A Cultural Escape to Florence with Hans

Day 2: Stepping Back in Time in Florence

Ah, Florence! Today was another day of getting wonderfully lost in its beauty. It's amazing how a city can feel so familiar and yet hold so many new secrets waiting to be discovered. Hans and I set out with a spring in our steps, ready to embrace whatever adventures the day would bring.

Our first stop was the iconic Ponte Vecchio. As we approached, the morning light danced on the Arno, making the bridge seem like it was shimmering. It's hard to believe this bridge has stood since medieval times, surviving floods and even World War II. I remember reading that it was the only bridge in Florence spared from destruction during the war, a testament to its importance and the history it holds. The little shops perched along the bridge, now mostly jewelers, were fascinating. It's quite a transformation from the days when butchers and tanners occupied these spaces! The glittering gold and intricate designs were captivating, even though I'm not usually one for flashy jewelry. The air was filled with the murmur of tourists and the quiet clinking of gold, a unique symphony that only Ponte Vecchio could orchestrate.


Discover Ponte Vecchio, Florence's iconic bridge that combines stunning architecture, rich history, and vibrant shopping, offering breathtaking views of the Arno River.

Sometimes, the most beautiful journeys are those where you allow yourself to wander, to stumble upon hidden corners and unexpected treasures.

Next, we ventured to the Boboli Gardens, a sprawling green oasis behind the Palazzo Pitti. Despite it being January, the gardens had a serene charm. I imagine in spring, with all the flowers in bloom, it would be an explosion of color. But there was a quiet beauty to the winter landscape, the bare trees reaching up to the sky like sculptures. We wandered through the various sections, discovering hidden fountains and statues tucked away in nooks and crannies. I was particularly taken by the Grotta del Buontalenti, its whimsical and slightly eerie design sparking my imagination. I could envision mythological creatures lurking in the shadows. Even though it's the low season, the gardens offered a peaceful escape from the bustling city. I even spotted a few brave souls having picnics on the benches, bundled up in their winter coats.


Discover the enchanting Boboli Gardens in Florence, a Renaissance masterpiece filled with art, history, and stunning views of the city.

After our refreshing stroll through the gardens, we headed inside the Palazzo Pitti. What a place! It's like stepping back in time, imagining the Medici family holding court in these opulent rooms. We explored the Palatine Gallery, marveling at the vast collection of Renaissance art. The walls were covered in masterpieces by Raphael, Titian, and Rubens, each painting telling a story. I was particularly drawn to Raphael's works; his ability to capture human emotion is simply breathtaking. Hans, with his engineering mind, was fascinated by the architecture of the palace, pointing out the intricate details and the sheer scale of the building. We also visited the Gallery of Modern Art, which offered a fascinating contrast to the Renaissance pieces. It was interesting to see how art evolved over the centuries, reflecting the changing times and perspectives.


Explore the Pitti Palace in Florence, a stunning art museum showcasing the Medici legacy through exquisite art, architecture, and serene gardens.

Of course, no day in Florence would be complete without indulging in some delicious food. For breakfast, we started our day at Caffè Gilli. This historical café, founded in 1733, exuded old-world charm. I decided on a cappuccino and a delicate pastry, while Hans opted for a strong espresso and a slice of their signature Linzer Torte. The aroma of freshly baked goods and strong coffee filled the air, a perfect way to kick off our day.


Experience timeless elegance at Caffè Gilli in Florence – where every sip and bite tells a story steeped in tradition.

For lunch, we joined the queue at All’Antico Vinaio, a sandwich shop famous for its mouthwatering schiacciata bread. The line was long, but definitely worth the wait. I chose the La Favolosa, a sandwich with Tuscan salami, porcini cream, artichoke cream, and eggplant. The explosion of flavors was incredible! Hans went for The New Yorker, a roast beef sandwich with tomato, arugula, and porcini mushroom cream. We found a little spot nearby to sit and savor our sandwiches, watching the Florentine world go by. It was a simple pleasure, but one of the most memorable moments of the day.


Discover the authentic flavors of Italy at All’Antico Vinaio, where delicious sandwiches meet vibrant Florentine culture.

As evening approached, we made our way to Il Santo Bevitore for dinner. This restaurant had been recommended to me by a friend, and it did not disappoint. The atmosphere was cozy and inviting, with dim lighting and dark wood furniture. I started with the chicken liver terrine, which was rich and flavorful. For my main course, I chose the lamb shank, which was cooked to perfection and melted in my mouth. Hans opted for the potato gnocchi with deer ragout and black cherry sauce, a hearty and satisfying dish. The wine list was extensive, and we chose a lovely Tuscan red to accompany our meal. The service was impeccable, and the staff was knowledgeable and passionate about the food they were serving.


Experience authentic Italian cuisine at Il Santo Bevitore in Florence - where tradition meets modern culinary artistry.

Before dinner, I managed to squeeze in a bit of shopping at Boutique Nadine. What a gem! This little shop is a mix of vintage clothing, indie-designer pieces, and mid-century furniture. I found a beautiful silk scarf with a unique print, a perfect souvenir to remind me of my time in Florence. The shop had a quirky and eclectic vibe, with vintage suitcases and maps adorning the walls. I could have spent hours browsing through their collection of treasures. It reminded me a bit of my early days, rummaging through vintage shops back in Thailand, searching for unique pieces to add to my wardrobe. It's funny how certain places can evoke such strong memories.


Discover unique women's fashion and accessories at Boutique Nadine, a premier shopping destination in the heart of Florence, Italy.

As we walked back to our hotel, Loggia Fiorentina, the city was bathed in a soft, golden light. The air was crisp and cool, and the sounds of the city had quieted down. I couldn't help but feel grateful for this incredible experience, sharing the beauty and history of Florence with my beloved Hans. I am already looking forward to tomorrow, when we plan to visit the Basilica of Santa Maria Novella, Santa Maria a Scò, and Piazza della Signoria. And perhaps we'll find a cozy bar to enjoy a nightcap. Until then, goodnight from Florence!


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

I almost forgot! I was reading about some events happening in Florence this January. There's an exhibition called Michelangelo e il potere at Palazzo Vecchio, which sounds fascinating. And for those who enjoy winter sports, the Florence on Ice Village in Parco delle Cascine is open until January 19th. Maybe we'll check those out if we have time.

It's truly amazing how much history and beauty is packed into this one city. I feel like I'm constantly learning and discovering new things, and I can't wait to see what tomorrow brings.