Florence's museums, palaces, and churches house some of the greatest artistic treasures in the world. There are some 170 museums, in addition to churches of extraordinary beauty, villas, historical gardens, squares, streets, and antique palaces, so Florence can reasonably be defined as an "open air museum".

The most popular and important sites in Florence include the Cathedral, the Baptistery, the Uffizi, the Bargello and the Accademia. The churches of Santa Maria Novella and Santa Croce are veritable art galleries. The library of San Lorenzo is a magnificent exhibition of Michelangelo's architectural genius.

Wander some of the oldest streets in the city until you reach the Arno River, cross the Ponte Vecchio to experience the "newest" area of Florence, the Oltrarno. Be sure to set aside time to see the vast and varied art collection housed in the Pitti Palace. When you grow weary of museums and monuments, head outdoors. Spend a day at the Boboli Gardens or climb the hill to the church of San Miniato al Monte to experience a panoramic view of Florence.