Furnished with crystal chandeliers and wood panelling, Caffè Gilli is the perfect place to start the day with your other half or if you prefer a more modern style, why not try Galleria Iginio Massari  famous for its maritozzi cakes.

Within walking distance, you will find the spa of the Helvetia & Bristol hotel where you can spend a few hours enjoying pure relaxation bathing in ancient Roman style or enjoying a treatment as a couple.

For lunch, you can head to Salotto Portinari, the bistro of Michelin-starred restaurant Atto di Vito Mollica, located in the inner courtyard of the historic Palazzo Portinari Salviati, featuring a large glass ceiling.

Then you can choose to spend the rest of the day exploring the city with an idyllic visit to the Boboli Gardens, a cup of tea at the Café Ginori at The St. Regis Florence, followed by a stroll along the banks of the River Arno, enjoying the sunset over Ponte Vecchio, an aperitif with a view of the Relais Uffizi and dinner in a sophisticated location such as Atelier de’ Nerli or Locale Firenze.

Or you can also head away from the centre and walk up the splendid staircase of the panoramic Bardini Garden or relax in the wonderful Rose Garden, and finally enjoy a gourmet dinner at Le Bistrot Restaurant in the aristocratic Villa Cora, held in the sumptuous Sala Moresca in winter and in the garden by the pool in summer.

Equally, there is only one perfect ending to this day: the magnificent view of Florence at night from Piazzale Michelangelo.

(ph. Mark Boss, Pasquale Paradiso)