Oof! It's been a little while since I travelled through Northern Italy this summer and yet only now am I starting to write about the trip. Why? Well, to my delight I returned home with plenty of images that perfectly captured my experiences. The problem with this? There were too many. I stored them away and swiftly moved on with the pace of London life. Finally, I've got around to all that was captured on the Olympus Pen 9 I took away with me. Bliss. Writing this, it feels as though I'm back there underneath the scorching sun! This is the first in a series, of which will continue every now and again over the next few weeks. But for now it's aaaaall about Florence, the capital of Italy's Tuscany region and home to more masterpieces than imaginable. In fact, there's so much to discover that I've put together another Chic Girl's Guide in preparation for the next glorious time you find yourself in Florence. Let's go!
Needless to say, visiting Florence Cathedral should be right at the top of your list. Although the first thing to note is just how insanely long the queues are; even arriving at the crack of dawn is unlikely to help you. My best advice here would be to book a tour guide online (such as Airbnb experiences or GetYourGuide.com), as the set price will often include 'skip the queue' perks. As interesting and magnificent as the inside of the cathedral and Duomo are, the most spectacular sight is delivered via the panoramic rooftop view. Be warned: the climb involves 463 steps, often steep and very narrow. So no great grandmothers' allowed... unless they bench press. It's an adventure all in itself, just be sure to bring a bottle of water with you ready for when you reach the top!
Psst! The lighting is super flattering at the viewing platform thanks to the bright and airy height; now is the time to wear your fave outfit for travel photos!


... and make it something a little more unusual. In fitting with being a total travelling cliché, I booked a pizza making class via Airbnb on the outskirts of the city. A brief taxi ride took us to the doorstep of the host's home; complete with farm animals and a gorgeously rustic kitchen. The intimate group of six allowed for an easy evening of good conversation and even better pizza! The benefit of going a little off the beaten track in this way is undoubtedly the ability to connect on a more authentic level with the country you're visiting. Our host even drove us back to the heart of the city, stopping off on the way at a magnificent viewing point to enable me to capture Florence through my camera by night!
Psst! Other activities to consider booking in Florence include cooking with art, hunting for truffles in the Tuscan woods, mentalist experiences and portrait sessions!

Pssst! Please be sure to keep a close eye on your belongings while at Mercato Central Florence! I had my purse stolen there, however thankfully the thief only took my small-change travelling purse that had just one euro inside at the end of the day. Phew! I almost felt sorry for them...
This Chic Girl's Guide is probably my favourite so far thanks to feeling as though I'm taking a trip down (a very warm and sunny) memory lane. I'd love to hear your thoughts on this latest addition to my travel series; bookmark it in anticipation of your next trip to the fabulous city! Have you visited Florence before? As always, let me know in the comments below!
Liked this post? You might also enjoy >> London Bridge Area | The Chic Girl's Guide
With love,
Gabrielle x
F L O R E N C E C A T H E D R A L & B R U N E L L E S C H I ' S D O M E
Needless to say, visiting Florence Cathedral should be right at the top of your list. Although the first thing to note is just how insanely long the queues are; even arriving at the crack of dawn is unlikely to help you. My best advice here would be to book a tour guide online (such as Airbnb experiences or GetYourGuide.com), as the set price will often include 'skip the queue' perks. As interesting and magnificent as the inside of the cathedral and Duomo are, the most spectacular sight is delivered via the panoramic rooftop view. Be warned: the climb involves 463 steps, often steep and very narrow. So no great grandmothers' allowed... unless they bench press. It's an adventure all in itself, just be sure to bring a bottle of water with you ready for when you reach the top!
Psst! The lighting is super flattering at the viewing platform thanks to the bright and airy height; now is the time to wear your fave outfit for travel photos!
T H E U F F I Z I G A L L E R Y
One of the best discoveries while exploring Florence was stumbling across GetYourGuide, an internet booking engine allowing you to book tours and other experiences with a few simple clicks via their app. With just a few hours to spare, tickets were secured for a private tour of the famous Uffizi Gallery in a small and intimate group of multinational, English-speaking tourists. As much as I adore art, you can only connect with pieces so much before you need a thorough background - and a tour to bring the work to life! This experience was undoubtedly a highlight of the trip for me; particularly thanks to seeing 'The Birth of Venus', one of my favourite paintings of all time.
Psst! Remember that photo of me holding the coke can at the top of this post? That location is Ponte Vecchio and is located just around the corner from The Uffizi Gallery. It's a medieval stone arch bridge constructed over the Arno River and is incredibly popular with visitors. Worth seeing with your own eyes, for sure!


B O O K A N E X P E R I E N C E
... and make it something a little more unusual. In fitting with being a total travelling cliché, I booked a pizza making class via Airbnb on the outskirts of the city. A brief taxi ride took us to the doorstep of the host's home; complete with farm animals and a gorgeously rustic kitchen. The intimate group of six allowed for an easy evening of good conversation and even better pizza! The benefit of going a little off the beaten track in this way is undoubtedly the ability to connect on a more authentic level with the country you're visiting. Our host even drove us back to the heart of the city, stopping off on the way at a magnificent viewing point to enable me to capture Florence through my camera by night!
Psst! Other activities to consider booking in Florence include cooking with art, hunting for truffles in the Tuscan woods, mentalist experiences and portrait sessions!

B E F O R E Y O U G O . . .
Don't forget to take a peek at the Boboli Gardens. Connected to the Palazzo Pitti, their traditional Italian appearance is beautiful and with 45,000 square metres on offer, they're a delight to walk through. Once you've worked up an appetite, head to Mercato Central Florence. The market offers an incredible range of foods with plenty of traditional Italian meals and snacks on offer. If truffles are your thing (bleurghhh), head upstairs for a restaurant that specialises in truffle-covered salads.Pssst! Please be sure to keep a close eye on your belongings while at Mercato Central Florence! I had my purse stolen there, however thankfully the thief only took my small-change travelling purse that had just one euro inside at the end of the day. Phew! I almost felt sorry for them...
This Chic Girl's Guide is probably my favourite so far thanks to feeling as though I'm taking a trip down (a very warm and sunny) memory lane. I'd love to hear your thoughts on this latest addition to my travel series; bookmark it in anticipation of your next trip to the fabulous city! Have you visited Florence before? As always, let me know in the comments below!
Liked this post? You might also enjoy >> London Bridge Area | The Chic Girl's Guide
With love,
Gabrielle x
Booking a pizza cooking class is such a great idea! Just what one should do in Italy. I really enjoyed your guide to Florence. It's such a gorgeous city. It always amazed me how filled with history, art and culture Italy is. You look fabulous in your summer outfits...love that leopard two piece , so cute. The floral print mini dress looks fantastic on you as well.
ReplyDeleteIt looks like you had such an amazing time and those two outfits are so cute for the summer heat! I've never been to Italy before but would love to one day! :)
ReplyDeleteHope that you are having a great weekend! We went to a birthday party in the park yesterday which was a lot of fun :)
Away From Blue
This city is such travel goals!
ReplyDeletex Lisa | lisaautumn.com
I love your Chic Girls Guides! They are always so well written and very useful for upcoming trips :) I need to visit Northern Italy as soon as possible
ReplyDeleteIt's been nearly eight years since I've gone to Italy, and Florence for that matter, and this most 100% makes me want to go back. One thing which I love so dearly about Italy is that you still feel as if the city is the same as it would have been during the Renaissance. It captures the essence and the beauty of a period that is long gone. Those Boboli Gardens look exceptionally beautiful – what a hidden gem!
ReplyDeleteIsabella | www.beingisabella.com
Florence has always been on my travel list! It looks so beautiful. The only thing that prevents me from visiting just now (meaning over the last year and going onwards) is the masses of tourists that seem to be there all year around... I have less and less patience for crowded destinations unfortunately. Would you say you were bothered sometimes by how crowded Florence was? Did it affect your experience in any way? Really curious about this! :)
ReplyDeleteYour pictures are gorgeous, and the pizza-making class must have been so fun, and great to connect. Loved this guide Gabrielle!
Julia x
Last Post: Is Blogging DEAD? My Thoughts on Blogging Today | https://juliaspeaksbeauty.blogspot.com/2019/08/is-blogging-dead-my-thoughts-on.html
Ooh, that's such a interesting question! Honestly, yes the crowds are pretty insane during the warmer months. However I have to admit I quite enjoy crowds when travelling as it adds to the holiday atmosphere haha!
DeleteGabrielle x
Florence look so gorgeous. It is one of my favorite city on the earth. I really like your stylings for city seensights. Enjoy in your vacation, dear.
ReplyDeleteNew Post - http://www.exclusivebeautydiary.com/2019/08/beauty-of-gratitude.html
I love Florence so much Hun! My Mum and I went a few months back and fell completely in love, it's such a gorgeous city and I really want to go back soon! Lovely post as always babe x
ReplyDeleteGrace || www.gracelouiseofficial.blogspot.co.uk/
The pictures of Florence are so beautiful. You really did justice to this trip and taking us along with your. The garden OMG, it's epoustouflant. And I love the animal print flay dress. The perfect icing on the cake.
ReplyDeleteItaly is just a beautiful country. I've visited two cities, but I definitely have plans to see more places there. Great shots and guide. It will come in handy so thank you. :-)
ReplyDeletehttps://www.missymayification.co.uk
What a great guide. I would love to get to Florence one day. It looks truly beautiful. I have booked experiences when I went to Paris. And love your photos you really stand out in a crowd! So well dressed and everyone around is boring lol.
ReplyDeleteAllie of
www.allienyc.com
Sounds like you had such an amazing experience! Wish I knew about that app before I visited the city. It was beautiful but so overwhelming for me
ReplyDeleteDora
https://www.adropofindigo.com
Wonderful, Florence is a really beautiful place, one of my favourites!! I love the architecture and art!! Am glad you enjoyed yourself x
ReplyDeleteso sunny and beautiful photos! And I love your choice of travel outfits - so cute and cozy! )
ReplyDelete❤
blog: MyBlondeGal
insta: @choi.olga.korea
Youtube
Such beautiful photos! Love both your looks!
ReplyDeletexx- Nina
http://www.stylingwithnina.com/2019/09/how-to-style-satin-skirt-last-weeks.html
These pictures of Florence are so beautiful. So dreamy and so much art, culture and history. Sounds like you had a great time! What a great idea is to book a pizza cooking class. I am loving both of your outfits, especially the rose print mini dress looks so cute on you.
ReplyDeleteDheera
http://www.thestylepanorama.com/2019/08/how-to-style-floral-summer-dress.html
Looks like such a gorgeous place to visit. So beautiful
ReplyDeleteWhat a dreamy trip babe! So many pretty pictures and love the mix of architecture and art. Your leo outfit is so cute too. Perfect one for summer! Xx
ReplyDeletewww.thefashionfolks.com
Amazing. Your travel looks so fun
ReplyDeletecheck my post:
http://www.alyinwanderland.com/2019/09/day3-and-day-4-tour-in-singapore.html
Wow! Florence has so many beautiful architectures! I'd love to visit this place too, someday! Love the outfits btw :)
ReplyDeletexoxo,
SHAIRA
Blog: www.missdream-girl.blogspot.com
You look so beautiful. I love your outfits especially the animal print one.
ReplyDeletewww.sophieatieno.com
I love your outfits especially the rose print bardot dress, it's super pretty!! I'd love to visit Italy one day as it looks beautiful and the food sounds delicious! Local fresh food is definitely my favourite thing when visiting other countries and trying new flavours/meals compared to what we normally have in the UK!
ReplyDeleteGreat photos and it sounds like you've have an amazing time! X
https://www.krystelcouture.com/
Such a beautiful part of the world- I need to go here, asap! Your guide is perfect, doll!
ReplyDelete-Ashley
Le Stylo Rouge
You pictured Florence beautifully! I came there to visit a friend and I fell in love too. I miss it, haha. Glad you enjoyed. Awesome shots!
ReplyDeletehttp://www.desiringsme.com/im-back-and-better/
Ahhh we're planning an Italian road trip for next summer and Florence is on the list so your guide is so helpful! I absoloutely love the idea of a cooking lesson too, I can imagine how lovely it was!
ReplyDeletePs. I have to know - what camera lens do you use with your Olympus?
Musings & More
Oh, how exciting! I can't wait to read your future blog posts haha :) I'm currently using this lens: M.Zuiko digital 14-42mm 1.3.5-5.6
DeleteGabrielle x
I am so jello babe, I would LOVE to go to Italy especially after reading your post :) xx
ReplyDeletewww.fashionjazz.co.za
I was in Florence such a long time ago I need to get back to Europe all these images make me feel like travelling Thanks for taking me back and for the wonderful guide and tips All outfits are gorgeous Love them xoxo Cris
ReplyDeletehttp://photosbycris.blogspot.com/2019/08/i-am-sharing-my-secret.html
Florence looks utterly fabulous babe and you're show-stopping in the scorching sunshine! I adore the Chic Girl's Guide series, such a gorgeous concept and I'm already hooked :) I can't get over all the spellbinding sights Italy has to offer, so many jaw dropping views and stunning visions to see. Looking like a starlet out of Romeo & Juliet in your floral dress, all the summer Valentine vibes against that beautiful botanical backdrop! And don't get me started on all the carousel cuteness, so much fairground fun! I've never been to Florence before but you've 100% convinced me to go in the future! So happy you had a fantastic and memorable time there babe! ♥︎♥︎♥︎
ReplyDeleteSophie | soinspo xo
Wow, it seems you have enjoyed your trip, the place is perfect to visit. I love your both outfits especially the second one. You are looking beautiful even in both outfits.
ReplyDeleteHave a pleasant day.
Kisses <3
http://www.rakhshanda-chamberofbeauty.com/
Florence looks so dreamy and artistic, I would love to visit that place one day. Love your outfit so chic!
ReplyDeleteCapturing Life Memoirs | Aimee Bustillo
Florence is such a cute and charming city! And the food in Italy is so so yummy. Very amazing shots!
ReplyDeletexx Simone
Little Glittery Box
I luvvv your outfits, first of all. So pretty & summery! I would love to visit Italy because I'm a huge history nerd, and I'd love to see so many of these places as they were there and very much a part of the Renaissance!
ReplyDeletebrineandbooks.com
Wow it looks like you had an amazing trip! Italy is at the top of my travel bucket list - I have always loved learning about the history of the culture, art and architecture. All of these photos are so beautiful too! Thanks for sharing your experience, this was so fun and interesting to read! :)
ReplyDeletemelissakacar.blogspot.com
Oh Gabrielle it looks like you had such an incredible adventure in Florence! It looks like such a charming city and it's certainly full of such rich history and amazing architecture. Thanks for sharing your tips and experience. I hope to visit Italy next year and I will definitely have to add Florence to the itinerary now.
ReplyDeleteWhat an adorable trip indeed! Your second outfit is super cute on you dear. Love it.
ReplyDeleteJessica | notjessfashion.com
This is making me want to get on a plane to Florence! It looks absolutely beautiful there. I can't get over the details in the ceilings. And the pizza making class sounds like such a fun experience! Thank you for all the recommendations; Florence is definitely going on my to-travel list!
ReplyDeletex Kara | http://karascloset.net
Very romantic town ! Very chic !
ReplyDelete"But sudden was the newborn day reveal'd:
A maiden came, in heavenly bright array,
Like the fair creatures of the poet's lay
In realms of song. My yearning heart was heal'd..."
Romantic Florence !
ReplyDelete"Every sort of coloured snipping
Won its own symmetric right :
Though your wit on each be trippin,
In the whole you take delight.
We are fair to see and blooming,
Garden-girls, and gay of heart ;
For the natural way of woman
Is so near akin to art..."