We spent six nights in Ilaria’s apartment right beside the Uffizzi. It was an outstanding location, so close to everything on both sides of the Arno River. You can not find a better location. We loved the little cafe on the corner outside our door, they had the best breakfast sandwiches, fresh pastries and cappuccino. We tried a few other places and it was the only one with such fresh selections. The apartment was clean and well equipped. We liked to use the sandwich maker. She provided dish soap, a roll of toilet paper for each bathroom and laundry soap. We visited another similar apartment for a cooking class but found that Ilaria’s building has a special interior mini “courtyard” which allows for windows and daylight in the middle of the long narrow apartment which was very charming. We enjoyed walking up to Michaelangelo’s Square overlooking Florence for a stunning sunset. The streets are romantic in the evening with musicians playing enchanting music. Florence has such stunning architecture everywhere you look. We took day trips (with private drivers) to Siena, San Gimignano, Pisa and Lucca. Loved the Duomo in Siena, take the climb up the tower for incredible views. Lunch at a Chianti winery is a must-do when in Tuscany. San Gimignano was so quaint with its hilly streets, enchanting side alleys that drew you in. Loved it! Pisa was a quick stop to see the leaning tower then on to Lucca with our best dining experience in the old arena area now setup with several restaurants. We rented bikes and took the 2.5 mile ride around Lucca on top of the ancient city walls - so beautiful ❤️. To wrap up our stay in Florence we went to the Academia to see the David statue. There are several other beautiful works of art as well. Last but certainly not least was the Boboli Gardens at Pitti Palace, wow!!!! Wish we had more than 1-1/2 hrs to walk/hike around. Warning: there is a lot of uphill walking but the views over the Arno and Florence will take your breath away!