Family Adventure in Florence: Exploring Renaissance Wonders

First Day Wonders in Florence

After months of anticipation, we finally touched down in Florence! The excitement was palpable as we navigated from the airport to the Ponte Vecchio Suites & Spa. Even though I'm a seasoned traveler, there's always something magical about arriving in a new city, especially one so steeped in history and culture. Today was all about diving headfirst into the Florentine experience, and what better place to start than the Piazza della Signoria and the iconic Ponte Vecchio?


Experience the charm of Florence at Ponte Vecchio Suites & Spa, offering luxurious accommodations, exceptional dining, and wellness services in the heart of the city.

Our day began with a delightful breakfast at Caffè Gilli, a historic café in Piazza della Repubblica. It felt like stepping back in time, surrounded by the elegance of a bygone era. The aroma of freshly baked pastries and strong Italian coffee filled the air, setting the perfect tone for our Florentine adventure. Isabela chose a classic cappuccino, while Mateus devoured a *torta della nonna* with gusto. I opted for a simple espresso, savoring the rich, intense flavor that only Italian coffee seems to possess. It was a bit pricey, but the location and atmosphere made it worth it.

Fuelled by caffeine and delicious pastries, we made our way to Piazza della Signoria. Even in January, the square was alive with activity. The crisp winter air nipped at our cheeks, but the vibrant energy of the city kept us warm. The square was adorned with some of the last lights of the Christmas season, which added to the atmosphere. The statues in the Loggia dei Lanzi were breathtaking, each telling a story of mythology and Florentine history. Mateus was particularly fascinated by the Fountain of Neptune, asking endless questions about the sea god and his trident.


Discover the captivating beauty and rich history of Piazza della Signoria, Florence's iconic square filled with art, culture, and vibrant life.

Florence is a city where every stone has a story to tell, and every corner reveals a new masterpiece.

As a historical building restoration consultant, I found myself captivated by the architecture of the Palazzo Vecchio. The sheer scale and intricate details of the building were awe-inspiring. I couldn't help but imagine the countless historical events that had unfolded within its walls. I spent a considerable amount of time just admiring the façade, taking in the sculptures and the overall grandeur of the structure. I made a mental note to return later in the trip for a more in-depth exploration.

We spent a good part of the morning wandering around the Piazza della Signoria, soaking in the atmosphere and taking photos. Mateus enjoyed chasing pigeons and marveling at the street performers. Isabela, ever the art enthusiast, was particularly drawn to the replica of Michelangelo's David. We discussed the statue's significance and its place in art history, trying to impart some of our knowledge to Mateus in an engaging way.

For lunch, we ventured to Il Vezzo, a charming restaurant tucked away on Via dei Georgofili. The interior was cozy and inviting, a welcome respite from the chilly weather. The staff was friendly and welcoming, making us feel right at home. I had read some good reviews and decided to try my luck walking in without a reservation. We were lucky to get the last walk-in table. The restaurant aims to create something new, something different from what the already crowded Centre of Florence offered. Isabela and I shared a *bistecca alla fiorentina*, cooked to perfection and bursting with flavor. Mateus opted for a simple pasta dish, which he devoured in minutes. The restaurant had a great wine list, and I appreciated that the sommelier, Giovanni, had a strong attachment to the territory. It was a delightful culinary experience, and I highly recommend it to anyone looking for authentic Tuscan cuisine.


Discover authentic Tuscan flavors at Il Vezzo, Florence's beloved Italian restaurant offering a delightful dining experience.

After lunch, we strolled towards the Ponte Vecchio, Florence's iconic bridge lined with shops. Even though I had seen countless photos of the bridge, nothing could have prepared me for its unique charm and beauty. The shops, mostly jewelers and goldsmiths, were a sight to behold. The sparkling displays of gold and precious stones were mesmerizing. Mateus was particularly fascinated by the intricate designs of the jewelry, and Isabela couldn't resist trying on a few pieces.


Discover the Ponte Vecchio, Florence's iconic bridge adorned with shops and rich history, offering stunning views and a vibrant atmosphere.

As we walked across the Ponte Vecchio, I couldn't help but reflect on the bridge's history. Built in medieval times, it was the only bridge in Florence spared from destruction during World War II. It has served as a marketplace for centuries, evolving from butcher shops to the elegant jewelry stores that line it today. I tried to imagine what it must have been like in the past, with the sounds of merchants hawking their wares and the hustle and bustle of daily life.

We took our time exploring the shops on the Ponte Vecchio, admiring the craftsmanship and the unique designs. While we didn't make any purchases, it was a treat just to browse and soak in the atmosphere. The bridge was crowded with tourists, but it didn't detract from the overall experience. The energy and excitement were contagious.

Before heading back to the hotel, we made a stop at Rinascente Firenze, a department store located in Piazza della Repubblica. I had read that it was more than just a store, with the brand emphasizing a stage for fashion, novelties, unique proposals, and events. The store was beautifully decorated, and the selection of goods was impressive. We explored the various floors, from the beauty hall to the food market. Mateus was particularly excited about the toy section, while Isabela was drawn to the designer clothing. I was impressed by the Craft Gallery, a section dedicated to local and international excellence. We made our way to the rooftop terrace, which offered breathtaking views of the city. From there, we could see the Duomo, the Palazzo Vecchio, and the Ponte Vecchio, all bathed in the golden light of the setting sun.


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

As the day drew to a close, we made our way back to the Ponte Vecchio Suites & Spa, tired but exhilarated. We had packed so much into our first day in Florence, and we were already falling in love with the city. The Ponte Vecchio Suites & Spa proved to be an excellent choice. Its central location made it easy to explore the city's main attractions, and the luxurious amenities provided a welcome respite from the hustle and bustle of the streets. Mateus was thrilled with the family-friendly environment, and Isabela and I appreciated the opportunity to relax and recharge after a long day of sightseeing.

For dinner, we decided to treat ourselves to a special meal at Ristorante Borgo San Jacopo, a Michelin-starred restaurant located near our hotel. Housed within the Hotel Lungarno, the restaurant boasted an elegant and exclusive style. The atmosphere was sophisticated and romantic, with soft lighting and stunning views of the Arno River. Chef Claudio Mengoni's creations were exquisite, showcasing the finest Italian ingredients with refined techniques. Sommelier Salvatore Biscotti's wine selection was equally impressive, featuring a thousand different labels from renowned estates and small producers. I opted for the full chef's experience with a premium wine pairing and was not disappointed. The food was delicious, and the service was impeccable. It was the perfect way to end our first day in Florence.


Discover the epitome of fine dining in Florence at Ristorante Borgo San Jacopo, where traditional Italian cuisine meets modern elegance.

As I sit here now, writing this blog post, I can't help but feel grateful for the opportunity to experience this beautiful city with my family. Florence is truly a magical place, where history, art, and culture come together in a unique and unforgettable way. Tomorrow, we plan to visit the Cathedral of Santa Maria del Fiore, Giotto's Bell Tower, and the Baptistery of St. John. I can't wait to see what new adventures await us.

I think I'll sleep well tonight, dreaming of Renaissance masterpieces and the flavors of Tuscany. It's moments like these that make all the planning and preparation worthwhile. Florence, you have captured our hearts!