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This post contains sponsored content, but all love for Florence is my own!
As wise men often say: Italy is for lovers.
And while part of me still thinks that this saying refers to lovers of carbohydrates and gelato… I can’t argue that Italy also caters flawlessly to lovers of the romantic variety.
And if we’re talking about romantic Italian getaways, I can’t possibly ignore Florence. Or Firenze, if you want to imagine for a moment that I’m a burly Italian man.
I mean, let’s not forget (though many locals try to) that this city was the setting for Kim Kardashian and Kanye West’s star-studded wedding back in 2014.
Add on the breathtaking architecture/dreamy riverside views and it’s clear why Florence is one of those magical cities that ooze effortless romance.
… Even with gelato dripping down your chin and a pasta baby hanging out your midriff.
My travels have taken me to Florence twice – the first when I was a bratty teen who was all giggles upon seeing Michaelangelo’s David, and the second with a group of friends, (still giggly around David).
Now, allow me to channel my hopeless romantic (yes, the one who is married to chocolate) and show you a different kind of trip, as I showcase how to enjoy a splendidly romantic holiday in Florence, whether for a honeymoon or just a well-deserved weekend away.
Checking in: the Continentale
While Florence is a small city, you’ll want to maximize the time you have by picking a prime location close to the main attractions, restaurants and bars.
Of course, you’ll also want a peaceful escape where you can relax away from the crowds… so where should you base yourself for this romantic holiday?
Well, if you’re searching for luxurious romance with a contemporary twist, look no farther than the Lungarno Collection’s Continentale.
This boutique design hotel is ideally situated just steps away from the world-famous Ponte Vecchio, but hidden just far enough to preserve a sense of zen.
Its bright and modern decor is inspired by the 50s, giving it a fun playful vibe, plus riverside views that will melt even the coldest of hearts.
Besides its perfect location and dreamy decor (yes they have flowy canopy beds, people), it also boasts a variety of on-site amenities that make it ideal for a romantic weekend.
Without even leaving the hotel, you can enjoy a proper pampering at the White Iris Beauty Spa, indulge in Michelin-star cuisine, or sip sunset aperitifs alongside picture perfect views at La Terrazza Bar.
… which, in case you weren’t convinced, looks like this:
Click here to read more about experiencing a romantic getaway at the Continentale.
During the day: the top things to do in Florence
As one of the most culture-rich (and hopelessly beautiful) cities in Italy, there are countless attractions in Florence that will blow you away, and definitely no shortage of things to do as a couple.
You could easily spend the entire weekend drinking wine by the Arno (a fine life choice, if you ask me), but here are some recommendations for activities to fill your itinerary:
For cultured couples: Take advantage of Florence’s 70+ world-class museums. Spending a few hours at the Uffizi Gallery is of course one of the most popular things to do in Florence, and your trip wouldn’t be complete without a trip to the Accademia Gallery to see Michaelangelo’s David.
For foodie couples: Enjoy a food tour sampling the city’s best eats, test your skills in a traditional cooking class or indulge in an afternoon of Tuscan wine tasting.
For adventurous couples: Climb the 400+ gruelling steps up the Florence Duomo, hike up to Piazzale Michelangelo for an incredible view or enjoy a biking tour to the Tuscan countryside.
For couples who just want to relax: People watch and take in the ambiance of Florence’s most famous squares – Piazza della Signoria and Piazza del Duomo, or treat yourself to some much-needed pampering (The White Iris Beauty Spa at the Continentale does couples’ massages!)
For the ultra-romantics: Go all out with a boat ride on the Arno, or enjoy the gentle clip clop of a horse carriage ride
At sunset: where to get the best views in Florence
Is it lame that I’ve actually written a list of my favourite sunsets of all time? Regardless of my questionable time management, I’ll have you know that Florence made the list, and is by far one of my favourite cities in the world to watch the sun come down. Watching the sunset together (preferably with a drink in hand) is a must for your romantic holiday, so here are a few suggestions:
- Grab a bottle of wine and head to Ponte Santa Trinita. It’s a busy spot, but the perspective of Ponte Vecchio from here is unreal.
- Enjoy drinks at the Continentale’s La Terrazza Lounge Bar, which boasts amazing views of the Arno.
- Pack a sunset picnic and watch the city light up from Piazzale Michelangelo, which offers sweeping panoramas of the entire city.
Ahh, doesn’t it all sound too perfect? Now if you’ll excuse me, I’m off to eat a bucket of Häagen-Dazs in my pajamas. Sure, it’s no romantic weekend away in Florence, but a girl will take what she can get.
As for you though? Go on, unleash your inner Romeo!
Awesome post with gorgeous images. Florence has always been on my bucket list.
As it should be!! Such a wonderful city 🙂 hope you get to see it soon!
I would never tire of those beautiful Florence views and amazing places to eat or people watch. I once spent a perfect few days in this city with my boyfriend (now husband), and can vouch for the romantic atmosphere totally sweeping you up!
ahh what a city to be woo’d 😉 So happy someone else sees its insanely romantic appeal! Those sunsets are unbeatable.
Florence is the farthest north I’ve been in Italy. Yes, the gelato there is outstanding. “Getaway” is a Pearl Jam song!
haha can’t beat the gelato in Florence, that’s for sure 🙂
My god, your pictures are STUNNING. And that hotel… wow. I’m not sure it would be in my budget but I neeeeed to go there, lol. What a lovely post.
Thanks for reading, Kelsi! <3
I like the suggestion of grabbing a bottle of wine and heading to Ponte Santa Trinita, some people don’t realize you can do this. As an American, it always frustrates me that we can drink openly in public. Europeans have the right idea, just sip wine, be relaxed and it’s no bother!
Agh yes that bugs me so much about North America as well! I lived in Germany for a year and one of my favourite things was just cracking open a beer in the park or at the lake. People are so strict about public drinking in Canada. it’s the worst!
We are soon headed to florence. We have booked an apartment for our stay and we are very much looking forward to enjoying our time there. Having said that, I am happy to have come across your post. I love your suggestions and I am going to try out some while there
Awesome, Neha!! I booked an AirBNB when I went with my girlfriends and loved it. Florence is a gorgeous city so I’m sure you’ll have an amazing time 🙂
“if you want to imagine for a moment that I’m a burly Italian man” – This cracked me up, humor (as always!) on point! 🙂
Lovely suggestions, I think a stroll through the Uffizi Gallery and then a sunset boat ride would be perfect. Can’t wait to check out Florence when I visit Italy!
hehe glad you enjoy my dinky sense of humour, Luda!! Oof yes that sounds amaaazing.. I hope you get to visit Florence soon. It’s one of my favourite cities in Italy 🙂
You have described Florence so romantically that we couldn’t stop our self from imagining being there with our better-half’s! And the pictures add more life into our imagination…
Continentale looks like a perfect place for honeymooners!! 🙂
Best place ever for a romantic getaway… or even for a sisters’ vacay! Be sure to check it out when you’re in Italy 😀
I too am in love with carbohydrates, gelato and wine. (maybe also married to chocolate) The hotel room looks simply amazing. I’d never considered Florence as a place to go to but it’s now high on my Europe list.
hehe sounds like we have a lot in common then 😉 Seriously don’t miss Florence! It was one of the first cities I ever visited in Europe and still one of my favourites 🙂
I absolutely loved Florence. I completely agree with watching the Sunset from Piazzale Michelangelo. Such amazing views but unfortunately you do end up sharing the area with tons of people. Thanks for sharing 🙂
Ahh yes, that’s the tradeoff with beautiful places I guess! They don’t stay a secret for long 🙂 still amazing though!
What a wonderful post and I love the personality you put in your posts. These photos look great too, make me want to go to Florence to see the city from Piazzale Michelangelo. Wouldnt say no to the museums and spas either! Thanks for sharing!
Aww thank you, Kreete!! Happy you dig my wacko personality hehe
Hi five, fellow Florence lover. I have been hopelessly in love with Florence ever since I visited 3 years ago. When I saw the headline, I was going to object since I went with my sister and still fell in love with it. But then after reading this, I realised that both of us are on the same side. We couldn’t stop giggling too when we saw David. Piazza Michelangelo is also on my list for one of the most beautiful sunsets I have seen. I don’t think a day is enough to walk around Uffizi. Also I loved your hotel. I wish mine was as classy as yours. Flow canopy beds for the win.
Yasss Florence lovers for the win!! It’s an awesome city for any kind of occasion, really. I’ve been there with my friends as well for a girls’ getaway and that was great too. Lots to offer!
Thanks for the lovely Roam-tic List for Florence Christina. The Continentale with its lovely rooms and that awesome rooftop bar looks wonderful and so very romantic. I must say I love how food plays such an important role in your suggestions. I’m a foodie and find food to be such an integral part of any culture and experiencing it with my better half to explore and understand a city is just amazing. Plan to tour around Italy some day and these will certainly come in handy.
haha really appreciate the pun there 😉 And yesss food is SO important, especially in Italy! That whole country is a foodie’s paradise so I’m positive you would love it. Hope you make it there soon.
Continentale looks like an absolute gem… I mean, just look at that bar (all I honestly care about).
It’s a pity I haven’t got a romantic partner (nor do I have partner.. period). Look at what i’m missing out on! Definitely feels like a treat myself trip though. I can just imagine myself riding through the Tuscan countryside.. I do love how you’ve included different activities for different couples 🙂
Hahah yes – as long as there’s a good bar around, I’m good. And hey, don’t forget that Florence would make an amazing solo trip too! Plus without a partner, you are free to ogle the beautiful Italian men all you want… so there’s perks to both sides haha.
Thank you for this post! I just found your blog and love it. My husband and I are going to Florence for our wedding anniversary at the end of November and I am definitely going to come back to your tips. That hotel bar/lounge looks amazing, too.
Thanks for reading and ahh what a perfect place to celebrate your wedding anniversary <3 I hope you have an incredible time, Jessica!
Very nice post and images are wonderful. Thanks for sharing such a lovely blog. I would love to visit all these places. Thanks for sharing such a nice blog. Please suggest me some holiday home and apartments in italy for a pleasant stay.
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Great places and romantic inspiration!! Italy is a beautiful place at all times. This is really true! When the sun shines and you get to enjoy the mind blowing nature. I love your post.
<3 Thanks for reading!
Aww this looks like an Amazing place to visit! I love travelling and experiencing different countries. I love trying out massages in different places as well ! Maybe I could just massage my way through Europe to see all the beautiful places? Lol … Hey it’s a thought ! Thankyou for sharing ! ❤