Family Cultural Adventure in Florence

Sunday Serenity in Florence

Our day began with a delightful breakfast at Caffè Gilli. The pastries were heavenly, and the coffee provided the perfect kickstart. It's amazing how a simple cappuccino can taste so extraordinary in Italy. Aisha was particularly fond of her chocolate-filled croissant, her little face smeared with cocoa as she giggled. Hans and I enjoyed the people-watching as much as the food, soaking in the vibrant atmosphere of Florence waking up.

Fueled and ready, we headed to Piazzale Michelangelo. The walk up was a bit of a climb, but the view from the top was more than worth it. The entire city unfolded before us, a tapestry of terracotta rooftops, winding streets, and the majestic Duomo dominating the skyline. Even Hans, who usually prefers the engineering marvels of modern cities, was visibly impressed. Aisha, ever the curious one, peppered us with questions about the buildings and the river, her little eyes wide with wonder.


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

From Piazzale Michelangelo, we ventured to the Basilica di San Miniato al Monte. This Romanesque church, perched even higher on the hill, offered a serene escape from the bustling city below. The interior was breathtaking, with intricate mosaics and a peaceful crypt. The story of Saint Minias, Florence's first martyr, resonated deeply with me, reminding me of the strength and resilience of faith throughout history. The quiet contemplation within those ancient walls was a welcome contrast to the lively streets we had just left behind.


Explore the majestic Basilica di San Miniato in Florence, where history, art, and breathtaking views converge in a tranquil setting.

After soaking in the spiritual atmosphere of San Miniato, we descended back into the city for lunch at Coquinarius. This charming restaurant was a delightful discovery, offering a modern twist on traditional Tuscan cuisine. The pasta was fresh and flavorful, and the ambiance was cozy and inviting. Aisha, surprisingly, devoured her plate of ravioli, declaring it the best she had ever tasted. Hans and I savored every bite, enjoying the regional wine and the lively conversation around us.


Discover authentic Italian cuisine at Coquinarius in Florence - where tradition meets modern taste in a cozy setting.

Florence is more than just a city; it's a living museum where every corner tells a story and every experience is a brushstroke on the canvas of life.

In the afternoon, we decided to indulge in a bit of Florentine craftsmanship at Scuola del Cuoio S.r.l. This leather school, located in the cloisters of the Santa Croce complex, was a fascinating glimpse into the art of leather making. We watched artisans meticulously crafting bags, belts, and wallets, their hands moving with practiced precision. I couldn't resist purchasing a beautiful leather journal, a perfect place to record my travel memories. Aisha, meanwhile, was captivated by the tools and the colorful scraps of leather, dreaming of becoming a leather artisan herself.


Explore Scuola del Cuoio in Florence for exquisite handmade leather goods and immersive crafting experiences that reflect Italy's rich artistic heritage.

Our final stop of the day was the Museo Galileo. As someone fascinated by history and science, I found this museum absolutely captivating. The collection of scientific instruments was incredible, showcasing the ingenuity and innovation of the Renaissance. I was particularly impressed by Galileo's original instruments, marveling at the brilliance of his mind. Hans, with his engineering background, was equally enthralled, explaining the mechanics and principles behind each invention to Aisha. Even though some of the concepts were a bit advanced for her, she listened attentively, her curiosity piqued by the wonders of science.


Discover the rich history of science at Museo Galileo, a must-visit museum in Florence, showcasing incredible inventions and the legacy of Galileo Galilei.

As the day drew to a close, we made our way to Cuculia for dinner. This restaurant, with its warm and inviting atmosphere, was the perfect place to end our Florentine Sunday. The food was delicious, the service impeccable, and the conversation flowed effortlessly. We reminisced about our adventures of the day, sharing our favorite moments and laughing at our little mishaps. Aisha, tired but content, snuggled up to me, her eyes already heavy with sleep.


Discover Cuculia in Florence: A delightful fusion of exquisite cuisine and literary treasures awaits you.

Reflecting on the day, I am struck by how much we managed to experience in just a few hours. Florence is a city that rewards exploration, offering something new and exciting around every corner. From the panoramic views of Piazzale Michelangelo to the spiritual serenity of San Miniato, from the culinary delights of Coquinarius to the artisanal craftsmanship of Scuola del Cuoio, every moment was a treasure. And, of course, the Museo Galileo reminded me that Florence is not just a city of art and culture, but also a cradle of scientific innovation.

As I sit here in our cozy suite at the San Firenze Suites & Spa, I am filled with a sense of gratitude for this incredible experience. Florence has a way of weaving its magic into your soul, leaving you with memories that will last a lifetime. It's a city that inspires, enchants, and nourishes the spirit. And as I look forward to tomorrow's adventures – a visit to the Galleria dell’Accademia to see David, exploring the Leonardo da Vinci Interactive Museum, and a city tour – I know that our Florentine journey is far from over.


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

I'm particularly excited about the Galleria dell’Accademia, as I've always wanted to see Michelangelo's David up close. And the Leonardo da Vinci Interactive Museum sounds like a fantastic way to engage Aisha's curiosity and learn more about this brilliant polymath. Plus, Hans is already looking forward to our evening visit to Bitter Bar, eager to sample some of Florence's finest cocktails. It's shaping up to be another unforgettable day in this captivating city.

Before I sign off, I must share a funny anecdote from today. While we were at Scuola del Cuoio, Aisha became convinced that she could make her own leather bracelet. She insisted on trying, and the patient artisan, with a twinkle in his eye, gave her a small piece of leather and some tools. The result was, shall we say, less than perfect – a lopsided, oddly shaped piece of leather that barely resembled a bracelet. But Aisha was so proud of her creation, and she wore it with such joy that it became the most precious souvenir of the day. It's moments like these that make travel so special, the unexpected joys and the simple pleasures that create lasting memories.

And speaking of memories, I am so glad that I remembered to bring my camera. I've been snapping photos all day, trying to capture the beauty and the essence of Florence. I can't wait to go through them and create a photo album that will allow us to relive this incredible trip for years to come. However, I am still kicking myself for forgetting the universal power adapter! It's always something, isn't it? Luckily, Hans managed to find one at a local electronics store, so we are back in business.

As I drift off to sleep, I am filled with a sense of anticipation for tomorrow. Florence, you have stolen my heart. And I can't wait to see what other treasures you have in store for us.

Until tomorrow, dear readers! Arrivederci!