You will love Florence. It's very compact, and you can walk anywhere. Half the fun of being there is walking those narrow medieval lanes. All the major attractions can be reached on foot from your central location.

The museums and sights are splendid, but if you tire of the tourist hordes, head out to the Boboli Gardens, behind the Pitti Palace. It's a lovely green space near the heart of the city, beautiful in the spring.

I always recommend Lucca as a day trip. With its ramparts and its spectacular Duomo, it's a delightful place to stroll, and very flat so walking is easy. Fabulous restaurants too, especailly Da Guilio on V. d. Conche. Also not to be missed is the old-world Antico Caffe di Simo.

Another favorite of mine is Radda in Chianti. It's a wonderfully sleepy little wine town, a world away from the hustle and bustle (and annoying Vespas) of Florence.

One of the best things about Florence is the abundance of great day trips. Florence has the museums and culture, but the hill towns are not to be missed. Try to make time for at least one.

When in Florence, don't miss the opportunity to sample some of the world's best gelato. (Vivoli's--mmmmm)

Best, Didi