TripAdvisor just released the latest report from their Seasonal Travel Index series. There are some golden nuggets inside for travel trends, but the one topic that stood out was the most popular international destinations for American travelers.
Common places such as Los Cabos, Cancun and Paris made the cut, but one destination gaining popularity is the stunning city of Florence.
According to TripAdvisor’s data, it is a top 10 international destination for U.S. tourists this year. One of the more popular European getaways for Americans is the astonishing country of Italy.
Yet, more often than not, we hear about Rome, Venice, maybe Milan and the gorgeous Amalfi Coast.
Florence, or as locals call Firenze, doesn’t tend to make the top of the list when booking an Italy vacation. That has changed this year, and rightfully so.
This city will forever leave lasting memories from the moment you step foot on its cobblestone streets and your eyes meet its breathtaking scenery.
Why Has Florence Flown Under The Radar?
There are direct flights to Italy from the U.S., but none of them go to Florence. Even as a large city, it’s a trek to reach from America.
Starting off, you are guaranteed to have a long flight with a layover. If you aren’t starting your trip from a major city, chances are you will have multiple layovers.
That can be off-putting to some travelers. Even though Italy is a top destination for Americans, what they are discovering is Florence is worth the extra effort.
Florence will welcome you with open arms, whether traveling as a couple, with friends or even solo (female too), as it’s generally considered a safe city.
With a recent report from Expedia reporting a 20% decrease in airfare, now may be better than ever to visit.
What Makes Florence So Special?
Florence is a true gem; there is no other way to put it. The largest city and capital of Tuscany is a sight to behold.
Not only will Florence mesmerize you with its visual wonders, but it will add the aromas of Italian food through its winding cobblestone streets.
It’s everything you ever dreamt of Italy. But we’ll get to the food later. Florence is stunning with eye-popping architecture and set along the picturesque Arno River.
You can’t miss the Cattedrale di Santa Maria del Fiore, which overpowers the Florence skyline with its centuries-old history and beauty.
It’s about the most romantic backdrop imaginable. Boat tours are popular, but some say it’s best explored by bike. The city is perfectly walkable as well, especially with minimal vehicle traffic.
Sometimes a slower pace can bring a stronger sense of appreciation for what you’re seeing, and you will want to see a lot in Florence!
The Top Sites
Not only is the city filled with amazing art, top-notch museums and architecture that will leave you gobsmacked, but the Tuscan countryside is gorgeous as well, to say the least.
The perfect shade of green rolls on for miles and miles through the hills and charming small towns. This is where the highest-rated activity around Florence takes place.
TripAdvisor reported the favorite activity from American visitors is taking part in a small-group wine tasting in the gorgeous Tuscan countryside.
Tuscany is a major producer of wine in Italy, and there may be no more scenic place to indulge than here.
That is unless you happen to see a hole in the wall in Florence. Wouldn’t you reach in, too?
The Food Is Astonishing
Dating back to Lady and the Tramp, we’ve all had dreams of stuffing our faces in Italy. Florence turns those dreams into reality.
The moon doesn’t have to hit your eye like a big pizza pie to realize how amazing the food is here.
TripAdvisor nailed it when they recently reported that 67% of U.S. travelers prioritize their destination of choice around food.
Florence is a lovely place to explore and delight your tastebuds. Wandering the cobblestone streets, you can literally follow your nose to where you want to eat.
It goes without saying Florence is home to amazing pizza and pasta dishes, among other specialties, but you can’t forget the countless gelato shops to satisfy your sweet tooth.
