La dolce far niente. The sweetness of doing nothing. If there is a foreign mentality we can embrace, this is it. A weekend in Florence means long walks down ancient streets, long lunches with our favourite accessory, a good book and a plan to have no plans at all.

Stay…
A short walk along the Arno river you’ll find Riva Lofts. Part rustic farm house, part contemporary hotel, the lofts offer ten rooms, each as luxurious as they are homely. Once a factory, it's had many reincarnations as an atelier workshop, an architecture design space, and now Riva Lofts - its rich history only adding to the charm. With summers spent by the pool and winters by the fireplace, mi casa es su casa has never rung more true.

Eat…
Mornings begin at Ditta Artigianale for coffee like they make at home. For post-gallery mornings, a sandwich from All’Antico Vinaio is a must. You shouldn’t (and couldn’t) go past the porchetta rolls stacked high on the counter. For traditional fare that hasn’t changed since your gandmas cooking go straight to Trattoria Sostanza (get the artichoke omelette) or for those nights you’re feeling just a little more fancy our pick is La Giostra.

Do…
Via de’Tornabuoni – home of Salvatore Ferragamo’s flagship store where you’ll find the Museo di Ferragamo, housing the complete history of the brand. For beauty lovers a must is the Officina Profumo Farmaceutica di Santa Maria Novella. Dating back to the early 1300s, the fragrance and beauty house created by monks is simply heaven.

Take…
Comfortable shoes. A carry all for day and a small bag for nights when all you need is a phone and a blush.