Florence Experience: where art meets beauty

Florence is a city brimming with wonders. The French writer Stendhal actually argued that its remarkable number of masterpieces can be overwhelming to visitors, triggering the so-called "Stendhal syndrome". By hiring a private guide for a whole day, you can see some of the finest examples of the city's beauty while immersing yourself in the Florentine traditions of yesterday and today. No swooning required! Start at Piazzale Michelangelo to take in a panoramic view of the city, bisected by the Arno, where domes, bell towers and towers soar. Then set off on foot through the alleys to the Accademia Gallery, famous for Michelangelo's David. Just a few steps away lies the Cathedral complex: the Baptistery with its bronze doors, the Cathedral with the incredible Brunelleschi Dome, and Giotto's Campanile. After a break for lunch, join your driver to set off for Fiesole, straddling the Arno valley, to savour the mediaeval charm of a smaller town. Then return to the heart of Florence, admiring the mediaeval elegance of the façade of the Basilica of Santa Croce as you head to Piazza della Signoria, home to the imposing Palazzo Vecchio, the town hall and former seat of the Medici family. The tour ends with the most enchanting stop of all: the Uffizi Gallery and its historic art collection. With your guide, unlock the secrets of the most important paintings by Botticelli, Michelangelo, Leonardo da Vinci, Raphael, Giotto, Cimabue and Masaccio. Finally, head out onto the Uffizi terrace, where you can take in harmonious views of the hills, fortresses and ancient villas: the perfect end to an exhilarating day.