Sight-seeing in Florence takes on a whole new meaning when I go on a city walking tour.

Although I have been to Florence quite a few times, I had always avoided 'official' walking tours preferring to wander at my will. However, on my last trip I took advantage of the Ostello Archi Rossi free walking tour since I was staying there. What I learnt gave me a deeper appreciation of the history and culture of Florence. I’m now a walking tour convert.

What I saw on the Ostello Archi Rossi walking tour of Florence

The hostel runs two different free walking tours on alternate days. The one I joined started promptly at 10am and was headed by local Florentine guide Costanza. There were around 10 or so of us in the group of all different nationalities.

Costanza instantly took us back in time with her historical tour of Florence which included:

• interesting architectural facts about Santa Maria Novella church,
  
• the purpose of those tiny medieval wine doors in the sides of houses,
  
• the differences between medieval and renaissance palaces,
  
• a visit inside Strozzi Palazzo,
  
• a gelato stop,
  
• medici family dramas,
  
• the history of Palazzo Pitti,
  
• the intent of the Vasari Corridor
• historical titbits about Ponte Vecchio
  

Highlights of the walking tour

What I liked about the Archi Rossi walking tour was that Costanza was a born and bred Florentine and she had an obvious passion for her subject. She also kept good control of the group, rounding up stray members and keeping our interest up at all times.

The length was two and half hours which was plenty of time to see all we needed to and also indulge in a gelato stop. It was also fun to talk to other people in the group from other countries along the way. A tour can be a great way to meet others if you are travelling by yourself.

What to wear and bring on a walking tour

The season will dictate what clothing you wear on your walking tour of Florence. I was there mid-September and it was a scorcher, so cool clothing, comfortable shoes, a hat and a water bottle were a must. Make sure you take some cash as well, as if you stop for gelato you don’t want to miss out. It’s not a good look to ask the guide for a loan.

Finally, don’t forget your camera, there are lots of opportunities to take photos, and lots of people willing to do the honours if you want your photo taken.

What are the best walking tours in Florence?

In summary, and although I have only been on one walking tour in Florence, I would say the best walking tours would be those which:

• Are free, or don’t cost the earth,
  
• Aren’t too long (around 2 hours is plenty),
  
• Take in major and minor historical sites of interest,
  
• Give a good overview of the history of Florence,
  
• Have a guide who takes control and answers questions but doesn’t get distracted

And most importantly;

• Make a scheduled stop for gelato
  

Visit this link for more information on the Ostello Archi Rossi free walking tour of Florence.

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