Florence

Florence is the birthplace of the Renaissance, a compact Tuscan city where the Duomo's dome still dominates the skyline exactly as it did when Brunelleschi built it. It draws art pilgrims for the Uffizi and Michelangelo's David, but the city is small enough to walk in an afternoon, unlike sprawling Rome or Milan's business-first pace. The vibe is old-money and artisanal, leather workshops and family-run trattorias rather than nightlife.

Bistecca alla fiorentina, a thick T-bone steak grilled rare over coals, is the dish locals actually order, along with pappa al pomodoro, a thick bread and tomato soup. Coffee is drunk standing at the bar, sitting down at a table usually costs more. Many restaurants add a modest coperto, a per-person cover charge for bread and table service, separate from the tip.