Florence
(Firenze) is an art lover's paradise. By UNESCO estimates, Florence is home to more than 30% of the world's important art works. Situated in the northwest of Italy, surrounded by the wine-growing hills of Chianti, the city's peaceful art galleries and musuems are a contrast to its bustling streets. Few can dismiss the image of Brunelleschi's cathedral dome bursting through the morning mist - a terracotta balloon hovering above the medieval rooftops. But once the visitor drops down to street level, the profusion of traffic, tourists and touts can remove all sense of tranquillity. It seems every building holds a masterpiece, demanding attention and often gobbling up funds. The streets are narrow and dark, enclosed on either side by granite palaces, and even the open spaces are crowded with babbling tour groups.

Early autumn is the best time to visit Florence. The countryside glows with mellow fruitfulness, and the harvest proves an abundance of wild mushrooms and just-pressed olive oil. It is best to avoid the peak summer months of July and August when the weather can be unbearably sticky and the prospect of trailing around museums becomes unappealing.