Cultural Immersion in Renaissance Florence

Farewell, Florence!

As our Florentine adventure nears its end, I wanted to soak up every last drop of this city's magic. Today was all about venturing beyond the well-trodden paths, seeking out panoramic vistas, and savoring the authentic flavors of Tuscany. It was a day of hidden gems and culinary delights, experiences that I'll cherish long after we've returned to Berlin.



Our day began with a hearty breakfast at Caffè Gilli. Sipping on a cappuccino amidst the elegant surroundings, I couldn't help but reflect on the history that permeated the air. Established in 1733, this café has been a Florentine institution for centuries, a meeting place for artists and intellectuals. I savored every sip, knowing that it was more than just coffee; it was a taste of Florentine heritage. Hans, of course, enjoyed his usual espresso, and we shared a delicious pastry before heading out for the day's adventures.


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

Our first stop was the Basilica di San Miniato al Monte. Perched atop one of the highest points in Florence, the basilica offered breathtaking panoramic views of the city. The climb was a bit of a challenge, but the reward was well worth it. The Basilica itself is a stunning example of Romanesque architecture, with its green and white marble facade and intricate interior. As I wandered through the ancient church, I couldn't help but feel a sense of awe and wonder at the artistry and craftsmanship that went into creating such a magnificent structure. I learned that St. Miniato, or Minas, was an Armenian prince who served in the Roman army and was martyred for his Christian faith. Legend has it that after being beheaded, he picked up his head and walked to the top of this hill! The adjoining Olivetan monastery, with its shop selling liqueurs, honey, and herbal teas made by the monks, added to the unique charm of the place.


Explore the breathtaking Basilica di San Miniato al Monte, a serene abbey in Florence, where stunning architecture meets panoramic views and rich history.

Sometimes, the most beautiful discoveries are found when you venture off the beaten path.

Next, we made our way to Piazzale Michelangelo, another vantage point offering stunning views of Florence. Even in January, the crisp air and clear skies provided the perfect backdrop for capturing the city's beauty. From here, we could see the Duomo, Ponte Vecchio, and the Arno River winding its way through the city. Despite the cooler temperatures, there were still quite a few people enjoying the view, and I couldn't help but feel a sense of camaraderie with my fellow travelers, all of us united in our appreciation for this magnificent city. I learned that late spring and early fall are considered the best times to visit Piazzale Michelangelo due to the pleasant weather. However, even in January, the view was spectacular.


Experience the stunning panoramic views of Florence at Piazzale Michelangelo, an iconic plaza that captures the city's beauty and charm.

After soaking in the views, we descended to Giardino Bardini, a hidden gem of a garden offering a different perspective of Florence. The garden was a bit bare in January, without the wisteria and blooms of warmer months, but it still possessed a unique charm. The terraced landscape, with its fountains, sculptures, and panoramic views, was a delight to explore. I imagined how beautiful it must be in the spring, with the wisteria in full bloom. We walked through the serene landscape, enjoying the tranquility and the stunning views of Florence spread out before us. I made a mental note to return in the spring to experience the garden in its full glory.


Explore Giardino Bardini, a stunning garden in Florence, where tranquility meets history and breathtaking views await every visitor.

Before our culinary experiences, I wanted to find a special souvenir. That led us to Mio Concept Store. It was just off the famous Via Tornabuoni. This boutique was a treasure trove of unique, artisan-made goods. From quirky jewelry to innovative homewares, the store was filled with creations by local designers and artists. I was particularly drawn to the eco-led designs and up-cycled creations, reflecting my own values of sustainability and conscious living. I ended up purchasing a beautiful, hand-crafted journal made from recycled paper, a perfect memento of our Florentine adventure. I was so happy to support local artists and find a truly unique piece to take home.


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

For lunch, we indulged in a memorable meal at Ristorante Oliviero 1962. From the moment we stepped inside, we were enveloped in an atmosphere of elegance and warmth. The service was impeccable, and the food was simply divine. We started with the *Sbriciolona tagliata al coltello e burrata al tartufo*, a delightful combination of flavors and textures. For our main courses, Hans opted for a classic Tuscan dish, while I chose the *Insalatina tiepida di gamberetti e calamari con asparagi e datterini*, a delicate and flavorful seafood salad. Every bite was a culinary masterpiece, a testament to the chef's skill and passion for Tuscan cuisine.


Experience authentic Tuscan cuisine at Ristorante Oliviero 1962 in Florence—where tradition meets modernity in every delicious bite.

As the day drew to a close, we treated ourselves to a final Florentine dinner at Ora d'Aria. This Michelin-starred restaurant offered a contemporary twist on traditional Tuscan cuisine. The ambiance was elegant and refined, with a view of the kitchen through a large window. We opted for the tasting menu, a culinary journey that showcased the chef's creativity and mastery of flavors. From the amuse-bouche to the dessert, each dish was a work of art, a symphony of tastes and textures that delighted the senses. The dining room staff were attentive and knowledgeable, explaining each dish with passion and enthusiasm. It was the perfect ending to our Florentine culinary adventure.


Experience authentic Tuscan cuisine at Ora d'Aria, where culinary artistry meets the heart of Florence's vibrant dining scene.

Tomorrow marks the final day of our Florentine adventure. We plan to visit the Museo di San Marco to admire the frescoes of Fra Angelico, explore the Florence Academy of Fine Arts to see Michelangelo's David, and delve into the history of the Medici family at the Medici Riccardi Palace. In the evening, we'll raise a glass to our Florentine adventure at Mad - Souls & Spirits, a local bar known for its creative cocktails.



As I reflect on our time in Florence, I'm filled with gratitude for the experiences we've shared. From the iconic landmarks to the hidden gems, from the art and history to the food and wine, Florence has captured my heart. It's a city that I know I'll return to again and again, each time discovering new layers of its beauty and charm. I am glad I got to share this experience with Hans, and I know we will both treasure these memories for years to come.



I am already looking forward to sharing our last day in this magical city with you all!