Overlooking the piazza is the 13th-century fortress palace Palazzo Vecchio

For a self-guided tour of Florence's historical centre, start at the Piazza del Duomo and Cattedrale di Santa Maria del Fiore, then head south.

Pass the Museo Casa di Dante – built on the site of poet Dante Alighieri’s house – on your way to the spectacular outdoor sculpture display that is Piazza della Signoria, which features a Neptune fountain.

Overlooking the piazza is the 13th-century fortress palace Palazzo Vecchio, which is famous for its tall Gothic belltower. From here, head east on Via dell’Anguillara to Piazza di Santa Croce, where you can have an alfresco lunch while admiring the Basilica di Santa Croce.