Along the Arno River, the Ponte Vecchio is one of the city's most noteworthy landmarks, lined with…read moreshops and rich in history. The Ponte Vecchio ("old bridge" in Italian) is a working part of Florence's daily activities. Crossing the bridge for the first time, what stands out immediately is how unusual it is. It feels like a narrow street or marketplace suspended above the water, sprinkled with small shops. This distinctive layout with shops built directly onto the structure has existed for centuries and gives the Ponte Vecchio a special character unlike any other bridge in Europe. The current bridge dates to the mid-14th century, rebuilt in 1345 after earlier versions were destroyed by floods. Over time, it has evolved from a practical commercial crossing into a symbol of Florence's artistic and cultural identity. Originally filled with butchers and traders, it was transformed during the Renaissance when the Medici decreed that only goldsmiths and jewelers could operate here. Today, virtually every retail type is featured.

If you came to Ponte Vecchio without any context, it's pretty underwhelming. However, upon further…read moreAI deep dive, you'll learn it's the oldest bridge in Florence (1345) that survived WWII and once had butchers and fishmongers along the bridge, but were later replaced by goldsmiths and jewelers. While the original medieval vendors no longer exist, the bridge is still lined with goldsmiths and jewelry shops today. For the best experience, don't just walk across the bridge, take it in from different angles. My favorite view is from the riverbanks, but many prefer seeing it from a distance at Ponte Santa Trinita.

Piazza Santa Croce is spacious, beautiful, and full of character. The basilica is breathtaking, and…read morethe piazza feels lively without being overwhelming. Perfect for people-watching, a coffee stop, or soaking in Florence's atmosphere--especially lovely in the evening.

Named after the fameous churce at the end of the piazza, the Basilica of Santa Croce, this is a fun…read moreopen air area in Florence. The piazza is all paved, however, there is usually a famers market (mostly prepared goods vs produce), and the people watching can be pretty spectacular. It was a easy 15 second walk from my apartment, and the adjacent Taxi stand made getting to the airport a breeze. There are no services or greenery, but the steps of the church can be used as a nice place to sit. It is dotted by a large number of restaurants, leather shops, and gelato places. Its a cool place to simply stop and take a breather and the church is worth a visit as it houses the remains of many famous Italian's and the interior is quite nice as well

Apparently cow stomach sandwiches are a thing you "must try" in Florence. This is one of the most…read morefamous places for it. The texture was ok at first but then I got to a bite that didnt agree with my palate. It really went sideways when a pigeon flew into my head. I let him have the rest of my tummy sammy.

This is not for everyone. Of course we came here because we saw it in the Tucci documentary. And…read moreyou better know some Italian to communicate with him because he didn't say a word in English. This is tripe sandwich, I was skeptical but honestly it was delicious. It's tucked in a little corner of the Mercato Nouvo. He sells wine too. Doesn't matter the time. Like 5 items on the menu. It's a cart, not a brick and mortar place. You're eating next to the shoppers, on your feet. But it was a great experience.

New York beat this Street!!! Via dei Calzaiuoli is the shopping Mecca of Florence Italy! I loved…read morethe atmosphere! It was pretty crowded for a week day but obliviously Italian workers "breaks" last 3-4hrs during the late afternoon, than an American workers 1/2hr lunch schedules ;) hahaha. They have from high end to low end. What's memorable were the old tall bldgs, the cobble stoned streets and the duffle bags that each demure lady would drag behind themselves with loads of clothes!!! Shop here when in Florence!!!

Who would have thought I would be writing a review for a street? But oh man, what a street. You are…read morein essence, one of my most memorable streets as I spent many hours walking your cobblestone cracks and bumping into strangers as well as my Italian friends hustling to work. Lined with stores from leather shops to the Disney store, you end or begin at Piazza della Signoria and lead me to the steps of the Duomo, straight to the most beautiful man I've ever laid eyes on. My David. Or sometimes I stood at the doorway of the negozio to watch the steady stream of what it seemed like a gazillion of people a day walk on your hard stoned surface. Silly to say, but I love you Via dei Calzaiuoli.

We went to Sasso del Dante three times during our last stay in Florence: twice for dinner and once…read morefor lunch. We only tried pastas and soups. They were all excellent. For dinner, we had ravioli with truffle sauce and tagliatelle with porcini once, and ravioli bolognese and lasagna the second time. For lunch we had two Florentine classics: ribollita and pappa pomodoro. The ravioli and the ribollita were particularly outstanding. We also tried several of their wines, which were all very good. We only tried to order dessert once: biscotti with vinsanto, but they were out of vinsanto. The atmosphere and service were also good. Service was attentive and friendly. The location is great: in a quiet side street, but just steps away from Santa Maria dei Fiori. This is a very good place if you are visiting the Duomo, or staying in that area.