Florence. Florence was a very different place. As Marnissa and I adventured there, our expectations where challenged and we really came to miss Rome. Florence is full of sights that are great to see, but I felt that many were over priced and most should not have charged for admission. The attractions that were the most worth their admission where often the under rated items that also became a great way to get away from the crowds.
These places included Galilaio's museum of science history, where you can walk through the evolution of science's experimental devises to see both the amazing craft and the struggle for the truth. Michealangelo's Laurentian Library was surprisingly quiet and very affordable. I really loved the woodwork of the benches and coffering. Mass in Duomo was an amazing way to experience the inside of Basilica di Santa Maria del Fiore as the choir sings and the incense fills the air. Listening to the chanting resonate off the walls in that massive space was as audibly stimulating as looking into the domes fresco.  Even if you aren't religious like me, seeing the ceremony was well worth it, especially since the tourists avoid these kind of events. Market centrale, near San Lorenzo, was also a great find if you're looking for an active place to grab a bite to eat. On the second level of the market complex and newly remodeled this cafeteria space functions much like a mall food court but with much more success. The graphics and elements design of all the venders has been unified and a great variety of food is available. At the center of the space is a sports bar with screens visible from almost all seating in the space making it a great location to view sports events like world cup games. I really enjoyed analyzing the organization of service space and common space.
Not all of Florence is bad, but you do have to look a bit harder to find the gems that are worthwhile. And some things you just have to do while in town, like climbing the duomo.