Step into the streets surrounding the Duomo and be astonished. The first stop we’ll take is Farmacia Santissima Annunziata, located mere footsteps from the Santa Maria del Fiore Cathedral. This pharmacy is bound to stop you in your tracks as its historic atmosphere and enticing scents draw you to its perfumes and home-made cosmetics. Incredibly, it dates back to 1561, when it was the apothecary of chemist Domenico di Vincenzo di Domenico Bruneti, a member of the Guild of Doctors and Apothecaries. 

Filled with the heady scents, continue on to revel in the worldwide famous watches of the the historic Officine Panerai, founded in 1860. Initially located in one of the structures that lined Ponte alle Grazie, it was moved to its current location in piazza San Giovanni in the early 1900s where it took the name “Swiss watchmaking” that’s still visible today. Handed down from generation to generation, it is specialized in the sale and repair of the best brands. Don’t miss the Panerai historical archive with its array of special pieces.

By now, you’ll undoubtedly be in need of a snack, and you definitely won’t be disappointed by Robiglio on via dei Servi. While younger than the other two given that it was founded in 1928 by Cavalier Pietro Robiglio, it’s no less atmospheric with divine pastries drawing in passerby with a dazzling display. Here, you’ll find traditional treats such as Fruttodoro and Gallette al Latte, with the secrets to these delicious dolce passed down through the family.

Right beside the Duomo area, you’ll find San Lorenzo with its outstanding Basilica that’s one of the largest churches in Florence. Many visitors come to this area for the well-known market, but don’t forget to head down the side streets for a real taste of Florentine’s history. 

What would a trip to Tuscany be without sampling some of the world-famous wines? Casa del Vino on via dell’Ariento is a top choice for tippling, in business since 1900. Their wealth of history is evidenced in the very walls, as photographs document their simple beginnings when farmers supplied the store with wine in carts. The curated fine wine selection come from local producers, accompanied by a range of typical Tuscan nibbles.

Souvenirs from your trip can be sought in Pelletteria Artigiana Viviani, creators of artisanal leather products in via Guelfa, since 1965. The workshop is right next to the family-run store, where you can even catch a glimpse of your piece in the making, as true master craftspeople carry out their creations. Another fascinating fact, the historic building in which the shop is located was once the home of the famous architect, Giuseppe Poggi.

The last stop on this historical itinerary is Hotel Burchianti, given that by this point, it might be time for a rest as your mind is filled with visions of beauty and centuries of cultural excellence. The characteristically Florentine palazzo located on via del Giglio is elegantly and classically furnished, operating since 1919. Notable figures who have graced the premises include esteemed literary figure, Gabriele D’Annunzio.