If Florentines are to be believed the Tuscan capital is the birthplace of the Renaissance, and with such an abundance of amazing buildings it’s hard to argue. The cathedral, Santa Maria del Fiore is the third biggest church in the world and stunning views of Florence can be enjoyed from the top of the dome. Giotto's tower is another great place to see the city from  and as an added bonus gives you a chance for a view of the Duomo.  The city’s importance during the middle ages can be seen clearly in the luminaries entombed at the Santa Croce church including Michelangelo, Galileo, Dante and Machiavelli. For many the highlight of a visit to Florence is the art. Just one of the many masterpieces found around town is Michelangelo’s David at the Academia Gallery.

Florence is also a great base for visits to nearby Pisa and Siena.