Posts Tagged ‘things to do in florence’

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21
Mar

Happy Capodanno Fiorentino!

For most of the people from all over the world, a year ends the 31st December and the following one begins the 1st January. Apparently there is nothing more to say about that but, in fact, there is a special custom in Florence that comes straight from the city’s history. We are talking about the Capodanno Fiorentino, celebrated each year on March 25th. Want to know its origin? Let us move back to the past.

The truth is that it was not until 1750 that Florence started to celebrate the New Year’s Day on January 1st. According to the tradition, Florence is devoted to the Virgin Mary and the festivity was set on March because the date was exactly nine month before the birth of Jesus Christ. Centuries went by, but people in Florence kept their tradition. If you are in the city this next week, then you will be able to enjoy the New Year’s arrival again!

By now there are two scheduled events for next Monday 25th: at 3:30 p.m. the Corteo Storico della Repubblica will go with the community authorities to the Basilica della Santissima Annunziata. Later, at 4:15 p.m., a floral tribute will be paid to the Cappella della Sacra effige dell’Annunziata. And by the way, the Palazzo Vecchio will be open all day long. So, from Il Salviatino, your luxury hotel in Florence, we hope you enjoy the Capodanno and we wish you a happy ‘new’ year!

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28
Feb

The ‘forever-young’ side of Florence

So many things have been said about the artistic dimension of Florence. Of course, culture is fantastic since it nourishes the soul, but sometimes you need to let go and just have fun. So what else has the city to offer? Besides visiting museums and monuments you can also do lots of activities in order to have a lovely stay.

The Tuscan capital is one of the fashion centers in the world. Therefore releasing your ‘buying self’ could be a good (¿or dangerous?) option. As well as boutiques like Gucci’s and Versace’s, there are some attractive street markets like the Mercato di San Lorenzo, near San Lorenzo’s Church, where you can find cool clothes, specifically for women. Inside of it you can have a walk through the Mercato Centrale, filled with delicious Tuscan gastronomy specialties.

If you start feeling like partying, you should know where to begin the night. You can have a drink at pubs as Fiddler’s Elbow or Mojo, both quite famous in town, and then go dancing to Andromeda, Yab or Central Park, some of the most important clubs in Florence. If you’re hungover the next day, you can recover with some fresh air by going picnic to Le Cascine, the biggest park in Florence.

These are only a few possibilities from the hundred ones between you can choose. But whatever you do, Il Salviatino, your luxury hotel in Florence, will be there for you.

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14
Feb

Salvador Dalí brings surrealism to Florence

Once upon a time there was a man whose use of colors, shapes and metaphors through painting was unique. He became one of the most famous contemporary artists in the world. In fact, whether you know him or not, if you ever see one of his works, you won’t stay impassive. After this introduction, we confess we are amazed that Florence is paying tribute to Salvador Dalí by showing an exhibition of more than 100 pieces made by the Spanish author.

dali-2From February 1st to May 25th the Palazzo Medici Riccardi will be open daily, from 9 am to 7 pm, inviting everyone to leave logic outside and let dreamlike traces invade their minds. The sculptures, glass objects and collages exposed present sides of Dalí’s personality perhaps less known by the audience, as well as his interest in themes like time, literature and women.

So, from Il Salviatino, your 5 stars hotel in Florence, we ask you: Are you ready to let the Dalí experience rock your day?

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31
Jan

Florence: scenario of La Fura dels Baus’ Carmina Burana

For decades Carmina Burana has been one of the most famous Scenic Cantatas in the world. Composed by Carl Orff between 1935 and 1936, the masterpiece includes few of the original texts written among the 11th and the 13th centuries, beautiful poems about life, love, nature and pleasure. In 2009, the Spanish Theatre Company, La Fura dels Baus, created their own rendition of the Cantata, becoming a great success and captivating the enthusiasm of the audience. That’s why it’s thrilling to inform that La Fura’s Carmina Burana is coming to Florence!

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The Indian conductor of classical music, Zubin Mehta, will be directing the Maggio Musicale Fiorentino’s Choir and Orchestra while the performing artists join a whole show of lights and colors that will leave the crowd speechless. So, if you’re about to open your mind and go through a fascinating experience, don’t forget going to Il Teatro del Maggio Musicale Fiorentino, next Friday 8th February at 8.30 pm.

From Il Salviatino, your 5 stars hotel in Florence, we encourage you to enjoy the spectacle and let the art take your breath away.

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16
Apr

Relax in Florence

Florence is certainly one of the most recognized cities worldwide for its beauty, artistic value and architectural heritage, a place of pilgrimage for art lovers in its purest form. But Florence is also an ideal destination to spend a few days off and enjoy the unique environment the Italian Tuscany has to offer.

The beauty of its streets and squares transmits  real magic. It offers a host of charming places to discover and invites one to stroll down and have an appetizer in its famous taverns along the Arno River, as well as, to enjoy a glass of chianti, the typical red wine in this area.

View from Hotel Il Salviatino in Florence

View from Hotel Il Salviatino in Florence

Furthermore, with the arrival of spring,  Florence is revealed at its best through its gardens. The gardens are in full bloom which can be found along the entire town during this season. An inevitable stop at this point is the Boboli Gardens, located behind the Pitti Palace. It has  a total area of ​​45,000 square meters, which makes it the largest green area of Florence. Here, guests can visit the statue of the Goddess Fortuna or the Neptune Fountain and the beautiful lake that lies within.

The Giardino dell’Iris (Iris Garden) also proves to be an ideal route in the springtime. Symbol of the city of Florence since 1251, the Iris is the real star of this botanical garden which hosts more than 1,500 varieties of this flower. This can be all admired and appreciated together with the stunning views of the entire city.

Finally, to conclude your rest and pleasurable stay, there’s nothing better than to relax completely at the new Spa Il Salviatino, at your 5- star hotel in Florence. It offers a variety of treatments specifically created to balance body and mind in a state of total harmony. The “Relax and enjoy Florence” package is the perfect choice for those wishing to enjoy a massage with vegetable oils and antioxidants or a thousands-years old relaxation technique using the essence of Egyptian jasmine and a touch of mint to recover energy. It also includes a full tasting of Tuscan cuisine enabling guests to enjoy the holiday without having to worry about anything else.

In short, if you are looking for a few days of peace and tranquility, Florence is revealed as the perfect place to enjoy moments of rest and relaxation in a unique space.

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23
Mar

The Vasari Corridor, a magical tour of Florence

One of the great architectural gems with a history full of curiosities and anecdotes in the city of Florence is, without a doubt, the Vasari Corridor. Built in just five months by the architect Giorgio Vasari,  the Vasari Corridor is an elevated and enclosed passageway almost a thousand meters in length  and crosses the main points of the city.

Cosimo I de Medici  ordered to build this endless hallway to link Palazzo Pitti, the official residence of the Medici, with the Florentine nobility’s government headquarters, the Palazzo Vecchio. This decision was triggered  by the Grand Duke’s to avoid unending and tiresome  trips through the streets of the city. Moreover, these long walks through the city had to be done with guards and escorts to prevent possible attacks.

The corridor passes through the Ponte Vecchio

The corridor passes through the Ponte Vecchio

That is why the corridor passes through one of the most emblematic sites of the city, the Ponte Vecchio. It is one of the most visited places because of the stunning view over the River Arno.  According to legend, the Florentine Duke ordered the demolition of butcher shops that were housed in this part of the walkway because of foul odor and so today one can still see the goldsmiths and jewelers which took their place back then.

The Vasari Corridor was also a stopping point for soldiers and combatants during the Second World War, and crosses one of the most interesting places to visit in Florence: the Uffizi Gallery. It is considered one of the most important museums in the world and it is home to works of art, such as Rubens, Bernini and Delacroix self-portraits that could be the cause of Stendhal syndrome.

In short, the Vasari Corridor is one of those places with real magic in the beautiful Florence. Il Salviatino, your 5 star hotel in Florence, invites you to enjoy the city and feel the authenticity of places like the Vasari Corridor.

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24
Feb

Live Florence like a true Florentine

A city like Florence, known as the city of Renaissance, frequently seduces the tourists with its countless breathtaking monuments. But for once it would be nice to give the museums a rest, get out of the tourists torrent and enjoy il dolce far niente in the Italian style.

If seeking the pleasure of experiencing Florence like a true Florentine its absolutely mandatory to choose either a trattoria or a osteria – traditional restaurant with typical Tuscan cuisine- instead of going to the usual famous restaurants that generally offer common-international dishes.

Fontana del Nettuno, Florence

Fontana del Nettuno, Florence

The Markets in Florence are charming places to wonder around searching for a particular thing or just getting lost among the unique pieces of history exposed in the stands. Most tourists prefer without a trace of doubt to visit the famous Mercato delle Pulci – yes, the Flea Market- but for a deeper understanding of the Florentine daily life it’s advisable to choose other local markets like San Lorenzo Market, La Fierucolina, or Mercato Centrale.

All over the world Italy is well known for its expertise in Ice-cream making. And true as it is, stepping on Italian soil and leave without tasting a true gelato wouldn’t be fair. In Florence having a gelato as desert or as a treat in a sunny day is very typical, and to do so there are various Ice-cream parlors all over the city, like the Festival del Gelato or Cavini. Creamy consistence, the taste of real fresh fruit, and a mesmerizing variety of flavors… the perfect combination of factors to transform a simple sweet treat in a delicious event.

Italians, or better said humans in general, for some reason find a special joy in what is called “people watching”, which is nothing but simply choosing a bench in a crowded piazza and watching people pass by. Tourists taking pictures, locals rushing to go to work, some clearly in honeymoon mode, while others struggling to get the kids to school.

It is definitely fun to be the tourist, but just for once Il Salviatino, your luxury hotel in Florence, recommends you to admire Florence through a different perspective. Like a true Florentine.

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17
Feb

Winter in Florence

Someone who has only experienced Florence in summer, should definitely give this wonderful city another try with a winter weekend break, and have the chance to visit the museums without waiting in line, avoid crowded streets, and get into any restaurant with no need of a reservation.

As many people say the very best of Florence can be experienced in only two days by using the morning to visit monuments and the afternoons shopping in those luxurious designer stores, which will probably be on sales by this time of the year.

Il Duomo, Florence. View from Il Salviatino.

Il Duomo, Florence. View from Il Salviatino.

The Cathedral of Santa Maria dei Fiori, with it’s magnificent dome built by Filippii Brunelleschi in 1436, should be the starting point as it is known to be the most famous Florentine landmark.

Very close by there is also the Baptistery and the Campanille de Giotto, both worthy of paying a visit. And if there is enough time and courage hike to the top of the bell tower of Giotto.

Art lovers would surely demand an entire week to visit the Uffizi Gallery, seeing a room a day. However, in Winter it is possible to see all the important masterpieces, as the Birth of Venus, in only a few hours as it wont be as crowded as during the other seasons.

Make time to go see Michelangelo’s David, and be sure to stop by the Gothic church of Santa Croce to admire such glorious structure and to find Galileo’s tomb.

If not to buy unique pieces of jewelry, a visit to Ponte Vecchio is absolutely required to enjoy the sunset upon Arno river, which is a breathtaking sight.

In wintery nights there is nothing one can cherish more than the warmth of a suite and for that reason “Il Salviatino” places at your disposal a Unique Suite Winter Promotion, offering you the opportunity to enjoy any of it’s best suites.

Although very different from one-another, each one of those Suites are fully equipped with all the elegance and luxury a 5 star hotel in Florence can grant.

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1
Feb

St. Valentine at Il Salviatino, creating everlasting memories

When it comes to celebrating Valentine’s day most people reach for the usual things, like chocolate, flowers and a candle light dinner at home.

But as always Il Salviatino dares you to think bigger, welcoming you and your beloved one with a special Package valid from 11th to 19th of February. May that be a triumphant beginning to what will be an unforgettable romantic getaway.

This year’s St. Valentine Package includes, besides accommodation in De Luxe Room with breakfast “à la carte”, a romantic dinner for two and a 30 minutes couple massage.

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Although it will be hard to want to leave the hotel even for a minute, we advise you to do so and explore the city of Florence which is on its own very romantic.

A golden sunset in Ponte Vecchio gazing at Arno river, a sip of Tuscan’s fine wine, and a quick stop in one of the top Florentine Chocolatiers could provide you lovely memories to treasure for a lifetime.

It is said that originally St. Valentine in Italy was celebrated by young lovers in ornamental gardens enjoying music and poetry reading. It could be pleasant to take a few hours of your time to visit Pitti’s Palace and stroll into the Boboli’s Gardens, to have a little taste of what this day could have been like so long ago.

Trusting your fine taste Il Salviatino welcomes you, with a glass of Champagne, to an Aphrodisiac Dinner for two to be served on the February 14th , with a tailored menu created by our Chef Carmine Caló.

As a guest in this 5 star hotel in Florence set your mind on simply enjoying with your Valentine the incomparable environment of Florence, the City of Renaissance.

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19
Jan

Florence, the jewel of Tuscany

Anyone who has visited Florence knows why it is considered the most authentic and true jewel of Tuscany. Cultural center, historical and artistic heritage of Northern Italy, Florence has all the conditions to enjoy an unparalleled city around the world.

Dubbed as the “city of Stendhal syndrome”, originating from the shock the writer suffered as he witnessed the overwhelming beauty of Santa Croce church, the city’s great historical and artistic heritage makes the Tuscan capital the true cradle of Italian Renaissance. Its historical center was declared World Heritage Site by Unesco in 1982. A visit to the Santa Maria del Fiore Basilica, the Piazza della Signoria and its famous Palazzo Vecchio is a must, and not to mention, the Ponte Vecchio, one of the symbols of the city, must not be missed. We can also visit dozens of museums, such as the Galeria de la Academia, where the famous “David” of Michelangelo is located.

Santa Croce church. Florence is the cradle of Renaissance in Italy.

Santa Croce church, origin of Stendhal syndrome.

Florence is also an enigmatic city that has sheltered all kinds of legends throughout its history. For hundreds of years, Master Brunellschi kept his secret about how the dome of the Florence cathedral was being sustained, which can be seen practically from anywhere in the city. Florence also houses the tombs of masters such as Michelangelo and the fake tombstone of Galileo Galilei,which was actually buried in a chapel without public access.

Florence not only has artistic heritage but its festivals and popular traditions also make it a unique place in the region. The Maggiolata is one of the most important festivals of the year. It is a celebration to welcome the arrival of spring with dances, parades and a beautiful display of flowers in the city center. If arrival is in June, one can attend the famous event called “Calcio in Costume”, a football match done in medieval style on the feast of San Giovanni, or the Three Kings parade on January 6.

But whatever the travel season may be, Il Salviatino would like guests to enjoy their stay in this luxury hotel in Florence. Whether it is for a romantic getaway or honeymoon, a family time or for relaxation purposes, there is always an option available to make the visit to this city an unforgettable one.

Lastly, exploring Florence requires delving into each of its corners; slowly discovering its myriad of treasures. Relish the full experience in a 5 star hotel in Florence.  It certainly is a feast for the senses.

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