La Dolce Vita in Florence
Florence needs no introduction. Historic, romantic and utterly charming, it's no surprise that it's been attracting travelers to its Renaissance heart for centuries. When you're had your fill of art, don't discount staying in one of the Metropolitan City of Florence vacation rentals that dot the Tuscan landscape of rolling hills, olive groves and swaying Cyprus trees outside the city. Away from the crowds and the long queues at the Uffizi, you can settle in to la dolce vita, the good life of Italian cuisine, Chianti and rural charm. It's a place where time ticks at a slower pace.
You'd need a lifetime to explore Florence's history
Though the Metropolitan City of Florence encompasses a wide area of Tuscany, most of the historical attractions are based in the city itself. Almost like a living museum, it's hard to turn any corner in Florence without stumbling upon a slice of Renaissance history. You'd need a lifetime to explore the city properly, but highlights including the birthplace of Leonardo da Vinci, the beautiful Piazza del Duomo and Giotto's Bell Tower, not to mention the Uffizi Gallery, one of Italy's most important museums. If you head out of town, try to stop by the hill near neighboring Fiesole, the very spot where Da Vinci famously tried to fly.
The rolling hills of Florence await
The landscape of Tuscany has inspired artists for years. If you've scored a Metropolitan City of Florence vacation rental outside of the city, you've got the rolling hills and woodlands to explore by foot. Alternatively, you can saddle up to horseback ride along the equestrian trails, enjoying the backdrop of vineyards and hilltop Tuscan homes. If you swing by one of the wineries, you can learn about the art of wine making and, of course, sample some delicious Tuscan reds and whites. If you're there in the right season, head out to the woodlands with a guide, to search out your own luxury white truffles.
Skips the queues at Florence's Uffizi
There's no doubt that weather-wise, the best time to nab a Metropolitan City of Florence vacation rental is during the summer months, between May and September. The hot weather and open-air festivals draw in both Italian and foreign crowds. If you want to skip the queues at the Uffizi and don't mind the drop in temperature, consider visiting in fall or even winter. After the summer hordes have all but left, you can enjoy Florence with just the locals and while dining al fresco may not be possible, there are plenty of cozy nooks to sample Tuscan cuisine.
Outside the city of Florence, wildlife lives in abundance
The national parks and rolling hills of Tuscany, plus the long, hot summers have created an environment where wildlife thrives. While you won't find much beyond pigeons and the odd backyard critter in the city itself, if you've bagged a countryside Metropolitan City of Florence vacation rental, you've got a vast area of mountains and reserves from which to spot wildlife. Expect to see shy deer darting through the woodland, badgers and wild boar shuffling around the forest floor and even the odd pack of wolves howling at night.
Transportation options to and around Province of Florence
The nearest airport is in Florence Airport, Peretola (FLR), located 3.5 mi (5.7 km) from the city center.
If you prefer to travel by train, Florence (ZMS-Santa Maria Novella Train Station), Florence Santa Maria Novella Station and Porta al Prato Station are the main stations in the city. You can get around Province of Florence by catching a ride on the metro at Unità Tram Stop, Valfonda - Stazione Santa Maria Novella Tram Stop or Alamanni - Stazione Santa Maria Novella Tram Stop.