I visited Florence five years ago, and fell in love with the city. It is the capital of the region of Tuscany and his home to beautiful Renaissance art and architecture, as well as various parks and gardens. It is also famous for its artisans, particularly in the areas of leather working and paper.
Read on for my recommendations!
Where to Stay
We stayed in a beautiful hotel called La Scaletta. The building itself is beautiful and full of history, but views from the rooftop restaurant are amazing. Best of all, there is a wonderful marbled paper shop called Il Papiro on the street below!


Where to Shop
Il Papiro is a wonderful paper and gift shop on the street below Hotel La Scaletta. They have a few locations around the city, and sell wonderful handmade marbled paper and gifts. If you’re lucky, the owner, Gianni Parenti, may give you a paper marbling demonstration!
And Company is another gift shop that came highly recommended by a friend. Sadly, they were moving locations when we went, and we weren’t able to go inside. BUT, if the beautifully cut paper “moving” sign is any indication, this shop is home to wonderfully creative one-of-a-kind gifts.


What to Do
The Uffizi

Il Duomo

Santo Spirito

Ponte Vecchio

Best Photography Spots in Florence
Piazzale Michelangelo is located on a hill near the Arno river, and has a wonderful view of Florence and the iconic Duomo. Pack a picnic and go for dinner to watch the sun set over the city below.



Even if you don’t stay at the hotel, the Restaurant at La Scaletta is a wonderful spot for dinner with a view. The food is delicious and it’s a great spot to snap a few photos!

