Exploring the Renaissance: A Journey to Florence

A Day Immersed in Renaissance Grandeur

Today was a deep dive into the heart of the Renaissance, a day where art, history, and the simple pleasures of Italian cuisine intertwined to create an unforgettable Florentine experience. Olivia and I set out with a plan to explore some of the city's most iconic landmarks, and what we discovered was so much more than just sights – it was a journey through time.

Our morning began with a hearty breakfast at Ditta Artigianale. This place is a gem! The coffee was robust and flavorful, just the kick-start I needed for a day of exploring. Olivia opted for a pastry that she declared was the best she’d had so far on our trip. Ditta Artigianale is clearly passionate about coffee, and their dedication shows in every cup. The atmosphere was buzzing with locals and tourists alike, all eager to start their day with a quality brew. Sipping my cappuccino, I felt a surge of excitement for what the day held.

Fueled up, we made our way to the Galleria dell’Accademia, home to Michelangelo's David. I'd pre-booked our tickets, a tip I highly recommend to anyone visiting Florence, as the queues can be incredibly long. Even with timed entry, there was still a bit of a wait, but it was nothing compared to the line for those without reservations. As we finally entered the gallery, the anticipation was palpable.

And then, there he was. David.

Standing before this masterpiece was an awe-inspiring experience. The sheer scale of the sculpture, the incredible detail, the sense of power and grace it exudes – it's simply breathtaking. I’ve seen countless photos, but nothing prepares you for the real thing. Olivia was equally mesmerized, circling the statue, admiring it from every angle. We spent a good hour just soaking it all in, marveling at Michelangelo's genius. The Accademia is more than just David, of course. It also houses a collection of paintings by Florentine artists, mostly from the period 1300–1600. While David is undoubtedly the star, the other works offer a fascinating glimpse into the artistic heritage of Florence. We wandered through the halls, admiring the intricate details and vibrant colors of the paintings, each telling its own story of faith, power, and beauty.


Discover the masterpieces of the Renaissance at the Galleria dell’Accademia di Firenze, home to Michelangelo's iconic David and more.

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

Leaving the Accademia, we strolled towards the Basilica di San Lorenzo, a church with a rich history and stunning architecture. The exterior, with its unfinished façade, is deceptively simple, hinting at the treasures within. Brunelleschi's design is a masterpiece of Renaissance architecture, characterized by its harmonious proportions and serene atmosphere. The interior is filled with light, creating a sense of peace and tranquility. We wandered through the chapels, admiring the artwork and soaking in the spiritual ambiance.

The Basilica is also closely linked to the Medici family, who used it as their parish church. Their influence is evident throughout, particularly in the Old Sacristy, designed by Brunelleschi, and the Medici Chapels, an opulent complex of mausoleums. These chapels are a testament to the Medici's wealth and power, adorned with marble, precious stones, and intricate decorations. Exploring these spaces, I couldn't help but reflect on the Medici's legacy, their patronage of the arts, and their impact on Florence's history.


Explore the Basilica di San Lorenzo in Florence, a magnificent blend of art, history, and Renaissance architecture that captivates every visitor.

After the Basilica, we ventured into the Cappelle Medicee, the Medici Chapels. This opulent complex is a testament to the power and wealth of the Medici family. The sheer scale of the place is astounding, and the intricate decorations are simply breathtaking. The Chapel of the Princes, with its soaring dome and walls adorned with colorful marble and semi-precious stones, is a dazzling display of Baroque grandeur. It's hard to imagine the resources and manpower that went into creating such a lavish monument.

The New Sacristy, designed by Michelangelo, is a more somber space, but equally impressive. The sculptures here are powerful and expressive, conveying a sense of grief and loss. Michelangelo's genius is evident in every detail, from the intricate folds of the drapery to the lifelike expressions on the faces of the figures. It's a moving tribute to the Medici family, and a reminder of their enduring legacy. I found myself pondering the lives of those interred within these walls, the weight of their responsibilities, and the impact they had on Florence and the world.


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

By this point, our stomachs were rumbling, so we sought out Ristorante Belcore for lunch. This place came highly recommended, and it did not disappoint. The atmosphere was warm and inviting, and the staff were incredibly friendly. We started with a shared appetizer of bruschetta, topped with fresh tomatoes and basil. For our main courses, Olivia opted for the pasta with truffle sauce, while I chose the osso buco, a Florentine specialty. Both dishes were cooked to perfection, bursting with flavor. The pasta was rich and creamy, while the osso buco was tender and succulent. We savored every bite, washing it down with a glass of local Chianti. Belcore is a true culinary gem, offering an authentic taste of Florence.


Experience authentic Tuscan cuisine at Ristorante Belcore in Florence - where every dish tells a story.

With renewed energy, we decided to indulge in a bit of retail therapy at Rinascente Firenze. This department store is a shopper's paradise, offering everything from high-end fashion to local crafts. Olivia was particularly drawn to the leather goods, while I was more interested in the food hall, where I picked up some artisanal chocolates for Ethan. We spent a couple of hours browsing the various departments, enjoying the vibrant atmosphere and the beautiful displays.

Of course, no visit to Rinascente is complete without a trip to the rooftop terrace. The views from up here are simply stunning, offering a panoramic vista of Florence's skyline. We sipped on Aperol spritzes, soaking in the breathtaking scenery. The Duomo loomed large in the distance, its magnificent dome a testament to human ingenuity. The terracotta rooftops stretched out as far as the eye could see, creating a tapestry of color and texture. It was the perfect way to end our afternoon, feeling grateful for the beauty and charm of Florence.


Discover the luxury of shopping at Rinascente Firenze, where fashion meets culture in the heart of Florence.

As evening approached, we made our way to Ristorante Oliviero 1962 for dinner. This restaurant has been a Florentine institution for decades, known for its classic cuisine and elegant ambiance. From the moment we walked in, we were treated like royalty. The staff were attentive and gracious, making us feel right at home. We started with a shared plate of antipasti, featuring a selection of cured meats, cheeses, and olives. For our main courses, Olivia chose the sea bass, while I opted for the Florentine steak, a must-try dish in this city. The sea bass was delicate and flavorful, while the steak was cooked to perfection, tender and juicy. We paired our meal with a bottle of Brunello di Montalcino, a robust red wine that complemented the flavors of the food beautifully. Oliviero 1962 is a true culinary experience, offering a taste of authentic Florentine cuisine at its finest.


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

Easter is just around the corner, and Florence is gearing up for some unique celebrations. I read that on Easter Sunday, the Scoppio del Carro, or Explosion of the Cart, takes place in Piazza del Duomo. A cart filled with fireworks is paraded through the city and then ignited in a spectacular display. Sounds like quite the spectacle! Also, tomorrow, the plan is to visit Piazzale Michelangelo for sunrise, then explore the Bardini Garden and the Museo Galileo.

As we walked back to our apartment, hand in hand, I couldn't help but feel a sense of contentment. Today had been a whirlwind of art, history, and culinary delights, a true Florentine feast for the senses. I am so glad that I could share this day with Olivia. Florence has a way of captivating you, drawing you in with its beauty and charm. It's a city that stays with you long after you've left, a reminder of the power of art, the richness of history, and the simple pleasures of life. And, of course, the joy of sharing it all with the one you love.

Tomorrow, we’re planning to visit Piazzale Michelangelo for sunrise, hoping to capture that golden light over the city. Then it’s off to the Bardini Garden and the Museo Galileo. Should be another great day!