Ponte Vecchio

Our first real day in Florence and my birthday celebrated in style, with a visit to the Galleria Delgi Uffizi and more totally wonderful gelato.

It's a bit obvious, but I decided to blip an iconic picture - Ponte Vecchio as seen from Uffizi. Not absolutely clear, as it was taken though a window, but a fabulous view of the Arne with some of its bridges and reflections. Ponte Vecchio is the oldest bridge in Florence and dates back to 1345 when it was rebuilt after floods. It was the only bridge that the Germans did not blow up during World War II. It is lined with shops (very expensive jewellery) and thronging with people at all times of the day.

If anyone wants to know how to get into the Uffizi without queuing, without the crowds and without paying (almost), we are now experts!