Updated 28 October 2026
Where to Stay in Florence Now the Key Boxes Have Gone
Florence has banned key boxes in its historic centre, so lockbox self check-in is over. What that changes when you book, and which area to choose.
Tuscany & Florence
All our Tuscany & Florence guides for Italy, in one place.
7 guides: Tuscany & Florence
Updated 29 July 2026
Siena and San Gimignano: The Classic Tuscan Day Out
Two hill towns in one day from Florence: Siena's shell-shaped square and striped cathedral, the town of towers, and why both change when the coaches leave.
Updated 29 July 2026
Tuscany: How to Plan the Region Rather Than Tick It Off
Where the landscape actually is, how many bases you need, when a car earns its keep, and which corners of Tuscany suit which kind of trip.
Updated 29 July 2026
The Uffizi and the Accademia: Booking Florence's Two Big Museums
Timed entry, sold-out slots and resellers: what each gallery holds, how long they take, which to skip if you have one day, and how to avoid paying twice.
Updated 3 June 2026
The Chianti Wine Road: Driving the SR222 Through Tuscany
A guide to the Chianti wine road: the best wineries and tastings, how to drive the scenic SR222 between Florence and Siena, and where to base yourself.
Updated 22 April 2026
Rome or Florence: Which to Visit First
Rome or Florence for your first Italy trip? Ancient empire versus Renaissance art, size, food, day trips and cost, with a clear verdict for each traveler.
Updated 5 March 2026
First Time in Florence: The Renaissance in Two Days
A first-timer guide to Florence: the Duomo, the Uffizi, Michelangelo's David, the best neighbourhoods and a walkable plan through the Renaissance city.