Family Adventure in Florence: Exploring Italian Culture and History

Final Day Flourishes

As our Florentine adventure draws to a close, I wanted to soak up every last bit of this enchanting city. Today was all about savoring the simple pleasures: a peaceful morning amidst blooming flowers, a quest for the perfect memento, and a final indulgence in the unforgettable flavors of Tuscany. It’s hard to believe our eleven days here are already over.

The final day of our family trip to Florence started with a delightful breakfast at Saporium Firenze. Knowing it was a Michelin-starred restaurant, I was excited to experience their take on a classic Italian breakfast. The restaurant itself was stunning, with green and natural references that created a welcoming atmosphere. The food was exceptional, with high-quality ingredients and innovative dishes. It was a perfect start to our last day in Florence, setting a high bar for the culinary experiences to come.


Experience fine dining at Saporium Firenze – where traditional Tuscan cuisine meets modern culinary artistry along the Arno River.

After breakfast, our first stop was the Basilica di Santo Spirito. This beautiful church, designed by Brunelleschi, is a prime example of Renaissance architecture. What struck me most was the sense of harmony and balance in the design, a testament to Brunelleschi's genius. The interior was bathed in a soft, diffused light, creating a serene and contemplative atmosphere. Nelson and Sheila were surprisingly engaged, asking questions about the architecture and the art. It was a great opportunity to share some history with them in a tangible way.


Discover the breathtaking Basilica di Santo Spirito in Florence, a stunning blend of art, history, and spirituality in the heart of Tuscany.

In the end, it’s not the places you go, but the memories you create with the people you love that truly matter.

Next on our agenda was a visit to the Giardino Bardini. Fatima had heard about the wisteria in bloom, and we couldn't miss it. The garden is located on a steep hill in the Oltrarno district, offering breathtaking panoramic views of Florence. As we ascended, the kids were captivated by the statues and fountains that dotted the landscape. The wisteria tunnel was, indeed, a sight to behold, with its cascading purple blossoms filling the air with a sweet fragrance. We spent a leisurely couple of hours exploring the garden, taking photos, and simply enjoying the beauty of nature.


Explore Giardino Bardini, a stunning garden in Florence, where tranquility meets history and breathtaking views await every visitor.

The Giardino Bardini was more than just a garden; it was a journey through different styles and eras. The Baroque staircase, adorned with statues and fountains, led us to the English garden, a woodland with evergreen trees. The kids particularly enjoyed the dragon channel, a restored feature from the early 19th-century Anglo-Chinese garden. The garden also offered stunning views of the city, allowing us to appreciate the beauty of Florence from a different perspective. I made sure to take many pictures of Fatima and the kids, as I knew we would want to remember this beautiful place.

After the garden, it was time for some souvenir shopping. We wandered through the streets of Florence, popping into various shops in search of the perfect mementos. I was on the hunt for some Florentine leather goods, renowned for their high quality and craftsmanship. Fatima was interested in ceramics, while the kids had their eyes on items featuring iconic landmarks like the Duomo. We eventually found a charming little shop where we purchased a few leather notebooks, some hand-painted ceramic plates, and miniature replicas of the Duomo for Nelson and Sheila. It was fun bargaining with the shopkeeper and learning a bit about the local crafts. I even managed to find some truffle-infused oil to bring back to Edmonton, hoping to recreate some of the delicious Tuscan flavors at home.

For lunch, we chose Cantina Barbagianni, a restaurant known for its creative and traditional dishes. The restaurant had a cozy entrance room and two medieval-style cellars, creating a unique and inviting atmosphere. We started with a tagliere misto, a platter of mixed Tuscan delicacies, followed by gnocchi di patate e polpo (potato gnocchi with octopus) and other local specialties. The food was delicious, and the service was attentive. It was a delightful culinary experience that perfectly captured the essence of Tuscan cuisine. The kids enjoyed the meal as well, although Nelson was a bit hesitant to try the octopus at first.


Experience authentic Italian cuisine at Cantina Barbagianni in Florence – where tradition meets taste in every dish.

As the afternoon waned, we decided to take one last stroll through the city center. The streets were bustling with activity, as locals and tourists alike enjoyed the pleasant weather. We stopped at a gelateria for some gelato, a must-have treat in Italy, before making our way back to Hotel California. I savored every moment, knowing that this was our last day in Florence. We walked past the Duomo and I pointed out to the kids how lucky we were to be able to experience such great landmarks. I could tell they were tired, but I also knew they were soaking it all in.


Experience the charm of Florence at Hotel California, a serene escape with modern amenities, close to iconic attractions, perfect for every traveler.

Our final dinner in Florence was at Cinto-Cucina In Torre, a restaurant recommended by several locals. The restaurant prides itself on combining Florentine culinary traditions with seasonal flavors from nearby regions. The atmosphere was lovely, and the service was excellent. We enjoyed a variety of dishes, including steaks that were presented beautifully. It was the perfect ending to our culinary journey in Florence, a celebration of the flavors of Tuscany.


Experience authentic Tuscan cuisine at Cinto-Cucina In Torre - where tradition meets modern flavor in the heart of Florence.

As I reflect on our eleven days in Florence, I am filled with gratitude for the opportunity to have shared this experience with my family. We explored iconic landmarks, indulged in delicious cuisine, and created lasting memories. Florence is a city that captivates the senses and nourishes the soul. As we prepare to leave tomorrow, I know that a part of my heart will forever remain in this enchanting city.

Tomorrow, we head to the airport for our flight back to Edmonton. While I am excited to return home, I will miss the beauty, the history, and the flavors of Florence. I’m especially grateful for the time we spent together as a family, exploring a new culture and creating memories that will last a lifetime. Until next time, Florence!

I’m already looking forward to sharing more stories from our travels with you all soon. Perhaps our next adventure will be to Mozambique, to reconnect with our roots and share the beauty of my homeland with Nelson and Sheila. Only time will tell!

I am truly grateful for this amazing experience and I know my family and I will remember it forever.