ACCORD Blog

 

news and everything else you need to stay up to date

Our ACCORD Blog is an open diary about the beauty of Florence, Tuscany, and Italy.
Authentic stories, interesting facts, and useful tips to turn every trip into an unforgettable experience

 

Why Lucca in October is Italy’s Best-Kept Secret: Top Reasons to Visit in 2025

Virginia
When it comes to autumn destinations in Italy, cities like Florence, Rome, and Venice often steal the spotlight. Yet, nestled in the heart of Tuscany, the medieval gem of Lucca offers an unforgettable October experience — especially for those seeking a quieter, richer taste of Italian culture. From its world-famous music festival to stunning fall landscapes, Lucca in October is Italy’s best-kept secret. Here’s why 20245 is the year to experience Lucca in all its autumnal glory.
2025

Toiano: the ghost city of Tuscany

Virginia
Toiano, a fascinating ghost town in the heart of Tuscany, offers an unforgettable experience for adventurous travelers, especially during the spooky season. Once a thriving medieval village, Toiano now stands in eerie silence, its crumbling stone buildings and deserted streets evoking a haunting charm. This mysterious town, nestled atop a hill between olive groves and rolling Tuscan landscapes, feels like stepping into another time—a place where history, legends, and the supernatural intertwine.
2025

“My Brilliant Friend”: The TV Series Set in the Enchanting City of Florence

Virginia
The famous TV series “My Brilliant Friend,” or “L’amica geniale” in Italian, is set against the enchanting backdrop of Florence. Now, it’s returning for its fourth season, “The lost child”, premiering on November 11th. Based on the bestselling book series by Elena Ferrante, the show beautifully captures the essence of Italy and the charm of Florence in the 1970s – 80s. Join us as we explore a few of the iconic locations featured in the show that you can visit on your next trip to Florence.
2025

Florentine Gift Guide: Luxurious yet Affordable Treasures from Florence

Virginia
Florence, a city renowned for its art, culture, and history, offers the perfect gifts for anyone seeking something extraordinary this holiday season. Whether you’re drawn to artisanal traditions, luxurious craftsmanship, or the elegant flavors of Tuscany, Florence provides a wealth of options that embody the essence of Italian heritage. From the fragrant rose waters of centuries-old pharmacies to the exquisite wines and handcrafted treasures, these gifts offer a taste of Florence’s rich cultural legacy, making them an ideal way to celebrate the magic of Christmas.
2025

Must-haves for your Italian holiday

Virginia
Discover the must-haves to stay cool and comfortable while exploring Italy even in the summer heat. Whether you're heading to Florence, the Chianti region, or Portofino, we’ve got the tips you need to pack smart for every occasion.
2025

5 experiences to enjoy in Florence if it's your first time

Virginia
If you are looking for five experiences to get the most out of your trip to Florence, you've come to the right place. From Piazzale Michelangelo to the Uffizi Gallery, here you can read about the things you cannot miss when visiting Florence!
2025

10 local experiences to make your summer in Tuscany unforgettable

Maria
10 Local Experiences to Make Your Summer in Tuscany Unforgettable is a guide designed to help travelers navigate Florence’s most celebrated museums with ease and confidence. This blog post spotlights three iconic landmarks, the Uffizi Gallery, the Accademia Gallery, and the Duomo Cathedral Museum, offering essential details about each, including opening hours, ticketing options, pricing, and practical visiting tips. From viewing Botticelli’s The Birth of Venus at the Uffizi to standing before Michelangelo’s David at the Accademia and exploring the grandeur of the Duomo, the guide equips visitors with clear information to create a memorable experience. This article simplifies planning.
2025

The History of Love in Florence: Dante, Beatrice, and Renaissance Romance

Maria
Florence, the cradle of the Renaissance, has always been more than just a city of stunning architecture, artistic masterpieces, and intellectual brilliance; it is a city deeply imbued with the essence of love, a place where romance and passion have intertwined with history and culture to shape its very identity. Among the many stories that define Florence, none captures the heart and imagination quite like the tale of Dante Alighieri and Beatrice Portinari, whose ethereal bond remains one of the most enduring symbols of idealized love in Western literature.
2025

Rificolona Festival in Florence: a family-friendly lantern tradition

Maria
When you think of Florence, images of Renaissance art, grand cathedrals, and cobblestone streets likely come to mind. But if you’re lucky enough to visit in early September, you’ll also witness one of the city’s most charming traditions — the Rificolona Festival. This event is not just a feast for the eyes with its glowing lanterns; it’s a journey through Florence’s rich history, filled with stories, legends, and a touch of playful mischief. Let’s explore the origins and tales that make the Rificolona Festival such a special part of Florentine culture.
2024

Roma the Eternal City

Virginia
Rome, the capital of Italy, is an open-air museum where every corner tells over two thousand years of history. Once the heart of the Roman Empire and the cradle of Christianity, it captivates visitors with iconic landmarks such as the Colosseum, the Roman Forum, and the Pantheon. A visit to Vatican City is a must, with St. Peter’s Basilica and Michelangelo’s Sistine Chapel. Strolling through Piazza Navona, tossing a coin into the Trevi Fountain, and watching the sunset from the Gianicolo Hill are experiences that make Rome a truly timeless city.

Florentine Street Food: A Culinary Journey through History and Culture

Maria
Florence, the jewel of Tuscany, is not only renowned for its art and architecture but also for its rich and diverse culinary traditions. The street food of Florence offers a delightful taste of the city’s history and culture, providing an authentic experience that combines flavors, stories, and traditions passed down through generations. Here, we explore three quintessential Florentine street foods: Ribollita, Lampredotto, and Cantuccio con Vin Santo.
2024

Grand Re-opening of Caffé Giubbe Rosse

Maria
The Caffè Giubbe Rosse in Florence, founded at the end of the 19th century in Piazza della Repubblica, is one of the city’s most famous historic cafés. A meeting point for artists, intellectuals and protagonists of the 20th-century avant-gardes, it was the preferred gathering place of the Futurists and a vibrant center of Florentine cultural life. Today it continues to stand as a symbol of literary history and city tradition.
2024

The Best Street Food to Try in Florence: a Culinary Journey

Virginia
Florence, renowned for its Renaissance art and historic architecture, also boasts a vibrant street food scene that offers visitors a taste of the authentic flavors of Italian cuisine. From savory sandwiches to creamy gelato, Florence’s street food captures the very essence of Tuscan cooking. This article will take you on a culinary journey to discover the best street food options the city has to offer.
2024

How to get from Florence Airport to the city center

Virginia
Florence is one of the most picturesque cities in Italy, famous for its rich cultural heritage and stunning architecture. The Florence International Airport – Peretola (FLR), also known as the Amerigo Vespucci Airport, is located about 6 km (3.7 miles) northwest of the city center. Several convenient transportation options are available to reach the heart of Florence quickly and comfortably.
2024

Lucrezia Tornabuoni: a Medici Matriarch

Maria
In a time when it was difficult for women to have significant political power, Lucrezia Tornabuoni (pictured with a headdress on the bottom right) was a respected advisor, businesswoman, poet, and matriarch. Her wisdom supported the Medici line, establishing its influence in the Renaissance era.
2023

Eleonora di Toledo: an extraordinary Florentine Woman

Eleonora di Toledo was a Spanish noble who married Cosimo I de Medici. The Medici dynasty was one of the most influential families in Florence. However, their title came from their success in commerce rather than inheritance or warfare. As a noble, Eleonora was able to provide the family with an elevated status. She eventually gave the Medici’s much more through her power and influence. Now, she is known as one of the most substantial women of her time.
2023

Brunelleschi’s Dome

Brunelleschi’s Dome is the symbol of Florence Cathedral and one of the greatest architectural achievements in history. Built in the 15th century, it represents the genius and innovation of the Italian Renaissance.
2023

Valentine’s Day in Chianti: romance among hills, villages, and fine wine

Spend an unforgettable Valentine’s Day in the heart of Tuscany. Among the rolling hills of Chianti, medieval villages, and welcoming wineries, you can enjoy a romantic experience filled with breathtaking views, excellent wine, and moments of pure relaxation. Discover how to make your romantic getaway between **Florence and Chianti** truly special.
2023

TOP 5 Florence garden

Maria
In this article, you'll discover five of the best gardens in Florence where you can escape the summer heat. From the historic charm of the Boboli Gardens and the peaceful beauty of the Bardini Garden to the scenic Rose Garden, the lively Giardino dell'Orticoltura, and the wide-open spaces of Le Cascine Park... Each one offers you a refreshing retreat with stunning views, relaxing vibes, and a touch of Tuscan charm.
2025

5 breathtaking day trips from Florence you’ll love this summer

Maria
If you're looking to take a day trip from Florence, Italy, this summer, this article will tell you exactly where to go. From the beautiful waterfront views of Portofino to the historic medieval town of San Gimignano, you won't be questioning what to do after these suggestions.

The most romantic spots for couples in Florence this autumn

Maria
Autumn in Florence is a magical time, when the city’s cobbled streets and historic landmarks are bathed in warm hues of orange, gold, and crimson. If you're dreaming of a romantic getaway, Florence offers an array of enchanting places perfect for couples looking to combine art, nature, and intimate moments. From quiet strolls in lush gardens to breathtaking views of the Renaissance skyline, here’s your guide to the most romantic spots in Florence this autumn.

The 5 Tuscan art cities to visit in autumn

Maria
Autumn in Tuscany is a magical time – warm, golden light envelops the historic sites and landscapes, while the tourist crowds thin out, making it easier to explore. This is the perfect season to discover the beauty of Tuscany’s art cities, where history, culture, and architecture blend into a fascinating narrative. In this guide, we invite you to visit five artistic cities – Florence, Siena, Pisa, Lucca, and Arezzo – each of which takes on even more charm in the autumn ambiance. Prepare for an inspiring journey through art, where every corner has a story to tell.
2025

The ultimate guide to autumn foliage in Tuscany: discover the best spots

Maria
Tuscany in autumn is a truly magical experience. As the hot summer fades and the grape harvest comes to an end, the landscape begins to transform into a stunning tapestry of red, orange, and golden hues. The region’s rolling hills, vineyards, and iconic cypress trees become bathed in autumn light, offering a visual spectacle that attracts travelers from all over the world. Whether you’re walking the historic streets of Florence or exploring the countryside, Tuscany in fall is an unforgettable destination for those seeking the beauty of nature paired with culture and history. Here’s your guide to some of the best places to enjoy the changing colors in both the city and the countryside.
2025

How to get from Rome Airport to Florence city center?

Maria
Rome’s Fiumicino Airport (Leonardo da Vinci) is Italy’s largest international airport and a major hub for travelers visiting Florence. Located about 250 km south of Florence, there are several efficient transportation options to travel between the two cities. Here’s a guide to the best ways to get from Rome Airport to the city center of Florence.
2025

How to get from Pisa Airport to the city center?

Maria
Pisa Galileo Galilei Airport (PSA) is the main airport serving the Tuscany region and a popular gateway for travelers visiting Florence. Located about 85 kilometers from Florence, Pisa Airport offers several convenient transportation options to reach the city center of Florence.
2025

Top 3 Activities to do in Florence

Maria
Top 3 activities
2025

Halloween in Florence: mystery and magic in the heart of the Renaissance

Maria
When you think of Florence, art, history, and the Renaissance immediately come to mind. But the city of the Medici, with its medieval alleys, austere palaces, and ancient legends, can also transform into the perfect setting to experience the most mysterious night of the year: Halloween
2025

From the Shadows of the Midwest to the Lights of Florence: Ed Gein, Hannibal Lecter, and the Places of Evil

Virginia
Ryan Murphy’s new series dedicated to Ed Gein—the American killer who inspired some of cinema’s most chilling characters—has brought fresh attention to the dark allure of the “intelligent” monster. From him came the idea for Buffalo Bill, the serial killer from The Silence of the Lambs, who in turn made his opposite and counterpart famous: Hannibal Lecter. If Buffalo Bill represents the brutality and madness of the body, Hannibal is the mind—the aesthetic intelligence of evil. And when Ridley Scott decided to set Hannibal (2001) in Florence, the city itself became the perfect symbol of this duality: beauty and darkness, art and instinct.
2025

Florence and its monumental cemeteries: journeys through art, history and silence

Maria
Florence is known worldwide as the cradle of the Renaissance, but alongside its churches, museums, and palaces, the city also guards lesser-known yet equally fascinating places: its monumental cemeteries. True open-air museums, these spaces tell the stories of artists, travelers, poets, and notable citizens who found their final rest here.
2025

The symbols of Florence and where to find them

Maria
Florence is not only the city of the Duomo and Leonardo da Vinci – it is also a city full of special animals, carved in stone or painted on coats of arms. Each one tells a story, a value, or a legend. Alongside these animals, Florence also has other symbols tied to guilds, traditions, and civic identity. Here are the most important ones.
2025

Florence in Autumn: colors, flavors, and landscapes to discover

Maria
Visiting Florence in autumn is a unique experience: the city slows down after the summer, the days grow cooler, and the foliage paints gardens and surrounding hills in shades of red, gold, and yellow. It’s the perfect season to enjoy the city and its countryside at a slower pace, between strolls, tastings, and unforgettable views.
2025

In the footsteps of Dante in Florence: the poet who gave a voice to Italy

Maria
Dante Alighieri is one of the most extraordinary figures in Italian and world history. The father of the Italian language and author of the Divine Comedy — the poem that shaped our culture and imagination — Dante is not only a poet: he is the symbol of an era and of a city, Florence, which inspired and marked him deeply.
2025

The Chianti Harvest Season

Chianti, nestled in the heart of Tuscany, is world-renowned not only for its breathtaking landscapes but also for producing some of Italy’s finest wines. However, it’s during the harvest season, known as vendemmia, that this region truly comes alive. Each year, between September and October, vineyards across Chianti are buzzing with activity as the grapes reach their peak ripeness, ready to be transformed into one of the most cherished wines in the world.
2025

Caterina de Medici: The Dark Legacy of the Black Queen

As Halloween approaches, it’s the perfect time to reflect on one of history’s most notorious figures: Caterina de Medici, also known as “The Black Queen.” Her life was filled with political intrigue, ruthless tactics, and a deep association with the occult, leading many to brand her as a manipulative ruler who dabbled in the dark arts. But was she truly a witch, or was this a product of fear, misogyny, and superstition? Let’s explore the shadowy elements of Caterina’s life that have haunted her legacy for centuries.
2025

Some Masterpieces You Cannot Miss at the Accademia Gallery in Florence

The Galleria dell’Accademia is one of Florence’s most famous museums. If you’re looking to immerse yourself in the medieval and Renaissance Florentine eras, where countless iconic works of art were created, the Accademia Gallery is a must-visit. It’s a key destination for anyone looking to explore the cultural and artistic history of Florence. Inside, you’ll find masterpieces that are sure to captivate both art lovers and curious visitors alike.
2025

How to get from Bologna Airport to Florence city center?

Bologna Guglielmo Marconi Airport (BLQ) is one of the major international airports in northern Italy and is often used as an alternative gateway to Florence. Located about 100 km from Florence, there are several transport options that allow travelers to comfortably reach the Tuscan capital.
2025

Fashion through the ages: discovering Florence’s style icons and historic fashion houses

Fashion might not be the first thing that crosses your mind when it comes to Florence, since the city is most famous for the Renaissance masterpieces. Yet if you are a lover of fashion and Italian designs, you’ll find plenty of exciting things to do in Florence! Some of the most famous fashion designers – such as Guccio Gucci, Salvatore Ferragamo, Emilio Pucci and Roberto Cavalli – worked here, in the heart of Tuscany. The Italian elegance and style can be captured throughout the whole city with the plenty of leather shops, markets, haute couture stores and authentic boutiques. If you want to shop for good quality, stylish pieces Florence has a lot to offer, but if you are more interested in the historical part of fashion houses you can also find museums and other unique experiences.
2025

5 museums to visit in Florence when it’s raining

Florence is a city that brims with artistic treasures, and while its charming streets and piazzas are a delight to explore, a rainy day can offer the perfect excuse to dive into its world-class museums. Whether you’re an art lover or a curious traveler seeking shelter, here are five incredible museums in Florence to escape to when the weather isn’t cooperating.
2025

Discover Fiesole: A Journey Through History and Tranquility

Passeggiata a Fiesole Nestled in the hills overlooking Florence, the charming town of Fiesole offers a serene escape filled with historical treasures, breathtaking views, and a rich cultural heritage. Just a short drive or bus ride from the bustling streets of Florence, Fiesole invites you to explore its ancient roots and enjoy its peaceful ambiance. Here are some highlights that make Fiesole a must-visit destination.
2025

An original Stradivari Viola at Galleria dell’Accademia

People visiting Florence for the first time usually go to the Accademia Gallery for a specific reason. Which one? Well, it’s easy: they do it to marvel at one of its most splendid artworks, Michelangelo Buonarroti David.
2025

The Teatrino Della Baldracca: One of Florence’s Oldest Theaters

The Teatrino Della Baldracca: One of Florence’s Oldest Theaters Beginning in 1567, Teatino Della Baldracca holds the title of being one of the oldest theaters in Florence. Located in a palace known as the seat of the New Customs House, the theater was also attached to the Uffizi gallery. The space remained in operation from 1567 to around 1650, housing countless shows and gatherings during that time. In the 16th and 17th centuries, theater shows were thought to be sinful, and the Catholic church condemned the event. This caused the exact location to remain a secret, and attendees would often hide their identities. One of these attendees was the Grand Duke, and he would watch from behind an iron gate in a private, raised room in order to remain anonymous. Though a secret spot, the Baldracca Theater became a place where characters came to life in an extravagant fashion. Perhaps the most popular characters were those of carnivale, a celebration held throughout Italy before Lent, a Christian period of atonement before Easter. These characters include Harlequin, Pantalone, Colombina, and Il Dottore.
2025

Palazzo Rucellai

Tourists who visit Florence for the first time only focus on the Duomo, the Accademia Gallery, the Uffizi Gallery, and Piazzale Michelangelo. Sure, those places are a must, and if you are in Florence, you should definitely visit them. But there are other attractions you should dedicate some time to. Like Palazzo Rucellai, a Florentine palace still owned by the descendants of the Rucellai family.
2025

Dante’s Muse: Beatrice Portinari

Virginia
Hundreds of years after her death, Beatrice Portinari may not be a familiar figure to those who do not know her history. However, you are likely familiar with her admirer, Dante Alighieri. Dante’s Divine Comedy remains as remarkable as it was centuries ago, and his love for Beatrice has been seen in each line that he dedicated to her. Their story is as fascinating as it is transcendent.

Best Sunset Spots in Florence: Capturing the Magic of the Renaissance City

Florence, the cradle of the Renaissance, is a city that dazzles with its art, architecture, and history. But as the day draws to a close, Florence offers another spectacle that is equally breathtaking: its sunsets. The golden hour in Florence casts a magical glow over the city, highlighting its iconic landmarks and picturesque landscapes. Here are the best spots to witness the enchanting sunsets of Florence, making your visit unforgettable.
2025