According to forum posts, travelers have recommended various hotels in Florence based on different preferences and budgets. For those seeking a traditional feel with large rooms, Hotel Burchianti and Hotel Alessandra were highlighted. Hotel Burchianti offers a historical ambiance with frescoes in every room, while Hotel Alessandra was praised for its perfect room offerings.

Travelers have called out the importance of location when choosing accommodations in Florence. Many prefer hotels close to major sites and within walking distance to restaurants and cafes. Areas like Santa Croce and near the Duomo are frequently mentioned for their convenience and proximity to Florence's main attractions.

For many users, finding a balance between cost and comfort is crucial. Suggestions include looking for hotels that offer a local feel without needing high-end luxury, typically ranging from 200-300 EUR per night. Travelers often discuss options that provide good value, such as clean, well-located hotels that allow easy access to Florence's rich historical landscape.

Forum posts indicate that Florence is generally considered safe for walking, even during the evenings. This aspect makes the city appealing for solo travelers and those who enjoy exploring local culture through leisurely strolls.

According to forum posts, the Uffizi Gallery, Galleria dell'Accademia, and the Pitti Palace museums are must-visit locations for travelers in Florence. These museums house significant art collections and are frequently mentioned as top attractions.

Some travelers also recommend the Bargello Museum for its vast collection of pottery, jewelry, and Renaissance sculptures. The Museum of Anthropology and the Horne Museum, known for daily living items and artifacts from various periods, are also suggested for those interested in broader historical contexts.

For those with a specific interest in the Medici family, posts suggest exploring options for Medici-centric tours, which often include visits to related museum exhibits and historical sites managed by the powerful family during the Renaissance.

According to forum posts, Florence offers a shuttle tram, the T2, which connects the Florence airport (Amerigo Vespucci) to the city center, specifically to the Unità stop close to the central station. This tram runs every five to ten minutes, and tickets are priced at €1.50 per person. Additionally, the Volainbus service runs every half hour from the airport to near the Santa Maria Novella station, with a 20-minute journey costing €6 for a single trip.

Travelers have noted that for getting around the city, the local bus system is convenient. Specific routes mentioned include Bus 12 and 13, which can be taken from Rotonda Barbetti (near the train station) to reach Piazzale Michelangelo and other city areas.

For those preferring taxis, posts highlight the availability of licensed taxis outside major transport hubs like the Florence train station. Radiotaxi Firenze is recommended for easy booking and reliable service, with a contact number provided: 055 4242.

According to forum posts, a weekend in Florence can be efficiently spent by focusing on key attractions. Many users recommend prioritizing visits to major museums like the Uffizi Gallery and the Galleria dell'Accademia, where iconic pieces like Michelangelo's David and Botticelli's paintings are displayed. Pre-booking tickets for early morning can help avoid crowds and make the most of the visit.

Travelers have called out the charm of simply walking through Florence's historic streets. Areas like the Ponte Vecchio, Piazzale Michelangelo for sunset views, and the local markets are highly recommended. For dining, exploring local eateries that serve traditional Tuscan cuisine can enrich your experience. Posts suggest checking out menus posted outside restaurants to find a place that suits your taste and budget.

Some travelers said staying near central locations like Ponte Vecchio can save time. Regarding transport, taking a taxi from the airport to central Florence is advised for convenience, especially if traveling with luggage, with an approximate cost of 25 euros. Alternatively, a tram can be used for a cheaper option, but be prepared for a walk with luggage on cobblestone streets.

According to forum posts, popular day trips from Florence include visits to Siena, Pisa, Bologna, and Venice. Some travelers have also recommended exploring smaller towns such as San Miniato, Arezzo, and the Chianti region for winery tours.

For many users, the ease of transportation to these destinations is a key factor. High-speed trains can take less than two hours to Milan and Rome, making them feasible for a day trip. Pisa and Bologna are also accessible by train, with Venice being slightly farther, requiring about 2 hours and 15 minutes each way by train.

Travelers have called out Fiesole, Pistoia, and Montefioralle as less touristy alternatives for those looking to escape the usual crowds. These locations offer historical sites and authentic Tuscan experiences without the heavy tourist traffic found in more popular destinations.

According to forum posts, AutoEurope is frequently recommended by travelers for arranging car rentals in Florence as it offers competitive rates and includes major rental companies. Hertz and Europcar are also frequently mentioned for their reliable service.

Some travelers have suggested picking up rentals at the Florence airport (Via Palagio degli Spini) to avoid the complexities of city driving and ZTL zones. Others have had positive experiences renting from downtown locations near the Santa Maria Novella station.

Travelers have emphasized the importance of opting for zero-deductible insurance to avoid hefty charges. It's also advised to thoroughly inspect the vehicle and record any existing damage at the time of pick-up to prevent disputes upon return.

Some travelers have noted that the Duomo's interior may not be as impressive as its exterior, suggesting that admiring the building from outside could be equally rewarding. For those interested in entering, it is advised to purchase passes like the Ghiberti or Brunelleschi, which provide access to multiple parts of the Duomo complex. The Ghiberti pass, for example, includes entry to the Baptistery and the Opera del Duomo Museum and offers a timed entrance to Santa Reparata.

According to forum posts, even with passes like the Ghiberti, it is important to be aware of timed entries, especially from August 2023, when new regulations were introduced. These passes often allow entry through a side door, potentially reducing waiting times. However, travelers have shared that queues can still be significant, especially during peak tourist seasons.

Travelers have called out the necessity of planning visits in advance, especially during busy months. Booking online and securing a time slot for entry is recommended to avoid long lines. This is particularly important if you're planning to see popular parts like the Duomo's crypts or the museum.

According to forum posts, the official website for purchasing Uffizi Gallery tickets is www.uffizi.it/en or the B-ticket platform at www.b-ticket.com/b-ticket/uffizi/default_eng.aspx. These sites are consistently recommended for their reliability and direct access to ticket purchases.

Some travelers mentioned using third-party websites such as www.getyourguide.com, which may offer different prices and packages. However, discrepancies in pricing and included services can occur, so purchasing directly from the official sources is often advised for clarity and security.

If interested in guided tours, users have noted that the official Uffizi website might not always show available guided tour options. In such cases, travelers have recommended third-party providers like www.florencetown.com, www.walksofitaly.com, and www.citywonders.com for a variety of guided tour experiences.