Florence sightseeing – the Renaissance City

We made an early start for a day out Florence sightseeing.. The early start was forced upon us by two reasons. Firstly, there were numerous demonstrations in Italy today which also seemed to coincide with a bus drivers’ strike in the late afternoon. Secondly, the sun was up and about – it was hot, hot, hot!

The bus journey from Camping International at Bottai to the centre of Florence takes about twenty minutes. The cost is just 1.20 euro per person for a single journey, or, a return ticket for two people cost 4.70 euro. The latter offers a saving of ten cents – every little helps! The bus was full and standing but we were pleased to see revenue protection staff get on and check everyone had a ticket, issuing fines where appropriate.

A demonstration taking place in front of the Santa Croce Basilica

Unlike the UK, bus passengers must buy tickets before boarding he bus. The tickets are then punched in a validation machine on the bus. Also, most buses have at least two or three sets of doors that open when the bus stops – we boarded at the rear most door for example. As a result, it is easy to get on without a ticket, hence the need for revenue staff. Once in Florence, we did encounter some of the demonstrations and in some areas, people were bashing a saucepan with a spoon. I wished I had taken my own pan, just like in Avignon!

The Piazza Michel Angelo

A trip down memory lane followed and we climbed the steps and path to the Piazzale Michel Angelo. For the best of Florence sightseeing, this is a must. Look at the spectacular views of the city.

Florence sightseeing from Piazza del Michel Angelo

We left Piazzale Michel Angelo and walked the road route back to the city centre. This allowed us to take a look at the Camping Michel Angelo which, without any doubt, is well placed for a visit to Florence.

Florence sightseeing – almost caught short!

The trip to the campsite also served another purpose – a toilet stop! I asked the receptionist if we could have a look around, which was acceptable. I trotted off to the loo, only to find them closed for cleaning, and by this point I was desperate, so the only option available was…….the CDP! Later, we left the site and concluded that for a tag axle, we would be no better off than at Camping International. Noteworthy, it was twice the price at almost thirty euro per night!

Basilica of Santa Croce

The tour on foot continued and we noted what appears to be some sort of local custom whereby visitors write their names on a padlock and attach the padlock to a fence etc. This looks quite artistic to be honest, but does not meet with approval from the authorities!

In addition to the main sights, along one of the back streets where we found a fabulous indoor market. One of the amusing highlights of my day – a stall that sold…..wait for it…..TRIPE! Yes, don’t talk tripe, eat it!

Those visiting Florence will glean lots of information from this Florence tourism website.