In the sacred tourist triangle of Italian cities, Florence beats Venice and Rome in popularity: over 8 million people visit the city every year. Every second person appears to be a tourist searching in vain for one of the city's four nude Davids. (Michelangelo's sculpture is in the Accademia but copies stand outside the Palazzo Vecchio and on the Piazzale Michelangelo; Donatello's more subdued David is in the Bargello).

The capital of Tuscany is set in the Arno river valley 164 feet above sea-level. Florence has the valley basin and protective chain of hills to thank for its mild climate. Only in July and August, when the heat is stifling and the nights prone to thunderstorms, do conditions become uncomfortable. Then it is best to follow the Florentines, if only for the afternoon, in leaving the city heat haze for Fiesole or any spot in the cool encircling hills.

The Insight FlexiMap of Florence is a great travel addition. Here is an innovative laminated folding map that marries durability and convenience with accuracy, utility, and readability.

Produced with state-of-the-art technology, FlexiMaps feature detailed city street and road maps clearly marked with all the sites and services of particular interest to travelers.

Text and photographs offer a wealth of valuable tourist information including "10 sights you shouldn't miss," plus information on transportation, visas, currency, important telephone numbers, emergency services, and more.

Price: $7.95