Attraction Highlights

Florence is the center for Early Renaissance art of such greats as Masaccio, Brunelleschi, Fra Angelico, and Donatello, as well as for the High Renaissance works of Michelangelo, not to mention the numerous Raphaels, Titians, and many other masterpieces here.

However, Florence and Tuscany aren't just a series of churches and museums. Excursions to the fabulous hill towns of Tuscany and even Umbria can be visited on day trips from Florence. Or you can just as easily spend the day in the vineyards of Chianti.

However, the amount of time you spend away from Florence will probably depend on the summer heat and crowds; Florence can be a place you want to escape from when the crush is on. Florence's high prices might also be a factor in your decision whether to spend all your time in the city or begin to explore the country.