Considered to be one of the most beautiful cities in Italy and the world, Florence is home to not only stunning building and magnificent bridges but also to some of the best art in the world. The city is the capital of the region of Tuscany, which itself is well worth exploring, with its art, food and wine. Having a rental car in Florence gives you the freedom to see the city and explore the region at your own pace. With HAPPYCAR you can your ideal rental car booked in just a few clicks through our online comparison portal.
General information
Founded in 59 AD by the Romans as Florentia, in the centuries following the city grew to become one of the most important trading cities on the continent. It is considered to be the birth of the Renaissance and was dubbed the Athens of the middle ages. Nowadays the city is visited by over a million of tourists each year and its old historic center has been declared by UNESCO as a World Heritage Site.
Choose to pick your hire car Florence up at the Florence Airport and begin your journey right away. Be aware, when driving in the city center, you need to allow cyclists the right away otherwise you can be fined.
Sights
Florence Cathedral, otherwise known as the Santa Maria del Fiore, is one of the landmarks of the city. Construction started in the 13th century and was finished in 1436. The cathedral is located in the historic center of the city in the Plaza del Duomo, also known as Cathedral Square, which also houses Giotto's Bell Tower. The Tower is a stunning free standing tower housing seven different bells made out of marble. The Baptistery of St. John is one of the oldest buildings in the city built in the 12th century. All these three buildings make up the Florence Cathedral complex.
Piazza Della Signoria is located in the heart of the historic center of the city where the city hall Piazza Della dominates the square. The Town Hall inside is full of art and outside the main door, you will see a replica of Michelangelo's David on the spot where the original was situated. All over the square you will find many other statues such as Bandelli's Hercules and Cacus, and in the very center you will see the fountain of Neptune.
Ponte Vecchio is the old bridge and it is the oldest bridge crossing The Arno, that survived the Second World War. The bridge is lined with shops selling jewellery and souvenirs.
Museums
Galleria degli Uffizi is one of the best museums in Italy. This museum has a spectacular collection of Renaissance pieces, with works from all the big names, including; Leonardo Da Vinci, Michelangelo, Caravaggio and many others. Being one of the top tourist destinations in the city, it is advised that you book tickets as to avoid waiting in line for an extended period of time.
Galleria dell Academia showcases pieces from the 13th to the 16th century, with the most famous being the original David by Michelangelo as well as many sculptures by him. The museum also has a department on musical instruments.
Excursions
Using your hire car Florence is the perfect way to explore the lovely region of Tuscany, you can use the car to visit some of the cities the region has to offer such as Pisa, Lucca and Arezzo, or visit some of the charming towns like Lucignano. Famous for its wine, a drive to the Tuscan wine region with your hire car Florence is recommended, just remember to have a designated driver!
You can experience other classic Italian towns such as Rome or take the short trip to Venice with a car hire from HAPPYCAR in Florence. The rental car gives you the option to get out and explore the beautiful country with so much to offer.
Whatever you do with your trip to Florence, whether it’s a short city break or the start of a longer journey taking in the charms of the region, having a hire car gives you the freedom to do it.