Inside Florence: a local’s guide to the Italian city and surrounding region

Discover Florence through a local lens, from its world-renowned culture to sought-after neighbourhoods and countryside retreats

Ellie Pryor

05 August 2026

2 mins read

Inside Florence: a local’s guide to the Italian city and surrounding region

Bill Thomson is Chairman of Knight Frank’s Italian Network. Based in Tuscany, he established Knight Frank’s presence in Italy more than 30 years ago, helping to build it into one of the longest-standing international agencies operating in the country.

Here, he shares his insight into the cultural richness of Florence and what makes both the city and its surrounding countryside so distinctive. He also explores the character of its key neighbourhoods and why it continues to attract international buyers to the region.

How would you describe Florence to someone discovering the city for the first time?

The birthplace of the Renaissance and the capital of Tuscany, Florence occupies a unique place in global cultural history. Recognised as a UNESCO World Heritage Site, the city is synonymous with artistic brilliance. Within the vast halls of the Uffizi Gallery hang masterpieces by Botticelli, Caravaggio and Leonardo da Vinci, while beyond its museum walls, Florence unfolds as a living gallery. Strolling its cobbled streets reveals architectural marvels at every turn, from the Duomo crowned by Brunelleschi’s celebrated dome to the Palazzo Vecchio and the Galleria dell’Accademia, home to Michelangelo’s iconic sculpture David.

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Why is Florence attractive to international buyers?

Despite its international prestige, Florence remains remarkably accessible and liveable. Its compact scale fosters an intimate atmosphere. The community is welcoming yet distinctly cosmopolitan, making it especially appealing to buyers seeking an authentic Italian lifestyle without sacrificing connectivity or convenience. Florence’s global appeal is longstanding; figures such as Florence Nightingale and Mary Shelley once resided here. Today, that tradition endures through a well-established international community, supported by respected local and international schools, rail connections across Italy, and a well-served airport.

Which neighbourhoods are most sought after in Florence?

For those seeking a balance between city living and natural beauty, the southern hillside neighbourhoods of Bellosguardo and Pian dei Giullari offer particularly compelling options. These elevated enclaves provide sweeping views over the Tuscan countryside, with historic villas often set within expansive gardens and characterised by generous proportions and privacy. Closer to the centre, Porta Romana acts as a natural gateway between Florence’s historic core and its greener outskirts, positioned near both the city’s key landmarks and the Boboli Gardens. Nearby, Santo Spirito captures a different atmosphere, defined by its bohemian spirit, artisan workshops, lively markets and a dynamic dining scene.

How has demand changed in the wider countryside region?

Beyond the city itself, the wider Tuscan countryside is experiencing renewed interest. As lifestyles evolve and flexibility increases, more buyers are prioritising space, privacy and a stronger connection to nature. Villages surrounding Siena, in particular, are gaining traction for offering relative value alongside tranquillity and charm.