Family Adventure in the Heart of Florence

Florentine Echoes: Art, Bridges, and Sacred Spaces

Today was a whirlwind of art, history, and Florentine charm. It’s amazing how much beauty can be packed into a single day, and I'm eager to share every moment of it with you. From world-renowned galleries to iconic landmarks, Florence has truly captured my heart.

Our day began with a hearty breakfast at Le Cappelle Medicee Restorante. It’s a cozy little spot, and I enjoyed a simple yet satisfying meal before diving headfirst into the artistic wonders of Florence. Fuelled up, we were ready to tackle the Uffizi Galleries.


Discover the Uffizi Galleries, Florence's premier art museum boasting masterpieces from the Renaissance and a rich cultural history.

The Uffizi Galleries were first on our list, and what an experience it was! Even in February, the crowds were considerable, but thankfully, we had pre-booked our tickets. I was excited to see masterpieces by artists like Botticelli, Leonardo da Vinci, and Michelangelo. I have always loved art history, so I was excited to see it first hand.

Navigating through the Uffizi was like walking through the pages of an art history book. The sheer volume of masterpieces was overwhelming, and I found myself lingering in front of Botticelli's Birth of Venus, mesmerized by its delicate beauty. Sophie was particularly taken with the Caravaggio paintings, while Andreas appreciated the architectural details of the gallery itself. It was a morning filled with awe and inspiration, and I felt so fortunate to share it with my family.

Art washes away from the soul the dust of everyday life.

After the Uffizi, we strolled towards the Ponte Vecchio, Florence’s only bridge spared during World War II. As we approached, the bridge's unique character became apparent – a bustling marketplace suspended over the Arno River. The shops, now mostly jewelers, were a sight to behold. The sparkling gold and intricate designs were captivating. I learned that originally, butchers occupied these shops, but they were replaced by goldsmiths in the 16th century to refine the bridge’s image. I found that so interesting.


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

The Ponte Vecchio was teeming with people, all eager to capture its beauty. We paused midway to take in the panoramic views of the Arno. The river flowed gently beneath us, reflecting the colorful buildings that lined its banks. It was a truly magical moment, and I felt grateful to be sharing it with Andreas and Sophie.

Lunch at Trattoria Sostanza was an absolute treat. This tiny restaurant is known for its traditional Florentine cuisine, and it certainly lived up to its reputation. The aroma of hearty, home-style cooking filled the air as we stepped inside. We shared a *bistecca alla fiorentina*, cooked to perfection. The meat was tender and flavorful, and it was a true taste of Tuscany. Sophie, adventurous as ever, tried the *tortino di carciofi* (artichoke pie) and declared it delicious. I am so glad she is expanding her tastes and trying new things.


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

Our final stop of the day was the Basilica di Santa Croce. This magnificent church is the burial place of many notable Italians, including Michelangelo, Galileo, and Machiavelli. As we entered, I was struck by the grandeur of the architecture. The high vaulted ceilings and intricate stained-glass windows created an atmosphere of reverence and awe. The Basilica is known as the Temple of Italian Glories, and it was easy to see why.


Explore the breathtaking Basilica of Santa Croce, a Gothic masterpiece in Florence, home to great thinkers and stunning Renaissance art.

We wandered through the basilica, paying our respects to the великих figures buried within its walls. Michelangelo's tomb was particularly moving, and I felt a sense of gratitude for his contributions to the world of art. We also admired the frescoes by Giotto in the Bardi and Peruzzi Chapels, which depicted scenes from the life of St. Francis and St. John the Evangelist. The Basilica is a beautiful example of Gothic architecture, and I am so glad we got to see it.

As the sun began to set, we made our way to Rasputin, a hidden bar in the Oltrarno district. Finding it was an adventure in itself, as it's tucked away behind an unmarked door. Once inside, we were transported to another world. The bar was dimly lit and decorated with plush velvet furnishings. The atmosphere was mysterious and alluring, and the cocktails were expertly crafted.


Experience the allure of Rasputin, Florence's premier cocktail bar, where sophisticated drinks and enchanting ambiance meet in a chic nightlife setting.

Andreas ordered an Old Fashioned, while Sophie and I tried some of the bar's signature creations. The bartender was a true mixologist, and he took pride in his craft. The drinks were strong and flavorful, and they provided the perfect ending to a day of exploration. It was a fun way to experience Florence's nightlife, and I would definitely recommend it to anyone looking for a unique and memorable evening.

Dinner at Ristorante Borgo San Jacopo was the perfect end to a perfect day. This Michelin-starred restaurant offers stunning views of the Ponte Vecchio and the Arno River. The ambiance was elegant and romantic, and the food was exquisite. Chef Claudio Mengoni's innovative dishes were a feast for the senses. I opted for the tasting menu, which included a variety of seafood and meat dishes. Each course was beautifully presented and bursting with flavor. It was a culinary experience that I will never forget.


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

The service at Borgo San Jacopo was impeccable. The staff was attentive and knowledgeable, and they made us feel like royalty. They also have a great wine selection, and we had a great bottle of Tuscan wine. It was the perfect way to celebrate our day in Florence, and I felt so grateful to be sharing it with my family.

Tomorrow, we're planning to visit the Galleria dell’Accademia to see David, as well as the Museo di San Marco and Piazza San Marco. I'm also hoping to do some leather shopping. I'm excited to see what tomorrow brings. It has been a great experience so far.

Florence in February is magical, even with the occasional tourist bustle. The city is alive with art, history, and culinary delights. Each corner turned reveals another breathtaking view, another story waiting to be discovered. Sharing this experience with Andreas and Sophie makes it all the more special. As we walked back to Hotel Costantini, hand in hand, I felt a profound sense of contentment. Florence is more than just a destination; it's an experience that nourishes the soul.


Discover the charm of Florence at Hotel Costantini, a budget-friendly gem located in the city center with easy access to iconic attractions.

Until tomorrow!