Italy’s architecturally stunning Renaissance jewel of a city drips serious panache, history and cultural dolce vita from every last Renaissance stone and statue. The choice of things to see and do in Florence is overwhelming – as are the tourist crowds, despite the city’s modest size and reassuringly safe, prosperous vibe.

Careful advance planning is the key to getting the most out of your visit to the Tuscan capital and to avoiding disappointment, too: book too late (or not at all) and you might well miss out on meeting Michelangelo’s bewitching nude boy-warrior in the “flesh,” or swooning over the breathtaking city vistas that unfold atop the Duomo’s iconic cupola. Here’s all you need to know before you head to Florence.