The 3rd stop on our Mediterranean cruise was the port of Livorno. Close by are Pisa and Florence! For this stop, we booked a tour through the ship that provided transportation to each location, but no guide. Some of you may opt for the guided tour but one of our close friends was born in Florence so he made an itinerary for us before we left.

First, The Leaning Tower of Pisa for staple tourist photos! You will see other tourists doing some crazy things, and it’s very entertaining. It’s best to arrive early and try to beat the crowds. There are also several other beautiful buildings on site to tour. Some require tickets.

Next, we were on our way to Florence and I was so excited! As I said before, we have a good friend from Florence, David, and several other friends who have visited. ALL love the city. Beware that no matter how much you walk that day, it will not burn off the number of delicious and incredible calories you are about to consume!

We first stopped into a tiny sandwich shop for prosciutto and mozzarella sandwiches, then made our way over to the Ponte Vecchio bridge. *Travel tip: do not take pictures or engage with oddly dressed people at the bridge – they will immediately harass you for money if you do*

Next we toured the Santa Maria Novella Church. David recommended this stop as an alternative to The Duomo, since we wouldn’t have enough time to stand in line and tour. Ladies, if you are not dressed ‘appropriately’, they will provide cover ups for you.

After that, we walked around the city to see all of the beautiful architecture. Piazza del Duomo, Piazza del Signoria, Santa Croce, and so much more (and eat gelato of course). The one recommendation that David had but we couldn’t get to was Piazalle Michaelangelo… this is where he proposed to his gorgeous wife!

To end our day we went to the San Lorenzo Market for food and wine! The first floor is a huge farmer’s market. The second floor is all restaurants, bakeries, bars, and wine shops! It was the perfect way to end a long day. We tried several wines, pastries, and sandwiches then bought bottles of wine to bring home to our moms.

Florence is an amazing little city and I can’t wait to go back for more than just a few hours!

Next stop, Rome!