Florence Renaissance Adventure with Friends

First Impressions: Florence, a City of Dreams

After months of anticipation, our Florentine adventure has finally begun! Stepping onto Italian soil with my closest friends felt like walking into a dream, a Renaissance painting come to life. The crisp March air, carrying a hint of floral perfume, welcomed us as we embarked on our exploration of this mesmerizing city. I'm eager to share every moment, every discovery, and every flavor we encounter during our time here.


The first day of our trip was ambitious, to say the least. After arriving and settling into our lovely accommodation, Il Terrazzino Sulla Cattedrale, which boasts an unbeatable view, we were ready to dive headfirst into the artistic heart of Florence. I must admit, even with Greta's meticulous planning, I forgot my sunglasses, a rookie mistake for a seasoned traveler like myself. Luckily, the charm of Florence quickly overshadowed my momentary lapse in preparation. I was also excited to discover that the Florence Korea Film Fest was kicking off today. I'm a big fan of Korean cinema, so I'll have to check that out later in the week.


Experience the heart of Florence at Il Terrazzino Sulla Cattedrale, where modern comforts meet historic charm just steps from iconic landmarks.

Our initial destination was none other than the iconic Cathedral of Santa Maria del Fiore, also known as the Duomo. As a restorer of historical musical instruments, I'm naturally drawn to architectural marvels, and the Duomo certainly didn't disappoint. Its sheer size and intricate design left me in awe. The facade, adorned with vibrant green and pink marble, was a feast for the eyes. The structure is an easily recognizable symbol of Florence, and it was absolutely worth a visit, even if it's just to admire the artistry of its famous architecture. Although the Gregorian calendar set January 1 as the start of the year, Florence continued to celebrate March 25 as New Year's Day until 1749. I learned that this tradition lives on today, with an annual historic procession featuring costumed figures, music, and flag bearers. How interesting!


Discover the breathtaking beauty and history of the Cathedral of Santa Maria del Fiore in Florence, a true gem of Gothic architecture.

To walk through Florence is to breathe in centuries of art and history, a truly transformative experience.

Venturing inside, we decided to climb Brunelleschi's Dome, all 463 steps of it! The ascent was challenging, but the panoramic view of Florence from the top was more than worth the effort. From that vantage point, the city unfolded beneath us, a tapestry of terracotta rooftops, winding streets, and verdant hills in the distance. It was a moment of pure bliss, sharing the breathtaking vista with my friends. I could almost hear the echoes of the Renaissance masters who once walked these very streets.


After descending from the heights of the Duomo, our next stop was the world-renowned Uffizi Galleries. As someone who appreciates fine craftsmanship, I was eager to immerse myself in the masterpieces housed within its walls. I was happy to skip the line with our timed entry tickets. The Uffizi is a treasure trove of masterpieces by artists like Botticelli, Michelangelo, Caravaggio, and Leonardo da Vinci. I was particularly struck by Botticelli's Birth of Venus, its ethereal beauty captivating me. I really enjoyed Caravaggio's Medusa. The cafe also had spectacular views of Florence.


Discover the Uffizi Galleries, Florence's premier art museum boasting masterpieces from the Renaissance and a rich cultural history.

Leaving the Uffizi, we found ourselves in the Piazza della Signoria, the heart of Florence's political history and social life. The square was bustling with activity, street performers vying for attention amidst the backdrop of magnificent sculptures and architecture. A large-scale figurative sculpture by Thomas J Price was placed in the piazza, standing 3.6 meters tall. The square is dominated by the imposing Palazzo Vecchio, Florence's town hall. It’s an open-air sculpture gallery that’s surrounded by stunning examples of Florentine architecture.


Experience the timeless beauty and vibrant culture of Piazza della Signoria, a historic square that embodies the spirit of Florence.

For lunch, we headed to All’Antico Vinaio, a local favorite known for its delectable schiacciata sandwiches. The line was long, snaking down the street, but the aroma of freshly baked bread and cured meats kept our spirits high. Finally, we reached the counter and ordered a variety of sandwiches to share. Each bite was an explosion of flavor, the warm, crusty bread enveloping layers of savory prosciutto, creamy cheeses, and tangy sauces. It was the perfect fuel for our afternoon adventures.


Discover the authentic flavors of Italy at All’Antico Vinaio, where delicious sandwiches meet vibrant Florentine culture.

As evening approached, we made our way to Il Santo Bevitore for dinner, a restaurant recommended by Greta for its authentic Florentine cuisine. The atmosphere was warm and inviting, the perfect setting to unwind after a day of sightseeing. I opted for the handmade pasta, a rich and flavorful dish that left me feeling completely satisfied. The service was great, and the food was delicious.


Experience authentic Italian cuisine at Il Santo Bevitore in Florence - where tradition meets modern culinary artistry.

To cap off our first day, we ventured into the hidden world of Rasputin, a speakeasy-style bar tucked away in the Oltrarno neighborhood. Finding the entrance was an adventure in itself, a discreet door marked only by a faint glow of candlelight. Inside, the ambiance was intimate and mysterious, the air filled with the murmur of hushed conversations and the clinking of glasses. The self-invented cocktails cost between 12-15 euros. The staff was exquisite and attentive, and the place was splendid. It was the perfect end to a perfect day, a taste of Florence's vibrant nightlife.


Experience the allure of Rasputin, Florence's premier cocktail bar, where sophisticated drinks and enchanting ambiance meet in a chic nightlife setting.

Tomorrow, we plan to visit the Palazzo Vecchio, Ponte Vecchio and Basilica of Santa Croce. I’m looking forward to seeing more of this beautiful city with my friends. This city has a rhythm all its own, a blend of ancient history and modern vitality.


Tonight, as I sit here writing, my heart is full of gratitude for this incredible experience. Florence has already captured my imagination, and I can't wait to see what tomorrow brings. This is just the beginning of our Renaissance adventure, and I'm thrilled to share it with all of you.


The train ride home to Bamberg will be filled with reflection, no doubt, but for now, I'm savoring every last moment of this unforgettable journey with my friends.