Family Adventure in Florence: Discovering the Renaissance Heart of Italy

A Fond Farewell to Florence

As our ten-day Florentine adventure draws to a close, I wanted to make sure our last day was filled with as much wonder and discovery as the previous ones. With Lena, Sophia, and myself in tow, we ventured beyond the city center to soak in the Tuscan atmosphere one last time, creating memories that I know we'll cherish long after we've returned to Berlin.

Our day began with a short trip to Fiesole, a charming town perched on a hilltop overlooking Florence. It was a welcome change of pace from the bustling city. The bus ride itself offered stunning panoramic views, the rolling hills dotted with olive groves and vineyards stretching out before us. I couldn't help but feel a sense of peace wash over me, a feeling that's often hard to come by amidst the demands of work back at the travel tech startup.


Explore Fiesole, a charming hilltop town near Florence, rich in history, breathtaking views, and authentic Tuscan experiences.

In Fiesole, we wandered through the Piazza Mino, the heart of the town, where the local market was in full swing. The air was filled with the sounds of Italian chatter and the enticing aromas of fresh produce and local delicacies. Sophia was particularly fascinated by the colorful array of fruits and vegetables, her little fingers reaching out to touch the smooth skin of a vibrant bell pepper. We explored the Fiesole Cathedral, a Romanesque structure with a simple yet elegant interior. Although we didn't venture into the archaeological area this time, the Etruscan walls were a sight to behold, standing as a testament to the town's rich history. I made a mental note to return someday and delve deeper into Fiesole's past. The views from Fiesole were simply breathtaking. From the Church of San Francesco, we gazed out over the terracotta rooftops of Florence, the Duomo standing tall and proud against the winter sky. It was a perfect spot for a family photo, capturing the essence of our Florentine adventure.

The best view comes after the hardest climb.

Next on our itinerary was a visit to the Leonardo Museum Palazina Uzielli, back closer to Florence in Vinci, the birthplace of the Renaissance master. I had read about the museum's collection of models based on Leonardo's drawings and was eager to see them up close. Sophia, with her boundless curiosity, was equally excited, her eyes wide with anticipation. The museum was housed in two adjacent buildings, the Palazzina Uzielli and the Conti Guidi Castle, each offering a unique perspective on Leonardo's genius. We explored the models of his inventions, from flying machines to war machines, marveling at the ingenuity and vision of this remarkable man. Lena, with her architect's eye, was particularly impressed by the intricate designs and the innovative use of materials. Sophia, of course, was most captivated by the flying machines, imagining herself soaring through the skies like a bird. I was personally struck by Leonardo's anatomical studies. It was fascinating to see how his scientific curiosity intertwined with his artistic talent, leading him to a deeper understanding of the human form. It was a great way to understand the origins of this amazing genius.


Explore the brilliance of Leonardo da Vinci at the Leonardo Museum in Vinci, where art and science come alive in a captivating setting.

As the day drew to a close, we made our way to Piazzale Michelangelo, a panoramic viewpoint overlooking the city. It's a spot I had researched before, knowing it to be the perfect place to watch the sunset. As we arrived, the sky was already ablaze with color, the setting sun casting a warm golden glow over the Florentine skyline. The Duomo, the Ponte Vecchio, and the Arno River shimmered in the fading light, creating a scene of unparalleled beauty. The Piazzale was bustling with people, locals and tourists alike, all gathered to witness this magical moment. A street musician played a melancholic tune on his guitar, adding to the romantic atmosphere. We found a spot near the edge of the Piazzale and settled in to watch the show. Sophia, perched on my shoulders, pointed excitedly at the Duomo, her voice filled with wonder. Lena leaned against me, her hand in mine, as we shared a quiet moment of appreciation for the beauty that surrounded us. I couldn't help but feel a sense of gratitude for this incredible journey, for the opportunity to share it with my family, and for the memories we had created together.


Experience the stunning panoramic views of Florence at Piazzale Michelangelo, an iconic plaza that captures the city's beauty and charm.

After the sun had set and the sky had faded to a deep indigo, we decided to treat ourselves to a final Florentine dinner. Hotel Lungarno was our choice, and it proved to be the perfect ending to our day. The restaurant offered stunning views of the Ponte Vecchio, which was beautifully illuminated against the night sky. The food was exquisite, a celebration of Tuscan flavors and ingredients. We savored each bite, relishing the last moments of our culinary adventure. Sophia, tired but content, fell asleep in my arms as we finished our meal. As we walked back to the Hotel Continentale - Lungarno Collection, the city was quiet and peaceful, the only sounds the gentle murmur of the Arno River and the distant echo of footsteps. I couldn't help but feel a pang of sadness that our trip was coming to an end. Florence had captured our hearts, and we would miss its beauty, its history, and its vibrant culture.


Discover elegance at Hotel Lungarno, where luxury meets breathtaking views along Florence's iconic Arno River.

Before heading back to the hotel, Lena and I decided to check out THE ARTS INN for one last drink. We sat outside, enjoying the mild evening air and reminiscing about our favorite moments from the trip. It was the perfect way to say goodbye to Florence, a city that had given us so much.


Experience the vibrant fusion of cocktails and art at The Arts Inn, a unique bar and gallery in the heart of Florence, Italy.

Tomorrow marks the end of our Florentine adventure. We'll be packing our bags, reminiscing about the incredible experiences we've had, and already dreaming of our next visit. Florence, you've been a dream come true!

I'm especially grateful we took the time to explore beyond the main tourist areas and delve into the quieter, more authentic corners of the city. It's these moments, away from the crowds and the guidebooks, that truly make a trip memorable. As much as I enjoy my work at the travel tech startup in Berlin, these family trips are what truly recharge me, reminding me of the importance of connection and shared experiences.

As I reflect on our time here, I realize that Florence is more than just a city of art and history. It's a place that awakens the senses, inspires the soul, and creates memories that last a lifetime. And who knows, maybe one day we'll even consider a more permanent move. Until then, arrivederci, Firenze!