We have quickly discovered that one of the joys of Florence is easy access to some beautiful gardens, which serve as a necessary re;ease from the throngs of people in every street. We visited two yesterday, the Giardino Barbolo and the Giardino Bardini. The Barbolo is the larger and more famous of these gardens but is in practice a little too large for an easy visit, and a little too under-maintened. The Giardino Bardini, on the other hand, is a wonderful garden, beautifully maintained and with superb views across Florence. The price for the views are stiff hills to climb, but they are well worth the effort.

As was the Aperol they serve in the cafe at the top!