by Camryn Samuel
With the tourist season starting in the spring, February invites a calm atmosphere in Florence, perfect for discovering the city in its most authentic form. From festivals to art exhibitions, the Renaissance capital provides an abundance of activities to fall in love with winter. ACCORD Italy Smart Tours and Experiences offers guided tours and experiences to fit every itinerary and help plan a winter getaway.
Carnival
Throughout February, Florence gleams with culture from its Carnival festivities. The city hosts experiences dedicated to the lively holiday, including a grand ball and parade in the city center. The streets are vibrant with musical performances and decorations, and visitors can embrace the spirit of the holiday with Florence’s mask-making workshops and signature Carnival desserts. With the cultural events and Tuscan traditions surrounding the holiday, Florence becomes a vibrant celebration of color, food, and music.
Valentine’s Day
With Florence’s roots in the Renaissance, the city is naturally romantic. It embraces this ambiance by offering a variety of opportunities to celebrate Valentine’s Day. There are classic activities to spend the day with loved ones, such as hiking to Piazzale Michelangelo to catch the sunset over the city or walking through the Boboli Gardens to admire romantic sculptures and gorgeous flowers. There are also more intimate activities, such as raising a toast in the Tower at the Palazzo Vecchio. From 7 p.m. to 8:30 p.m. on Valentine’s Day, couples can climb to the top of the tower to enjoy live music, a toast, and a panoramic view of the city during golden hour. There is limited availability, and a reservation is required, but this venture will make your heart sing in Italian.
Exhibitions and Contemporary Art
Florence has no shortage of art exhibitions and museums, and with tourists not arriving until spring, this is the perfect time to discover the city’s beauty without crowds. One of these museums is Palazzo Strozzi, a Florentine palace and symbol of Renaissance architecture. It hosts temporary exhibitions featuring artists from around the world, making it a center for contemporary art. Museo Novecento focuses on modern art, as it currently holds an exhibit about Villa Romana, a beautiful place for artists to collaborate and create. For the Renaissance art and history the city is known for, the Uffizi Galleries offer themed routes to highlight its vast collections. With the museum’s extensive history and beauty, February is the perfect opportunity to see all it has to offer without long lines or obstructed views.
Music, Theatre, and Performances
To offer an escape from the cold, Florence’s theater scene opens its doors to a variety of performances. The Teatro della Pergola is a venue dripping in gold and illuminated by chandeliers. Its gorgeous décor and historic architecture provide the perfect setting to discover Italy’s rich history of theater. Teatro Verdi also hosts musicals, plays, and concerts for any occasion. Florence also has a deep love for jazz, with concerts hosted in venues throughout the city.
Food and Wine Events
There’s no better dining experience than homemade Italian cuisine in a cozy restaurant during a chilly month, and no better place to find that meal than Florence. With the city’s commitment to high-quality local ingredients, Florence in February has all the winter flavors needed to warm the soul. To discover Tuscan specialties, journey through the city’s historic bars to enjoy tastings of local wines and try newly pressed olive oil. To take home some Italian culture, join a Tuscan cooking course and discover the art of Florence’s signature dishes.
Craftsmanship Experiences
Before Florence’s busy season arrives in the spring, discover the city’s shopping scene. Its prestigious leather products offer warmth, comfort, and a wintertime elegance. To dive deeper into the fashion scene, visit leather workshops to learn about the detailed craftsmanship perfected by Florentine artisans. For a shinier look, visit Ponte Vecchio, where dozens of jewelers line the bridge with their handcrafted accessories. These goldsmith studios live up to their reputation for high-quality, breathtaking pieces that shine along the historic bridge.
