Florentine Adventures with Friends

A Bird's-Eye View of Florence

Today was all about seeing Florence from new perspectives, both literally and figuratively. It's amazing how a change in altitude can completely transform your understanding of a place. I was eager to experience the city's iconic landmarks and hidden corners, and today's itinerary promised just that.

Our day began, as all good days in Italy should, with breakfast at Il Vezzo. It’s a charming spot, and I was eager to try their Tuscan take on breakfast. I opted for a simple pastry and a cappuccino, perfect for fueling up for the climb ahead. Marco and Giovanni, the owners, clearly pour their passion into the place; Giovanni's wine list alone is a testament to his dedication to showcasing Tuscan producers. I made a mental note to return for dinner sometime, perhaps even later in the trip if we can squeeze it in. I overheard another patron raving about the beef ragu, so that's definitely on my list.


Discover authentic Tuscan flavors at Il Vezzo, Florence's beloved Italian restaurant offering a delightful dining experience.

First up was the Campanile di Giotto, Giotto's Bell Tower. I must admit, the thought of climbing over 400 steps was a bit daunting, especially after indulging in the delicious pastries. But the promise of panoramic views kept me motivated. As I ascended, the stairwell became increasingly narrow, and I found myself pausing frequently, not just to catch my breath, but to admire the intricate marble work within the tower itself. The climb was a testament to the craftsmanship of the Florentine Gothic style, with its geometric decorations.


Discover the breathtaking Campanile di Giotto in Florence, a Gothic masterpiece offering stunning views and rich artistic history, a must-see for every traveler.

Reaching the top was an absolute triumph. The views were simply breathtaking. Florence spread out before me, a sea of terracotta rooftops punctuated by the Duomo's magnificent dome. I could see the Arno snaking its way through the city, and the rolling hills of Tuscany in the distance. It was a moment of pure awe, a reminder of the beauty and history that permeates every corner of this city. I spent a good while simply soaking it all in, taking photos, and etching the scene into my memory.

Sometimes, the best way to understand a place is to see it from above, to gain a new perspective on its layout, its history, and its beauty.

After descending from the Campanile, my friends and I decided to treat ourselves to lunch at Coquinarius. The restaurant was bustling, and we were lucky to snag a table. I opted for a light pasta dish with seasonal vegetables. Coquinarius is known for its wine selection, so I asked our server for a recommendation. He suggested a crisp Tuscan white that paired perfectly with my meal. The atmosphere was lively and convivial, and I enjoyed chatting with my friends about our Florentine adventures so far.


Discover authentic Italian cuisine at Coquinarius in Florence - where tradition meets modern taste in a cozy setting.

With renewed energy, we set off for Piazzale Michelangelo. The walk up to the Piazzale was a bit of a trek, but the views along the way were well worth it. We passed through the Porta San Niccolò, a historic gate that once formed part of Florence's defensive walls. The climb was steep, but the anticipation of reaching the Piazzale kept us going. I could see the Giardino delle Rose, but we decided to save it for another time.


Experience the stunning panoramic views of Florence at Piazzale Michelangelo, an iconic plaza that captures the city's beauty and charm.

Piazzale Michelangelo offered yet another stunning panorama of Florence. This time, however, the perspective was different. From here, I could appreciate the city's skyline in all its glory, with the Duomo, Palazzo Vecchio, and Ponte Vecchio standing out against the backdrop of the Tuscan hills. The square was filled with people, all admiring the view and taking photos. There was a lively atmosphere, with street performers and vendors adding to the ambiance. I took some time to simply wander around, soaking in the energy of the place.

As the afternoon drew to a close, we made our way to the Loggia dei Lanzi, an open-air sculpture gallery located in Piazza della Signoria. The Loggia was built in the 14th century to house public ceremonies, and it's now home to a collection of impressive Renaissance and Roman sculptures. I was particularly struck by Benvenuto Cellini's bronze statue of Perseus holding the head of Medusa. The statue is a masterpiece of Mannerist sculpture, and it's a powerful symbol of the victory of good over evil. My friend, who is more into history than I am, explained that the Loggia got its name from the Landsknechts, German mercenary pikemen, who were stationed here in the 16th century. It's amazing how much history is packed into every corner of Florence!


Discover the exquisite beauty and rich history of Loggia dei Lanzi, an iconic open-air gallery in Florence showcasing Renaissance masterpieces.

Before dinner, I decided to do a little shopping at Boutique Nadine. I had read about this shop, which specializes in vintage clothing and accessories, and I was eager to check it out. The boutique was a treasure trove of unique finds. I spotted a vintage Burberry trench coat that I absolutely loved, but I resisted the urge to buy it, reminding myself that I really didn't need another coat. I did, however, find a beautiful silk scarf with a Florentine motif, which I purchased as a souvenir of my trip. Perhaps I'll visit their other location on Via de' Benci tomorrow, I've heard they have a cute sleeping cat there.


Discover unique women's fashion and accessories at Boutique Nadine, a premier shopping destination in the heart of Florence, Italy.

For dinner, we had reservations at La Giostra, a restaurant that had been highly recommended to us. The restaurant had a cozy and intimate atmosphere, with vaulted ceilings and candlelit tables. We were greeted with a complimentary glass of sparkling wine and a selection of appetizers. I ordered the pear ravioli, which was absolutely divine. My friends opted for the Bistecca alla Fiorentina, which they declared was the best steak they had ever tasted. The service was impeccable, and we felt like we were dining with Florentine royalty. It was the perfect ending to a perfect day.


Discover La Giostra: A premier Tuscan restaurant in Florence offering authentic Italian cuisine amidst enchanting surroundings.

Tomorrow, we plan to explore the Piazza Santo Spirito, visit the Museo Nazionale del Bargello, and see the Basilica di San Lorenzo. I'm also hoping to find some time to relax at Antico Caffè del Moro - Art Bar Firenze. I am already looking forward to another day of Florentine adventures!

The city continues to surprise me at every turn. From the breathtaking views atop Giotto's Campanile to the artistic treasures housed within the Loggia dei Lanzi, Florence has revealed itself to be a city of endless wonders. It's a place where history, art, and culture come together in a truly unique and unforgettable way. I am so grateful to be here, experiencing all that this amazing city has to offer. I can't wait to see what tomorrow brings!

I did miss my family today, especially Lila. I bought her a little leather-bound journal from a street vendor near the Ponte Vecchio. I think she'll love it, and I can't wait to hear all about her adventures when I return to Munich.