Family Cultural Adventure in the Heart of Florence

Gardens and Grandeur in Florence

Today was a day of wandering through Florence's stunning landscapes and delving into its rich history. Joined by Aoife and Liam, we set out to explore the city's gardens and palaces, each with its own unique story to tell. It was a day filled with beauty, history, and a touch of Florentine intrigue.

Our morning began with a hearty breakfast at Caffè Gilli. This place is an institution, a beautiful, grand café that has been serving Florentines and visitors alike since 1733. It's a bit on the pricey side, but the atmosphere and the pastries are well worth it. I had a cappuccino and a *torta della nonna*, which was the perfect way to start the day. Aoife went for her usual *latte macchiato*, and Liam, ever the adventurer, tried a *cannoli Siciliani*. Fuelled up, we were ready to tackle the gardens.


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

First on our list was the Boboli Gardens, a sprawling green expanse directly behind the Pitti Palace. It's more than just a garden; it's an outdoor museum, filled with ancient and Renaissance statues, fountains, and grottos. Despite it being January, there was still a stark beauty to the place. The bare trees and the muted colors of the stone statues created a serene atmosphere, a stark contrast to the bustling city outside. We wandered through the gardens, admiring the Fountain of Neptune and the Grotto of Buontalenti. Liam, with his youthful energy, was particularly fascinated by the statues, while Aoife enjoyed the peacefulness of the surroundings.


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

In the right light, at the right time, everything is extraordinary.

After Boboli, we ventured into the Pitti Palace itself. This massive palace, once home to the Medici family, is now divided into five museums. We focused on the Palatine Gallery and the Royal Apartments, both of which offered a glimpse into the opulent lifestyle of the Medici. As an antiques dealer, I was particularly interested in the furniture and decorative arts. The intricate details and the craftsmanship were simply astounding. Aoife, with her librarian's eye for detail, was captivated by the stories behind the portraits, while Liam was impressed by the sheer scale of the place.


Explore the opulent halls and vast art collections of Pitti Palace, a Renaissance gem and former residence of the Medici family in Florence, Italy.

Leaving Pitti Palace, we made our way to the Giardino Bardini. This garden, though smaller than Boboli, offers equally stunning views of Florence. The baroque staircase, fringed with irises, leads up to a belvedere with panoramic views of the city. Even in January, the garden had a certain charm. We strolled through the English garden and admired the olive trees on the hillside terraces. From the belvedere, we could see the Duomo, the Palazzo Vecchio, and the Ponte Vecchio, all bathed in the soft afternoon light.


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

By late afternoon, we were ready for a late lunch. We chose Osteria dell'Enoteca, a restaurant near the Boboli Gardens that came highly recommended. It turned out to be a fantastic choice. The restaurant has a warm and inviting atmosphere, with exposed brick walls and elegant decor. The menu features Tuscan cuisine with a modern twist. I opted for the Florentine steak, which was cooked to perfection. Aoife chose the *pappardelle* with wild boar sauce, and Liam went for the *cauliflower flan*. The food was delicious, and the service was excellent.


Experience authentic Italian flavors at Osteria dell'Enoteca in Florence, where exquisite steaks and fine wines await every discerning palate.

As evening approached, we decided to experience Florence's nightlife. Liam had heard about Rasputin, a hidden bar in the Oltrarno neighborhood. Finding it was an adventure in itself. The bar is located behind an unmarked door, with only a small brass plaque to indicate its presence. We rang the doorbell and were greeted by a friendly bartender who led us down to a dimly lit, intimate space. The bar specializes in whiskey cocktails, and the bartenders are true mixologists. I tried a Manhattan with a twist of absinthe, while Aoife opted for a classic Negroni. Liam, always eager to try something new, ordered a cocktail dedicated to a Michelin star chef, served with soy sauce. The drinks were expertly crafted, and the atmosphere was perfect for a late-night conversation.


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

Before heading back to the Relais Grand Tour, we took a leisurely stroll along the Arno River. The Ponte Vecchio, illuminated against the night sky, was a sight to behold. The city was quiet, and the air was crisp. It was the perfect end to a perfect day.


Experience the timeless beauty of Florence at Relais Grand Tour, your perfect base for exploring the city's rich culture and history.

As I reflect on today's adventures, I am reminded of the beauty and history that Florence has to offer. From the grandeur of the Boboli Gardens to the hidden charm of Rasputin, every corner of this city has a story to tell. And as we prepare for tomorrow's explorations, I am filled with anticipation for what new discoveries await.

Tomorrow, we plan to delve into the scientific side of Florence with a visit to the Museo Galileo. Then, we'll explore the Basilica di San Lorenzo and the Cappelle Medicee, continuing our journey through the city's rich history and art. And perhaps Aoife will even get to indulge in some retail therapy at the Davide Cerasi Leather Boutique.

It's moments like these, shared with family, that make travel so rewarding. The memories we create together are the true treasures we collect along the way.

I am already looking forward to sharing more of our Florentine adventure with you all tomorrow!