A Family Adventure in the Heart of Florence

A Day of Discovery in Florence

Today was a day of delving into the lesser-known corners of Florence, a journey beyond the iconic landmarks that usually steal the spotlight. It’s easy to get caught up in the grandeur of the Duomo or the artistic treasures of the Uffizi, but today, my family and I sought to uncover the hidden layers of this captivating city. We embraced the spirit of exploration, ready to be surprised by the stories etched into the walls of ancient palazzi and whispered among the stacks of historic libraries.

Our Florentine adventure began with a delightful breakfast at Caffè Gilli. The café, a historic landmark itself, exuded an old-world charm that transported us back in time. Sipping on a cappuccino while surrounded by the café's elegant décor, I couldn't help but imagine the countless artists and intellectuals who had frequented this very spot over the centuries. Eglė was particularly taken with the pastries, her eyes wide with delight as she chose a colorful confection. James, ever the pragmatist, appreciated the strong coffee, declaring it the perfect fuel for a day of exploring.


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

With our appetites satisfied and our spirits high, we set off to our first destination: the Museo di Palazzo Davanzati. Nestled on Via Porta Rossa, this museum offered a fascinating glimpse into the life of a wealthy Florentine family during the 14th century. As we stepped inside, it felt as though we were crossing a threshold into another era.


Explore the Museo di Palazzo Davanzati, a stunning art museum in Florence showcasing Renaissance history and exquisite period furnishings.

The Palazzo Davanzati, once home to the Davizzi and later the Davanzati families, is remarkably preserved. Wandering through its rooms, I was struck by the attention to detail in recreating the atmosphere of a medieval household. The kitchen, with its array of cooking utensils and implements, offered a tangible sense of daily life. I could almost smell the aromas of a hearty Tuscan meal wafting through the air. The bedrooms, adorned with period furniture and textiles, provided a glimpse into the private lives of the family members who once resided within these walls.

Eglė, with her keen interest in history, peppered me with questions about the family's daily routines and social customs. James, ever the engineer, was fascinated by the palazzo's innovative plumbing system, marveling at the ingenuity of its design. As we explored the various rooms, I couldn't help but imagine what it must have been like to live in Florence during that time, amidst the political intrigue and artistic ferment of the Renaissance.

History is not just about dates and names; it's about the stories of the people who lived and shaped the world we inhabit today.

Leaving the Museo di Palazzo Davanzati, we made our way to the Florence National Central Library, or Biblioteca Nazionale Centrale di Firenze (BNCF). As the largest library in Italy, it's a treasure trove of knowledge and a testament to the country's rich literary heritage. The library's history dates back to the early 18th century when Antonio Magliabechi, a renowned scholar, bequeathed his vast collection of books to the city of Florence. Since then, the library has grown to encompass millions of volumes, manuscripts, and other precious documents.


Discover the treasures of literature and history at the Florence National Central Library, a must-visit tourist attraction in the heart of Florence.

Stepping inside the BNCF, I was immediately struck by the hushed atmosphere of reverence and intellectual curiosity. The sheer scale of the library was awe-inspiring, with towering shelves stretching as far as the eye could see. We wandered through the reading rooms, marveling at the scholars engrossed in their research. I imagined the countless hours of study and contemplation that had taken place within these walls, the ideas that had been born and nurtured amidst the library's vast collection.

I was particularly moved by the library's collection of historical manuscripts, each one a tangible link to the past. As I gazed at the faded ink and delicate script, I couldn't help but wonder about the lives of the individuals who had penned these words centuries ago. It was a humbling experience, a reminder of the enduring power of human thought and creativity.

The library also houses a Restoration Laboratory, which deals with the conservation, prevention, maintenance and restoration of documents in the library's collections. It was fascinating to learn about the meticulous work of the conservators, who painstakingly preserve these fragile artifacts for future generations. The flood of 1966 caused extensive damage to the library’s collection. Experiencing the library gave me even more appreciation for the work that goes into maintaining these historical documents.

After immersing ourselves in the world of literature and scholarship, we sought a change of pace at Piazza della Santissima Annunziata. This serene square, located in the heart of Florence, offered a welcome respite from the bustling city streets. As we entered the piazza, I was immediately struck by its harmonious proportions and elegant architecture.


Discover the beauty and history of Piazza della Santissima Annunziata, a must-visit square in Florence, Italy, rich in culture and stunning architecture.

The piazza is framed by several notable buildings, including the Basilica della Santissima Annunziata, the Spedale degli Innocenti (a former orphanage designed by Brunelleschi), and the Palazzo Grifoni. We strolled around the square, admiring the architectural details and soaking in the tranquil atmosphere. Eglė was particularly captivated by the bronze equestrian statue of Ferdinand I, while James was intrigued by the history of the Spedale degli Innocenti.

We sat on a bench in the center of the piazza, watching as children played and locals chatted. It was a quintessential Florentine scene, a moment of simple beauty amidst the grandeur of the city. As I closed my eyes, I could almost hear the echoes of the past, the voices of the artists, scholars, and ordinary citizens who had gathered in this square over the centuries. I was curious if any events were held here, and I learned that the Bread Fair is held here in September. I made a note to see if we could attend if we are ever in Florence during that time.

For lunch, we ventured to La Buchetta Food & Wine Restaurant, a delightful spot that came highly recommended. From the moment we stepped inside, we were enveloped in a warm and inviting atmosphere. The restaurant was bustling with locals and tourists alike, all eager to sample the authentic Tuscan cuisine. Our waiter was incredibly helpful, guiding us through the menu and recommending the perfect wine pairings.


Discover La Buchetta in Florence for an unforgettable journey through traditional Tuscan cuisine paired with exquisite local wines.

We started with the mozzarella cheese tasting with cherry tomatoes, and I savored every bite. For our main courses, James and I opted for the Florentine steak, cooked to perfection and bursting with flavor. Eglė, ever the adventurous eater, chose the gnocchi with pork cheek, a dish that proved to be a culinary revelation. Every dish was delicious.

As we savored our meal, we couldn't help but feel grateful for the opportunity to experience the culinary delights of Florence. The restaurant’s location was named after a noble Florentine family from the mid-1400s. It was the perfect way to refuel after a morning of exploration and to prepare for the adventures that lay ahead.

Dinner was at Il Latini, a restaurant famous for its authentic Florentine cuisine and lively atmosphere. From the moment we arrived, we were swept up in the restaurant's energy. The dining room was packed with people, the air filled with laughter and conversation. We were seated at a communal table, sharing our meal with fellow travelers from around the world. The staff encouraged us to simply sit back and enjoy the ride “famiglia” style which meant everything gets chucked in the middle for sharing.


Discover authentic Tuscan cuisine at Il Latini in Florence - where tradition meets flavor in every dish.

The meal was a feast for the senses, a seemingly endless parade of Tuscan specialties. We sampled the hanging parma hams, the ribollita (a hearty bread and vegetable soup), and, of course, the bistecca alla fiorentina (Florentine steak). Every dish was prepared with care and attention to detail, showcasing the region's rich culinary heritage. The wine flowed freely, adding to the convivial atmosphere. It was an evening of shared experiences and culinary delights, a memory that we will cherish for years to come.

After dinner, we decided to experience the Florence nightlife, and stopped by Rasputin, a hidden bar near the town center. Finding the bar was an adventure in itself, as it's deliberately not located correctly on Google. The bar exudes an air of mystery and sophistication. The bartenders were skilled mixologists, crafting inventive cocktails with precision and flair. We sipped on our drinks, enjoying the intimate atmosphere and the company of fellow travelers. It was the perfect way to end a day of exploration, a moment of quiet contemplation before returning to our hotel.


Experience the allure of Rasputin, Florence's premier cocktail bar, where sophisticated drinks and enchanting ambiance meet in a chic nightlife setting.

As I reflect on today's experiences, I am struck by the depth and complexity of Florence. It's a city that rewards those who venture beyond the well-trodden tourist paths, a place where hidden gems await discovery around every corner. From the medieval charm of Palazzo Davanzati to the literary treasures of the National Central Library, from the serene beauty of Piazza della Santissima Annunziata to the culinary delights of La Buchetta and Il Latini, today was a journey through time and culture, a reminder of the enduring allure of this captivating city. I am glad we took the time to explore some of the lesser known attractions.

Tomorrow, we plan to visit the Galleria dell’Accademia to see Michelangelo’s David, explore the Piazza di San Lorenzo, and visit The Baptistery of St. John. I can’t wait to see what tomorrow brings!