Florence, the home of Dante, Machiavelli, Botticelli and Leonardo Da Vinci. 

One of the most romanticised and visited cities in Europe, Florence welcomes around 11 million tourists every year, drawn by the Galleria degli Uffizi, Piazza del Duomo and Cappelle Medicee. 

Destination Calcio took in the sights as well as some action at Fiorentina’s Stadio Artemio Franchi. Here’s a few pointers before you go.

Stay in… Santa Croce

Away from the throng of tourists is Santa Croce. This is an ideal location if a trip to the Franchi includes a night game. 

Of course this being Florence, you are never far from a museum, bar or cafe.

The Jewish Museum and Synagogue, Basilica di Santa Croce and the University of Florence are within walking distance and staying in this area offers a more tranquil experience than the centre of the city.

Go and see… Piazza Michelangelo

Throw a dart at a map of Florence and you’ll land on something breathtaking to visit.

But taking the hike up to Piazza Michelangelo and getting a general view of the city, especially at golden hour, delivers a sight to behold.

Sitting with a beer and watching the sun go down is a great way to spend an evening before heading back down to the city and a bite to eat.

Which leads us to…

Grab food at… Trattoria Dall‘oste

When in Florence, try a Florentine steak, or Bistecca alla Fiorentina. 

A top recommendation is Trattoria Dall’oste. There are two restaurants of the same name, so make sure you head to the one on Via Borgo S. Lorenzo.

Prime cuts, cooked to your liking, are the order of the day. Order a nice bottle of red to wash down the finest meat Tuscany has to offer.

And the roast potatoes are cooked to perfection with a touch of basil. 

Get the pre-match buzz at… Piazza San Pier Maggiore

Piazza San Pier Maggiore offers an array of pubs, cafes and restaurants, while a popular watering hole is Pub Dragonfly.

Here you can see Fiorentina supporters sipping beers before heading off to the Franchi.

The Lion’s Fountain is also another favourite in the piazza.

Toast victory in… Babae

If you want to celebrate a Viola win, head to Babae, one of the many wine window establishments dotted around the city. 

Standing on the pavement with a glass and reliving the match while mingling with locals is the perfect way to cap a trip to Florence.

Tip: if you pay an extra €5 at Babae, you can take the wine glass home.