MY DEAR FLORENCE
If you happen to ask a Florentine what is their favorite town in the world, they will probably answer: “Do you mean, after Florence?”
No doubt that everyone is fond of their own origins but for a Florentine, being born and grown up in Florence has a particular meaning.
We are not Italians, we are not from Tuscany, we are from Florence.
Can't say I blame them.
How can anyone not be totally proud to belong to Florence?
Well, I am not originally from Florence. I was born and raised in Rome and I reached Florence at the age of 14. So still now, after so many years, I cannot say I am from Florence, at least not in front of a Florentine…
They would immediately say something like:
“I can hear some hint of a different accent, is your family from Florence?”
Luckily enough my surname is the most Florentine it can be.
“Donati” was also Dante Alighieri’s wife family name… but we left Florence in 1301, so apparently does not count.
Piazza de' Donati (Donati's Square) is right behind the Donati's Tower, in the heart of Florence.
Anyway, all this to say that Florence - even though today is totally over crowed by tourists from all over the world - for many of us living here, it is still lovable and full of surprises.
Florence has a strong character and manages to keep her authenticity intact in many corners and quarters of the Town.
You just need to have someone local
to take you around
and I can do that for you!
Come and stroll with me around town to discover some of its many secrets and stories.
I will show you my favorite shops, the ones hidden away.
My friends artisans from the leather craft to fashion design to art gallery, to paper marbling.
We will enter my friends’ laboratory
and - in some cases - we will go inside their homes, eat in their kitchens.
Can you imagine a dinner
with this view on the Brunelleschi Dome?
For those of you who are passionate about art and history, I can suggest many small museums off route, and then if you are fond of markets food, vintage or not… there are so many opportunities during the year.
I can guide you through town as you were a local and lead you to the best Spritz in town,
best cappuccino, hidden concerts, my favorite restaurants and even where to stay.
I have my very own top 10 on Florence,
ready to share with you.
I can create a complete itinerary
that will allow you to go through Florence completely independently!
For the ones of you who would like to be strolled in town by me…
I can do that too!
I will be happy to have a nice chat to help you create an unforgettable stay in Florence.
Testimonials
"Luisa Donati is a joy to work with!
Her vast knowledge of the Marche region and her personal contacts with local artists and artisans, shop keepers, and restaurant owners guarantee access to authentic regional cuisine and experiences, taking you inside the daily life of the town while introducing you to the surrounding area's hidden gems."
- Angela Ferrario,
International Study Tours LLC
