What Florence is known for! One of the most beautiful cathedrals in the world. You don't need a ticket to go inside the cathedral, but we recommend getting a ticket to climb to the top of the Duomo. Keep in mind there are 463 steep and narrow stairs to the top, no elevator. Lines get long, so make sure to go in the morning and buy a ticket in advance! If you are claustrophobic, we suggest skipping the climb and touring the cathedral instead.

The Uffizi Gallery is one of the oldest and most famous art museums in the world that houses Renaissance masterpieces from famous artists including Michelangelo, Leonardo da Vinci, and Botticelli. During peak season (which includes September), waiting times can be up to five hours, so we recommend reserving a ticket in advance.

The "Gallery of the Academy" is best known for housing Michelangelo's David. We recommend booking tickets in advance to avoid long waits.

This park and open-air museum holds centuries-old oak trees, sculptures, fountains, and is a peaceful escape from the city. The Medici family established the layout of the gardens, creating the Italian garden style that would become a model for many European royal gardens, including Versailles.

The best panoramic view of Florence, decorated with copies of Michelangelo's sculptures. Don't be fooled! The David statue you see here is not the real one. We suggest bringing a bottle of wine and cheese here for sunset.

Winery in Tuscany (25 min from city center)

Via Cassia per Siena, 133, 50026 Bargino FI, Italy www.antinori.it/it/tenuta/tenute-antinori/antinori-nel-chianti-classico/

Grab-and-go paninis

Via dei Neri, 65r, 50122 Firenze FI, Italy www.allanticovinaio.com/il-menu-firenze_en/

Personal-sized pizzas

Via Maggio, 46r, 50125 Firenze FI, Italy