Archive for 'Florence'

While there are many brilliant museums full of some of the most important pieces of art in history to be visited while on holiday in Florence, the birthplace of the Renaissance, there is also still a vibrant contemporary art scene in the city that can be experienced in various galleries, exhibition centres, art spaces, and more throughout. However, sometimes the oldest art institutions in Florence also house lively new exhibitions that are exciting must-sees and that is certainly the case for the Palazzo Strozzi this winter, which is currently home to a wonderful showcase of the work of celebrated contemporary American artist Jeff Koons. 

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If you have found a luxury villa in Florence and you find yourself wandering around the beyond picturesque centre of the city, you get the feeling that you are inside a jewel box. No matter where you turn in the historic core, you will discover incredible artistic and architectural gems and within those architectural gems are even more astounding works of art and craftsmanship than one could even imagine. It would take lifetimes to see and discover it all. However, the reputations of some works are particularly well-known and precede them. Take, for example, the great Palazzo Medici Riccardi, already a lauded example of Renaissance palace architecture in Tuscany but hidden within its walls also happens to be one of the most extraordinary fresco cycles in the city – and that’s saying something in the birthplace of the Renaissance!     Read More

Christmas markets are one of the traditions that many people most missed over the last couple of years but, luckily, if you have found a luxury villa in Florence and are planning on spending Christmas there (or some time in the city over the next couple of months) you’ll be glad to know that this year’s dates for the city’s beloved Weihnachtsmarkt have been confirmed and it is set to return! Taking place in the Piazza Santa Croce, this staple of the festive season in Florence is one of the most famous and beloved Christmas markets in Italy and a wonderful chance to enjoy a German-style market even if you are travelling in Tuscany, rather than in one of the regions further north. Transforming this well-known square in the birthplace of the Renaissance and capital of the region into a magical little winter wonderland, the Weihnachtsmarkt is an absolute must-see and just one more reason to spend the Holidays on holiday in Florence!     Read More

Alpacas are fluffy, adorable, somewhat strange-looking South American mammals that look not unlike Llamas and are often confused for them. They are, however, noticeably smaller. Herd animals, they are bred for their wool and are often aloof but become more friendly when raised in places such as petting zoos or farms where they interact regularly with humans. Many people the world over have fallen for their charms and Alpaca farms are increasingly common across the globe. In fact, if you have found a luxury villa in Florence and you have a fondness for the lovely animals or kids you want to treat to an outing that they'll surely enjoy, then you'll be glad to find out that there is a wonderful Alpaca farm located nearby that makes for a perfect family day out! Escape the museums and the hustle and bustle of the city for a day to visit the Valle degli Alpaca (Valley of the Alpacas) in Barberino Val d'Elsa, a lovely town in the metropolitan area of Florence, and enjoy some fresh air, lunch, and hanging out with these cute creatures. Children (or those who are young at heart) in the group will thank you for it!     Read More