Florence is one of the great European cities of culture. Famous for its museums, churches and historical sights, it might not be the first place you’d think of going to as a family. However, look a little closer and you’ll soon see the city has a whole host of interesting activities for children

I like to think I have a pretty good sense of direction, most of the time. But take me away from my all too familiar surroundings and I’ll be walking around in circles, a map held up close as I try to identify familiar landmarks, streets in fact just about anything which will get me going in the right direction.In an attempt to leave the map in my pocket and get my bearings and learn some history I signed up for a free walking tour in Florence.

Nothing captures the imagination quite like Tuscan country side, rolling hills dotted with olive groves, the straight lines of grapevines making their way down sun bathed slopes, cypress trees reaching finger like into the sky and hilltop medieval villages dotting the landscape. Painters have paid homage to the beauty of Tuscany for centuries and nowhere can this beauty truly be appreciated more than the Capital of Tuscany, Florence.

The Althea apartment, this week’s top accommodation, is located on the River Arno in Florence, capital of Tuscany, and is perfect for two people.

Florence is one of our favourite cities to visit in spring. Artistic, romantic, fun, elegant… everything about this little big city puts you in the mood for relaxing and dreaming. Here are some suggestions of things to do in Florence this spring that will delight all your senses.

Christmas is almost upon us…..A festive atmosphere reigns in all the cities and lovely Florence is no exception. During the period just before Christmas, the city promotes numerous events that increase the magic and warm up those cold winter days. Thus, whilst the children play with their advent calendars, prepare to make a note of the countless activities scheduled for this December in Florence.

Florence is a great city for going shopping. In addition to fashion stores, craft workshops and small shops, you will find numerous markets. Food, clothes, typical products, leather items, antiques, etc are sold on the stalls in the Florentine markets at very good prices, especially if you’re an expert in the art of haggling.

Chianti, with its strong and aromatic flavour, is one of Italy’s most prestigious wines. This deep-red coloured wine is produced in a region situated between Siena, Arezzo and Florence with marvellous landscapes and occupying a large part of Tuscany.

This summer you can enjoy a different kind of holiday and that is by wandering the paved streets of Florence, watching the city go dark sat on the banks of the River Arno with the Medieval Bridge, going shopping in their elegant stores and admiring the fascinating heritage of this Renaissance city.

Like in practically all cities, the Christmas markets are definitely worth a visit during your wanderings around the streets of Florence. In this Tuscany Italian city, the most famous Christmas Market is the German Market situated on Piazza Santa Croce, whose original name is Mercato Tedesco di Natale. From the 3rd to the 30th of December locals and tourists alike wander around the many stalls that reside in this German market where they can try and buy typical German products, whether its German strudel, mulled wine, or other treats and food products such the traditional German bratwurst (sausage), as well as ceramics and various craftworks. In addition, there is a small merry-go-round for the entertainment of children, a true Christmas classic. Finally, there is another typical market in Florence which is the Florence Noel, situated in the Statione Neopoldo that hosts this Christmas Fair and Father Christmas himself. Here, you will find all the typical Christmas articles and artisan products for some perfect gift ideas.