A Family Adventure in the Heart of Florence

Day 1: Arrival in Florence - A Dream Come True

Our home for the next ten days, Residenza D'Epoca Sant'Egidio, greeted us with its historical charm. Settling in was quick, and we were soon ready to embrace the city. I made sure to pack my comfortable walking shoes, knowing we'd be doing a lot of exploring!

First stop, after dropping off our luggage at the lovely Residenza D'Epoca Sant'Egidio, was breakfast at Caffè Gilli. This historic café, dating back to 1733, was the perfect introduction to Florentine elegance. The interior was stunning, with beautiful glass windows showcasing delectable pastries and chocolates. We indulged in classic Italian treats and rich coffee, soaking in the cozy ambiance. Eglė was particularly impressed with the caramel éclair, declaring it a must-try. Sipping my cappuccino, I couldn't help but feel like I was stepping back in time, surrounded by the echoes of Florence's high society.

To walk through Florence is to walk through the heart of the Renaissance, a journey through art, history, and the enduring spirit of human creativity.

Fueled and ready, we made our way to the Cathedral of Santa Maria del Fiore, or the Duomo as it’s lovingly called. Even in February, a line snaked around the building, but it moved surprisingly fast. The sheer scale of the Duomo is breathtaking. The exterior, adorned with pink, white, and green marble, was a sight to behold. Inside, the vastness of the cathedral struck me. The light filtering through the stained-glass windows created an ethereal glow, highlighting the intricate details of the architecture. We admired the monumental clock frescoed by Paolo Uccello and the sculptures of apostles and prophets. I made sure we were all dressed appropriately, remembering the guidelines about clothing suitable for a place of worship – no bare shoulders or legs allowed!

Next on our list was the Uffizi Galleries. I had pre-booked our tickets, thankfully, as the lines were quite long. Entering the Uffizi was like stepping into a treasure chest of Renaissance art. Room after room, we were surrounded by masterpieces by Botticelli, Leonardo da Vinci, Michelangelo, and Raphael. Eglė was particularly captivated by Botticelli's “Birth of Venus,” while James, with his engineering mind, was fascinated by da Vinci's technical drawings. I was in awe of the sheer talent and creativity on display, feeling a deep connection to the artists and their vision. Even in February, the galleries were bustling, but it was worth braving the crowds to witness such iconic works of art.

After immersing ourselves in art, we were ready for lunch. Vini e Vecchi Sapori, a charming osteria, beckoned with its promise of authentic Florentine cuisine. This cozy spot is known for its fresh pasta and traditional dishes. We savored the flavors of roasted duck, ragu, and pappardelle, each bite a testament to the region's culinary heritage. The atmosphere was warm and inviting, with friendly staff treating us like cherished guests. I felt like I was experiencing a true taste of Florence, away from the tourist crowds.

Our afternoon led us to the Ponte Vecchio, the only bridge in Florence spared from destruction during World War II. This medieval bridge, lined with shops, is a sight to behold. Originally home to butchers, it now glitters with jewelry shops. We strolled along, admiring the Arno River and the unique architecture of the bridge. As we walked along, I shared the history of the bridge with my family, pointing out the Vasari Corridor that runs above the shops, connecting the Uffizi Gallery with the Pitti Palace. The Ponte Vecchio was teeming with people, but the energy was infectious, and the views were simply stunning.

Before dinner, we decided to do some shopping at Rinascente Firenze. This department store, located in Piazza della Repubblica, is a shopper's paradise. With its emphasis on “for the city, with the city, in the city”, Rinascente felt like a stage for fashion, novelties, and unique events. We explored the various floors, from the beauty hall to the craft gallery, admiring the craftsmanship and exclusive products. The highlight was the terrace, which offered breathtaking panoramic views of Florence's iconic landmarks. Eglė was particularly drawn to the fashion and accessories, while James enjoyed browsing the home décor section. I found myself captivated by the food hall, filled with Tuscan agricultural traditions and culture.

As evening approached, we made our way to Il Santo Bevitore for dinner. This restaurant, known for its hearty Tuscan cuisine and cozy atmosphere, was the perfect way to end our first day. The dark wood furniture, candlelight, and warm hearth created a welcoming ambiance. We indulged in Tuscan specialties, savoring the flavors of chicken liver crostini, roasted duck leg, and homemade pasta. The wine list was extensive, and our server helped us choose a perfect pairing for our meal. The food was hearty and satisfying, making it the perfect way to warm up on a chilly February evening.

Reflecting on our first day, I’m filled with gratitude. Florence has exceeded all expectations. The blend of art, history, and culinary delights is intoxicating. I can’t wait to see what tomorrow brings, with our itinerary including the Basilica of Santa Croce, Piazza della Signoria, and the Bargello National Museum. Plus, James is already eyeing Mad - Souls & Spirits for a late-night drink!

A few things I've learned already: Florence in February, while chilly, offers a unique charm with fewer crowds. Booking tickets in advance is a must, especially for popular attractions like the Uffizi. And most importantly, comfortable shoes are essential for navigating the cobblestone streets! I’m also regretting not packing sunscreen, even though it’s February – the sun can still be quite strong. And an extra memory card for my camera would have been a good idea, as I’ve already filled up half of it!

Stay tuned for more adventures tomorrow!