The cradle of the renaissance, it's artists, architects, writers, and jewelers, under the direction of the Medici, provided the foundation for modern culture. The works of Botticelli, Giotto, Donatello, Fra Angelico, Brunelleschi, Cellini, Michaelangelo, Raphael, Masaccio, and Leonardo da Vinci, are found in Florence. Its palaces and museums, such as the Uffizi, Bargello, and Pitti Palace, hold wonders that inspired the world, while its major shopping streets reveal that Italian design continues its spirit of innovation. The area is also filled with art and artifacts from Etruscan and Roman times. Unlike the summer, which is quite hot, Florence's weather in May and early June is lovely.
Rain is rare, but can be torrential.
The average high temperature is 80, while the average low in May is in the upper 50's. It is an outdoor, walkable town. Many Italian cities of historical and artistic value are easily reached from Florence. Pisa and Bologna are only one hour away by train. Rome, Venice, and Milan are short weekend excursions with excellent railroad connections.