Family Adventure in Florence: Exploring Italian Culture and History

A Renaissance Rhapsody

Today was a day of diving deep into the heart of the Renaissance, a journey through art, history, and the incredible flavors that Florence has to offer. It's amazing how much richness this city holds, and I'm so glad I got to experience it with my family. From the sculptures of the Museo Nazionale del Bargello, to the bustling Piazza della Repubblica, every moment felt like stepping back in time.

Our day began with a hearty breakfast at the Winter Garden Restaurant. The elegant setting was the perfect way to start our morning. The kids were excited, and Fatima and I were eager to explore. We enjoyed a variety of pastries, fresh fruit, and strong Italian coffee, fueling up for a day of exploration. Nelson, of course, made a beeline for the croissants, while Sheila carefully selected a vibrant fruit salad. Fatima enjoyed a cappuccino, remarking on its perfect balance, and I savored the rich aroma of the espresso, a reminder of my own roots and the importance of strong flavors in life. I remember my mother making coffee back in Chibuto, the strong aroma filling our small home with warmth and comfort.

After breakfast, we made our way to the Bargello National Museum. It was a relatively short walk from our hotel, Hotel California, and the morning air was crisp and refreshing. The museum itself is housed in a formidable medieval palace, and as we stepped inside, we were immediately transported to another era. The Bargello is renowned for its incredible collection of Renaissance sculptures, and I was particularly excited to see works by Donatello and Michelangelo. The kids, surprisingly, were also captivated.


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

We spent a good few hours wandering through the museum's halls, admiring the masterpieces on display. Donatello's David was a particular highlight. I tried to explain to Nelson and Sheila the significance of the sculpture, its groundbreaking depiction of the human form, and its place in art history. Nelson, ever the inquisitive one, wanted to know how they made it so lifelike. Sheila was more interested in the story behind David and Goliath, which I gladly recounted.

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

The courtyard of the Bargello was also stunning, with its walls adorned with the coats of arms of past magistrates and judges. I could only imagine what it must have been like when it was a prison. The walls seemed to whisper stories of the past. We also saw Michelangelo's Bacchus, a slightly tipsy god that both amused and impressed us. The kids giggled at the sight of the chubby, wine-loving deity, while Fatima and I appreciated the skill and artistry that went into creating such a detailed sculpture.

Leaving the Bargello, we headed towards Piazza della Repubblica. The Piazza was once the site of the city's forum during Roman times, and later, the old ghetto. Today, it's a bustling square filled with cafes, shops, and street performers. The kids were immediately drawn to the antique carousel, its colorful horses and cheerful music creating a festive atmosphere. We took a ride, laughing as we went up and down, feeling like kids again ourselves.


Experience the vibrant atmosphere of Piazza della Repubblica, Florence's iconic square filled with history, culture, and lively street performances.

After the carousel, we strolled around the square, taking in the sights and sounds. The kids wanted souvenirs, of course, so we popped into a few shops. We ended up at Mio Concept Store, a boutique that specializes in artisan-made goods. It was a great place to find unique and locally made items. Sheila picked out a beautiful handmade journal, while Nelson chose a small leather soccer ball. I found a lovely piece of jewelry for Fatima, a delicate silver necklace with a Florentine lily pendant.


Explore Florentine artistry at Mio Concept Store, featuring unique handmade crafts, jewelry, and souvenirs in the heart of Florence.

For lunch, we decided to try Casa del Vin Santo, a restaurant known for its traditional Tuscan cuisine. We were all starving after our morning of exploring, and the aroma wafting from the restaurant was incredibly enticing. The restaurant was cozy and inviting, with a rustic charm that made us feel right at home. The staff was friendly and welcoming, and we were quickly seated at a comfortable table.


Experience authentic Italian cuisine at Casa del Vin Santo in Florence - where traditional flavors meet modern culinary excellence.

We started with some classic Tuscan appetizers: bruschetta with fresh tomatoes, crostini with chicken liver pate, and a selection of local cheeses. Nelson and Sheila devoured the bruschetta, while Fatima and I savored the rich flavors of the pate and cheeses. For our main courses, we ordered a variety of dishes. I opted for the Florentine steak, a massive T-bone grilled to perfection. Fatima chose the wild boar pasta, a hearty and flavorful dish that she absolutely loved. Nelson, predictably, went for the pizza, while Sheila chose the ravioli with butter and sage. Everyone was happy with their meal, and we all left feeling full and satisfied.

Casa del Vin Santo was an excellent choice. I'd definitely recommend it to anyone looking for authentic Florentine cuisine in a warm and inviting atmosphere. The service was great, the food was delicious, and the prices were reasonable. What more could you ask for? I made a mental note to try and recreate the wild boar pasta back home in Edmonton. Fatima's always loved when I try to bring a little bit of Mozambique and our travels into our kitchen.

After lunch, we took a leisurely stroll back towards our hotel, stopping along the way to admire the Ponte Vecchio. The bridge was crowded with tourists, but we still managed to get some great photos. The kids were fascinated by the shops built along the bridge, their windows filled with glittering jewelry and souvenirs.

As the day drew to a close, we prepared for our dinner reservation at Gucci Osteria da Massimo Bottura. This was something I was looking forward to all day. It promised a unique culinary experience, blending high fashion with innovative Italian cuisine. The restaurant is located in Piazza della Signoria, a stunning square that is home to some of Florence's most iconic landmarks.


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

The restaurant itself was stylish and sophisticated, with a modern decor that was both elegant and inviting. We were greeted warmly by the staff and shown to our table, which had a perfect view of the square. The menu was creative and innovative, featuring a mix of traditional Italian dishes with a modern twist. We started with some appetizers, including the Tostada di Mais Viola and the Lobster Roll, both of which were bursting with flavor. For our main courses, we ordered the Tortellini with Parmesan Cream and the Risotto with Saffron and Gold Leaf. The food was not only delicious but also beautifully presented, each dish a work of art.

The kids were surprisingly well-behaved throughout the meal, perhaps impressed by the elegant setting. They both enjoyed their pasta dishes, and even tried some of the more adventurous appetizers. Fatima and I savored every bite, appreciating the creativity and skill of the chef. The service was impeccable, the staff attentive and knowledgeable, and the overall experience was truly unforgettable.

Tomorrow, we plan to explore Strozzi Palace and Piazza Santo Spirito. I'm excited to see what other hidden gems Florence has in store for us. We might even check out FUK - Cocktail bar, music & more, a local bar, for a nightcap.

As I sit here now, reflecting on the day, I feel grateful for the opportunity to share these experiences with my family. Florence is a city that truly captivates the senses, and I am so glad that we were able to immerse ourselves in its art, history, and culture. It's moments like these that make traveling with family so special, creating memories that we will cherish for a lifetime. And who knows, maybe one day we'll bring a bit of Florence back to Edmonton, sharing our stories and flavors with friends and family back home.

Today was a beautiful reminder of why we travel: to learn, to experience, and to connect with each other and the world around us. And as we prepare for another day of exploration, I can't help but feel excited about what tomorrow will bring.