Exploring the Renaissance: A Journey to Florence

Ciao, Firenze! A Fond Farewell

As our Florentine adventure draws to a close, I find myself reflecting on the incredible experiences we've had. It feels like just yesterday Olivia and I were stepping off the plane, eager to immerse ourselves in the heart of the Renaissance. Now, with only a few hours left before we head back to Kelowna, I want to share the highlights of our final day in this magical city.



Our last day began, as many others did, with the promise of good coffee and pastries. We ventured out to Caffè Libertà, a charming spot near Piazza della Libertà. It was bustling with locals, a sure sign we were in the right place. I ordered a cappuccino, and Olivia, ever the traditionalist, opted for an espresso. We shared a couple of cornetti, flaky and filled with delicious cream. It was the perfect way to start our day, soaking in the Florentine atmosphere one last time. I made a mental note to try and recreate those pastries back home – though I suspect the Okanagan Valley might not quite capture the magic of Florence.



With our caffeine fix sorted, we set off to explore the artistic heart of Florence. Our first stop was the Loggia dei Lanzi, an open-air sculpture gallery that has always fascinated me. The imposing statues, each with its own story, stood proudly under the arches. I found myself particularly drawn to Cellini’s Perseus holding the head of Medusa. Its dramatic flair and intricate detail are mesmerizing. Olivia, never one to shy away from a bit of history, pointed out the Roman sculptures of women at the back, explaining their significance and origins. It's moments like these that make traveling with her so enriching; she always adds depth to our explorations.



Discover the exquisite beauty and rich history of Loggia dei Lanzi, an iconic open-air gallery in Florence showcasing Renaissance masterpieces.

Art is not what you see, but what you make others see.

Next on our list was the Church and Museum of Orsanmichele. Originally a grain market, this building has transformed over the centuries into a place of worship and a showcase for Florentine art. The exterior is adorned with niches, each housing a statue of a patron saint commissioned by the city's guilds. Inside, we admired Orcagna's intricate tabernacle, a masterpiece of Gothic sculpture. Venturing up to the museum on the upper floors, we were treated to a stunning collection of original sculptures by Donatello, Ghiberti, and Verrocchio. It was fascinating to see these works up close, marveling at the skill and craftsmanship of these Renaissance masters. It's amazing to think that this building once served as a granary, a testament to Florence's resourcefulness and artistic spirit.



Explore the Church and Museum of Orsanmichele, a stunning blend of art, history, and spirituality in the heart of Florence, Italy.

After a morning filled with art and history, our stomachs started to rumble. We decided to try La Buchetta Food & Wine Restaurant for lunch, enticed by its reputation for traditional Tuscan cuisine. The restaurant was cozy and inviting, with a warm atmosphere that made us feel right at home. We started with a selection of local cheeses, each paired with a different wine. For our main courses, Olivia chose the Florentine steak, cooked to perfection, while I opted for the pici pasta served in a wheel of melted parmesan with shaved truffle on top. It was rich, decadent, and utterly divine! The waiter recommended a Chianti Classico to accompany our meal, a perfect complement to the hearty flavors of Tuscany. As we savored each bite, we couldn't help but reflect on the incredible culinary experiences we've had throughout our trip. From simple trattorias to Michelin-starred restaurants, Florence has truly spoiled us with its gastronomic delights.



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

With the afternoon stretching before us, we decided to indulge in a bit of retail therapy. Olivia had been wanting to visit Boutique Nadine, a local shop known for its curated collection of vintage and contemporary clothing. We wandered through the racks, admiring the unique and stylish pieces. Olivia, with her keen eye for fashion, found a beautiful silk scarf that she couldn't resist. I, on the other hand, was more interested in the vintage accessories, particularly a collection of cufflinks that caught my eye. It's not every day that I get to add a touch of Florentine flair to my wardrobe back in Kelowna!



Discover unique women's fashion and accessories at Boutique Nadine, a premier shopping destination in the heart of Florence, Italy.

Our final stop of the day was the Pitti Palace, a grand palace that once served as the residence of the Medici family. The sheer scale of the building is breathtaking, a testament to the wealth and power of its former inhabitants. We explored the Palatine Gallery, home to an impressive collection of Renaissance paintings by artists such as Raphael, Titian, and Caravaggio. The opulent rooms, adorned with frescoes and gilded details, transported us back to a time of lavish courtly life. Wandering through the palace, I couldn't help but imagine what it must have been like to live here, surrounded by such beauty and grandeur.



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

As evening approached, we made our way to Ristorante Santa Elisabetta for our farewell dinner. This Michelin-starred restaurant, located in a 12th-century Byzantine tower, promised an unforgettable dining experience. The intimate setting, with only a handful of tables, created a sense of exclusivity and romance. We opted for the tasting menu, a culinary journey that showcased the chef's creativity and skill. Each dish was a work of art, both visually stunning and incredibly delicious. From the delicate seafood appetizers to the rich and flavorful meat courses, every bite was a revelation. The sommelier paired each course with a different wine, enhancing the flavors and creating a harmonious symphony of taste. It was the perfect way to end our Florentine adventure, a culinary masterpiece that will linger in our memories for years to come.



Experience exquisite Italian cuisine at Ristorante Santa Elisabetta in Florence—where tradition meets modern elegance for an unforgettable dining experience.

As we walked back to our apartment, hand in hand, I couldn't help but feel a sense of gratitude for the incredible experiences we've shared in Florence. From the iconic landmarks to the hidden gems, this city has captured our hearts and souls. Tomorrow, we'll be heading back to Kelowna, but the memories of our Florentine adventure will stay with us forever. Who knows, maybe one day we'll return to this enchanting city, ready to explore its wonders once again. Until then, ciao, Firenze! It's been a pleasure.



As this is our final day, there is no itinerary for tomorrow, as our flight leaves in the morning. It's been a true pleasure sharing this adventure with you all, and I hope you have enjoyed the journey as much as Olivia and I have. Until our next adventure, arrivederci!