Florence: More Than Just a Tourist Destination

Florence—just the name evokes images of grand cathedrals, Renaissance art, and a slower, more romantic pace of life. For many Americans approaching retirement, Florence offers the perfect mix of culture, history, and beauty. If you're looking to trade in the daily grind for cobblestone streets, world-class art, and Tuscan wine, Florence might just be the place where your next adventure begins.

For my wife Shonna and me, Florence had long been on our list of must-see destinations. Living just a few hours away, we'd somehow never made the trip. But when our friends, Robin and Chris, invited us to join them for a getaway to the city, we jumped at the chance. And what a trip it turned out to be—full of art, wine, history, and a few unexpected surprises.

Florence has earned its nickname as the "Birthplace of Western Civilization." This is the city that gave the world Michelangelo's David, the architectural marvel of Brunelleschi's Duomo, and the Medici family, who shaped so much of the city's history. Florence isn't just a place to visit; it's a city that invites you to immerse yourself in centuries of art and innovation.

Our drive to Florence took us through the Tuscan countryside, and we couldn't resist stopping for a picnic beneath the medieval walls of Montepulciano. This smaller town, known for its wine, is worth a visit in its own right. If you go, don't miss the opportunity to sample the local wines—Vino Nobile di Montepulciano is a must! Tuscany, after all, is synonymous with great wine, and even if Florence is your final destination, the surrounding countryside offers endless opportunities to enjoy the fruits of the region.

As we arrived in Florence, the first sight of the Duomo Cathedral took our breath away. Pictures simply don't do it justice. The intricate marble façade—green, white, and pink—commands your attention in a way that's hard to describe. This isn't just a cathedral; it's the beating heart of the city. The dome itself, the first "free floating" dome in history, is a testament to the genius of the Renaissance. If you're up for a bit of a climb, the 467 steps to the top offer one of the most stunning views of the city.

Florence’s Cathedral (Duomo di Firenze) is a must-visit sight in the city.|©iStock/argolas

Real Estate: More Affordable Than You Think

One thing that might surprise you about Florence is how affordable it is compared to many US cities. Yes, you heard that right. We were amazed to find that you can still get a good-sized apartment—1,000 square feet or more—for as little as €167,000 (about $182,000). Villas start at around €360,000 (around $390,000), and while prices can go up from there, it's worth exploring the real estate options in and around the city.

What's more, if you're willing to look beyond the city center, the surrounding regions of Tuscany offer even more value. Places like Montepulciano, with its medieval charm and excellent wine, are not only more affordable but offer a quieter pace of life. Whether you're dreaming of a flat in the heart of Florence or a villa nestled in the Tuscan hills, the real estate here has something for every taste and budget.

Dining Like a Local

One of my favorite parts of the trip was discovering Florence's hidden culinary gems. Sure, the city has plenty of tourist hotspots, but the real magic happens when you stray off the beaten path. As we wandered from the Duomo toward the famous Ponte Vecchio bridge, we stumbled across a narrow alley and a little restaurant that looked just right.

We were hot, tired, and hungry, and this place was like an oasis in the desert—shady, cool, and quiet. The patio was perfect for a relaxing meal, with a gentle breeze and plenty of shade. We ordered an apéritif platter with prosciutto, cheeses, bread, and olives, and spent the next two hours enjoying great food, wine, and conversation. At the end of the meal, our bill came to just €88 ($96) for the four of us—a small price to pay for such a memorable experience.

It's moments like these that make Florence such a great place to live. Dining out is more than just grabbing a quick bite. In Italy, it's an experience—one to be savored, whether you're catching up with friends or simply enjoying the atmosphere.

More Than Just a Tourist Destination

The Ponte Vecchio in Florence is a medieval bridge lined with shops. It was the only bridge in the city to survive World War 2.|©iStock/antana

For all its historical significance, Florence isn't just a city for tourists. It's a place where people live, work, and thrive. Modern Florence offers a mix of old-world charm and contemporary living. Yes, the city gets its share of visitors, but there are plenty of quiet, residential areas that feel far removed from the hustle and bustle of the tourist hotspots.

If you're considering making Florence your home in retirement, you'll find a variety of living spaces to suit your needs. Flats in the city center may come without appliances (unfurnished in Italy often means unfurnished), but that's a small price to pay for living in such a culturally rich environment. And if city life feels a bit too hectic, the nearby countryside offers peaceful retreats that are still just a short drive away.

Finding Your Place in Florence

For those looking to retire overseas, Florence is a dream come true. Imagine spending your days wandering through museums, sipping wine in hidden alleyway cafés, and taking in the sights and sounds of one of the most beautiful cities in the world. Whether you're an art lover, a history buff, or simply someone looking for a slower, more fulfilling pace of life, Florence has something to offer.

Our trip to Florence reminded us of why we fell in love with Italy in the first place. The beauty of the architecture, the warmth of the people, and the incredible food all combine to create an experience that's hard to match. And while we only spent a few days there, it's clear that Florence is a city that would reward a longer stay—perhaps even a lifetime.