Florence is home to many of Italy's most famous historical figures. The architecture is amazing, the food is fabulous and the history is rich. While many would happily spend the rest of their days in this beautiful city, here is a list of five places not to be missed for those who can only spend a short time in this Italian paradise.

The Duomo

The Cathedral of Santa Maria del Fiore has become the symbol of Florence. For most Italian cities the cathedral is the most visited location, and Florence is no exception. Get there early to avoid the crowds. Be sure to climb to the top for a breathtaking view of the city, but you may want to skip it if you're claustrophobic as the way is quite narrow and low. Worth noting is that you can also climb the bell tower opposite the duomo for a cityscape that includes the cathedral.

The Baptistry

The Baptistry of Saint John the Baptist is located in the same square as the duomo, and well worth a peek inside. The structure dates back to the eleventh century and is made up of beautiful white and green marble with three amazing bronze doors (the originals of which are in the Duomo Museum). Inside are beautiful mosaics, and the floor contains a pavement of marble that depicts the zodiac.

Museo dell'Opera di Santa Croce

The Santa Croce is the largest Franciscan monastery in Italy and contains elaborate stained-glass windows and paintings by some of Italy's most famous artists. But the big draw is that the Santa Croce is the final resting place of Florence's most amazing men, including Galileo, Michelangelo, Dante and Machiavelli. Take your time walking amongst the tombs, but be sure to go into the museum as well.

Galleria degli Uffizi

This is by far Italy's most visited art museum. At any given time the wait can be arduous, especially for little ones. To avoid the lines, buy your tickets well in advance. Then you can spend all of that time admiring the works of Leonardo da Vinci, Michelangelo, Raphael and Donatello. Be sure to swing by a restaurant for some pizza afterward!

Pitti Palace

Once the home of the Medici family, this palace contains fabulous exhibits and a park that sits behind it with gardens and fountains for a relaxing feel inside the city. Inside you can view eight galleries that include exhibits of jewelry, costumes and artwork, as well as the apartments of the Medici family.