Florence

Birthplace of the Italian Renaissance, Florence emits a siren call for art lovers. So entertwined is art into the city's fabric that even those less artistically disposed would have a tough time avoiding it on short breaks to Florence.

Florence's most popular attractions, and also its busiest, are the Uffizi art gallery, (where you can catch a glimpse of Botticelli's Birth of Venus) and the Museo dell'Accademia, home to Florence's unofficial mascot, a colossal statue of David carved by Michelangelo from a single block of marble.

To get your bearings, climb to the top of the Duomo for spectacular views - if you can brave the 463 steps. A more sedate option is to catch the bus to Piazzale Michelangelo overlooking the city centre.

Florence is packed with sights and most visitors will probably have their hands full ticking off the essentials on their first encounter. But short breaks to Florence can take many shapes and sizes, and return visits for romantic getaways and shopping sprees will reveal alternative angles to the city.

For the shopaholic, Florence boasts a wide range of designer stores and smaller independent boutiques. Check out the fashionable Via Tornabuoni for the big names, or saunter through San Lorenzo market for the best of the bargains.
The city is renowned for the quality of its leather goods, and "cultural" city breaks to Florence provide the perfect excuse to stock up on shoes, handbags and wallets. Slaves to bling will enjoy window-shopping in the jewellery stores of Ponte Vecchio, Florence's oldest bridge.

When your euros are spent, ditch the crowds for a leisurely stroll in the Boboli Gardens. City breaks to Florence should always incorporate some leisurely people-watching - best experienced in a laid-back square. A good bet is Piazza Santo Spirito, a great place to enjoy a pre-dinner aperitivo with the locals.

Foodies will be spoilt for choice, too. Whether you opt for a bustling pizzeria or a cosy trattoria, finding somewhere to eat is never a problem on short breaks to Florence. Local specialities include bistecca alla fiorentina (steak) and ribollita (a wholesome veggie soup). For dessert, why not stop at one of Florence's gelaterie for some real Italian ice-cream?