Taylor & Nicholas
Taylor & Nicholas
EXPLORE
At the hotel
Tenuta di Artimino has 2 swimming pools, a spa, bikes for rental, table tennis, vineyards, a cellar for wine tasting, and is surrounded by beautiful countryside to walk and explore.
If there is anything you really want to do, please enquire with the hotel in advance of your stay to ensure no disappointments.
Surrounding Vineyards
For the wine lovers, there are a few vineyards in close driving distance like Tenuta di Capezzana.
Bottega Pecchioli has great reviews for a more intimate experience.
If you would rather not drive then there are many companies located in Florence who operate wine tours. We would recommend to read a few blogs (like this one: https://www.everysteph.com/wine-tours-from-florence/) and search on https://www.viator.com/en-GB/.
FLORENCE
Florence is considered by many as the gateway into the rolling Tuscan hills. While it features famous sites like Ponte Vecchio, the Duomo and the Uffizi Gallery, we recommend exploring all Florence has to offer by bike or by walking, given the multiple “zones” the city employs to restrict traffic. Comfortable shoes are therefore a good idea during the day! Do remember that Florence is an open-air museum of a city, with streets lined by Medieval and Renaissance architecture alongside 20th century Italian flourishes, and walking around really is the best way to uncover it.
Activities in Florence
UFFIZI GALLERY
This gorgeous 16th-century building in Piazza della Signoria is home to the most impressive collection of Renaissance art on the planet.
SEE THE DAVID STATUE AT FLORENCE ACCADEMIA
An absolutely essential stop on any trip to Florence.
PIAZZALE MICHELANGELO VIEW
From this 19th-century piazza, you will get a breathtaking view of the city. Come for sunset, and bring your own picnic or grab some wine and snacks at one of the local shops.
EXPLORE THE DUOMO
This Gothic church is one of the most iconic sites of the site. Bring your camera and give yourself plenty of time to explore and dig into the history.
WALK ACROSS PONTE VECCHIO
This medieval bridge, now adorned with love locks, is the only bridge to World War II and actually the very oldest stone bridge in all of Europe. It’s become an icon of this city and it’s a must-see for any visitor.
GO ON A FOOD TOUR
Italian food is far more than just pasta and pizza. In fact, each region has its own one-of-a-kind specialties that you’ll rarely see elsewhere.
WINE TASTING
At the gateway of Tuscany’s wine country, you’ll find amazing Chianti, along with unforgettable Brunello di Montalcino, and Vino Nobile di Montepulciano vintages.
TASTE ALL THE GELATO
Go to as many parlors as possible to personally track down the very best gelato in town.
Follow this guide and discover the most wonderful things to do in Florence!
https://www.alongdustyroads.com/posts/things-to-do-in-florence
VISIT MONTEPULCIANO
VIEW - also known for its wine, particularly Vino Nobile. This is an easy stop if you are driving from Rome!
VISIT MONTALCINO
VIEW - explore the town and enjoy the famous Brunello di Montalcino wines!
Tuscan Essentials
Currency: Like much of Europe, Italy uses euros. Check with your bank before you go to see how conversion in foreign ATMs works and if there’s a charge for using your debit card. In most cases, you’ll find it’s a better rate than old fashion currency exchange offices.
Tips: There is no strict rule about tipping in Italy. Leaving a tip is a courteous gesture that shows the person who provided a service to you, that you appreciate their help. As such, leaving a tip is entirely up to you and, in many cases, it will not be expected, albeit appreciated
Credit Cards and Banks: The majority of places accept credit and debit cards. Do keep cash on hand though for the occasional small business that is cash-only or has a credit card minimum. Unless you’re planning to be out of the city, you’re never far from an ATM so avoid carrying wads of cash.
Voltage: You will need a plug adapter for your electronics. These are easily available on amazon or in the airport if you do not have one. If you plan on bringing a hair straightener or curler, double check that it is either dual voltage or designed to operate using 230 volts, otherwise the fuse will blow and you will break your hair tool.
Safety: While Florence is one of the safest cities in the world, do be aware of the possibility of pickpocketing and petty theft.
Language: Italian is the official language and it’s good to know a few basics. You’ll find basic English is spoken in tourist areas but don’t expect fluency from everyone you run into.
Tips: Here are a few common phrases in italian!
Hello and Good-day (formal) – “Buongiorno”
Good evening - after 3pm “Buonasera”
Good night – “Buonanotte”
Hello and Bye (casual) – “Ciao” said like ‘chow.’
Thank you – “grazie”
Please – “per favore”
Your Welcome – “Prego”
Do you speak English? (formal) – “Parla inglese”?
I don’t understand – “Non Capisco”
How much is it? – “Quanto costa?”
Useful at the wedding events:
Cheers – “Cin-Cin”
Would you like to dance with me? – “Vuoi ballare con me?”
What would you like to drink? – “Che cosa vuoi bere?”
Let’s dance! – “Balliamo!”
Congratulations to the newlyweds! – “Auguri agli sposi!”