Family Cultural Exploration in Florence

Echoes of the Renaissance

Today, Florence truly revealed itself as a living museum, a place where every stone has a story and every corner holds a masterpiece. From the spiritual heights of Santa Croce to the bustling Piazza della Signoria, it was a day of immersion in art, history, and the vibrant pulse of Florentine life.



The day began with a hearty breakfast at Golden View Firenze. Overlooking the Arno, the restaurant provided not only delicious food but also a stunning panorama of the Ponte Vecchio. I savored a cappuccino and a pastry, watching the city awaken, a perfect start before diving into the day's itinerary. Greta and Kian were equally captivated by the view, a reminder of why we chose Florence for our family adventure. The weather in Florence in January is on the cooler side, but it wasn't very cold, with highs during the day of about 9-10 Celsius. We made sure to dress in layers as recommended, with scarves, and waterproof jackets, as it gets warm in the sunlight during the day, but it also may rain. Comfortable, waterproof shoes are also recommended, as Florence is the ultimate walking city.



Our first stop was the Basilica of Santa Croce. As we approached, the sheer size of the building was awe-inspiring. The striped green-and-white marble facade shimmered under the morning sun. Inside, the basilica was even more breathtaking. The vast interior, with its nave and side aisles, felt both simple and monumental. Kian was immediately drawn to the intricate details of the stained-glass windows, their colors dancing across the ancient stones. Greta, with her librarian's eye, was fascinated by the architecture, pointing out the subtle Gothic elements that hinted at the basilica's long history. I found myself captivated by the frescoes, particularly those by Giotto. They seemed to breathe life into the walls, telling stories of faith and humanity with vibrant colors and emotive figures. The Basilica of Santa Croce is known as the Temple of the Italian Glories because it is the resting place of many illustrious Italians. We paid our respects at the tombs of Michelangelo, Galileo, and Machiavelli, a humbling experience to stand in the presence of such genius. It was here, surrounded by such artistic and historical grandeur, that I understood why Stendhal experienced his famous syndrome, a feeling of being overwhelmed by the sheer intensity of art.




Discover the Basilica of Santa Croce in Florence, a masterpiece of Gothic architecture and the final resting place of Italy's greatest artists and thinkers.

Art is not what you see, but what you make others see.

Leaving the Basilica, we strolled towards Piazza della Signoria, the heart of Florence's political and social life. The piazza was bustling with activity, a vibrant mix of locals and tourists. The imposing Palazzo Vecchio dominated one side of the square, its architecture a testament to Florence's power and history. The Loggia dei Lanzi, an open-air sculpture gallery, was a particular highlight. The statues, each with its own story, seemed to guard the square, silent witnesses to centuries of Florentine life. Kian was fascinated by Cellini's Perseus holding the head of Medusa, its dramatic depiction of mythology capturing his imagination. Greta and I admired the Loggia's architecture, a beautiful example of late Gothic design. We learned that the Loggia dei Lanzi dates back to the reign of Grand Duke Cosimo I, when it was used to house his formidable Landsknechts, or German mercenary pikemen. The statues, in fact, were chosen according to merely aesthetic criteria but to affirm and represent specific political meaning.




Discover the captivating beauty and rich history of Piazza della Signoria, Florence's iconic square filled with art, culture, and vibrant life.



Lunch at La Giostra was a culinary delight. The restaurant, recommended by a local friend, offered a cozy and charming atmosphere. We started with a complimentary glass of prosecco, a warm gesture that set the tone for the meal. The pear and ricotta ravioli was a standout, the flavors perfectly balanced and the pasta cooked to perfection. Kian, usually a picky eater, devoured his plate of spaghetti with gusto. Greta and I savored every bite, appreciating the restaurant's commitment to quality ingredients and traditional Florentine cuisine. The staff was very friendly and attentive. After we placed our order, we were given a free platter of antipasto. The restaurant is taylor made for american tourist, meaning; poor service, below average food and 30% overpriced. However, we enjoyed our meal and the atmosphere.




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



After lunch, we indulged in a bit of retail therapy at the Davide Cerasi Leather Boutique. Florence is renowned for its leather goods, and I was keen to find a unique souvenir. The boutique offered a wide selection of high-quality leather products, from jackets to bags to wallets. I found a beautiful leather-bound journal, perfect for recording my travel experiences. Greta purchased a stylish handbag, and Kian chose a small leather dinosaur, a quirky reminder of our Florentine adventure. While there are many leather shops in Florence, I was happy with the quality and service at Davide Cerasi. I've always appreciated the craftsmanship and durability of well-made leather goods, a passion I likely inherited from my own father, who cherished his leather Tar case.




Experience the artistry of Italian leather at Davide Cerasi Leather Boutique, a must-visit destination for luxury shoppers in Florence.



As evening approached, we headed to Ristorante Borgo San Jacopo for dinner. Located within Hotel Lungarno, the restaurant offered stunning views of the Ponte Vecchio. The ambiance was elegant and exclusive, a perfect setting for a special meal. We opted for the tasting menu, a culinary journey through the flavors of Tuscany. Each course was a work of art, beautifully presented and expertly prepared. The sommelier paired each dish with a local wine, enhancing the dining experience. Kian, though usually restless during formal dinners, was captivated by the attentive service and the exquisite flavors. Greta and I savored every moment, appreciating the restaurant's commitment to culinary excellence. The restaurant boasts the same elegant and exclusive style as the hotel. Chef Claudio Mengoni is at the helm here, having gained experience working in various Michelin-starred restaurants before returning home to Florence about three years ago. Sommelier Salvatore Biscotti is responsible for the excellent wine selection, which includes around a thousand different labels featuring renowned estates and small producers alike. It's well worth booking one of the few romantic tables overlooking the Arno.




Discover the epitome of fine dining in Florence at Ristorante Borgo San Jacopo, where traditional Italian cuisine meets modern elegance.



Before heading back to Hotel Medici, we took a final stroll through Piazza della Signoria. The square was quieter now, the crowds having thinned out. The statues stood in silent vigil, bathed in the soft glow of the streetlights. I paused for a moment, taking in the scene, feeling a deep sense of gratitude for the experiences of the day. Florence had truly captured my heart, its beauty and history weaving a spell that I knew would last a lifetime. We saw that The Grand Carnival Parade in Florence's historic center is scheduled for February 9, 2025, with an encore on February 15, something to keep in mind if we are still in Florence then.




Discover the charm of Florence at Hotel Medici, where comfort meets convenience in a prime city-center location. Ideal for tourists and travelers alike.

Tomorrow, we plan to visit the Galleria dell’Accademia to see Michelangelo's David, the San Marco Museum, and the Basilica di San Lorenzo. I'm particularly excited about seeing David, a masterpiece that I've long admired. We'll also be trying out Ristorante Belcore for breakfast, Buca dell'Orafo for lunch, and Coquinarius for dinner, and perhaps enjoying a drink at Bitter Bar. I'm sure tomorrow will bring even more discoveries and unforgettable moments.



As I sit here writing, I can still feel the echoes of the Renaissance, the spirit of creativity and innovation that permeates every corner of this remarkable city. Florence is more than just a destination; it's an experience, a journey through time and art that leaves an indelible mark on the soul.