Renaissance Revelations: Exploring Florence with Lena

A Day of Discovery in Florence

Today, Lena and I dove deeper into Florence, seeking out some of the city's less-trodden paths. We wanted to experience the quieter side of this vibrant city, away from the bustling crowds, and discover the hidden stories etched into its ancient stones. Our journey took us through basilicas, museums, and the lively atmosphere of local markets, offering a rich tapestry of experiences that truly captured the essence of Florence.

Our day began with a hearty breakfast at the Winter Garden Restaurant. It was a delightful start, fueling us for the day's adventures. The hotel's breakfast spread was impressive, offering a mix of continental and local options. Lena particularly enjoyed the fresh pastries, while I appreciated the strong Italian coffee, a perfect prelude to our exploration.


Discover the enchanting flavors of Italy at Winter Garden Restaurant in Florence – where tradition meets modern elegance.

Our first stop was the Basilica di San Lorenzo. I’ve always been drawn to the stories behind grand structures, and this basilica was no exception. What struck me most was its unfinished facade, a testament to the ebb and flow of history and resources. Inside, the basilica was a serene escape from the bustling market outside. The architecture, a masterpiece by Brunelleschi, showcased the Renaissance ideals of harmony and proportion. It was fascinating to learn about the Medici family's deep connection to this church; it served as their parish church and final resting place. Wandering through the cloisters, we found a sense of peace, a quiet corner in the heart of Florence. The Basilica is one of the oldest churches in Florence, with a history stretching back over a thousand years. It was originally consecrated in 393 CE, and renovated in 1059. The Basilica stands at the heart of Florence and the city's history. This iconic church is a testament to the life of the famed Medici family and boasts design work from Brunelleschi to Michelangelo.


Discover the architectural splendor and artistic treasures of Basilica di San Lorenzo, a must-see landmark in the heart of Florence.

To truly understand a city, one must wander beyond the iconic landmarks and delve into the stories whispered within its hidden sanctuaries.

Next, we ventured to the Museo di San Marco, housed in a former Dominican monastery. This museum offered a unique glimpse into the lives of the monks who once resided here. The highlight was undoubtedly the frescoes by Fra Angelico. His works, vibrant and deeply spiritual, adorned the walls of the monks' cells, creating an atmosphere of profound contemplation. Each fresco told a story, inviting us to reflect on faith and art. The museum itself was a masterpiece of Renaissance architecture, designed by Michelozzo. We explored the library hall, once a public library, and the Cloister della Spesa, each space echoing with history and artistry. The Museo di San Marco is located in the Dominican monastery of San Marco in Florence. The monastery, built by Michelozzo between 1437 and 1452, is a masterpiece of Renaissance architecture and was once one of the most modern monasteries in Italy. Visitors can tour the impressively preserved rooms of the 15th century monastery, including the library hall, which became the first public library in the western world. The museum displays important frescoes by Beato Angelico, who designed many of the rooms, as well as works by Fra Bartolomeo and other painters of the Florentine school.


Explore the serene beauty and artistic masterpieces of Museo di San Marco in Florence, a hidden gem for lovers of Renaissance art and history.

After immersing ourselves in art and history, we decided to experience the vibrant atmosphere of Florence's shopping scene. Our destination was Rinascente Firenze, a department store that promised a unique shopping experience. Emphasizing on for the city, with the city, in the city, Rinascente's every store opens to the public a stage not only for fashion but a theatre full of novelties, unique proposals and events. Each store proposes itself as a great house of brands, to offer a unique experience. Rinascente in Florence is also called the Store of Craft. It was a feast for the senses, with its displays of high-quality materials and exclusive products. We explored the various floors, each dedicated to different aspects of Florentine craftsmanship. Lena was particularly captivated by the beauty hall, while I enjoyed the food hall, where we sampled local Tuscan products. The highlight was the rooftop terrace, offering a breathtaking view of Florence's iconic landmarks. It was the perfect spot to take a break and soak in the city's beauty. We even looked into the Personal Shopper service, which you can book to choose the focus of your consultation from among: ready-to-wear, shoes & accessories; beauty & fragrances; home & design; food market and wine shop.


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

For lunch, we chose Coquinarius, a bistrot known for its authentic Tuscan cuisine. Nestled in the small streets near the Piazza del Duomo, the restaurant exuded a cozy and inviting ambiance. The menu was a celebration of Tuscan flavors, with dishes that combined tradition and innovation. Lena opted for the cheese and pear ravioli, while I decided on the Pici with beef Chianina ragù. Both dishes were exquisite, showcasing the region's culinary heritage. The wine selection was equally impressive, and we savored a local red that perfectly complemented our meal. This bistrot, restaurant and wine shop since 1999 offers a cuisine that combines tradition and innovation we transmit the passion of our land. Each of our dishes takes shape and flavor from the colors of our region. Tuscany. Wine Shop & Bistrot since 1999. We are ready to take you on a sensorial journey, where flavours, scents and stories walk together.


Discover authentic Italian cuisine at Coquinarius in Florence - where tradition meets modern taste in a cozy setting.

In the late afternoon, I decided to challenge myself with a climb up the Campanile di Giotto. Lena opted to explore the shops nearby, promising to meet me later. The climb was strenuous, with 414 steps to the top, but the reward was well worth the effort. From the summit, the panoramic view of Florence was simply breathtaking. I could see the Duomo, the Arno River, and the rolling hills of Tuscany stretching into the distance. It was a moment of pure awe, a reminder of the beauty and history that permeate this city. Giotto's Bell Tower, sits beside the foot of the Duomo. To climb to the top of the campanile, you'll need to scale 414 steps — so it's nearly as tall as the dome. However, the climb up Giotto's Bell Tower is easier than Brunelleschi's Dome for a few reasons. First, you're walking up a straight tower rather than a curved dome, so the actual stairways are less challenging (though you're still walking up stone stairs!). Second, there are multiple landings on the way up where you can pause for as long as you want to rest and enjoy the views.


Discover the breathtaking Campanile di Giotto in Florence, a Gothic masterpiece offering stunning views and rich artistic history, a must-see for every traveler.

As the day drew to a close, we met at THE ARTS INN, a bar known for its artistic ambiance and creative cocktails. The bar was a hidden gem, tucked away from the main tourist streets. The Arts Inn seamlessly blends the charm of a traditional wine bar with the elegance of a cocktail lounge. We enjoyed expertly crafted drinks while admiring the eclectic mix of contemporary art that adorned the walls. It was the perfect setting to unwind and reflect on the day's adventures. I tried a Negroni, and Lena had a coffee martini. The cosy atmosphere of THE ARTS INN makes visitors feel relaxed and have a good time. Patient mixologists meet you at this place all year round.


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

For our final culinary experience of the day, we had dinner at Gucci Osteria da Massimo Bottura. The restaurant was an innovative and romantic setting, ideal for special occasions. The restaurant has received its first Michelin Star for the 2020 Italian Michelin Guide. It was a celebration of Italian cuisine with a global twist. We opted for the tasting menu, which took us on a culinary journey inspired by the chef's travels and experiences. Each dish was a work of art, both visually and gastronomically. The service was impeccable, and the ambiance was elegant yet relaxed. Gucci Osteria, an intimate restaurant by world-renowned chef Massimo Bottura, opened in January 2018 and after just two years. The seasonally-changing menu is inspired by the team's culinary travels, global origins and experience, and a passion for art and music, applied to Italian cuisine.


Experience fine dining at its best with innovative Italian cuisine at Gucci Osteria da Massimo Bottura in Florence.

Tomorrow, we plan to visit the Basilica of Santa Croce, the Opera del Duomo Museum, and the Loggia dei Lanzi. We're also looking forward to exploring the local leather shops and trying out a new bar, Mad - Souls & Spirits.

As we walked back to our hotel, the Orto De Medici Hotel, we felt a deep sense of satisfaction. Today had been a perfect blend of culture, art, and gastronomy, a true immersion into the heart of Florence. Despite forgetting our umbrella and sunscreen, the day unfolded beautifully, proving that sometimes the best experiences are those that come unexpectedly.


Discover the charm of Florence at Orto De Medici Hotel, where comfort meets convenience near iconic attractions like the Duomo and Medici Chapels.

I am looking forward to sharing more of our Florentine adventure with you tomorrow.