Winter among the Florentine cobblestones

February 04th 2011 by Katie

The beauty of Florence in Winter


Credits: Melinda Gallo


Florence sits quietly among the ancient palazzi. There is a cold wind that cascades over me as I ride my bike. Over the bumpy cobblestones, I ride to get from Porta Romana to Piazza della Repubblica, dodging large buses and noisy motorini. During January and February, Florence isn’t as bustling as usual. There aren’t as many tours walking through Piazza del Duomo. Tourists aren’t taking over popular restaurants. Buses are running less crowded as well. The only down side during this time is that it is very cold. The upside is that the hotels are scarce and the flights are much less to purchase.


For all travelers that venture to Florence for the outlet shopping, this is a great time to walk into the popular stores. “Saldi” (Sales) are plastered on all the windows. Some windows even publicize 50% off. It is an amazing time to be in Florence, minus the weather.


Credits: Flickr


Another advantage is that most of well-known restaurants are easy to get into to. Some you can just walk into without a reservation. Others such as I Latini and I Vini e Vecchi Sapori are taken over by the locals. You will have to wait but it will be worth it in the end.


The famous gardens and museums will have just a little wait, no 2 or 3 hour wait like in the summertime. I suggest this time of the year for visiting all the famous works located in Florence. One great reason is that you won’t be sweating while waiting to visit.


Credits: Flickr


Something to keep in mind is that museums open at different times as well. Mondays they are closed more often in the winter. Also you won’t need to reserve your tickets for the Uffizi Gallery and the Accademia Gallery since there aren’t a million people waiting in line. Then comes what I dread the most, being cold. Florence even though located in a valley becomes extremely cold. The winds blow from the tops of the highest hills down onto the streets of Florence. Think of about dressing in layers. Don’t forget to put on your scarves. I say scarves because two is always better than one. Now this wind isn’t like the wind chill that I experience in Chicago but it definitely a different kind of uncomfortable cold. Remember to also wear your most comfortable walking shoes. You will be walking a lot outside as well as


Credits: VinainoDiParteGuelfa


If you want to warm up with a glass of wine in a typical panetteria, pass by Vinaino di Parte Guelfa. I always feel warm as I walk in since nowadays the glass doors of this little hole in the wall are always closed. The warm toaster oven keeps its patrons nice and cozy. Paired with your glass of wine, create your own panino with your choice of meat, cheese and condiments such as tartufo and piccante.


Just because it isn't warm and you can just sit in the sun and catch some rays, Florence is still gorgeous to visit in the winter. There are many more pluses than minuses to visit during this cold season.


 


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  1. [...] are many hidden secrets of Florence that you dont have to pay to see. I am still searching for most of them. The one I love [...]

  2. Katie says:

    Dear Mike, I am glad you liked the pictures and the article. I hope you keep coming back! a presto, Katie :)

  3. [...] This post was mentioned on Twitter by Laura , barcaevent and CharmingItaly, CharmingItaly. CharmingItaly said: New Post: Winter among the Florentine cobblestones >>> http://www.charmingitaly.com/winter-in-florence/ [...]

  4. Mike says:

    We've only seen Florence in May and what a great picture of the snowy weather! I know they are stone, but naked statues make me feel colder in the winter. 8>) The fake David must have gone inside! Thanks for sharing!

  5. [...] you are able to take an express train that goes right from the airport to SMN station. From the Florence airport you will have to take a taxi to SMN station. And once you get there you can travel all [...]

  6. [...] is the most romantic city you’ve visited in Tuscany? I guess I am bias since I live here, but Florence for me is the most romantic city in [...]

  7. [...] admired for centuries. Most famously the work of Domenico Ghirlandaio in Santa Trinita Church in Florence. Domenico was a famous Renaissance painter from Florence. He has done many works and frescoes [...]

  8. [...] and simple ingredients: a summer Tuscan recipe Credits: Flickr Summer has arrived in Florence, well kind of, so it is time to make a great dish to help stay cool. Panzanella is a bread salad [...]

  9. [...] The second course is often lamb or goat served along with potatoes, artichokes and other late winter or early spring [...]

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Winter among the Florentine cobblestones