Tip and Advice While in Florence!

Florence is a city with rich history, vibrant culture, and, amazing food. One of my favorite parts of being there was definitely the fresh produce. The markets in Florence, especially places like Mercato Centrale, are full of colorful fruits, vegetables, and local specialties. The tomatoes are so juicy, olives and oranges fresh in the fall, wine is the best you'll ever have. Food culture here is all about quality, seasonality, and simplicity.

Tuscany, the region that Florence is the heart of, has a long tradition of producing fresh, simple, and flavorful food. The iconic crostini di fegatini (chicken liver pâté on toast) or a rich bowl of ribollita (a hearty vegetable and bread soup) are just some examples of how local ingredients come together in dishes that have been passed down for generations. During cooking class, they taught us simple recipes like fresh bread with drizzle of olive oil from the countryside. It feels like a taste of history.

Beyond food, Florence is a treasure trove of culture and art. I learned so much just by walking around, the city’s long history as a cultural hub means you can walk around and see art literally everywhere. From the masterpieces at the Uffizi Gallery to Michelangelo’s David, art is a huge part of Florence's identity. The beauty of the Renaissance can be felt in every corner, from the architecture of the Duomo to the sculptures in the Piazza della Signoria.

Florence also has a deep musical heritage. Classical music, opera, and performances at places like the Teatro della Pergola connect modern-day Florence to centuries-old traditions. One of my favorite experiences was going to Beethoven's death commemoration opera.