9 good reasons to live in Florence
Florence is an Italian city in the Tuscany region, known for its rich history, culture and many tourist attractions. But the city also has a lot to offer those wishing to live there permanently. If you're considering moving to Florence, it's likely to be because of the many advantages that one of Italy's finest cities has to offer. To help motivate you, I'm Lisbob, the expat assistant, and I'd like to share with you my 9 good reasons for moving to Florence, Italy.
History and culture
Florence is a city steeped in history and culture. It was the cradle of the Renaissance and the birthplace of many important artists and intellectuals, such as Dante Alighieri, Leonardo da Vinci and Michelangelo. The city is home to many museums and art galleries, including the Accademia museum, which houses Michelangelo's David, and the Uffizi museum, which has a collection of Renaissance art.
Florence is also famous for its historic buildings and Renaissance-style churches, such as the Cathedral of Santa Maria del Fiore and the Palazzo della Signoria. These buildings are examples of the importance of art and architecture in Florence during the Renaissance.
As well as its museums and historic buildings, Florence also hosts many cultural events such as music and film festivals. Living in Florence means you're sure to be surrounded by culture and history!
Gastronomy
Italy is famous for its delicious food and Florence is no exception. Gastronomy in Florence is influenced by the region of Tuscany, which is known for its simple but tasty dishes using quality ingredients. Beef from the Chianina region is particularly renowned and is often used in dishes such as bistecca alla fiorentina, a thick slice of grilled beef served with olive oil and salt.
Bread and olive oil are also important ingredients in Florentine cuisine. Tuscan bread is a rustic bread without salt, while olive oil from the Tuscan region is considered to be one of the best in Italy. Tuscan wine is also highly prized, and red wines such as Chianti Classico and Brunello di Montalcino are particularly popular.
As well as meat and wine, Tuscany is also famous for its cheeses and cured meats. Pecorino Toscano and lonza (cured ham) are particularly popular. In short, gastronomy in Florence is simple but tasty, highlighting the quality ingredients of the Tuscan region, such as beef, olive oil and wine.
Art and design
Florence, often described as an open-air museum, stands as a testament to the enduring influence of Italian art and design. Renowned as the cradle of the Renaissance, the city is a treasure trove of masterpieces that have shaped the course of art history. Walking through the streets of Florence, one is surrounded by the works of great masters like Michelangelo, Leonardo da Vinci, and Botticelli. The Uffizi Gallery and the Accademia Gallery house some of the most famous works of art in the world, including Michelangelo’s "David" and Botticelli's "The Birth of Venus."
But Florence's contribution to art and design extends beyond its historic masterpieces. The city is also a contemporary creative hub, known for its thriving fashion, crafts, and design scenes. It's home to top fashion brands and a vibrant community of artisans, showcasing skills in leatherworking, jewelry making, and other traditional crafts passed down through generations. Florence hosts prestigious events like the Pitti Uomo fashion fair, drawing designers, artists, and creatives from around the globe.
Living in Florence means being immersed in a city where art and design are not just part of the history but a living, breathing aspect of daily life. The city's artistic heritage and contemporary creativity inspire a unique lifestyle, deeply rooted in beauty, craftsmanship, and innovation. For anyone passionate about art and design, Florence offers an unparalleled environment to live, learn, and create.
Proximity to other destinations
One of the other advantages of living in Florence is that the city is also conveniently located, with many other destinations within easy reach by train or car. You can easily spend a weekend in Venice, Milan or Rome, or explore the towns and villages of the Tuscany region. There is also an airport within easy reach of several international destinations.
Before tackling the next point, let me remind you that the first and most important step to take before moving to Italy is to obtain your Codice Fiscale, your Italian tax number. Without it, it's impossible to work, find accommodation or open a bank account. I can do this for you, remotely and in just a few clicks. Check out my service by clicking here.
Quality of life
The quality of life in Florence is generally considered to be high, with many parks, gardens and green spaces to explore, as well as numerous leisure and entertainment options. The city is also known for its lively nightlife and numerous restaurants, bars and clubs. The residents seem to be on the right track towards a private-public balance that is the envy of many. Even if everything is not perfect, Florence offers a living environment that will delight many expats looking for quality of life.
Architecture
Florence's architecture is a rich tapestry that narrates the story of its evolution from a Roman settlement to a Renaissance jewel and a modern city. The architectural landscape of Florence is dominated by the red-tiled dome of the Cathedral of Santa Maria del Fiore, or the Duomo, engineered by Filippo Brunelleschi. This masterpiece not only defines the skyline but also marks a turning point in architectural history, symbolizing the ingenuity and artistic spirit of the Renaissance.
The city's streets and piazzas are lined with medieval and Renaissance buildings, each telling a story of the era's social, political, and cultural dynamics. Palazzo Vecchio, the Ponte Vecchio, and the Palazzo Pitti are prime examples of the architectural grandeur of Florence, showcasing the power and wealth of the influential Medici family. Beyond these iconic landmarks, the city is filled with numerous churches, monasteries, and public buildings that exhibit a range of architectural styles from Romanesque and Gothic to the grandeur of the Renaissance.
Florence is not just about historical buildings; it's also home to modern architectural works and contemporary design that blend seamlessly with its ancient streets. This juxtaposition creates a unique urban fabric where the past and present coexist harmoniously. Living in Florence offers the experience of being surrounded by architectural masterpieces that have influenced Western architecture profoundly, making it an ideal city for those who appreciate the enduring beauty and historical significance of architectural design.
Life is good in Florence
Lively nightlife
Florence is a lively city with many bars, clubs and restaurants open late into the evening. The city is particularly well known for its wine bars and jazz clubs, but there is also a wide variety of options for those looking for a different atmosphere.
The Oltrarno and San Niccolò districts are particularly popular for going out at night. Oltrarno is known for its wine bars and jazz clubs, while San Niccolò is renowned for its cocktail bars and nightclubs.
There are also many late-night restaurants in the Santa Croce and San Lorenzo districts.
Markets
Florence's markets are an important part of the city's culture and offer an excellent opportunity to discover the local produce and culinary specialities of the region. The city's central market, the Mercato Centrale, is a great place to sample and buy fresh produce such as fruit, vegetables, cheeses and cold meats. The Mercato Centrale is also home to numerous food stalls where you can sample traditional dishes such as panino con lampredotto (bread stuffed with tripe ragout) and gelato (ice cream).
There are also many open-air markets in the city, such as the San Lorenzo market and the Sant'Ambrogio market, where you can buy clothes, fashion accessories and local crafts.
As well as food and fashion markets, Florence is also home to flower and plant markets, such as the San Lorenzo market, where you can buy flowers and plants to decorate your home. In short, the markets in Florence are a great way to discover local produce and sample the region's traditional cuisine.
Panoramic views
The panoramic views of Florence are breathtaking, offering a visual journey through its historic and artistic legacy. One of the most iconic views is from Piazzale Michelangelo, a square that provides a sweeping vista of the city's rooftops, the Arno River, and architectural marvels like the Duomo, Palazzo Vecchio, and the Ponte Vecchio. This spot, especially at sunset, is a favorite for both locals and tourists, offering a moment of tranquility and a chance to absorb the city's Renaissance beauty.
Another remarkable viewpoint is from the top of the Duomo itself. Climbing the steps of Brunelleschi's dome not only offers a close-up of the cathedral's intricate architecture but also a stunning 360-degree view of the city and the surrounding Tuscan hills. Similarly, the bell tower of Giotto next to the cathedral provides a different but equally stunning perspective of Florence.
For those who venture a bit further, the gardens of Villa Bardini and Boboli offer lush, green spaces and a serene environment with a backdrop of the city's skyline. These panoramic views encapsulate the essence of Florence — a blend of art, nature, and architectural grandeur. Living in Florence means regular access to these breathtaking vistas, each offering a unique way to experience and appreciate the city's timeless beauty.
I've given you my 9 good reasons for moving to Florence, and there are of course others, such as its architecture, its festivals and its people, but it would be difficult to cover everything in a single article, and everyone needs to discover their own good reasons for moving to Florence.