Recommendations

Where to Stay: 
Hotel Torre Quelfa - Highest Private tower in Florence built in 1280 - 15 rooms with spectacular views of all of Florence from the tower - very romantic - excellent breakfast included - One block from the Ponte Vecchio Website http://www.hoteltorreguelfa.com

Where to shop:
Contact Hodjat Moradi - Walk from Ponte Vecchio Bridge towards Duomo - "Wild Boar" open air market is on your left prior to the Piazza Signoria - ask a vendor which booth Hodjat  is located - tell Hodjat what you need and he will find it for you! hodjat.morai@gmail.com

Where to Eat:
Lunch:
Ponte Sante Trinita - Walk to Santa Espirto Church and eat at Borgo Antico - Huge Seafood Antipasta; Ravioli w/ almonds & dried beef; Pizza w/ Eggplant; Greek Salad

Padkowski, Piazza Republica, is a great restaurant - try Swordfish and Eggplant Puree; Brushetta; Antipasto

Boccadama, On Piazza St Croce, - Great lunch; Pear & Walnut Salad; Spaghetti Carbonera is outstanding.

Dinner:
Leo's - Via Torta off Piazza St Croce Bistecca Florentine; Must have Zucchini & Parmesan Salad

La Giostra - Borgo Pinti #10 - Reservations recommended. Very romantic with candles and small white lights. Try Raviolli w/ Pear & Ricotta; Linguini w/ Mushrooms; Goat is awesome believe us!; Best Tiramisu

Best Sights
Duomo - walk to top with your camera. Academy - See the David - have your hotel call for reservation to avoid lines. Santa Croce Church - Michelangelo’s Neighborhood and burial.

Palazzo Vecchio - Musicians often play in adjoining patio leading to Uffizi Gallery Uffizi Gallery - have hotel call for reservations to avoid lines.

Santo Espirto Church Pitti Palace - Second Floor is living quarters; Garden is awesome.

Piazzale Michelangiolo - Great views; Beautiful Church; Miniato al Monte is Church - bring camera!