Douglas Murray Douglas Murray

Florence

Once you’ve been, you’ll be back. But everyone needs somewhere to start

issue 25 July 2015

The British have always been in love with Florence. First visits cannot disappoint. One friend recalls being herded around as a schoolgirl, unexpectedly coming face to face with the replica of Michelangelo’s David in the Piazza della Signoria and fainting right there in the street. Return visits can be just as stunning.

You can fly in to Pisa or to Florence airport, which receives an increasing number of flights. And the high-speed train from Rome takes just an hour and a half. Weather-wise it can be tricky to pick the best season. Winters can be very cold, but like many Italian cities Florence develops a different charm as it empties of tourists. August can be a mess, but any time is better than never.

The hotels are pricey, but they include some of the world’s best. The Savoy is not only a historic classic, but perfectly situated in the Piazza della Repubblica.

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