But really, what’s not to enjoy about the sunflower-filled rolling hills, cypress trees that dot the horizon, freshly pressed olive oil, and world-class Chianti wine at dirt-cheap prices? Not to mention the amazingly in-tact Medieval and Renaissance art and architecture that can be seen all over the region. It’s no wonder Florence took home the “Best City in Europe” award from Travel + Leisure. But if you ask me, the best part of visiting Florence is not Botticelli’s Primavera (which has been visited by 24% more tourists this year than in 2005), or Michelangelo’s David (up by 5.1% from 2005), but simply knowing that you’re walking around the same city that inspired these great masterpieces. — Laura Cimperman