Renaissance culture-vulture-athletes can easily justify a sequence of nights in Florence, tucking into the surrounding hills between the city's food, wine and architecture. As a stepping stone between Rome, one hundred miles to the south, and Milan, just 40 miles to the north, Florence has plenty to contend with, especially given its tiny size. The town packs a punch, with short travel times yet with an ample supply of good food and wine to reward time on track, in the saddle or thrashing lanes during your stay.

To make the most of this Florence . . .