Florence Family Walk Tour – 1

• Content:   History, art and architecture.
• Form of excursion: Walking tour (approx 1 mile loop) with private licensed guide.
• Transfer arrangement: By walking or by cab (depending on client’s hotel location)
• Duration: 3 hours

This itinerary extending from the center to the Northern side of downtown, is specifically designed to inspire and entertain families with children and young teenager on board. The relatively short walk and inclusion of break in a homemade gelato and cappuccino shop will further enhance the enjoyable experience of this tour.

First stop of this tour is at Florence Cathedral Complex. Visit the famous Basilica di Santa Maria del Fiore (with Brunelleschi’s remarkable Dome), Giotto’s Bell Tower and the Baptistery of St. John (one of the oldest buildings in Florence). For those ready to an early start your guide will be happy to heighten this visit with the exciting up-close view of the Dome’s fresco which is reachable by a climb of over 460 steps built in between the Cathedral’s walls (not recommended to those effected by claustrophobia).

Next stop is at Piazza SS Annunziata. This square represents the stylistic harmony of the greatest architects of the Renaissance. Dominated by the Basilica della SS Annunziata (1250), known for the painting Annunciation (begun by 14th century artist Friar Bartolomeo with the face divinely finished by an angel while he slept) and its many frescoes. The portico fronting the church (1601) imitates the style of Brunelleschi’s Ospedale degli Innocenti  (Hospital of Innocent), first Renaissance building ever erected (1419-24). It was the first orphanage in Europe, reflecting the highest social and humanistic views of Florence at that time. Devoted to the care and training of abandoned children (Innocents), the hospital operated until 1875 and now houses a museum.

Lastly, skip the line visit to Michelangelo masterpieces, the David and the Prisoners at the Accademia Gallery with a skip-the-line reservation. You will discover the social, artistic and political significance of this magnificent statues in the history of Florence.
The tour ends not far from the small but engaging Leonardo Da Vinci Museum, which displays art crafts of Leonardo inventions in the field of flight, hydraulics, war, mechanics, and also offers an hands-on, interactive experience.