A Family Adventure in the Heart of Florence

Florence's Embrace: A Day of Discovery

Today was a day where Florence truly revealed its soul, a blend of artistic grandeur, historical resonance, and, of course, culinary indulgence. From the serene halls of the San Marco Museum, a hidden gem showcasing the divine artistry of the Renaissance, including major works by Fra Angelico, to the bustling heart of Piazza del Duomo, every moment felt like stepping deeper into the city's vibrant story. It’s days like these that remind me why I cherish these journeys with my family, creating memories that will undoubtedly last a lifetime.


Explore the San Marco Museum in Florence, a hidden gem showcasing the divine artistry of the Renaissance, including major works by Fra Angelico.

Our day began with a hearty breakfast at Caffè Gilli. Experience timeless elegance at Caffè Gilli in Florence – where every sip and bite tells a story steeped in tradition. The aroma of freshly baked pastries and strong Italian coffee filled the air, a perfect start to fuel our Florentine adventure. As I savored my cappuccino, I couldn't help but reflect on the café's rich history, dating back to 1733. It’s amazing to think of all the people who have sat here, enjoying the same simple pleasures, over the centuries. James opted for a classic croissant, while Eglė, ever the adventurous one, tried a local pastry filled with custard. The café's elegant atmosphere, with its timeless decor, made us feel like we were stepping back in time.


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

Refreshed and ready, we made our way to the San Marco Museum. Housed in a 15th-century Dominican convent, the museum is a treasure trove of Renaissance art, most notably the works of Fra Angelico. As we wandered through the serene halls, I was struck by the peaceful atmosphere, a stark contrast to the bustling city outside. The museum's architecture, designed by Michelozzo, was as captivating as the art itself. I was particularly moved by Fra Angelico's frescoes, their vibrant colors and spiritual depth creating a sense of awe and reverence. Eglė seemed particularly interested in the cell where Girolamo Savonarola, the fiery preacher, once lived. The museum offered a quiet, intimate experience, allowing us to connect with the art and history on a personal level.

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

Leaving the museum, we headed towards Piazza del Duomo, the heart of Florence. The sheer scale of the Duomo, or Florence Cathedral, is breathtaking. The intricate facade, adorned with colorful marble, is a testament to the city's artistic prowess. We decided to climb Giotto's Bell Tower, a challenging but rewarding experience. 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 414 steps to the top tested our endurance, but the panoramic views of Florence were well worth the effort. From above, the city unfolded before us, a tapestry of red rooftops, winding streets, and iconic landmarks. I could spot the Arno River snaking its way through the city, and in the distance, the rolling hills of Tuscany. The Duomo Square has a rich history, dating back to the time of Dante. It was fascinating to imagine what the square was like centuries ago, with its bustling markets and lively atmosphere. As we descended, we took a moment to admire the Baptistery of San Giovanni, one of the oldest buildings in Florence. Its octagonal shape and bronze doors are a testament to the city's artistic heritage.


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

By this point, our stomachs were rumbling, so we ventured to Piazza del Mercato Centrale for a late lunch. Explore the culinary delights and vibrant atmosphere of Piazza del Mercato Centrale, the heart of Florence's food culture and local craftsmanship. This vibrant marketplace is a feast for the senses, with stalls overflowing with fresh produce, local delicacies, and artisanal products. We explored the ground floor, sampling various cheeses, olives, and breads. The atmosphere was electric, with vendors hawking their wares and locals catching up on the day's gossip. Upstairs, we found a modern food court, offering a variety of cuisines from around the world. James opted for a classic lampredotto sandwich, a Florentine specialty, while Eglė chose a Margherita pizza. I decided to try some truffle pasta, a decadent treat that perfectly captured the essence of Tuscan cuisine. The market was a perfect place to soak up the local culture and indulge in some delicious food.


Explore the culinary delights and vibrant atmosphere of Piazza del Mercato Centrale, the heart of Florence's food culture and local craftsmanship.

With our appetites satisfied, we spent the afternoon browsing the shops around Piazza del Mercato Centrale. The area is known for its leather goods, and we found several stalls selling beautiful bags, belts, and jackets. Eglė was particularly interested in the leather bracelets, while James was eyeing a stylish leather briefcase. I picked up a few small souvenirs for friends back home, including some hand-painted ceramics and locally made olive oil. The market was a great place to find unique gifts and support local artisans.

As evening approached, we made our way to Cantinetta delle Terme for dinner. Discover authentic Tuscan cuisine at Cantinetta delle Terme, where every dish tells a story of tradition and flavor in Florence. This charming restaurant, located near the Church of Santa Trinita, is known for its traditional Mediterranean cuisine, particularly its seafood dishes. The restaurant's cozy atmosphere and attentive service made us feel right at home. We started with a mixed seafood antipasto, a delightful array of fresh flavors. James opted for the pasta with clams, while Eglė chose the grilled tuna steak. I decided to try the seafood risotto, a creamy and flavorful dish that was cooked to perfection. The restaurant's wine list featured a variety of Tuscan wines, and we chose a crisp white wine to complement our meal. The Cantinetta delle Terme was the perfect place to end our day, a culinary gem that left us feeling satisfied and content.


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

Tomorrow, we plan to explore the Basilica di San Lorenzo, Cappelle Medicee, and Riccardi Medici Palace. I am particularly excited to see the Medici Chapels, as I have heard they are a stunning example of Baroque architecture. We'll also be stopping by The Joshua Tree Pub for a nightcap, a change of pace from the traditional Italian bars we've been frequenting. I'm sure it will be another day filled with unforgettable experiences. I am also mindful of remembering to apply sunscreen tomorrow, as I forgot today and the sun was stronger than I anticipated.

As I sit here, reflecting on the day's adventures, I am filled with a sense of gratitude. Florence has a way of captivating the soul, of drawing you in with its beauty, history, and charm. It's a city that rewards exploration, that offers something new to discover around every corner. And to share these experiences with my family makes it all the more special. I can't wait to see what tomorrow brings, what new adventures await us in this magical city.

I feel so fortunate to be able to share these experiences with my family. James's knowledge of history always adds depth to our explorations, and Eglė's youthful enthusiasm keeps us energized and open to new possibilities. Even the little mishaps, like forgetting the sunscreen, become part of the story, adding a touch of humor and authenticity to our journey. Traveling with loved ones is not just about seeing new places, it's about creating shared memories that will bind us together for years to come. It's about learning from each other, supporting each other, and celebrating the joy of discovery together. And as I drift off to sleep tonight, I know that these are the moments that I will cherish most, the moments that make life truly rich and meaningful.