Ponte Vecchio in Florence

After being in Florence Italy for a few days this week, I was reminded how beautiful the city and the surrounding countryside are, especially in the fall. 

A nighttime tour of the city meant double the pleasure: seeing the buildings in the glow of the moonlight and fewer crowds. 

A night time view of Duomo di Firenze

Santa Croce at Night - Florence

There were no words upon seeing panoramic views of Florence from the top floor of a private home, only the sound of camera shutters and gasps of awe.

View of Florence

If you’re shopping in Florence, don’t miss the Loggia del Mercato Nuovo (also known as the Mercado Nuovo) or the shops along the Ponte Vecchio. 
Mercado Nuovo Florence
Mercado Nuovo

A scoop or two of gelato is a much deserved treat after an afternoon of shopping and makes you feel like a kid again, as does the carousel in the Piazza della Repubblica.

Gelato
Piazza della Repubblica, Florence

Panzano in Chianti is a small town located along a road (similar to and not far from another wine-dy road I traveled in the area) between Florence and Siena. The church Santa Maria Assunta sits atop of a hill and seemingly calls to you from the road.

Panzano in Chianti
Santa Maria Assunta, Chianti Italy
Grapes for Chianti wine are harvested in September and October and produce the famous Chianti Classico and Chianti Reserva.
Florence, Italy wine region
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