We truly enjoy getting out of the larger cities and going to some smaller towns, so our trip to Würzburg was a perfect example of that. It has the old-world charm, friendly people, and wonderful food. The Residenz is definitely the largest thing to see when visiting, but just walking the streets of old town is also fascinating. We were there in late November, so the Christmas markets were also going with a wonderful variety of crafts and food on display.
Wurzburg ResidenceHistoric BuildingsEnjoying the Market
One of the reasons that we like going to a smaller town is that it makes you feel even more like a local as there aren’t usually any other tourists around. This was definitely the case during our time Würzburg as we enjoyed listening to a local band playing holiday music and watched the excitement of the local children as the holiday season kicked off. We even entered a raffle that benefited the local school and actually ended up winning a bottle of wine.
Local BandHistoric Church
One of the most interesting facts about Würzburg is that it was the location of the witch trials that occurred in the 1600’s, Germany’s equivalent to Salem, Massachusetts. Unfortunately it was much larger as over 600 accused witches were burnt during the trials. On a happier note, construction began on the Würzburg Residence (Residenz) about a hundred years later, which is now a focal point within the city.
Musician Near the MarketFountain at the ResidenzCandles and Wreaths for SaleOld World Charm
Located almost exactly halfway between Frankfurt and Nuremberg, Würzburg is definitely a wonderful place to spend a couple of days. If you are able to visit during the holiday season, we would recommend it as the town certainly embraces the spirit of the season as the locals come out to celebrate together.
Stalls in the MarketStatue DetailsAnother Angle of the ChurchPeople on the Main Street
There are only a few cities in the world that leave an impression on your soul that will remain with you forever. Florence is definitely one of those cities. There is something uniquely special about the way you feel when walking the streets of this historic city with all of its art and medieval architecture. It isn’t just that it retains its old world charm, there is something very romantic about Florence that is hard to explain. It is a place where time seems to stand still and you feel as if you can just truly relax and absorb the culture and history while sharing some pasta and wine.
View of Florence from Piazzale MichelangeloPlaza near the DuomoPonte Vecchio
It is clear why so many of the great artists spent time in Florence, the city as well as the countryside of Tuscany are incredibly beautiful. One of the places that you must visit while in Florence is the Piazzale Michelangelo. The views from this hillside plaza are simply amazing as you gaze over the city. The Duomo dominates the skyline as it towers above the buildings that line the narrow streets of the city. As you turn away from the city, you can see the ancient wall that surrounded the city and the lush green hillsides of the Tuscan countryside. Of course, the replica of the statue of David is worth seeing, but the original marble statue in the Accademia Gallery is definitely even more stunning.
Replica of David in the Piazzale MichelangeloAncient Wall and Tuscan CountrysideFront of the DuomoStatue of David
Certainly, Ponte Vecchio is something that you must visit during your time in Florence. As you cross this historic bridge, you have the opportunity to buy jewelry and other souvenirs in stores that have been there throughout its history. In the past, these store fronts were obviously not for tourists as they are today and were used by butchers and other more common merchants. Amazingly, the bridge survived World War II and not destroyed like all of the other bridges in Florence. If you do decide to visit the narrow pedestrian bridge, be prepared for heavy traffic as it is definitely a tourist hot spot. We would recommend having dinner at one of the restaurants that overlook the Arno River next to the bridge as the views at night are well worth the hefty price tag.
Ponte Vecchio Up CloseShopping in FlorenceThe Duomo at Sunset
As you walk the streets of Florence, you will undoubtedly eventually end up at the Duomo or Cathedral of Santa Maria del Fiore (Cathedral of Saint Mary of the Flower). Having seen many different cathedrals all across Europe, this is definitely one of the most unique and most stunning cathedrals to gaze upon. The architecture, artwork, and white façade have so many details that you could spend hours just enjoying the views from various angles. There are plenty of restaurant options available around the Duomo, so it is a perfect place to enjoy a pizza at one of the many pizzerias on the surrounding streets.
Detailed Artwork on the DuomoLooking Up at the Duomo TowerPizza in Florence
Although you could spend a couple of days in Florence and probably see all of the major sights, if you really want to enjoy everything that the city has to offer, you should probably consider a minimum of four days or possibly a full week. Florence is truly a magical city with beauty around every corner and will forever hold a special place in our hearts.
Artwork on the Baptistery DoorsStatue in the Heart of FlorenceCathedral Dome
When traveling around Tuscany, one stop that is definitely worth visiting is Lucca. It is a walled, medieval city with plenty of charm and wonderful little restaurants. You probably don’t need more than a half-day to visit Lucca and combining it with a trip to Pisa is probably a good idea. The Duomo di Lucca is truly a beautiful, typical gothic cathedral and is one of the highlights of the city. We definitely enjoyed walking the narrow streets, looking in the various shops, and enjoying a wonderful lunch.
Walking the Narrow StreetsDuomo di Lucca on a Cloudy DayRooftops of Lucca
The highlight of our trip to Lucca was climbing to the top of Torre Guinigi, which is a tower with oak trees growing on top of it that offers incredible views of the city. Another point of interest is the statue of Giacomo Puccini, the famous opera composer, that sits in a piazza. Every year there is a festival held in Lucca to celebrate the composer and his contributions to opera.
Trees on the Top of the TowerArtwork Behind the Altar in the CathedralLooking Out Over Lucca
Although we were there on a rainy and overcast day, spending time in this quaint little city was extremely enjoyable. Tuscany has so many wonderful locations to visit, but Lucca is certainly one worth considering if you are touring the area. With its historic wall that is still standing and medieval architecture, you can wander the streets for hours. Located just an hour or two outside of Florence, it is also a perfect day trip if you are staying there as we were.
Statue of Giacomo PucciniCentral PlazaArchitecture of the City from the Tower
One of the reasons that we like going to a smaller town is that it makes you feel even more like a local as there aren’t usually any other tourists around. This was definitely the case during our time Würzburg as we enjoyed listening to a local band playing holiday music and watched the excitement of the local children as the holiday season kicked off. We even entered a raffle that benefited the local school and actually ended up winning a bottle of wine.
One of the most interesting facts about Würzburg is that it was the location of the witch trials that occurred in the 1600’s, Germany’s equivalent to Salem, Massachusetts. Unfortunately it was much larger as over 600 accused witches were burnt during the trials. On a happier note, construction began on the Würzburg Residence (Residenz) about a hundred years later, which is now a focal point within the city.
