Night excursions are often my most favourite things to do in a big city. I often post night guides of the famous cities I have visited (free activity guides; because I totally believe in budget travel). I just realised that I never got to write about Florence or Firenze at night; something that we have cherished for years after. So here you go.
1. Hang out on the Piazza Michelangelo after watching the sunset.
Sunset on the highest point of this artistic city is THE most important thing to do in Florence. Same goes with sunrise too, you can never get bored. Magical would be an understatement!
So after it starts getting dark, the people will get into party mood. Singing, cellos, wine etc etc. Just watching the Italians and other tourists do their thing itself is such a delight. Not to forget watching the city get lit up from the top of the hill is magnificent.
2. Walk along the Arno river
Walking is definitely the most underrated form of entertainment when in a beautiful, new city. And when it's along a waterbody, it's all the more magical! You can go to Ponte Vecchio too, although the shops would be closed, people can be seen indulging in music and other kinds of activities. Everywhere the locals are trying to entertain the entertain the tourists and expecting tips in return.
3. Get a gelato at a cute place
Gelatos can really be expensive at gelatarias or ristorantes I mean in big cities like Florence. You can't expect any dolce under 2 Euro, which is quite a lot , if you are buying for the entire family, after every meal. But what I want to say is that the entire getting a gelato is also an experience.
I loved selecting a place based on its decor. Think Tuscan countryside vibes: stone walls, olive trees, huge urns, etc etc.
4. Get pizza and pasta
Can you ever get bored of pizzas and pastas when in Italia? The answer is a FREAKING NO! Having and elaborate meal at night is more enjoyable because of the endless forms of entertainment going on in the piazzas or city squares. That's why I love dining al fresco, since it opens you up to the outside world. The entertainers surely expect tips, but it's not compulsory. After all, you did not ask them to play their cellos or entertain you with gigantic bubbles! If you don't plan to tip, don't photograph them!
5. Roam on the streets and window shop
Some of these cities are literally heaven for luxury shopping. But let's get it straight: you really can't go inside and browse unless you plan to buy something. I mean we brown people are already notorious for being poor and window shopping during the prime hours would destroy our image even more! At night, the showrooms are closed but the windows are illuminated throughout the night. You can not only browse but at your own pace but without being scrutinised too! It's really fun! Try it!
So what's the most favourite activity you love indulging at night while exploring a new city?
This blog post is part of the blog challenge ‘Blogaberry Dazzle’ hosted by Cindy D’Silva and Noor Anand Chawla in collaboration with Mads’ Cookhouse.