A Cultural Escape to Florence with Hans

Florentine Friday

Today was a deep dive into the heart of Florence, a city that continues to enchant me with its blend of artistic grandeur and everyday charm. Hans and I set out with a plan to soak in as much culture and history as possible, and Florence certainly didn't disappoint. It’s amazing how much history you can pack into a single day when you’re surrounded by such timeless beauty.

Our morning began with a delightful breakfast at Caffè Gilli. The café, with its rich history dating back to 1733, was the perfect spot to start our day. I savored a cappuccino and a freshly baked pastry, while Hans enjoyed his usual espresso. The elegant atmosphere of Caffè Gilli, filled with the murmur of conversations and the aroma of coffee, offered a glimpse into Florentine life. We sat outside, people-watching as the city slowly awakened. It's moments like these, sharing a simple breakfast and observing the world around us, that I cherish the most when traveling with Hans.

After breakfast, we made our way to the Basilica of Santa Maria Novella. The basilica's façade, a masterpiece of Gothic and Renaissance architecture, immediately captured my attention. Inside, the stunning frescoes and artworks by masters like Masaccio and Ghirlandaio left me in awe. I found myself particularly drawn to Masaccio's Trinity, marveling at its use of mathematical proportions and the emotional depth it conveyed. Hans, ever the engineer, was fascinated by the architectural design and the engineering feats that made such a structure possible. The basilica was surprisingly not too crowded, which allowed us to take our time and truly appreciate the artistry and history within its walls.


Explore the exquisite Basilica of Santa Maria Novella, a masterpiece of Gothic architecture and art in the heart of Florence, Italy.

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

Next on our itinerary was Santa Maria a Scò, a Romanesque parish church located a bit outside the city center. The church, documented as far back as 1008 AD, exuded a sense of history and tranquility. Its plain exterior belied the beauty within, where columns with sculpted capitals and a fresco depicting an Enthroned Madonna with Child Blessing awaited. The church stands along the Via dei Setteponti, a road of Etruscan origin, adding another layer of historical significance to the site. I found the simplicity of the church incredibly moving, a reminder of the enduring power of faith and community.


Discover the serene beauty and rich history of Santa Maria a Scò, a stunning Catholic church in the heart of Tuscany's picturesque landscape.

For lunch, we ventured to Trattoria Sostanza, a Florentine institution known for its traditional Tuscan cuisine. The trattoria's communal dining setup added to the experience, as we shared a table with fellow travelers and locals alike. I ordered the butter chicken, a dish highly recommended by many, and it did not disappoint. The chicken, cooked in a sizzling pot of butter, was incredibly tender and flavorful. Hans opted for a pasta dish, which he declared to be equally delicious. The lively atmosphere and the hearty, authentic food made for a memorable lunch.


Discover the authentic taste of Italy at Trattoria Sostanza in Florence – home to delicious steaks and classic Tuscan dishes.

In the afternoon, we strolled through Piazza della Signoria, the heart of Florence's political and social life. The piazza was bustling with activity, from tourists admiring the sculptures to locals going about their daily routines. We paused to admire the Fountain of Neptune and the replica of Michelangelo's David, imagining the square as it must have been during the Renaissance. There was an exhibit at Palazzo Vecchio called Michelangelo and Power, but we decided to skip it, as we were planning to go there on Saturday anyway. Apparently there is also a winter sales season in Florence, but we didn't do any shopping today.


Explore the vibrant Piazza della Signoria, a historic square in Florence, surrounded by stunning architecture and rich cultural experiences.

As the sun began to set, we made our way to Bitter Bar for a pre-dinner drink. This speakeasy-style bar offered a unique and intimate atmosphere. I ordered a creative cocktail, while Hans chose a classic Old Fashioned. The bartender was incredibly skilled, crafting each drink with precision and care. It was the perfect spot to unwind and reflect on the day's adventures.


Discover Bitter Bar in Florence – where inventive cocktails and a lively atmosphere create an unforgettable night out.

Finally, for dinner, we indulged in a meal at La Giostra, a restaurant known for its gourmet Tuscan fare and elegant ambiance. Owned by nobility, La Giostra offered a menu filled with mouthwatering dishes, from swordfish carpaccio to Florentine steak. I opted for the white truffle carbonara, a truly exquisite dish that I savored with every bite. Hans chose the osso buco, which he declared to be one of the best he had ever tasted. The attentive service and the beautiful cellar setting added to the overall experience. It was a perfect way to end our day of Florentine exploration.


Discover La Giostra: A premier Tuscan restaurant in Florence offering authentic Italian cuisine amidst enchanting surroundings.

As we walked back to our hotel, Loggia Fiorentina, the city was bathed in a soft, golden light. The sounds of laughter and music filled the air, creating a magical atmosphere. I couldn't help but feel grateful for the opportunity to experience such a beautiful and culturally rich city with my beloved Hans. Tomorrow, we plan to visit the Basilica di San Lorenzo, the Cappelle Medicee, and the Campanile di Giotto. I am eager to see what new wonders await us in this enchanting city.


Experience the heart of Florence at Loggia Fiorentina, a budget-friendly hotel near top attractions like the Academy Gallery and Piazza del Duomo.

“Florence is a treasure trove of art, history, and culinary delights, offering endless opportunities for exploration and discovery.”

Tonight, as I sit down to write, I am so happy and content, and can't wait for tomorrow's adventure.