The birthplace of the Renaissance movement, Florence exudes art and history and is a must-see for those who value the past, but without losing sight of the joys of the present moment. Check it out!
There are plenty of good reasons to visit Florence. Even for those who are less sensitive to the artistic, architectural and cultural grandeur that permeates the local atmosphere – and defines the identity of the city that symbolized the transition from the Middle Ages to the Modern Age – the place celebrates its biography in a rhythm of renewal. One example is the reopening of Giacosa (@GIACOSA_1815), a bar where one of the most famous Italian cocktails in the world, the Negroni, was created in 1919. The space, which takes us back to the past, pays homage to the classic drink, but without failing to offer renewed options for fans of the beverage.
For those who prefer to get their bodies moving, the tip is to keep an eye on the annual calendar to participate in the Florence Marathon (@FIRENZEMARATHON), which turned 40 in November 2024. While the first edition brought together less than 500 participants, this year’s registrations exceeded ten thousand runners, who ran a circuit that is picture-perfect for postcards. To celebrate this moment, the medal, a work by Florentine designer Susanna Alisi, featured a representation of Brunelleschi’s dome – the roof of the famous Duomo –, a symbol of the city and the Renaissance. This architectural gem also serves as the backdrop for guests in the presidential suite at the Tivoli Palazzo Gaddi, part of the Tivoli Hotels & Resorts chain (@TIVOLIHOTELS). Located on the top floor, the space has access by a private elevator and offers an exclusive and inviting terrace for brunch, with panoramic views.
“THIS HISTORIC PALACE IS A COMPLEMENT TO THE TIVOLI PORTFOLIO, A HOTEL WHERE THE BRAND ’S CLASSIC HOSPITALITY COMBINES IMPECCABLY WITH FLORENTINE HISTORY, IN TERMS OF SERVICE, EXPERIENCES AND GASTRONOMY”
The entire hotel – a luxurious 16th-century palace with 86 rooms, including four suites that combine authentic period furniture with contemporary functionality after undergoing a complete renovation – is the perfect excuse for those who need to enjoy some quality time filled with glamour. Rooms with frescoes, paintings and art objects, true treasures, are part of the décor.
The hotel’s CEO, Pierluca Chiaveta, emphasizes that the guest experience is a priority. “This historic palace is a complement to the Tivoli portfolio, a hotel where the brand’s classic hospitality combines impeccably with Florentine history, in terms of service, experiences and gastronomy.”
Chef Iside de Cesare, from the Michelin-starred La Parolina, is in charge of the hotel’s gastronomic areas, which offer a variety of dishes. At the Terrae restaurant, diners can enjoy a culinary journey to the heart of Tuscany, where fresh, seasonal produce takes center stage. On the Aria terrace, guests can enjoy the sunset and the lights of the neighborhood while sipping on a varied menu of cocktails and unmissable delicacies. Finally, the Milton Bar – named after one of Palazzo Gaddiz’s most illustrious guests, the poet John Milton, who stayed there in the summer of 1638 and became world famous for his work “Paradise Lost” – is located in the lobby, with a fireplace and library, ideal for meals accompanied by Italian cheeses and wines.
The concierge team can help visitors explore the city in a variety of ways. One way is to take a helicopter tour, which flies over the Arno River and crosses the Ponte Vecchio and Piazza di Santa Croce. The idea is to enjoy the sights without the crowds. Another tip is to check in to the Chianti region, where famous wines are produced. It is worth driving along the country roads filled with medieval castles, romantic churches and olive groves on the way to the vineyards. For those who don’t want to give up the pleasures of good food, the tour starts at Caffè Gilli (@CAFFEGILLI), dating back to 1733, continues with a tasting of truffle sandwiches, stops at Mercato Centrale and another at Il Cantuccio – a quick stop to finish off the delicious almond cookies – and ends with a gelato with a view of the destination.
Amidst so many wonders, it is important to find time to lose yourself among the works of art at the Uffizi Gallery. If you already know the address, revisiting great works such as Sandro Botticelli’s “Birth of Venus”, among many other gems by geniuses from the 13th to the 18th centuries, is always inspiring.
