Florence and Pisa, two gems of Tuscany, offer more than just the famous Leaning Tower or the iconic Duomo. These are cities where you can touch history itself, where the greatest works of European Renaissance art were created, and where the legacy of masters like Michelangelo, Leonardo, Donatello, and Raphael lives on. This article is your guide through these cities, their landmarks, museums, and the artists who immortalized them forever.
Florence – Heart of the Renaissance
Florence is an open-air museum. Whether you have a few hours or several days, there are places you absolutely shouldn’t miss:
Top Landmarks:
- Cathedral of Santa Maria del Fiore (Duomo) with Brunelleschi’s dome.
- Ponte Vecchio – the famous bridge with jewelry shops.
- Uffizi Gallery featuring works by Botticelli, Leonardo, Michelangelo, and Raphael.
- Basilica of Santa Croce – resting place of Michelangelo, Galileo, Machiavelli.
- Vasari Corridor – a secret passage of the Medici family.
- Piazzale Michelangelo – the best panoramic view of Florence.
Uffizi Gallery:
One of the most famous art museums in the world. You’ll find here:
- The Birth of Venus and Primavera by Botticelli
- The Annunciation and The Adoration of the Magi by Leonardo da Vinci
- Doni Tondo by Michelangelo
- Madonna of the Goldfinch by Raphael
- Bacchus by Caravaggio
- Medusa by Caravaggio
- The Birth of Venus by Sandro Botticelli
- Venus of Urbino by Titian
Museo Nazionale del Bargello:
A paradise for sculpture lovers:
- David by Donatello
- Bacchus by Michelangelo
- Mercury by Giambologna
- Works by the della Robbia family and Renaissance decorative arts
Michelangelo:
- His most famous sculpture, David, is displayed in the Galleria dell’Accademia.
- He is buried in the Basilica of Santa Croce.
- His final work, Pietà Rondanini, can be found in the Castello Sforzesco in Milan.
Ponte Vecchio:
- A 14th-century bridge lined with jewelry shops.
- It was the only bridge not destroyed during World War II.
- Above the bridge runs the Vasari Corridor.
Pisa – City of Miracles
If you only have a few hours in Pisa, you can still see the most important sights:
What to visit:
- Piazza dei Miracoli (Square of Miracles):
- The Leaning Tower
- Cathedral of Santa Maria Assunta
- Baptistery of San Giovanni
- Camposanto Monumentale
- Piazza dei Cavalieri with the Palazzo della Carovana
- Church of Santa Maria della Spina on the Arno River
- Borgo Stretto – a historic street full of cafés
Legendary Artists and Ninja Turtles
Florence is the city where you can find works by all four artists after whom the Ninja Turtles were named:
Leonardo da Vinci
- Uffizi Gallery: The Annunciation, The Adoration of the Magi
- Leonardo Museum: Models of his inventions
Michelangelo
- Galleria dell’Accademia: David
- Uffizi: Doni Tondo
- San Lorenzo: Medici Chapels
- Santa Croce: Michelangelo’s tomb
Donatello
- Museo del Bargello: David, Saint George
- Museo dell’Opera del Duomo: Magdalene
Raphael
- Uffizi: Madonna of the Goldfinch
- Palazzo Pitti: portraits and Madonnas
Chianti Ruffino – The Taste of Tuscany
When you’re in Florence or Pisa, a glass of Tuscan red wine is a must.
Chianti Ruffino:
- Grape variety: Sangiovese
- Taste: fruity, elegant, with a hint of spice
- Price: around €9–16 (250–400 CZK)
- Perfect with Bistecca alla Fiorentina or Tuscan cured meats
Conclusion
Florence and Pisa offer an unforgettable mix of history, art, legends, and flavor. If you visit, you’re guaranteed to experience a journey you’ll remember long after. Whether you’re a fan of the Renaissance, Ninja Turtles, or fine wine – Tuscany won’t disappoint.
So: Off to Florence! Or Pisa. Or both.
Tip: spaghetti, spaghetti and meat… and truffle
Osteria Pastella – reservation required, but they prepare your carbonara straight in a giant wheel of Parmesan
Trattoria Dall’Oste – Bistecca alla Fiorentina – a serious piece of steak
il Mercato Centrale Firenze – a local market, where the upper floor offers various eateries
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Must-See Places in Florence:
Florence is full of historical landmarks, art, and an amazing atmosphere. Here’s a list of things you absolutely shouldn’t miss:
1. Cathedral of Santa Maria del Fiore (Duomo)
• The city’s iconic landmark with Brunelleschi’s red dome.
• You can climb the dome for a breathtaking view of the city.
• Visit Giotto’s Bell Tower and the Baptistery with its famous bronze “Gates of Paradise.”
2. Piazza della Signoria and Palazzo Vecchio
• Florence’s main square, home to a replica of Michelangelo’s David and other Renaissance statues.
• Palazzo Vecchio is the former Medici residence with stunning frescoes and secret passageways.
3. Uffizi Gallery
• One of the world’s most important museums featuring works by Botticelli (The Birth of Venus), Leonardo da Vinci, Michelangelo, and other masters.
4. Ponte Vecchio
• Historic bridge over the Arno River, lined with jewelry shops and great views.
5. Basilica of San Lorenzo and Medici Chapels
• Tomb of the Medici family, featuring beautiful interiors and Michelangelo’s sculptures.
6. Galleria dell’Accademia
• Home of the original Michelangelo’s David.
• A smaller museum with excellent Renaissance sculptures.
7. Basilica of Santa Croce
• Final resting place of Michelangelo, Galileo, and Machiavelli.
• Beautiful frescoes by Giotto and rich history.
8. Vasari Corridor (Corridoio Vasariano)
• Secret passage connecting Palazzo Vecchio with Palazzo Pitti, recently reopened to the public.
9. Palazzo Pitti and Boboli Gardens
• The Medici royal palace with several museums.
• The adjacent Boboli Gardens offer scenic views of the city and a relaxing atmosphere.
10. Piazzale Michelangelo
• The best panoramic viewpoint of Florence, especially at sunset.
Bonus: What to Taste?
• Bistecca alla Fiorentina – traditional Florentine steak.
• Ribollita – hearty vegetable soup.
• Gelato – Florence is famous for its ice cream.
• Chianti – local red wine.
Are you heading to Florence for a short trip or staying longer? I can recommend lesser-known spots too!
Chianti Ruffino Wine
Ruffino is a renowned winery established in 1877 in Tuscany, best known for its Chianti wines. Their Chianti DOCG is made primarily from Sangiovese (70%) blended with Merlot, Cabernet Sauvignon, and other varieties.
Wine Characteristics:
•Color: Ruby red with purple reflections.
•Aroma: Elegant floral notes of violets, complemented by subtle hints of red fruit and a light touch of spice.
•Taste: Well-structured and persistent, with a fresh and pleasant character.
Recommended Serving Temperature: 16°–18°C.
Recommended Food Pairings:
• Beef tartare
• Tuscan cured meats
• Roast chicken
Ruffino Chianti is appreciated for its balance and versatility, making it a great choice for many occasions.
Baptistery of San Giovanni
The Baptistery of San Giovanni, also known as the Baptistery of St. John, is one of the oldest and most significant religious buildings in Florence. It is located in Piazza San Giovanni, directly opposite the Cathedral of Santa Maria del Fiore. This octagonal structure was built between 1059 and 1128 in the Romanesque style and is dedicated to the city’s patron saint, John the Baptist.
Architectural Features:
•Exterior: The Baptistery is renowned for its distinctive facade made of white and green marble arranged in geometric patterns. Its octagonal shape symbolizes the “eighth day”—the day of Christ’s resurrection and a new beginning for the baptized.
•Interior: The interior is richly decorated with mosaics, especially on the dome, which features a large figure of Christ during the Last Judgment. These mosaics were created between the 13th and 14th centuries and depict biblical scenes, including stories from Genesis and the life of Saint John the Baptist.
Bronze Doors:
The Baptistery has three sets of famous bronze doors:
1.South Doors: Designed by Andrea Pisano in the 14th century, depicting scenes from the life of Saint John the Baptist.
2.North Doors: Created by Lorenzo Ghiberti between 1403 and 1424, illustrating scenes from the New Testament.
3.East Doors (so-called “Gates of Paradise”): Also by Lorenzo Ghiberti, completed between 1425 and 1452, they depict scenes from the Old Testament. Michelangelo dubbed them the “Gates of Paradise” for their extraordinary beauty.
Cultural Significance:
The Baptistery was the site of baptism for many notable figures, including the poet Dante Alighieri. For centuries, it served as a center of religious life in Florence and witnessed many key events in the city’s history.
Visiting:
A ticket is required to visit the Baptistery, which can be purchased online or on-site. However, advance booking is recommended—especially during tourist season—to avoid long waiting times. A visit offers a unique glimpse into the art and architecture of medieval Florence and is a memorable experience for history and culture lovers.
What Not to Miss in Pisa:
Pisa is much more than just the famous Leaning Tower. Here’s a list of places you shouldn’t miss in this Tuscan city:
1. Piazza dei Miracoli (Square of Miracles)
•Leaning Tower (Torre Pendente) – an iconic structure you can climb for panoramic views.
•Cathedral of Santa Maria Assunta – a stunning Romanesque cathedral with rich history and beautiful interior.
•Baptistery of San Giovanni – the largest baptistery in Italy, famous for its acoustics and Gothic-Romanesque architecture.
•Camposanto Monumentale – an ancient cemetery with frescoes and historic tombs.
2. Piazza dei Cavalieri
•A historic square with beautiful palaces, including the Palazzo della Carovana, designed by renowned architect Giorgio Vasari.
•Home to the Scuola Normale Superiore, a prestigious university founded by Napoleon.
3. Lungarni – Arno River Banks
•Picturesque promenades along the Arno River with elegant palaces, cafés, and bridges.
•Church of Santa Maria della Spina – a small Gothic church right on the riverbank.
4. Borgo Stretto
•A charming street with arcades, shops, cafés, and restaurants.
•A great place for a walk and to enjoy local cuisine.
5. Botanical Garden (Orto Botanico di Pisa)
•One of the oldest botanical gardens in Europe, founded in 1544.
6. Museo dell’Opera del Duomo
•A museum housing original artworks and artifacts from the cathedral and baptistery.
7. National Museum of San Matteo
•An important museum with collections of medieval and Renaissance art from Pisa.
8. Tuttomondo – Keith Haring
•A large mural by famed American artist Keith Haring, one of his last works before his death.
Bonus: What to Taste in Pisa?
•Cecina – a chickpea flour flatbread, a popular Tuscan specialty.
• Pisan Bread Soup (Zuppa alla Pisana) – a traditional thick soup with beans.
•Tuscan wines, including those from the Chianti and Bolgheri regions.
Are you planning to visit Pisa for just a few hours, or will you stay longer? I can also recommend less touristy spots!
Where is Vespucci buried?
Amerigo Vespucci, the Italian navigator and explorer, died on February 22, 1512, in Seville, Spain. In his will, he expressed the wish to be buried in the Church of San Miguel in Seville, where the family of his wife María Cerezo had a tomb. However, the church was demolished during the revolution of 1868. As a result, it is believed that Vespucci’s remains were transferred to his hometown of Florence and buried in the Church of Ognissanti.
It is important to note, however, that some historians question this claim and believe that the tomb in Florence belongs to his grandfather, who bore the same name and died in 1471.
Due to the lack of definitive evidence about the transfer of his remains, the final resting place of Amerigo Vespucci remains uncertain.
Santa Croce
The Basilica of Santa Croce (Basilica of the Holy Cross) is an important Franciscan church in Florence and one of the largest Gothic buildings in Italy. It is located on Piazza di Santa Croce, about 800 meters southeast of Florence’s Duomo.
History and Architecture:
The construction of the basilica began in 1294, based on designs by architect Arnolfo di Cambio. It was completed in 1385, but its Neo-Gothic marble facade was added between 1857 and 1863, designed by architect Niccolò Matas.
The interior of the basilica is known for its sixteen chapels, many of which are adorned with frescoes by Giotto and his followers. The floor plan is in the shape of an Egyptian or Tau cross—symbol of Saint Francis—with a nave and two side aisles divided by octagonal columns.
Notable Figures Buried in Santa Croce:
The basilica is often called the “Temple of the Italian Glories” (Tempio dell’Itale Glorie), as it is the final resting place of many famous Italians, including:
•Michelangelo Buonarroti (sculptor, painter, and architect)
•Galileo Galilei (astronomer and physicist)
•Niccolò Machiavelli (political philosopher and writer)
•Gioachino Rossini (composer)
•Ugo Foscolo (poet)
•Leon Battista Alberti (architect and art theorist)
There is also a cenotaph (symbolic tomb) for Dante Alighieri, author of the “Divine Comedy,” whose remains are buried in Ravenna.
Artworks:
Inside the basilica, you can admire significant artworks such as:
•Frescoes by Giotto depicting the life of Saint Francis in the Bardi Chapel and scenes from the lives of Saint John the Evangelist and Saint John the Baptist in the Peruzzi Chapel.
•Frescoes by Taddeo Gaddi in the Baroncelli Chapel showing scenes from the life of the Virgin Mary.
•A crucifix by Cimabue, damaged in the 1966 flood, later restored and now exhibited in the basilica’s museum.
Visiting:
The Basilica of Santa Croce is open to the public and offers visitors the opportunity to explore both the church and the adjacent museum, which houses more artworks and artifacts related to the basilica’s history. It is recommended to purchase tickets in advance, especially during tourist season, to avoid long queues.
Visiting the Basilica of Santa Croce is a unique experience that offers deep insight into the rich history, art, and culture of Florence.
When Did Galileo Die?
Galileo Galilei died on January 8, 1642 at the age of 77 in Arcetri, near Florence, Italy.
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It’s like having a chat with a smart local guide who gives tips and can walk you through the city and its landmarks.
I even tried using it to translate Latin from tombstones in Santa Croce into Czech.
IACOBO BISTICCI MEDICO CELE
BERIMO CIVITATIS VAE ACCEP
TISPIENTIS FI PAR DE SE OPT MER
Translation into English:
“Jakub Bisticci, famous doctor, honored by the city for his wisdom, who most deserved such recognition.”
Latin text on the tombstone:
“GLORIOSAE VIRGINIS
SOCIETATIS QUAE LAUDUM
DICIT HOC SEP. SIBI POST
SMS CURAVIT
MDXXXIX”
Translation into English:
“To the Glorious Virgin
A society devoted to praises
prepared this tomb for itself
after its passing.
1539”
Meaning:
This tombstone belonged to a religious society dedicated to the Virgin Mary (likely a Marian brotherhood or community). The inscription states they prepared this grave as their final resting place. The date MDXXXIX corresponds to the year 1539.
Pretty cool, right? 🙂 Of course, it struggled with more complex texts when I tried translating from a book page, but it worked great for simpler ones.
How Did Michelangelo Live and Die?
Life and Death of Michelangelo Buonarroti (1475–1564)
Life:
Michelangelo Buonarroti (born March 6, 1475, Caprese – died February 18, 1564, Rome) was a Renaissance sculptor, painter, architect, and poet, considered one of the greatest artists of all time. His works had a huge impact on Western art.
•Youth and Education: Born in Caprese, he grew up in Florence and studied under Domenico Ghirlandaio. Later, he studied sculpture under the patronage of Lorenzo de’ Medici.
• Masterpieces:
•Sculptures: Pietà (1498–1499), David (1501–1504), Moses (1513–1515).
•Paintings: Frescoes in the Sistine Chapel – The Creation of Adam (1508–1512) and The Last Judgment (1536–1541).
• Architecture: Dome of St. Peter’s Basilica in the Vatican.
Michelangelo spent most of his life in Florence and Rome, working on commissions for popes and wealthy patrons. He led an ascetic life, never married, and was known for his fiery temperament as well as his deep spirituality.
Death:
Michelangelo died on February 18, 1564 in Rome at the age of 88 – an unusually long life for the time. He died of natural causes, likely due to fever or physical exhaustion. Until his last days, he worked on his final sculpture, the Rondanini Pietà.
After his death, his body was secretly transported to Florence, as he had wished to be buried in his hometown. His tomb is in the Basilica of Santa Croce in Florence, and the tomb was designed by Giorgio Vasari.
Michelangelo left an indelible legacy in art and architecture, and his works are still considered the pinnacle of the Renaissance.
Do you know the Ninja Turtles’ names? Then tell me where I can find the works of their namesakes in Florence. Thanks!
Yes, I do! The Teenage Mutant Ninja Turtles are named after Leonardo, Michelangelo, Donatello, and Raphael — all named after famous Renaissance artists. If you’re in Florence and want to see their masterpieces, here’s a list of places where their works can be found:
Leonardo da Vinci (Uffizi Gallery)
Leonardo spent part of his life in Florence, and some of his works can be admired here:
•Uffizi Gallery – You’ll find:
•The Annunciation (1472–1475) – One of his early works, already showing his mastery of light.
•Adoration of the Magi (unfinished) – A fascinating insight into his painting techniques.
•Leonardo da Vinci Museum – A small interactive museum dedicated to his inventions and machines.
Michelangelo Buonarroti (Accademia Gallery & Basilica of San Lorenzo)
Michelangelo is one of the greatest artists of all time. His sculptures and paintings can be seen at several locations:
•Accademia Gallery – David (1501–1504), one of the most iconic works in art history.
•Basilica of San Lorenzo – Medici Chapels, with stunning sculptures like Day and Night, Dusk and Dawn.
•Uffizi Gallery – Doni Tondo (Holy Family) – Michelangelo’s only surviving panel painting.
•Basilica of Santa Croce – This is where he is buried, so if you wish to pay your respects, this is the place.
Donatello (Bargello Museum & Duomo)
Donatello was a pioneer of sculpture, and his works can mostly be found in the Bargello Museum:
•Museo Nazionale del Bargello – Home to famous sculptures:
•David (1440) – Bronze David, the first free-standing nude since antiquity.
•Saint George – A striking statue of the knight and dragon-slayer.
•Museum of the Duomo (Museo dell’Opera del Duomo) – You’ll find his Magdalene here, one of his later and more dramatic works.
Raffaello Sanzio (Uffizi Gallery & Palazzo Pitti)
Raphael, the master of Renaissance harmony and elegance, has works displayed in two main museums:
•Uffizi Gallery – Madonna del Cardellino (Madonna of the Goldfinch) – A beautiful portrayal of the Virgin Mary with child.
•Palazzo Pitti (Galleria Palatina) – Several of Raphael’s paintings, including portraits and Madonnas.
Bonus: Vasari Corridor – All Turtles Together!
If you want to walk through a place where all four artists would symbolically meet, the Vasari Corridor connects Palazzo Vecchio, the Uffizi, and Palazzo Pitti — the very locations where their works are exhibited!
Conclusion
If you’re a fan of art (or the Ninja Turtles!), Florence is the perfect place to explore their masterpieces. From Leonardo’s visionary paintings to Michelangelo’s monumental sculptures – it’s all in one city!
Which of these artists do you admire the most? Let me know! 🐢🎨
What Can You Find in the Uffizi Gallery?
Uffizi Gallery – A Treasure of Renaissance Art
The Uffizi Gallery (Galleria degli Uffizi) in Florence is one of the most important and most visited museums in the world. Its collections include the greatest works of Renaissance art, featuring masterpieces by Botticelli, Leonardo da Vinci, Michelangelo, Caravaggio, and many more.
History of the Gallery
The Uffizi Gallery was founded in 1581 by Grand Duke Francesco I de’ Medici, who created it as a space to house the art collections of the powerful Medici family. Originally, the building was designed by
Today, the Uffizi Gallery is considered one of the most important Renaissance art museums in the world.
Most Important Artworks in the Uffizi
The Uffizi Gallery is home to many famous paintings that form the core of the world’s artistic heritage. What should you absolutely not miss?
1. Sandro Botticelli – The Birth of Venus (1485–1486)
• One of the most iconic paintings of the Renaissance.
• Depicts Venus, goddess of love, born from sea foam and arriving on a shell.
• A symbol of the ideal of beauty in Renaissance Florence.
2. Sandro Botticelli – Primavera (Spring) (1477–1482)
• An allegorical painting full of mythological figures.
• Celebrates the beauty of nature and the arrival of spring.
• One of the most beautiful works of Florentine Renaissance art.
3. Leonardo da Vinci – The Annunciation (1472–1475)
• Painted by a young Leonardo while apprenticing in Verrocchio’s workshop.
• Shows the Archangel Gabriel announcing to the Virgin Mary that she will bear Christ.
• One of the earliest examples of Leonardo’s masterful sfumato technique.
4. Michelangelo – Doni Tondo (Holy Family) (1503–1504)
• Michelangelo’s only surviving panel painting.
• Depicts the Holy Family in a dynamic composition reflecting his sculptural style.
• A source of inspiration for the frescoes in the Sistine Chapel.
5. Raphael – Madonna of the Goldfinch (1506)
• A beautiful depiction of the Virgin Mary with the Christ child and young John the Baptist.
• Showcases Raphael’s perfect harmony, composition, and vibrant color palette.
6. Caravaggio – Bacchus (1595)
• A Baroque masterpiece portraying Bacchus, the god of wine, holding a goblet.
• The use of chiaroscuro (light and shadow) adds dramatic effect.
7. Titian – Venus of Urbino (1538)
• A famous portrait of a reclining nude Venus, which inspired many artists including Manet.
• An intimate and sensual interpretation of feminine beauty.
Other Highlights in the Gallery
•Leonardo da Vinci Room – Contains several of his early works.
•Medici Portrait Room – A room full of portraits of prominent Medici family members.
•Vasari Corridor (Corridoio Vasariano) – A secret passage linking the Uffizi to the Pitti Palace, used by the Medici for safe travel through the city.
How to Visit the Uffizi Gallery?
• Opening hours: The gallery is open Tuesday to Sunday, 8:15 AM – 6:30 PM (closed on Mondays).
•Recommendation: Reserve your tickets online in advance to avoid long queues.
•Admission: Standard ticket price is approximately €25.
Conclusion
The Uffizi Gallery is a treasure trove of Renaissance art that no history or art lover should miss. Whether you’re drawn to Botticelli’s Birth of Venus, Michelangelo’s Holy Family, or Caravaggio’s dramatic canvases, the Uffizi offers a unique window into the glorious era of the Italian Renaissance.
Have you ever visited the Uffizi? Which masterpiece impressed you the most? Share your experience in the comments!
How do trains run from Florence to Pisa and how much is a ticket?
Trains from Florence to Pisa run frequently and offer convenient connections between these two Tuscan cities. There are about 51 direct connections per day, operated by Regionale trains.
Travel time: The average train ride from Florence to Pisa takes about 51 minutes over a distance of 68 km. Duration may vary depending on the connection and time of day.
Ticket price: Cheap tickets from Florence to Pisa can start at just €9 (approx. CZK 249) if booked in advance. The average ticket price is also around €9. Prices may vary depending on the time of day, class, and availability.
Departures: The first train from Florence to Pisa departs at 00:40, and the last at 23:50. Trains leave from Firenze Santa Maria Novella station and arrive at Pisa Centrale.
For current timetables and booking, check the official Trenitalia website or use services like Omio.