Florence-suggestions for off the beaten track
 

Yes, we know all the museums and churches that we must see, and will. But what have you stumbled upon that made you smile and reminded you why you love to travel? We have 3 days, and then we're off to more rural Tuscan environs. My travel ideology is in line with Rick Steves. Be with the locals. Eat what they eat. See how they live. Ideas?????

Have you been to Florence before? How about Fiesole, a small town overlooking Florence and about a 20 minute bus ride from Piazza San Marco. And while you are in Piazza San Marco, visit the museum for the frescos of Fra Angelico. Visit the Pallazo Medici-Riccardi for the Adoration of the Magi fresco in the chapel.

Without knowing what museums and churches are already on your list, it is hard to make new recommendations. After 7 trips to Florence, we always come across new and wonderful things.

We love exploring the lesser known monasteries with Last Supper frescoes done by some of Florence's most famous artists. They're often off the beaten track and peaceful to visit, especially Sarto's masterpiece in the church of San Salvi. A short trip by bus from the center, it's located near to Trattoria Tre Soldi, which is a very local restaurant:
http://www.tripadvisor.com/Restauran...e_Tuscany.html
Have a great trip

Check out accidentaltourist.com. We had an amazing day with them, going to a home in the Chianti hills, making pasta and having a wonderful, authentic, home cooked Italian lunch. They pick you up in town. They also do wine tastings and other local tours. It is one of our best memories of Italy!

I don't know how off the beaten track this is any more but it used to be...the Brancacci Chapel for its wonderful frescoes.

http://www.museumsinflorence.com/mus...ci_chapel.html

You could also try San Minato al Monte.

http://www.sacred-destinations.com/i...niato-al-monte

We have been to Florence a number of times and the time before last discovered the existence of the "Last Supper" frescoes mentioned above. We got a list from the tourism office on the street that runs north between the Doumo and the Baptistry (Via dei Calzaioli) about one block north of Via Dei Cerretani. They are generally located within walking distance of the tourism office -- except for the one at San Salvi and one other outside of the city. But these are really interesting and a glimpse of history.

Also second the suggestion of the Brancacci Chapel.

The Gozzoli frescoes at the Medici-Riccardi, mentioned above, are a fabulous little hidden gem, easy to get to.

Everyone should see them.

Another vote for Fiesole.

We had a great time there - and really enjoyed the Etruscan ruins. Totally unexpected.

For a great "off the beaten track" day take the 07:29 regional train that goes all the way, over the mountains (not via Bologna), to Ravenna where it arrives at 10:02. No reservations. Stops in many quaint places, shows the valleys and mountains and the local "real" commuter folks, you feel immersed.
In Ravenna, marvel at the byzantine world heritage mosaics (http://whc.unesco.org/en/list/788), then take the fast train back via Bologna. If you're a foodie, stop in Bologna long enough for a sumptuous dinner, the last train leaves at 9:20PM and takes 35 minutes.

By one count, there are 72 museums or museum-like sights in Florence. Which ones are your must-sees is your call. Here's a list:

http://www.museumsinflorence.com/

I love mosaics, wood inlays, etc., and especially enjoyed the Opificio delle Pietre Dure which is rarely, if ever, mentioned anywhere.

"Be with the locals. Eat what they eat. See how they live." That would be easiest to do in the off season, but there are Florence locals, and with a little research you can find restaurants frequented more by locals than tourists. If you take an early morning walk, you'll see mostly locals going about their business. You don't have to leave town.

To me, "off the beaten track" means (generally) tiny towns not mentioned in guidebooks or travel forums and usually require a car to reach. What does it mean to you?

Thanks, all. Fiesole had come to mind. Jean, by "off the beaten track" I was intending suggestions IN Florence, just not the expected tourist destinations.