Archive for 'Parks & Gardens'

One of the many museums of Florence is the charming and singular Stibbert Museum. Less well-known to international tourists but with an astounding collection, it has an extensive collection of objects and art works from all around the world. Based on the collections of the wealthy Federico Stibbert who was the grandson of Giles Stibbert (Commander-in-Chief of the British East India Company and Governor of Bengal), inherited a great fortune, and then dedicated his life to accumulating an extraordinary collection of art, arms, costumes and objets d'art. He filled his home with these objects and after he died in 1906, he left the villa and everything inside to the city of Florence, and it was opened as a museum.

Fields and fields...endless fields of sunflowers, there are few sights quite so lovely, right?

While sunflowers are native to Central America, they became popular in Europe in the 18th century and were planted all over. In Italy, they truly took root and their popularity grew from the ground up so that they are now actually one of the symbols of Tuscany.

Villa Poggio Torselli is a stunning hilltop residence located just outside Florence that has been home to several influential Florentine families and citizens throughout history (including Niccolò Machiavelli) and is listed among the Great Italian Gardens. Even locals are often unaware of this hidden gem and it is very much off the beaten tourist track but, if you have found a vacation rental in Florence, it is well worth taking the time to come and explore the incredible building and its surroundings!

Florence is full of famous and lovely works of art, buildings, parks and gardens. There are also many lesser-known beauties and hidden gems, many gardens among them, in particular. The Torrigiani Garden is seventeen acres of spectacular hidden gardens, located right in the heart of Florence.

It is also the largest privately owned garden in Europe situated within city boundaries. If you have found a vacation rental in Florence and are looking to enjoy its incredible atmosphere and manmade and natural charms, while staying away from regular tourist crowds, it is an ideal attraction in which to spend some peaceful hours wandering around.

The garden became renowned in the 16th century for its botanical garden (and remains celebrated for this) but largely reflects 19th century additions and alterations.

There is much to see and do in Florence. It is positively stuffed with tourist attractions and cultural gems. In between the mad dash from museums to churches to sculptures to famous square and streets and more, be sure to take a moment to pause and take the city in as a whole. Florence is many things but it is also, undoubtedly, a city with a very pretty skyline. Taking in her views is a must for anyone visiting Florence so browse our beautiful luxury villas in Florence and, when you visit, make time to take in some of the best views in Florence. Luckily, we've been compiling a list of some of the ultimate spots to take in said views so take note and get planning your trip.

5. Giardino Bardini

The Giardino Bardini, or Bardini Garden, is a Renaissance garden that is still a bit of a well-kept secret devoid of crazy crowds of tourists. Filled with beautiful canals, fountains, flowers and sculptures, it also boasts some exceptional views over the city.