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It may be small, but Florence contains a quarter of the planet's UNESCO world heritage sites, which can be overwhelming for first-time visitors. With this ratio of classics per square meter, it's impossible to see everything in one visit -- so don't try.

A good starting point is Florence's cathedral, the Duomo (Piazza del Duomo), which dominates the city's skyline. Climb up the inside of Brunelleschi's 15th-century dome and admire the views from the cupola.

If you only visit one museum, pick carefully. For sculpture, head to the Bargello (Via del Proconsolo, 4; +39 055 2388-606; www.firenzemusei.it). For art, it has to be the Uffizi Galleries (Piazzale degli Uffizi, 6; +39 055 2388-651; www.firenzemusei.it). Read full article »