Curated experiences, hidden gems, and timeless discoveries.
The La Gemma Journal: Florence
Curated by La Gemma
Must-See Masterpieces in Florence
- David – Galleria dell'Accademia
Michelangelo's masterpiece and one of the most famous sculptures in the world. Seeing it in person is unforgettable. - The Birth of Venus – Uffizi Gallery
An iconic symbol of the Renaissance, celebrated for its beauty, elegance, and mythology. - Primavera – Uffizi Gallery
A visually rich masterpiece filled with symbolism, movement, and exquisite detail. - Doni Tondo – Uffizi Gallery
Michelangelo's only completed panel painting, remarkable for its dynamic composition and vibrant colors. - Florence Cathedral & Brunelleschi's Dome
A landmark of Renaissance architecture and one of the greatest engineering achievements in art history.
5 Must-Visit Rooftops & Terraces in Florence
• Piazzale Michelangelo The city’s most iconic viewpoint, offering panoramic sunset views over Florence’s rooftops and the Arno River.
• La Rinascente Rooftop Terrace A stylish rooftop in the city centre, perfect for a coffee, aperitivo, or a relaxed break above the shopping streets.
• Biblioteca delle Oblate Terrace A hidden gem with one of the best free views of the Duomo, ideal for a quiet drink or reading break.
• SE·STO on Arno A chic rooftop setting with panoramic views, known for its cocktails and elegant sunset atmosphere.
• Empireo Rooftop View A sophisticated rooftop spot offering stunning views over the city, perfect for an evening aperitivo experience.
Florence's Finest Pools & Relaxation Escapes
• Piscine Le Pavoniere A stylish outdoor pool in Parco delle Cascine, perfect for a refreshing swim and a relaxing afternoon surrounded by nature.
• Asmana Wellness World A luxury wellness retreat with pools, saunas, and spa experiences—ideal for a day of total relaxation.
• Easy Living Firenze A riverside beach club on the Arno offering sunbeds, cocktails, and a laid-back summer atmosphere.
• Piscina Costoli A historic open-air pool with spacious gardens, popular for swimming and soaking up the sun.
• Piscina Nannini Bellariva A large outdoor pool with plenty of space to relax, just a short distance from Florence's historic centre.
INSIDER TIPS
The Concierge's Florence
Five addresses our concierge team returns to again and again — the ones that don't make the guidebooks.
Mercato Sant'Ambrogio — Where Florentines still shop each morning, unhurried and unposed.
Piazza della Passera — quiet Oltrarno square, a world away from Ponte Vecchio's chaos. Order the fritto misto at 4 Leoni and stay for the evening light.
Santa Maria Novella Pharmacy — An 800-year-old apothecary, still perfuming the city with rosewater.
San Miniato al Monte — Past where the tour groups turn back, the finest sunset view in Florence.
Scuola del Cuoio — Behind Santa Croce, master leatherworkers still cut and stitch by hand.