Florence needs no introduction — but getting there from Casa Fiordalisi is easier than most people realise, and far less stressful than driving into the city centre. Park at Castiglion Fiorentino station (10 minutes from the house, free parking), take the direct train, and you're in Florence in around 1 hour 15 minutes. No traffic, no parking stress, no navigation.
Getting There from Casa Fiordalisi
- Drive to stationCastiglion Fiorentino — 10 minutes
- Train to FlorenceAround 1 hr 15 mins to Santa Maria Novella
- ParkingFree at Castiglion Fiorentino station
- TicketsBuy on the Trenitalia app — no reservation needed
- FrequencyTrains run regularly throughout the day
Florence in summer is magical — and less overwhelming than you might expect, if you know where to go and when.
Beyond the Obvious: Florence's Hidden Gems
The Uffizi and the Duomo are extraordinary — but Florence has another layer, quieter and often more rewarding, that most visitors never find.
1. Bardini Garden
Skip the crowds of the Boboli Garden and head here instead. A lush hillside garden with winding paths, shaded benches, Baroque staircases, and the best elevated views of Florence's skyline. Fewer people, more beauty — and a fraction of the queues. Included with the Boboli ticket, or a standalone entrance.
2. Oltrarno & San Niccolò
Cross the Arno to discover Florence's artisan soul. Bohemian, historic and full of independent workshops — watch bookbinders, shoemakers, and goldsmiths at work. Grab a coffee or a spritz in Piazza della Passera and visit the Museo Bardini for affordable Renaissance art without the crowds.
3. San Miniato al Monte
Climb the steps above Piazzale Michelangelo to this stunning Romanesque church — arguably the most beautiful in Florence, with a mosaic façade and valley views that take the breath away. Almost always peaceful, even in high summer.
4. Mercato Centrale Upstairs
Everyone knows the ground floor market, but the first floor is a revelatory food hall — excellent coffee, fresh pasta, Lampredotto sandwiches, craft beer, and quality local produce. A perfect lunch stop before an afternoon of sightseeing.
5. Caravaggio Without the Uffizi
See important works in their original settings: the Brancacci Chapel in Santa Maria del Carmine (Masaccio's breathtaking frescoes), and the church of Ognissanti for a Botticelli. No tickets needed, no queues, and the art feels more alive for it.
Practical Tips
- Arrive early — the city is at its best before 10am
- Book the Uffizi and Accademia online in advance if you plan to visit
- Avoid the main streets between noon and 3pm — take a long lunch instead
- The best coffee is at Ditta Artigianale — serious about espresso and cold brew
- Return trains run regularly — no need to rush back
