bustle, the Pitti Palace and attached Boboli Gardens are the perfect place to fill an afternoon.

  • Piazzale Michelangelo

    Take a walk up to this famous spot to get a priceless view of the city. It’s a great place to catch sunset, but don’t forget comfortable shoes! There are a lot of steps up :)

Eat & Drink

  • Mercato Centrale

    Shop the market on the bottom floor, or head upstairs to grab a bite to eat! There are various food stalls with different options, so you’ll be sure to find whatever you’re craving.

  • Il Santo Bevitore

    Pop over to Florence’s quieter Oltrarno neighborhood for a cozy, contemporary-yet-classic Florentine meal.

  • Il Santino

    One of Sophie’s favorite wine bars in the city, right next door to Il Santo Bevitore!

  • Berberè

    Great pizza spot with a few locations in Florence.

  • Osteria Santo Spirito

    A frequently visited spot when Sophie studied abroad, the food and location make for the perfect meal!

  • Ditta Artigianale

    A reliable coffee and pastry spot with lots of locations dotted around Florence.

Shopping

  • Officina Profumo-Farmaceutica di Santa Maria Novella

    Visit what is considered to be one of the oldest “pharmacies”  in the world. Don’t expect to find medicines here, though — they sell fragrances, skincare, and things for the home!

  • Il Bisonte

    Tuscany is known for its leather and artisans, Il Bisonte is the perfect example of both! One of the best leather shops in Florence.

  • Ponte Vecchio

    The Ponte Vecchio is a must-see while in the city and is lined with jewelry, art, and souvenir shops.

Chianti

Most of these options are in Panzano in Chianti, where our wedding venue and La Pensione hotel are located. While Chianti has plenty to explore, most of these are an easy walk from the hotel.

Eat & Drink

  • Dario Cecchini Restaurants

    Known as “the poet of steaks,” Dario Cecchini is a famous butcher in Panzano. He has been featured on Netflix’s Chef’s Table (one of our favorite shows)!

  • Oltre il Giardino

    In the center of Panzano, dine under the wisteria and enjoy a classic Tuscan meal.

  • Il Palagio di Panzano

    Enjoy a wine tasting and lunch at Il Palagio di Panzano’s vineyard, which is a short walk from the town center.

  • Antinori nel Chianti Classico

    Voted the world’s best vineyard in 2022, this winery is absolutely stunning and has incredible wines. Take a cellar tour, partake in a tasting, or just visit for a meal — you can’t go wrong.