A treasure trove of ancient relics, Florence can’t possibly be experienced in just one day – but with a local host leading the way, you can certainly make the most of Italy’s romantic Renaissance jewel. At the Column of Abundance, you could learn about the creation of present-day Piazza della Repubblica, or walk to Ponte Vecchio just outside the old city, a medieval arch bridge crossing the Arno River. Maybe you’ll move between monuments like the Torre della Castagna and the San Lorenzo church, sample local cheese at an upmarket grocery store or taste Tuscan wines at a well-appointed wine bar, glimpse at the old city walls and gates, or walk among the ancient homes of the well-heeled. Lovers of literature might want to join locals browsing books at the 300-year-old library, while foodies can tuck into typical Tuscan cuisine at a cozy trattoria.