CNS*2025 Florence: Local Info

 

Official Language 

The official language of the meeting is English, and no interpretation services are available. English is generally sufficient for communication throughout the city. 

Insurance 

The organizers are not responsible for providing individual medical, travel, or personal insurance. It is strongly recommended that all participants arrange their own personal insurance before travelling to the conference. 

Currency & Banking 

The official currency in Italy is Euro (€). Visit www.xe.com for current exchange rates. Foreign currency exchange is available at airports and throughout the city. 

It is possible to pay in cash or use your credit card, and in some cases, even via smartphone. The main electronic payment networks in operation are Visa, MasterCard/Cirrus/Maestro, American Express, Bancomat, Postamat, and PagoBancomat. 

Electricity 

In Italy, electrical outlets are regulated by the CEI 23-50 standard, all of which are symmetrical and non-polarized, meaning the plug can be inserted either way. You can find type C outlets, with 2 or 3 symmetrical holes, or type L outlets, which have larger cables and pins. The multi-standard outlet combines both types and allows you to connect all types of Italian plugs as well as the German Schuko plug. If needed, you can find adapters for different plugs in supermarkets, specialized stores, and most hotels. Electricity is supplied everywhere as alternating current, at 220V and a frequency of 50 Hz. 

Time Zone 

In Italy, the time zone in effect is CET (Central European Time), which, during the so-called standard time period, from the beginning of autumn to the end of winter, is one hour ahead of Greenwich Mean Time (UTC+1). In spring and summer, daylight saving time is in effect, which corresponds to UTC+2, meaning two hours ahead of Greenwich Mean Time. The dates for switching from standard time to daylight saving time vary from year to year. 

Weather 

The climate in Florence is temperate and humid, with very hot summers. The average annual temperature is around 15°C, slightly higher in the urban area. In July and August, temperatures exceed 32°C, with humidity levels that can reach significant peaks. As a result, the weather may feel particularly muggy. 

Eating and drinking 

Florentine cuisine is roughly characterized by at least five fundamental elements: Tuscan bread, extra virgin olive oil s, meat (grilled, Florentine beef steaks, roasted and/or braised game such as wild boar, rabbit, and deer), legumes like beans and chickpeas, and finally, Chianti wine. 

Throughout the city there are many typical restaurants; here you can find a list of the most famous: 

https://www.firenzemadeintuscany.com/en/article/the-best-trattorie-in-florence/ 

What to see in Florence 

As you walk through the streets of Florence's historic center, you can admire art and culture at every corner, from Renaissance palaces to elegant 19th-century residences, not to mention the countless churches, museums, and sculptures. There is truly an endless array of sights to see in Florence, including both must-see attractions and those known only to a few. 

Below is a list of attractions which cannot be missed: 

  • Cattedrale di Santa Maria del Fiore 
  • Piazza della Signoria and Palazzo Vecchio (Salone dei Cinquecento)
  • Ponte Vecchio 
  • Galleria degli Uffizi 
  • Galleria dell'Accademia 
  • Basilica di Santa Maria Novella 
  • Palazzo Pitti 
  • Giardino di Boboli 
  • Piazzale Michelangelo