Florence Renaissance Adventure with Friends

A Final Florentine Flourish

As our Florentine adventure draws to a close, I find myself reflecting on the incredible experiences we've shared over the past nine days. Today was all about soaking in the last drops of this city's magic, discovering hidden corners, and savoring the flavors that have defined our culinary journey. It’s hard to believe our time here is already coming to an end, but I’m determined to make the most of every last moment, cherishing the memories made with my friends.

Our final day began with a delightful breakfast at Club Culinario Toscano da Osvaldo. The aroma of freshly baked bread and strong Italian coffee filled the air, setting the perfect tone for our last day of exploration. Osvaldo's is a cozy spot, bustling with locals and offering a taste of authentic Tuscan cuisine. I opted for a simple yet satisfying breakfast of *pane tostato* with *marmellata* and, of course, a cappuccino. The atmosphere was warm and inviting, making it a great start to the day.

After breakfast, we made our way to the Chiesa di Santa Maria Maggiore, one of Florence's oldest churches. It's a bit more understated than some of the grander cathedrals, but its history and charm are undeniable. The exterior, with its Romanesque bell tower incorporated into the facade, tells a story of centuries past. Inside, the church felt peaceful and serene, a welcome respite from the bustling city streets. I found myself captivated by the simple beauty of the interior and the sense of history that permeated every corner. Greta would have loved the architecture.


Discover the serene beauty of Chiesa di Santa Maria Maggiore, a historic Catholic church in Florence that captivates with its artistry and tranquility.

The beauty of Florence lies not only in its grand monuments but also in its hidden corners, waiting to be discovered and cherished.

Next on our itinerary was the Piazza della Santissima Annunziata, a square that truly embodies the Renaissance spirit. Designed with harmonious proportions and surrounded by elegant porticoes, it's a feast for the eyes. The equestrian monument of Ferdinando I de' Medici dominates the square, flanked by two fountains with whimsical sea monsters. We took our time strolling around, admiring the architecture and soaking in the atmosphere. The square's history is rich and fascinating, having served as a focal point for religious, cultural, and economic life in Florence for centuries. It’s amazing to think that up until 1750, the Florentine New Year was celebrated here on March 25th, coinciding with the Feast of the Annunciation. Kian would have been fascinated by the sea monsters.


Discover the beauty and history of Piazza della Santissima Annunziata, a must-visit square in Florence, Italy, rich in culture and stunning architecture.

Our midday meal was at Logò Ristorante, a gem we discovered through a recommendation from a local. It turned out to be an excellent choice. The restaurant had a quiet and comfortable setting, and the service was impeccable. I decided to try the *pappardelle al ragu di cinghiale* (wide ribbon pasta with wild boar sauce), a Tuscan classic, and it was absolutely divine. The pasta was perfectly cooked, and the wild boar sauce was rich and flavorful. My friends enjoyed their meals as well, and we all agreed that Logò Ristorante was a culinary highlight of our trip. The beautiful interior created the perfect atmosphere to enjoy the delicious food.


Experience authentic Italian flavors at Logò Ristorante in Florence – where tradition meets culinary excellence.

In the afternoon, we ventured to the Giardino delle Rose, a beautiful rose garden located below the Piazzale Michelangelo. Despite it being March, there were still plenty of roses in bloom, adding splashes of color to the landscape. The garden offers stunning panoramic views of Florence, with the Duomo, Ponte Vecchio, and Palazzo Vecchio all visible in the distance. The views were breathtaking! In addition to the roses, the garden also features lemon trees, a Japanese Shorai oasis, and sculptures by Jean-Michel Folon. It was a delightful place to wander and enjoy the beauty of nature. I could see myself spending hours here, simply soaking in the atmosphere and admiring the view.


Discover the serene beauty of Giardino delle Rose, a breathtaking garden in Florence filled with vibrant roses and stunning city views.

As the day drew to a close, we decided to indulge in one last Florentine aperitivo at the Atrium Bar, located in the Four Seasons Hotel. This luxurious bar offers a sophisticated setting and an extensive cocktail menu. I opted for a classic Negroni, a quintessential Italian cocktail, while my friends tried some of the bar's signature creations. The atmosphere was elegant and refined, making it the perfect place to celebrate our final evening in Florence. The bar manager was very attentive, and we enjoyed chatting with him about the city and its history.


Discover the luxurious Atrium Bar in Florence, where exquisite cocktails meet Italian culinary delights in an elegant setting.

Finally, for our farewell dinner, we chose Enoteca Pinchiorri, a three-Michelin-starred restaurant known for its exquisite cuisine and extensive wine list. While the experience was undeniably luxurious, with impeccable service and beautifully presented dishes, I must admit that it didn't quite capture my heart in the way some of the more humble eateries did. The food was undoubtedly good, but perhaps lacked the warmth and authenticity that I've come to cherish in Italian cuisine. The wine list, however, was truly impressive, resembling an oversized bible with pages upon pages of wines from every Italian and French estate. It was an experience, but perhaps not one I would repeat.


Experience exquisite fine dining at Enoteca Pinchiorri in Florence—where Italian tradition meets modern culinary artistry.

As I sit here tonight, penning these final thoughts, I can't help but feel a sense of nostalgia. Florence has been an incredible experience, filled with art, history, culture, and of course, delicious food. I'm grateful for the opportunity to have shared this adventure with my friends, and I know that the memories we've made here will last a lifetime. From the grand cathedrals to the hidden gardens, from the bustling markets to the quiet cafes, Florence has captured my heart in a way that few cities have. Although our trip is coming to an end, I know that I will carry a piece of Florence with me wherever I go.

Tomorrow, we head back home, filled with stories and memories to share. Until next time, *Arrivederci Firenze!*