Family Cultural Adventure in Florence

Ciao, Florence! A Final Day of Florentine Charm

As our family's Florentine adventure draws to a close, I find myself reflecting on the incredible week we've had. From the awe-inspiring art to the delectable cuisine, Florence has truly captured our hearts. Today, our last day, was a blend of soaking in the city's vibrant atmosphere and savoring those final, precious moments before we bid *arrivederci*.

Our day began with a delightful breakfast at Caffè Gilli, a Florentine institution that has been serving patrons since 1733. It’s amazing to think that this café started as a *Bottega dei Pani Dolci*, a sweet bread shop, and evolved into one of the city's most cherished meeting places. Sipping my cappuccino while overlooking Piazza della Repubblica, I couldn't help but feel a sense of connection to the countless people who have enjoyed this same view over the centuries. The pastries were heavenly, and Aisha was particularly thrilled with her *cioccolata calda*. Hans, ever the history buff, read aloud from our guidebook about the café's rich history, mentioning that it even played a role in the creation of the Negroni cocktail. I made a mental note to try one next time, perhaps a *Centennial version* that celebrates the café's legacy.


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

The beauty of Florence isn't just in its monuments, but in the way it seeps into your soul.

After breakfast, we strolled through Piazza della Repubblica, a square that has witnessed so much of Florence's history. The square was once the location of the city's old market, but it was transformed in the late 19th century. Today, it’s a bustling hub filled with cafes, shops, and the iconic carousel. Aisha was immediately drawn to the carousel, and we couldn't resist letting her take a spin. Her laughter filled the air, creating a memory I know I will treasure forever. Thinking about it, I remember reading that on January 6th, the *Befana* even makes an appearance in Piazza della Repubblica to deliver candy and desserts. What a delightful treat that must be!


Experience the vibrant atmosphere of Piazza della Repubblica, Florence's iconic square filled with history, culture, and lively street performances.

Next on our itinerary was a visit to the Florence National Central Library. As a Cultural Liaison, I am always drawn to places where knowledge and history converge. The library itself is a treasure trove of Italian literature and history, holding a mandatory copy of everything printed in Italy since 1869. We wandered through the halls, admiring the architecture and imagining the countless scholars who have spent hours within these walls. Although we missed the *Acquisti coattivi 2016-2024* exhibition which ended on January 7th, it was still incredible to be surrounded by such a wealth of information. I found myself particularly drawn to the manuscripts, each one a testament to the power of the written word. Hans was fascinated by the library's role in preserving Italy's cultural heritage, and Aisha, surprisingly, was captivated by the sheer size of the place.


Discover the treasures of literature and history at the Florence National Central Library, a must-visit tourist attraction in the heart of Florence.

Our exploration of Florence continued with a visit to Palazzo Antinori, a stunning Renaissance palace that has been owned by the Antinori family since 1506. The palace, designed in the 15th century, stands as a symbol of Florentine architecture. The Antinori family, known for their contributions to winemaking since 1385, has deep roots in Florence, and their influence is evident throughout the city. The *Cantinetta Antinori*, located on the ground floor of the palace, is a popular spot for enjoying Antinori wines and experiencing Florentine cuisine. While we didn't dine there today, I made a mental note to visit on our next trip to Florence. We admired the palace's façade, imagining the generations of Antinoris who have called this place home. Aisha, with her boundless curiosity, peppered me with questions about the family's history and their famous wines.


Discover the exquisite wines and rich heritage of Tuscany at Palazzo Antinori, a historical wine bar in the heart of Florence.

For lunch, we ventured to Cantinetta delle Terme, a charming restaurant recommended by several locals. The restaurant, with its vintage decor, felt like stepping back in time. We opted for seafood, indulging in a delicious *insalata di mare freddo*, *bavette alle vongole e pecorino sardo*, and *frittura di pesce e verdurine*. The portions were generous, and the flavors were exquisite. Aisha, who is usually a picky eater, surprised us by devouring the fried fish. The friendly staff and cozy atmosphere made our lunch even more enjoyable.


Discover authentic Tuscan cuisine at Cantinetta delle Terme, where every dish tells a story of tradition and flavor in Florence.

After lunch, it was time for some retail therapy at Piazza del Mercato Centrale & Mercato Centrale. The market is a bustling hub of activity, with vendors selling everything from fresh produce to leather goods. We explored the stalls, soaking in the vibrant atmosphere and haggling for souvenirs. I picked up a beautiful leather handbag, while Hans found a unique piece of artwork. Aisha, of course, was drawn to the toy vendors, and we ended up buying her a small wooden Pinocchio puppet.


Explore the culinary delights and vibrant atmosphere of Piazza del Mercato Centrale, the heart of Florence's food culture and local craftsmanship.

As the day wore on, we made our way back to the San Firenze Suites & Spa for some much-needed relaxation. We enjoyed a final swim in the pool, reminiscing about our adventures throughout the week. Aisha splashed and played, her laughter echoing through the air. Hans and I relaxed in the sauna, letting the warmth soothe our tired muscles. It was the perfect way to unwind before our final dinner in Florence.


Indulge in luxury and comfort at San Firenze Suites & Spa, ideally located in the heart of Florence, offering exquisite amenities and services.

Our last supper was at Il Palagio, a Michelin-starred restaurant located within the Four Seasons Hotel Florence. The restaurant offers an impeccable service together with a refined and elegant ambient. The elegant ambiance and impeccable service made for a truly memorable experience. We opted for the tasting menu, savoring each course as it arrived. The flavors were exquisite, and the presentation was artful. Aisha, surprisingly well-behaved, even tried some of the more adventurous dishes. It was the perfect ending to our culinary journey through Florence.


Experience unparalleled fine dining at Il Palagio in Florence, where traditional Italian cuisine meets modern culinary excellence.

As we prepare to leave Florence tomorrow, I am filled with gratitude for the memories we have created. This trip has been an incredible experience for our family, and I know that we will cherish these moments for years to come. From the art and history to the food and culture, Florence has truly captured our hearts. I am already looking forward to our next visit, when we can explore even more of this beautiful city. Perhaps next time, we'll plan our trip around one of Florence's many festivals or events. I’ve read that the *Cavalcade of the Three Kings* during Epiphany is quite the spectacle! For now, *arrivederci*, Florence! Until we meet again.

Tomorrow, we leave bright and early to head back to Bamberg. It’s always bittersweet leaving a place you’ve grown to love, but I know we’re taking a little piece of Florence back home with us. I can’t wait to share more stories from our travels soon. Stay tuned!

For now, it’s time to say *buonanotte* from Florence. I hope you’ve enjoyed following along on our adventure!

I am also happy that I did not forget any of the TripEssentials, and that I even had enough space in my luggage for the souvenirs.