Solo Cultural Exploration in Florence

Florence Unveiled: A Day of Renaissance Wonders

The anticipation had been building for months, and today, it finally culminated in my arrival in Florence. This city, a cradle of art and culture, had always held a special allure for me, a promise of beauty and inspiration waiting to be discovered. As I stepped onto the cobblestone streets, I knew this solo journey would be one for the books.

The journey from Kelowna was long, with a layover that felt like a mini-adventure in itself. But as the train pulled into Florence, the sight of terracotta rooftops against the Tuscan sky washed away any lingering travel weariness. The air was crisp, carrying a hint of spring, a welcome change from the tail end of the Canadian winter. I quickly navigated my way to Il Terrazzino Sulla Cattedrale, my accommodation for the next nine days. Its location couldn't be more perfect, offering a charming atmosphere and proximity to the city's heart.


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

My Florentine adventure began at the Cathedral of Santa Maria del Fiore, or as the locals call it, the Duomo. As I approached Piazza del Duomo, the sheer scale of the cathedral took my breath away. The facade, a symphony of green, pink, and white marble, was even more magnificent in person than in any photograph. The intricate geometric patterns and stylized flowers adorning the exterior walls spoke of centuries of artistry and devotion. Construction of the cathedral began in 1296, with the initial design by Arnolfo di Cambio, and the structure was completed in 1436, with the dome engineered by Filippo Brunelleschi. The title “Santa Maria del Fiore” (Lady of the flower) alludes to the name of the city, "Florentia", or “city of flowers”.


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

I decided to start with Giotto's Bell Tower, which offered panoramic views of the city. Aligned with the facade of the Cathedral, Giotto's Bell Tower represents one of the greatest expressions of the Florentine Gothic architecture. Climbing the 414 steps was a bit of a workout, but each level offered a new perspective, a tantalizing glimpse of what awaited at the summit. Reaching the top, I was rewarded with an unparalleled vista of Florence. The terracotta rooftops stretched out before me, punctuated by the iconic dome of the Duomo and the rolling hills in the distance. The Duomo, Baptistery, and Giotto's Campanile together determine the silhouette of the city. I could pick out landmarks like the Palazzo Vecchio and the Arno River snaking its way through the city. It was a moment of pure awe, a feeling of being suspended in time and surrounded by beauty.


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

The true spirit of travel lies not in seeing new landscapes, but in having new eyes.

After descending from the bell tower, I explored Piazza del Duomo itself, the vibrant heart of Florence. The square was bustling with activity, a mix of locals and tourists all drawn to this historic space. Piazza del Duomo has been the city's religious center since the early Middle Ages. The square was smaller than it is today, with the bishop's palace abutting the baptistery, and a maze of alleys abutting the monuments. I admired the Baptistery of San Giovanni, with its intricate bronze doors, and watched as street performers entertained the crowds. The energy of the piazza was infectious, a palpable sense of history and culture.

For breakfast, I had planned a visit to Caffè Gilli, Florence's oldest café, established in 1733. What was once a pastry shop has since become one of the city's most popular places to convene. Stepping inside was like stepping back in time. The elegant interior, with its chandeliers and timeless decor, exuded old-world charm. I savored a cappuccino and a freshly baked pastry, soaking in the atmosphere and imagining the countless conversations and stories that had unfolded within those walls over the centuries. Caffè Gilli started as a confectionery and later specialized in pastry and coffee. The café is also known for its Negroni, so I made a mental note to return later in the week to sample this classic cocktail.


Experience timeless elegance at Caffè Gilli in Florence – where every sip and bite tells a story steeped in tradition.

Lunch was at Cantinetta delle Terme, a charming restaurant known for its seafood. The restaurant is located in the historic center of Florence, near the Church of Santa Trinita. This cozy spot was the perfect respite from the bustling city. The menu features Mediterranean cuisine, particularly seafood dishes. I enjoyed a delicious pasta dish with clams, savoring the fresh flavors and the expertly prepared sauce. The service was impeccable, and the atmosphere was warm and inviting. It was the kind of place where you could easily lose track of time, lingering over a meal and enjoying the simple pleasures of life. TheFork users have rated the restaurant highly for its quality of food, service, and atmosphere.


Discover authentic Tuscan cuisine at Cantinetta delle Terme, where every dish tells a story of tradition and flavor in Florence.

In the afternoon, I ventured off the beaten path to Mio Concept Store, a unique shop showcasing artisan-made goods. Located just off the famous Via Tornabuoni, MIO offers a wide selection of unique objects and gifts guided by “design inspired by the elegance of awareness”. I was drawn to the eclectic collection of jewelry, art, and homewares, all crafted by local designers. It was a refreshing change from the mass-produced souvenirs that lined the main tourist streets. I picked up a small, hand-painted ceramic bowl as a memento of my first day in Florence, a reminder of the city's vibrant artistic spirit.


Explore Florentine artistry at Mio Concept Store, featuring unique handmade crafts, jewelry, and souvenirs in the heart of Florence.

As evening approached, I made my way to Il Santo Bevitore for dinner. Opened in 2002, the restaurant's name translates to “the holy drinker”. This restaurant, recommended by several locals, promised a modern twist on traditional Tuscan cuisine. Il Santo Bevitore is known for its seasonal Italian produce with a twist on tradition. The ambiance was perfect – elegant yet relaxed, with low lighting and a lively buzz. I savored every bite of my meal, a delicious combination of flavors and textures that showcased the chef's creativity and passion. The dining room sits in an old coach house. The restaurant's wine list is extensive, with a focus on Italian wines. I paired my meal with a local Chianti, its rich, earthy notes complementing the food perfectly.


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

As I walked back to my hotel, the city was bathed in a soft, golden light. The sounds of the day had faded, replaced by a gentle hum of evening activity. I reflected on all that I had experienced – the grandeur of the Duomo, the panoramic views from Giotto's Bell Tower, the delicious food, and the vibrant energy of the city. It had been a day of sensory overload, a feast for the eyes, the palate, and the soul.

Tomorrow, I plan to explore the Uffizi Galleries, cross the Ponte Vecchio, and visit the Palazzo Vecchio. But for tonight, I am content to savor the memories of my first day in Florence, a day that exceeded all expectations and left me eager to discover what else this magical city has in store.

The weather in Florence in March can be a bit unpredictable, with cooler temperatures and occasional rain showers. Today, however, I was lucky to have a mix of sunshine and clouds, perfect for exploring the city on foot. I made sure to pack layers, as recommended, and brought along my trusty travel umbrella, just in case. Fortunately, I didn't need it today, but it's always better to be prepared.

As I settle into my hotel room, I realize I forgot to pack a portable phone charger and an umbrella. I will need to buy these tomorrow.

For those planning a visit to Florence in March, be sure to check out the local events calendar. There are often concerts, exhibitions, and festivals taking place, adding to the city's already vibrant cultural scene. I saw an advertisement for a free concert by The College of St. Scholastica, but I was too tired to attend. Also, keep in mind that daylight saving time starts at 3:00 AM on March 30, 2025, so plan accordingly if you're traveling around that time.

Good night from Florence!