The Purple Passport

Seasoned advice for British Travellers

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What to See in Florence: Florence, Italy Travel Guide

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View of Florence skyline from top view in Italy

The unrivaled charm of Florence, Italy attracts more than 15.4 million visitors each year, and this number only continues to grow as the city becomes a more popular travel destination.

Really, it’s no question as to why! People flock from all across the globe to immerse themselves in Florence’s world-renowned art, stunning architecture, and culture unlike anything else.

Are you planning a trip to Florence? It’s easy to get overwhelmed with the wide variety of sights and attractions available, so we’ve created a must-see guide for you!

Here’s what to see in Florence so that you can experience it all and get the most out of your time in this beautiful Renaissance city!

What to See in Florence

Whether you’re looking for adventure, relaxation or a night out, you’ll be sure to find it in Florence. Keep reading to find out what would be an absolute sin to miss out on!

The Accademia Gallery

Deservedly referred to as the capital of arts, Florence is home to around 30 percent of the world’s most important and influential works of art. If you’re craving a taste of the city’s more creative side, then visiting the Accademia Gallery is a must!

Roam the hallways of this famous art museum and witness the sheer beauty of iconic art pieces like Michelangelo’s David and Madonna of the Sea.

Inside tip: touring Florence with The Roman Guy allows you to skip the line for Michelangelo’s David (among other things)! Not to mention, you’ll be able to explore the whole city with an expert guide if you book a tour.

The Duomo

If you’re looking at photos of Florence, you’ve probably seen the great cathedral glowing against the backdrop of an Italian sunset. That’s the Duomo, or the Cathedral of Santa Maria del Fiore, and it’s widely recognized as one of the world’s most stunning religious monuments.

Take an afternoon stroll through the heart of the city and immerse yourself in some of Florence’s grandeur and 14th-century architecture as you tour the huge domes, steps, and hallways. You can’t miss it!

The Boboli Gardens

Wander along the manicured pathways of the Boboli Gardens and unwind with the serenity of green grass, glittering fountains, and stunning sculptures. This historical park once served as the first template for the “Italian Garden” and boasts some of the world’s greatest green architecture.

Guests can explore Italy’s most famous gardens on foot here and really enjoy the warm Florence weather as they stroll through blooming flowers, twisting vines.

Ponte Vecchio

Spend a charming afternoon taking a stroll across one of the oldest bridges in Italy. The Ponte Vecchio overlooks the famous river Arno and is a popular sight-seeing destination for all types of tourists!

When you’re done, you can wander off to the nearby shops and spend a few hours browsing the gifts fit for all budgets.

Nightlife

Once the sun goes down, some of Italy’s best nightlife is found right in Florence!

Depending on your taste, there are many different bars and clubs to choose from if you’re looking for some fun after dark.

Listen to a live DJ at Tenax, sit down at and meet locals at the Friends Pub or bust some moves at Space Electronic Discoteca — either way you’re guaranteed for an incredible night!

Start Exploring

With so much to fill your trip itinerary up, these are what to see in Florence, Italy. Add a few of these to your list and you’ll be in for an unforgettable vacation!

If you found this article helpful, be sure to check out our other articles about all things travel and entertainment!

Look like a Local: How to Dress in Italy on Your Trip

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Back side of young woman making picture of beautiful colorful old italian buildings, happy travel to Europe, summer vacation concept

Romantic architecture. Mouth-watering pizza. Flavorsome wine.
Missing anything?

Oh yes, fashion! Italian fashion is renowned for producing names like Dolce & Gabbana, Givenchy, and Versace. So it’s no wonder you’re wondering how to dress in Italy.

Don’t worry, we’ve got your back. Here are our top tips on dressing like a local.

1. Tailoring is Key

You never see an Italian sporting baggy threads.  Italians would see this as poor attention to detail and will think you can’t find your perfect size.

To avoid this, go tighter even for men’s pants.  And for women, choose a well-fitted pair of capri pants as they’re classy.

2. Dress Like the Rest of the Region 

Italian dress code varies depending on the geography. The main divide is between the North and the South.  For example, Milan sits in the North and is world-famous within the fashion industry.  The style there oozes sophistication and depends on designer brands.

On the flipside, Italian attire in Southern cities like Rome sticks to a more traditional style.  When you’re here, make sure you don’t show too much skin as locals aren’t keen on revealing clothes.

Also, dress formally in cities as opposed to rural towns and also consider the weather.  Before you pack, remember that the North is warm in the summer and cold in winter whereas the South is warm all year round.

3. Wear Classic Colors

You may ask “what do people wear in Italy”, and the answer: is the right color palette.

Italians occasionally wear bold colors but mostly stick to classic tones.  Pick clothes that are dark blue, black, cream, white and tan.  Brighter colors are common in spring and choose light colors in the sun as they best reflect the heat.

And, when you’re picking out your outfit, always avoid unnatural colors like neon green or mustard yellow.

4. Sport Nice Shoes

Before you Google “how do people dress in Italy”, know that locals wear fine shoes.
When you dress in Italy, wear sturdy shoes that aren’t overwhelmed with bling.  Choose a pair made from high-quality fabric or leather and ensure they are in good condition.

Italians will appreciate designer labels on your feet but if you can’t, make sure they’re classy and clean.  For example, these sneakers are made in Italy and will be a hit.

If you’re a female, get a pair of ballet-style shoes or a classy boot to complete your outfit.

…And that’s How to Dress in Italy

It’s important to know how to dress in Italy so you fit in with the locals.  Italians stick to classic colors and tailor their outfits to fit perfectly.  But before you go, check the weather so you know whether to rock your summer or winter outfits.  Buona fortuna!

Are you ready to embark on your next adventure? Check us out for more top travel tips.

Romantic Rome – Things Not To Miss Out On

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Rome – probably one of the most visited cities in the world, and for good reason. With a storied and deep history stretching back nearly three thousand years, this city couldn’t have more things to see and do stored within its limits. Between the sights, museums, backstreets and more it’s easy to see why people continue to come to Rome year after year to take in all it has to offer and more. But what should you not miss on your trip to Italy’s favourite city? Check out our top picks, and if you want to check them out in style, book a private car to take you around in pure luxury!

The Colosseum

Perhaps the most well known site from ancient Rome is this impressive structure known as the site of many a bloody battle in its heyday between gladiators who fought for favour and money. Often people would travel for miles around to the Colosseum to witness the fights between some of the country’s absolute best fighters, sometimes to the death. For a period of time as well it was a site where Christians would be fed to hungry lions in ancient times as well.

Trevi Fountain

One of the most famous fountains in the world, this Baroque style structure draws tourists from around the world every year to view and photograph the impressive facade which depicts a virgin assisting in the finding of the source of water for the eventual fountain – a source which served Rome for 400 years. It remains to this day one of the most impressive fountains in the world.

Herculaneum and Pompeii

Both of these ancient villages met their untimely fates at the hands of Mount Vesuvius when it erupted circa 79AD, burying them in ash and killing all inhabitants of each. Today visitors can explore what remains of each of these villages with life preserved just as it was the afternoon of the eruption.

Shopping

Undoubtedly Rome has some of the most impressive shops and shopping opportunities around! Just imagine flitting in and out of some of Italy’s most prestigious high end shops with your bags in tow. Nothing beats the finest labels – even if you’re just window shopping and wishing!

The Vatican

Of course no trip to Rome would be complete without a trip to the Vatican, perhaps one of Christianity and Catholicism’s most important sites. Come hear a mass given by the Pope, and take in the splendour of the city itself. Be sure to dress modestly though – those not adhering to the dress code may be expected to don paper trousers and shirts before being permitted entry.

The Seven Hills Of Rome

These seven hills are today difficult to identify due to the years and years of continual building that has gone on, but they were in ancient times very easy to see. They still to this day provide good views around the city and surrounding areas and are a great option for visitors who want something aside from the usual tourist trail stuff. The hill names are Aventine, Palatine, Caelian, Capitoline, Viminal, Esquiline and Quirinal. Some even have specific stories relating to the Gods associated with them – particularly the Gods Remus and and Romulus.

So if you’re thinking of heading to Rome any time soon, be sure to check out some of the great options for spending your time there. With so much to see and do you might find that you have to come back a few times, not that you’re complaining!