We will be spending Dec 24-26 in Florence. Anyone have suggestions on things to do on Christmas Day and the 26th, both of which are holidays in Italy?

I was in a Florence a number of years ago over XMAS and EVERYTHING was closed - including restaurants and places to buy food. So, buy food in advance. We figured 'when in Florence at Christmas' and went to church on christmas eve and day. It was quite an experience - very differant than we were expecting or had expereinced before. Then we spent time writing postcards, relaxing, reading, and walking around a quiet city.

When you say everything is closed, is this just on Christmas Day? What about on Christmas Eve?

Try this and scroll down to the Christmas in Florence article. It isn't exactly what you are asking, but it may prove useful with the email addresses

http://www.florencevillas.com/newsle...letter_16.html

Also the Holiday Fairs article in this newsletter might be helpful:

http://www.florencevillas.com/newsle...letter_17.html

also:

http://www.florencevillas.com/newsletter/nl_29.htm

Thanks for the links.

I'm guessing that Christmas Day in Florence will be pretty quiet. I'm just curious if there will be any restaurants open, or if we should buy some food the day before.