Postcards from... Booklet 2022

A glittering repository of works from the golden era of the Renaissance, Florence is one of the world’s great art cities. With the striking and harmonious buildings of Brunelleschi, frescoes by Giotto and Ghirlandaio, canvases by Botticelli and Bronzino, and sculptures by Michelangelo and Giambologna, there is so much exquisite art and architecture within its ancient walls that you could dedicate years rather than days to uncover all her treasures. And yet there is also a living city to enjoy, full of fashion boutiques, quirky shops and quality artisan workshops. It may have a rich artistic legacy but it is also a hotbed for contemporary art and culture which reflects a community displaying an electric, heartfelt mix of old and new. As for entertainment and gastronomy, the streets are brimful of restaurants and bars and as the sun sets revellers will soon discover a buzzing nightlife scene. Furthermore, depending on your cultural schedule, the opportunity to escape to the rolling hills and vineyards of Chianti is right on the doorstep, and other Tuscan art towns such as Pisa, Siena and Lucca are an easy drive out of the city.