Italy

Independent Florence: From Medieval to Modern Culture

Program No. 22589RJ
Florence has served as an inspiration to residents from Leonardo da Vinci to Michelangelo. Experience its magic for yourself as you explore on your own and with experts.

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At a Glance

What kind of city could inspire the likes of Leonardo da Vinci, Dante Alighieri, or Michelangelo? There is only one answer: Florence. With its intrinsic passion for beauty, cuisine, architecture, and design, Florence has been a hub of creativity and achievement since its origin as a Roman military encampment. Discover the magic of Florence as you explore its piazzas and museums, study the legacy of the Renaissance, and marvel at its holy spaces and cathedrals. Throughout your adventure, enjoy the insight of experts as you explore the masterpieces of the Uffizi and Accademia, as well as ample time to experience the treasures of Florence on your own.
Activity Level
Keep the Pace
Walking up to five miles a day. Extended standing during site visits with limited or no public seating. Uneven terrain, limited public handrails, unavoidable stairs, marble and terracotta flooring, cobblestones. Elevator use is limited or restricted in historic sites. Expect crowded conditions in pedestrian centers and museums. The extent of walking and other activities during free time according to personal choice.
Independent City Discoveries
Independent City Discoveries
Learn with a Group Leader and enjoy educational programming while also getting substantial independent time to explore on your own. Most Independent City Discoveries include lectures, self-guided excursions and passes for public transit and museums.

What You'll Learn

  • Marvel in the works of Michelangelo, Botticelli, Leonardo da Vinci, and others as you spend a morning at the renowned Uffizi.
  • Set out on foot to the Piazza del Duomo — the heart of historic Florence — and join a local expert to explore the Duomo Museum.
  • Explore Florence's Mercato Centrale to see and taste the flavors of Tuscany.
Featured Expert
All trip experts
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Linda O'Brien
Linda O'Brien taught art history for the European Division of the University of Maryland and lectures in Road Scholar programs in Florence and Sorrento. She began her undergraduate studies at the University of Toronto, and then moved to Brussels, Belgium to continue her studies. She was awarded an advanced degree in art history and archaeology with honors from the Université Libre de Bruxelles. She completed post-graduate work in symbolic anthropology at Stanford University and the Sorbonne.

Please note: This expert may not be available for every date of this program.

Profile Image of Linda O'Brien
Linda O'Brien View biography
Linda O'Brien taught art history for the European Division of the University of Maryland and lectures in Road Scholar programs in Florence and Sorrento. She began her undergraduate studies at the University of Toronto, and then moved to Brussels, Belgium to continue her studies. She was awarded an advanced degree in art history and archaeology with honors from the Université Libre de Bruxelles. She completed post-graduate work in symbolic anthropology at Stanford University and the Sorbonne.
Profile Image of Emily Moloney
Emily Moloney View biography
Emily Moloney, who is originally from Buffalo, New York, first came to Italy over ten years ago. She holds a master's degree in Renaissance art history and is an officially licensed tour guide. In addition to working as a private guide, Emily lectures as a professor of art history and Italian culture at several study-abroad centers in Florence. In her free time, you can find Emily at the park with her growing family. 
Visit the Road Scholar Bookshop
You can find many of the books we recommend at the Road Scholar store on bookshop.org, a website that supports local bookstores.





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