A Family Adventure in the Heart of Florence

A Royal Day in Florence

Today was a deep dive into the heart of Florence's Medici history, interwoven with the tastes and sounds of the city. It's amazing how much history is packed into each corner here. I felt a profound connection to the past as we explored, and the culinary experiences only deepened our appreciation for this incredible city.

Our day began with a delightful breakfast at Caffè Gilli. The café exudes an old-world charm, and as we sipped our cappuccinos and enjoyed the pastries, I couldn't help but imagine all the artists and intellectuals who had gathered here over the centuries. The atmosphere was perfect for starting our day, a blend of history and delicious treats that set the tone for our Florentine exploration.


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

From there, we ventured to the Basilica di San Lorenzo, a place steeped in history. It's incredible to think that this basilica was consecrated in 393 AD, making it one of the oldest churches in Florence. For three centuries, it even served as the city's cathedral! The basilica is closely tied to the Medici family, who financed its reconstruction in the 15th century. The architecture, designed by Filippo Brunelleschi, was a milestone in Renaissance architecture, with its geometrical organization and well-calculated proportions.


Discover the architectural splendor and artistic treasures of Basilica di San Lorenzo, a must-see landmark in the heart of Florence.

Exploring the Basilica with James and Eglė was a fascinating experience. We wandered through the chapels, admiring the artwork and learning about the Medici family's influence. It's humbling to stand in a place where so much history has unfolded. I was particularly struck by the story of Michelangelo hiding in a small chamber beneath the Medici chapels to escape Pope Clement VII. Imagine the sketches he must have made in that tiny room, a secret world hidden beneath the grandeur of the Basilica.

Next, we visited the Cappelle Medicee, the Medici Chapels, which are actually two chapels built as extensions to the Basilica di San Lorenzo. These chapels, the Sagrestia Nuova and the Cappella dei Principi, were built to celebrate the Medici family. The Sagrestia Nuova, or New Sacristy, was designed by Michelangelo and is dedicated to members of the Medici family. The Cappella dei Principi, or Chapel of the Princes, is a grand mausoleum adorned with marble.


Discover the Cappelle Medicee, a stunning showcase of Renaissance art and the legacy of the Medici family in the heart of Florence.

To walk through Florence is to walk through the pages of a history book, each stone whispering tales of power, art, and intrigue.

The sheer opulence of the Cappella dei Principi was breathtaking. The lavish interior, ornamented with marble and precious stones, was a testament to the Medici family's power and wealth. It's a stark contrast to the more understated beauty of the Basilica di San Lorenzo, but both are equally impressive in their own right. The Cappelle Medicee offer a glimpse into the Medici family's ambition and their desire to leave a lasting legacy. Eglė was particularly fascinated by the intricate details of the marble work, while James appreciated the architectural ingenuity of the chapels. I found myself pondering the lives of the Medici family, their triumphs and tragedies, and their enduring impact on Florence.

Our historical journey continued with a visit to the Riccardi Medici Palace. Built in the mid-15th century, it has served many functions over the centuries and is one of Florence's hallmarks. Originally built for the Medici family, it was later acquired by the Riccardi family, who renovated it in the Baroque style. The palace now houses the seat of the Metropolitan City of Florence and two libraries.


Explore the rich history and exquisite art of the Riccardi Medici Palace, a stunning Renaissance landmark in the heart of Florence.

Walking through the Riccardi Medici Palace, I was struck by the contrast between the Renaissance architecture and the Baroque additions. The Galleria degli Specchi, the Mirror Gallery, with its frescoed ceiling by Luca Giordano, was a stunning example of Baroque art. It's amazing how the palace has evolved over time, reflecting the changing tastes and styles of different eras. We explored the palace's various rooms, each with its own unique character and history. It felt like stepping back in time, imagining the palace in its heyday, filled with lavish parties and important receptions.

After a morning filled with history and art, we were ready for lunch. We headed to Trattoria Sostanza, a traditional Florentine trattoria known for its authentic Tuscan cuisine. This place is popular with locals, and I was excited to try some of their specialties. The trattoria itself was cozy and inviting, with white-tiled walls adorned with photographs and prints. It felt like stepping into someone's home, a place where you could relax and enjoy a delicious meal.


Discover the authentic taste of Italy at Trattoria Sostanza in Florence – home to delicious steaks and classic Tuscan dishes.

I decided to try their famous butter chicken, which came sizzling in the pan. It was absolutely divine, rich and flavorful, and a true testament to Tuscan cuisine. James opted for the tortino di carciofi, an artichoke dish, while Eglė tried the slow-cooked beans. We all shared a taste of each other's dishes, savoring the different flavors and textures. The trattoria was bustling with activity, filled with locals and tourists alike, all enjoying the simple pleasures of good food and good company. It was the perfect place to recharge after a morning of sightseeing.

For dinner, we chose Ristorante Oliviero 1962, a place recommended for its impeccable service and delicious food. The reviews I had read beforehand praised the quality of the food and the attentive service, and I was eager to experience it for myself. The restaurant had a charming atmosphere, and we were warmly greeted by the staff upon arrival. The menu featured a variety of Tuscan specialties, and we took our time perusing the options.


Experience authentic Tuscan cuisine at Ristorante Oliviero 1962 in Florence—where tradition meets modernity in every delicious bite.

I decided to try the filetto di manzo alla Rossini, a beef fillet dish, while James opted for the ravioli verdi ripieni di patate al cero tagù fiorentino, green ravioli filled with potatoes. Eglė chose the pici freschi con lardo di colonnata in salsa di pomodorini e polpo, fresh pici pasta with lardo. Each dish was beautifully presented and bursting with flavor. The service was attentive and personalized, making us feel like valued guests. It was the perfect way to end our day of culinary exploration.

As the evening drew to a close, we decided to unwind at The Joshua Tree Pub. Despite its name, it had a local feel, and I was curious to experience Florence's nightlife. The pub was cozy and inviting, with a friendly atmosphere. We ordered some local beers and settled in to enjoy the music and the company. The pub was filled with locals, and we struck up conversations with some of them, learning more about Florentine life and culture. It was a great way to relax and reflect on our day of exploration.


Experience the heart of Florence at The Joshua Tree Pub, where great food, drinks, and sports come together in a cozy atmosphere.

Tonight, as I write this, I'm already looking forward to tomorrow's adventures. We plan to visit the Museo Galileo, Piazza della Repubblica, and the Synagogue and Jewish Museum of Florence. I'm also hoping to do some shopping at the Davide Cerasi Leather Boutique. Each day in Florence brings new discoveries and experiences, and I'm grateful for the opportunity to share them with my family. It's moments like these that make travel so rewarding, creating memories that will last a lifetime. Before I turn in for the night, I want to make sure I have my comfortable walking shoes ready for another day of exploration. I also need to find that extra memory card for my camera, as I'm sure I'll be taking plenty more photos tomorrow.

Florence is a city that captivates the senses and nourishes the soul. It's a place where history comes alive, where art is everywhere you look, and where the food is simply divine. I'm so glad that I chose to bring my family here, to share in the beauty and wonder of this incredible city. Each day is a new adventure, a new opportunity to learn and grow, and a new memory to cherish. I can't wait to see what tomorrow brings. The beauty of Florence lies not just in its monuments, but in the warmth of its people and the richness of its culture. I feel so fortunate to be able to experience it all with my family by my side.