With this in mind, we caught up with our friend, Anna, who arranges special experiences for visitors to the city, and also to the surrounding countryside in Tuscany. As well as booking tickets for museums, galleries special events and tours within the city, there were some other very interesting options – one of which I tried and loved! It was a punting trip on a ‘barchetto’ (similar to a gondola) down the Arno. It gave us a completely different perspective of the city and also gave us some much-needed respite from the crowds. The specialized guide explained the history of the city and its fascinating historic relationship with the Arno River. The tour starts and ends on the river just below the Uffizi Gallery which is conveniently located close to the Piazza della Signoria where you can enjoy a cappuccino on the outdoor terrace of the historic Rivoire Café.

The many and diverse experiences which can be arranged include a walking tour through the charming Oltrarno, plus special trips to the vineyards of Chianti and the Siena Palio. 

Piazza del Mercato Centrale

The Piazza del Mercato is home to Florence's famous and very tempting fresh food market, a must-visit for anyone interested in food, even if not self-catering in their apartment! It is open Monday to Saturday from 7 a.m. to 2 p.m., with additional Saturday hours from 4 p.m. to 7 p.m.

In the same piazza you will find a great lunch spot, Trattoria ZaZa, with very pretty interiors and a large and varied menu, ranging from light starter dishes and salads to more substantial pasta dishes and main courses.

Osteria dell’Enoteca

Via Romana 70 | Tel. 055 2286018

If you are looking for a unique restaurant experience in which to enjoy the best of Tuscan cooking, look no further than this Osteria in the Oltrarno. First, choose from a delicious menu, then the waiter will take you to the Wine Wall to advise you on the best wine to complement your dish. The refined Tuscan menu prepared with fresh, local ingredients is fantastic – and if you haven’t already sampled the famous Bistecca alla Fiorentina, this is definitely the place to try it!

Apartment Oltrarno

3 bedrooms, sleeps 6 - 8

A unique Florence apartment on the top floor of an elegant 15th century Florentine Palazzo, with views over the Arno and the city centre. All three bedrooms open to private terraces and there is also a roof terrace.