Exploring the Renaissance: A Journey to Florence

Day 1: Stepping Back in Time in Florence

After a long journey from Kelowna, with what felt like an eternity spent in airport queues and a rather uninspiring layover, Olivia and I finally arrived in Florence. The initial chaos of navigating a new city soon melted away as we stepped into the embrace of Kairos by Florence Art Apartments. The view from our window was a scene straight out of a Renaissance painting, instantly reminding us why we chose this enchanting city for our spring getaway. Despite forgetting the power adapter, a rookie mistake I know, we were both buzzing with excitement to dive into the heart of Florence. The mild April air, a welcome change from the lingering chill of Canada, hinted at the adventures that awaited us.


Experience the heart of Florence at Kairos by Florence Art Apartments, your home away from home, with easy access to iconic landmarks and modern amenities.

Our Florentine adventure began in earnest with a hearty breakfast at Caffè Gilli. The cafe, steeped in history, was the perfect spot to fuel up for a day of exploring. Olivia, ever the traditionalist, opted for a classic cappuccino and a flaky croissant, while I, in the spirit of trying new things, went for a local pastry I couldn't pronounce but tasted divine. The cafe's elegant ambiance and the buzz of local chatter set the tone for the day – we were ready to immerse ourselves in the Florentine way of life.


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

Our first stop was the legendary Uffizi Gallery. Pre-booked tickets in hand, we bypassed the daunting queue, a move I highly recommend to anyone visiting Florence. The sheer volume of masterpieces within those walls was almost overwhelming. Botticelli's Birth of Venus and Leonardo da Vinci's Annunciation were, of course, breathtaking. I found myself particularly drawn to the works of Michelangelo, his sculptures radiating a raw power that left me speechless. Olivia, with her librarian's eye for detail, spent a considerable amount of time studying the intricacies of each painting, occasionally sharing fascinating historical tidbits that brought the art to life.


Discover the Uffizi Galleries, Florence's premier art museum boasting masterpieces from the Renaissance and a rich cultural history.

Art washes away from the soul the dust of everyday life.

Emerging from the Uffizi, we found ourselves in the vibrant Piazza della Signoria. The square was a hive of activity, street performers vying for attention amidst the backdrop of magnificent sculptures and the imposing Palazzo Vecchio. The Thomas J. Price exhibition had some of his sculptures placed in the Piazza, which gave a contemporary perspective to the classical forms. We took a moment to admire the Fountain of Neptune, its intricate details a testament to the artistic genius of the Renaissance. Apparently there was a Karaoke party at the Piazza della Signoria later this month, but we will be long gone by then.


Experience the timeless beauty and vibrant culture of Piazza della Signoria, a historic square that embodies the spirit of Florence.

Lunch beckoned, and we stumbled upon Il Vezzo, a charming little restaurant tucked away on a side street. The menu was a delightful mix of traditional Tuscan dishes with a modern twist. Olivia chose a pasta dish with seasonal vegetables, while I opted for the tagliata di lampredotto, a local delicacy. Paired with a glass of Chianti Classico, it was the perfect midday repast. The restaurant was cozy, and the staff were friendly, making us feel like we were dining with old friends. I made a mental note to try to recreate the tagliata back in Kelowna, perhaps with a craft beer pairing, of course.


Discover authentic Tuscan flavors at Il Vezzo, Florence's beloved Italian restaurant offering a delightful dining experience.

With renewed energy, we ventured into the Palazzo Vecchio. The sheer scale of the building was astounding, a testament to the power and wealth of the Medici family. We wandered through the opulent halls, marveling at the intricate frescoes and the sheer extravagance of the decor. The Salone dei Cinquecento, the Hall of the Five Hundred, was particularly impressive, its vastness and grandeur leaving us in awe. I couldn't help but imagine the political intrigues and power struggles that had played out within those walls over the centuries.


Discover the grandeur of Palazzo Vecchio, a historical landmark in Florence showcasing Renaissance art and rich cultural heritage.

As the afternoon waned, we sought refuge from the crowds in a hidden gem of a bar called Rasputin. This speakeasy-style establishment, tucked away behind an unmarked door, was a world away from the bustling streets outside. Inside, the ambiance was dark and mysterious, the air thick with the aroma of aged whisky and exotic spices. I ordered a classic Manhattan, while Olivia, feeling adventurous, opted for one of the bar's signature cocktails. The drinks were expertly crafted, the service impeccable, and the atmosphere utterly captivating. Apparently it is hard to get into, but we had no issues.


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

For our first dinner in Florence, I had booked a table at La Giostra. The restaurant came highly recommended, and I was eager to experience its renowned Tuscan cuisine. From what I read, the chef/owner is a Hapsburg Lorena Prince, and the restaurant is managed by his family. As we walked in, celebrity pictures covered the walls. The restaurant was cozy, and the atmosphere was buzzing with energy. We started with the complimentary crostini, which were amazing. Olivia chose the ravioli with pear and pecorino cheese, while I decided to go for the Bistecca alla Fiorentina, a massive T-bone steak cooked to perfection. The meal was a symphony of flavors, each dish a testament to the culinary prowess of the Tuscan region. It was definitely one of my favorite meals so far. I can see why this place is so hyped.


Discover La Giostra: A premier Tuscan restaurant in Florence offering authentic Italian cuisine amidst enchanting surroundings.

As the evening drew to a close, we strolled along the Arno River, the Ponte Vecchio illuminated in the soft glow of the streetlights. The air was filled with the sounds of laughter and music, the city alive with a vibrant energy that was infectious. We stopped to enjoy a gelato, savoring the sweet taste of la dolce vita. Back at our apartment, exhausted but exhilarated, we reflected on our first day in Florence. It had been a whirlwind of art, history, culture, and culinary delights – a true Renaissance awakening.

Tomorrow, we plan to visit the Cathedral of Santa Maria del Fiore, Giotto's Bell Tower, and the Basilica of Santa Croce in Florence. Olivia is particularly excited about the Cathedral, so I'm sure we will spend a good amount of time there. I'm looking forward to climbing Giotto's Bell Tower for a panoramic view of the city. I'm also hoping to find some time to visit the Davide Cerasi Leather Boutique, as I'm in need of a new leather jacket. I'm sure Olivia will find something to buy as well. It's a pity that I forgot my umbrella. Apparently April is wetter than people think so make sure to bring a travel umbrella with you, and perhaps a rain hat as well, especially for trips early in the month. A good jacket is also an essential item, not too heavy but waterproof and light so that you can pack it away if it gets too warm.

Until tomorrow,
James.