A Family Adventure in the Heart of Florence

A Day Amongst Gardens and Artisans

Today was a vibrant exploration of Florence, blending the serenity of its famed gardens with the allure of artisan crafts and culinary artistry. Florence in February continues to enchant, even with a nip in the air. The city feels alive, and I'm so glad to share these experiences with James and Eglė.

Our day began with a delightful breakfast at Caffè Gilli. The café, with its stunning interior and reputation for quality, was the perfect place to fuel up for the day. As we savored our cappuccinos and pastries, the atmosphere buzzed with a mix of locals and tourists, all eager to start their Florentine adventures. Eglė was particularly taken with the beautiful glass windows showcasing delectable pastries. It’s a spot steeped in history, a place where artists and intellectuals once gathered, and it felt special to start our day in such an iconic location. I made a mental note to try their vegan cornetto next time!


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

With our appetites sated, we set off to explore the magnificent Pitti Palace. The palace itself is a grand statement of Renaissance architecture, and today, with the Royal Apartments recently reopened after renovations, it felt like stepping back in time. The sheer opulence of the rooms, adorned with intricate furnishings and artwork, was breathtaking. It’s hard to believe that the Medici, Lorraine, and Savoy dynasties all left their mark within these walls. Wandering through the halls, I couldn't help but imagine the lavish balls and important decisions that once took place here.


Explore the opulence of Palazzo Pitti, a Renaissance masterpiece in Florence with stunning art collections and beautiful gardens.

The beauty of Florence lies not just in its monuments, but in the seamless blend of art, nature, and craftsmanship that permeates every corner.

Next on our list was the sprawling Boboli Gardens, directly behind the Pitti Palace. Despite the February chill, the gardens possessed an undeniable charm. The carefully manicured lawns, Renaissance statues, and hidden fountains created a magical atmosphere. Eglė was particularly fascinated by the Grotto del Buontalenti, a man-made cave filled with whimsical sculptures. We strolled through the terraced landscape, marveling at the blend of nature and art. Even in the cooler weather, the Boboli Gardens offer a tranquil escape from the bustling city. It's easy to see why the Medici family chose this spot to create their Italian garden masterpiece.


Explore the historic Boboli Gardens in Florence, a breathtaking blend of art, nature, and Renaissance beauty.

After immersing ourselves in the formal beauty of Boboli, we ventured to the Giardino Bardini, a slightly lesser-known but equally enchanting garden. Climbing the winding paths, we were rewarded with panoramic views of Florence. The city stretched out before us, a tapestry of terracotta rooftops and historic landmarks. The Giardino Bardini felt more intimate and wild than Boboli, with its wisteria-covered pergola and collection of fruit trees. It was a perfect spot to pause, breathe in the fresh air, and soak in the beauty of Florence. It is amazing to think that this garden covers a sloping area on the west bank of the Arno.


Explore Giardino Bardini, a stunning garden in Florence, where tranquility meets history and breathtaking views await every visitor.

With our senses filled with natural beauty, it was time to indulge in some Florentine craftsmanship. We headed to Scuola del Cuoio S.r.l., a renowned leather workshop located in the heart of the city. Founded after World War II, the school was established to teach orphans a trade, and it continues to produce exquisite leather goods to this day. We watched artisans meticulously crafting bags, wallets, and belts, their hands moving with practiced skill. The aroma of leather filled the air, and I was mesmerized by the dedication and artistry on display. I ended up purchasing a beautiful leather journal as a memento of our trip, and James found a stylish belt. It’s wonderful to support such a historic establishment that values tradition and quality. Eglė found a small leather-bound notebook, perfect for her sketches.


Explore Scuola del Cuoio in Florence for exquisite handmade leather goods and immersive crafting experiences that reflect Italy's rich artistic heritage.

As the afternoon drew to a close, our stomachs began to rumble. We made our way to Golden View Firenze for a late lunch. The restaurant lived up to its name, offering breathtaking views of the Ponte Vecchio and the Arno River. The intimate atmosphere and energetic staff made us feel welcome, and the Italian and Mediterranean cuisine was simply divine. We savored fresh oysters, clam pasta, and monkfish, each dish a testament to the quality of local ingredients. The view of the Ponte Vecchio, even from the back of the shops, was lovely. James and I shared a bottle of prosecco, while Eglė enjoyed a refreshing latte. It was the perfect way to relax and reflect on our day of exploration.


Experience the best of Tuscan cuisine with stunning views at Golden View Firenze - a culinary gem overlooking the Arno River.

For dinner, we had reservations at Il Palagio, a Michelin-starred restaurant at the Four Seasons Hotel. From start to finish, the experience was exceptional. The elegant ambiance, impeccable service, and exquisite cuisine created a truly memorable evening. We opted for the tasting menu, and each course was a work of art. Chef Paolo Lavezzini's innovative dishes showcased the best of Tuscan ingredients, and the sommelier paired each course with a perfect wine. The coffee, ground and brewed on a trolley at our table, was a special treat. Il Palagio is definitely a splurge, but it's worth it for a truly unforgettable dining experience. I was especially impressed with the pre-dinner Negroni made with Tuscan gin. James was delighted with his lamb dish, and Eglė enjoyed the fig pie with pine nut ice cream.


Experience unparalleled fine dining at Il Palagio in Florence, where traditional Italian cuisine meets modern culinary excellence.

As we walked back to Residenza D'Epoca Sant'Egidio, the city was bathed in a soft, golden light. The day had been a whirlwind of beauty, craftsmanship, and culinary delights. Florence continues to captivate us with its rich history and vibrant culture. It is an amazing city that offers both history and modern ammenities.


Experience the charm of Florence at Residenza D'Epoca Sant'Egidio, where comfort meets history, just a stroll from iconic attractions.

Tomorrow, we plan to explore Palazzo Vecchio and the Leonardo da Vinci Interactive Museum. I am also looking forward to visiting Locale Firenze for a drink. Another day of Florentine adventures awaits, and I can't wait to share it with you all.

On a side note, I am glad that I remembered to pack comfortable walking shoes, my camera, and reusable water bottles. However, I wish I had remembered to bring sunscreen and an extra memory card for my camera!