Situated by the River Arno among the Tuscany hills, Florence is surely one of the most beautiful cities in the world. Its associations with art, culture and luxury can make it an expensive destination. Rather than staying in a restricting hotel, consider renting self-catering accommodation. Not only will you save money to spend on activities, you and your family will have more space. When your children have finally had enough of pizza and mouth-watering ice-cream, cook them their favourite food just when it suits you. After a morning sightseeing, come back to your apartment for a siesta to replenish your energy in time for the evening.

Admirers of Italian Renaissance art will be in their element in Florence, and the Uffizi Gallery will be top of the list of places to visit. Try to go early, as the queues build up quickly. Don't miss the Duomo, Brunelleschi's red-tiled dome: those who climb the 463 steps to the top will be rewarded with a breath-taking view. The statue of David in Piazza della Signoria is just a replica; to see Michelangelo's original David be sure to visit the Galleria dell'Accademia. When you have had your fill of art and museums, enjoy watching craftsmen at work in the Oltrarno Workshops. Relax with a glass of Chianti at the end of the day, when you might be lucky enough to witness a glorious sunset over the River Arno.

Florence is the ideal city to introduce your children to the world of Italian art and culture. Visit the Children's Museum or Museo del Ragazzi at the Palazzo Vecchio, where there are actors and entertainers. Children as young as three can take part in activities such as dressing up or playing with lenses. Your budding scientists are likely to be fascinated by some of the exhibits at the Institute and Museum of Science. Florence is not all about museums, of course: why not go for a picnic in the Boboli Gardens at Palazzo Pitti? There is also the possibility of rides on the Antique Carousel at Piazza Repubblica, or a horse-riding tour of the city.

Renting a holiday flat in Florence is the perfect low-cost option for your family holiday. You can save even more money by staying in the outskirts of the city or by travelling in June or September, when the weather will be pleasantly warm. Why not read our unbiased customer reviews before you make your booking? We can offer you a range of self-catering accommodation in the city, and we assure you that we will give you the best value there is. You will enjoy your stay in Florence all the more when you book through us.