This is our first episode about Florence – and we didn’t think we were going to survive to tell you any of our Florence stories. I know that sounds dramatic, but at the time it was real - and it was all to do with the weirdest google translation from our air bnb host as we were locked in a dark entry way with him outside our apartment. The whole story is in the podcast. Now, Florence or Firenze as it is known in Italy is definitely one of my favourite cities. It is beautiful. There is so much to see and do, all packed into such small area. This is the first of a three podcasts about Florence.  We couldn’t fit everything into one or two episodes and do it justice. In this episode you will come with us as we walk along the Arno River and check the Porte Vecchio – which is the famous old Roman bridge with all the gold and jewellery shops. Next, without any plan really, we find Piazza Signoria where the replica of Michelangelo’s famous David is as well as the Palacio Vecchio, Neptune’s fountain and heaps other famous sculptures. But by far the most amazing thing we saw in our first few days was when we turned a corner and there was the Florence Duomo –  the cathedral. Wow.  I know I’ve said that before – many times – but this building is so incredible it just halts you in your tracks.  Next we visit the central food markets, the leather market stall area, walk around the glamorous shopping area, find San Lorenzo’s Basilica where Donatello’s last works are, and finish at a dingy little bar – that became our local favourite. Show notes, maps, pictures and links are here www.beachtravelwine.com/podcast/62/florence1 You can find all our Italian podcasts, photos, blogs and maps here www.beachtravelwine.com/italy You can contact us and see all our podcasts and blogs at www.beachtravelwine.com