1. The Cattedrale di Santa Maria del Flore, the main church of Florence, Italy.  Also known as Duomo di Firenze.

Every time I enter Piazza Del duomo I can't help but say "WOW".  It is one of the most breathtaking sites I have seen.  This city is hands down the reason for my need for travel.  Growing up in a small town on Long Island, I never really had a good perspective on how big the world was and how much history and culture Europe has.  While you are here I suggest you take the hike up to the top of the Duomo to get the best view of the city.  I will warn you though its 463 steps up and down and its pretty steep, so don't wear a maxi dress and flip flops (my bad).

2.  The food.

You can find the most amazing food anywhere in Italy, but Florence has some must go to places.  Number one is Gusta pizza.  This place has some of the best pizza I've ever tasted in my life, and I come from New York so that's saying a lot.  Number two would be Panini Toscani, located right next to the Duomo.  This panini place lets you make whatever you want, they have all types of meats and cheeses.  They will also let you taste test anything before you make a decision.  I could go on and on about food in Florence but those are the top two places you HAVE to try when you're there.

3.  The Accademia Gallery.

I've always loved art growing up, my grandma is an artist, my moms whole business was based on art.  It was always a part of my life but I never thought artwork could take my breathe away.  When I walked into The Accademia Gallery and saw Michelangelos David, my jaw nearly dropped to the ground.  I can't explain the feeling of just seeing something that large and that magnificent, with all its history behind it, the sight is truly unbelievable.  Not all of the people I was with had the same feeling about it but for me it was an amazing moment and something I would definitely enjoy seeing again.

SLXLXLLS4. Ponte Vecchio

The Ponte Vecchio is the oldest bridge in Florence and was once the only bridge going over the Arno River.  This walk consists of jewelry shops with some of the most beautiful diamonds I've ever seen.  If you need to get a nice gift for someone I would definitely wait for this.  Besides the shops, there are also good restaurants and of course some great picture moments!

MLXL5. Piazzale Michelangelo

Once you've fallen in love with Florence, you are going to want to head over to Piazzale Michelangelo for sunset.  It is located on a hill just south of the arno river.  This view will allow you to get a full view of the city with the Duomo standing tall right in the middle.  It is truly one of the most magical moments throughout my travels.  I attached a few pictures but none really compare to the beauty once you get there.