YESTERDAY I was looking through some old holiday photographs and I started to think about all the incredible places that I’ve visited which have a special place in my heart.

I’ve been very fortunate to have seen as much of the world as I have (although there’s still so much more I NEED to see!) but when it comes to those places that I will remember fondly forever, I’ve got to tell you, Florence beats them all hands down.

Why? Well, because besides being a breathtakingly stunning and elegant city, Florence changed my life. Because it was in this city, on a romantic mini break with my husband, that my daughter Elsie was conceived. (And why naturally her middle name is Florence!)

We’d been trying for a while to get pregnant but not having much success and I think it’s fair to say, it was really beginning to get us down. So like you do, off we went to Florence to ‘get away from it all’ and low and behold, what do you know, but I came back pregnant. (Although I didn’t know it at the time obviously).

Who knows. Perhaps it was the many glasses of chianti. Perhaps it was the opera we went to see in a tiny church. Perhaps it was the delicious Italian cuisine or perhaps it was the fact that we stayed in the most ridiculously romantic room we’d both ever stayed in, a gorgeous room in a historic Palazzo.

Either way, Florence worked it’s magic for us. And whilst I’m not suggesting you go there to get pregnant (although if you’re trying it’s always worth a shot right!) here are some very good reasons why you need to visit so you can feel the Florentine magic for yourself.

——–

The art

Obvious perhaps but I’m not kidding when I say this city is jam packed with art as far as the eye can see.  Visit the Uffizi to see some of the world’s most famous paintings or just walk around and take in the stunning architecture, the breathtaking sculptures or the infamous David by Michelangelo. It will take your breath away.

The food

It’s impossible to talk about Italy without mentioning the food. You know this right?! In Florence, we ate at some of the best restaurants we’ve ever been lucky to stumble across and feasted like royalty.

Try out the pasta dishes, the pizza and the delicious ice cream. In fact, just try it all! Eat as much as you can, while you can and ignore the fact that your jeans may get a little tight. You’re in Italy so treat the food with respect and enjoy every mouthful! My favourite dish whilst I was there was tagliatelle in a cream sauce with black truffle. Oh my days.

The wine

If, like me, you are a wine lover then friends you are going to love this city. Florence is famous for it’s Chianti and rightly so. I don’t think I’ve ever drank quite as much red wine in my life but let me tell you, every mouthful was sheer grape heaven. Plus, as the wine is local, it not only tastes sensational, but is pretty cheap too.

The romance

If you’re looking for romance, this city will deliver it to you. By the bucketful. It’s small enough to get around on foot which makes for plenty of romantic walks so just hold hands and take in the stunning views. This historic city is so full of culture and art, it is impossible not to be swept along and moved by the beauty of it all. Plus, the light is stunning! It’s no wonder that so many painters come to capture it and show off their talents.

The fashion

Milan may hold the fashion crown but let me tell you, Florence is no style pauper in comparison. For starters you’re in Italy, so everywhere you turn, you are inundated with stylish people. Just grab a cappuccino and watch the beautiful people go by.

It’s also the creative birthplace of Gucci and if you are fascinated by this luxury brand as much as I am, then I can definitely recommend you visit the Gucci Museum. The experience itself is serious high fashion.

——–

Have I convinced you yet?! Brilliant! If it’s a romantic break you’re definitely after then get some inspiration for your stay here in ‘Top 10 Romantic Things To Do In Florence’.  And for accommodation? Well personally I find Venere.com is great for searching for decent accommodation whatever your budget! Go on, have a look. I dare you. ;-)

Now then, all this talk of Florence is making me get itchy feet. Where oh where did I put my passport?

————-

It’s Friday! Have a gorgeous weekend folks! See you Monday!

With love (and pouts)

Katie