The capital of Tuscany, Florence conjures images of lemon and apricot-hued buildings, terracotta rooftops, and endless Renaissance beauty. From the world-famous Uffizi art museum — top tip: get there early for a more relaxed experience — to the impressive sculptures in the peaceful Boboli Gardens, this historic city in central Italy lives long in the memory. A good way to get the lie of the land is the panoramic view from Piazzale Michelangelo. If you’re lucky, you’ll catch a couple descending the church steps after their wedding as the bells chime out across the city below.

The majestic Duomo is a sight to behold at any time of day, whether you’re passing by to grab lunch from one of the city’s traditional panini stands or enjoying a refreshing after-dinner gelato on a balmy evening stroll. Just like the mighty Arno – look out for plaques commemorating the destructive flood of 1966 – craftsmanship flows through Florence, with jewellery, leather goods, and perfumes all locally made by generations of experts.

Many international arrivals start their trip at Florence Airport (FLR) on the outskirts of the city. Hop on a shuttle bus for a 20-minute ride into the centre, or grab a cab to shave a few minutes off your journey. Travellers criss-crossing the country often reach Florence by train, and it’s easy to take one of the regional services for a day at the coast. Santa Maria Novella train station is a short, albeit occasionally cobbled, walk from the magnificent Duomo. Once you’re here, the city is incredibly compact and easy to walk around. Just be prepared for the climb up to the viewpoint at Piazzale Michelangelo — there’s a break in the steps half way up if you need to catch your breath.

For exciting insight into the city’s rich history, make your way to Florence in June to take in the final stages of the Calcio Storico tournament — a centuries-old ball sport with elements of wrestling. Every year, four teams representing their historic districts compete for glory, and the entire city becomes absorbed in the spectacle. Temperatures can reach stifling levels in high summer, so seeking out the city’s shaded squares and leafy parks is wise to avoid overheating. Also, bear in mind that air conditioning isn’t easy to find in Florence apartments. Visitors tend to tail off a little as autumn arrives, but the Tuscan wine and olive oil harvest remain a big draw for foodies. Florence is at its quietest over the winter months, but cooler temperatures and wetter days make outdoor activities trickier.

Oltrarno

Oltrarno — literally “across the Arno” — is a tangle of pretty streets scattered with a blend of crisp white tablecloths outside family-run eateries and cutting-edge art in small galleries. Watch as tree-dotted Piazza Santo Spirito transforms from market stalls and nonnas chatting by the foundation to a buzzing outdoor nightspot.

Palazzo Medici Riccardi

The most famous family in Florence, the powerful Medici dynasty ruled the city and the entire region of Tuscany for almost 300 years. Explore the historic artwork at their Renaissance palace — the swirling frescoes on the gallery ceiling and the vivid walls of the Chapel of the Magi are breath-taking. Be sure to check out the ground floor exhibition space dedicated to work by contemporary artists.

Mercato Centrale

This metal-framed two-story market — an easy 10-minute walk from the Duomo — is brimming with locally made oils, fresh breads, and piles of fragrant sundried tomatoes. Pick up a bottle of wine for the evening, choose some tools to up your kitchen game, then head upstairs for a taste of fresh handmade pasta.