Family Cultural Adventure in Florence

Florentine First Impressions

As our taxi pulled up to the San Firenze Suites & Spa, I couldn't help but feel a thrill of excitement. Florence, a city I had dreamt of visiting for years, was finally unfolding before me. This trip, a family adventure with Hans and Aisha, promised a deep dive into Renaissance history, art, and of course, the delectable Italian cuisine I've heard so much about. After settling into our lovely suite, we were ready to embrace the Florentine spirit.


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

Our Florentine adventure began in the heart of the city, at the Piazza della Signoria. Even in January, the square buzzed with a palpable energy. The crisp winter air nipped at our cheeks, but the sight of the majestic Palazzo Vecchio and the impressive sculptures held us captive. Aisha was particularly fascinated by the Fountain of Neptune, its intricate details sparking a flurry of questions. I remember explaining to her the stories behind each statue, feeling like a tour guide myself, thanks to the hours I'd spent researching before our trip. It was a surreal moment, standing in this historic square, surrounded by centuries of art and history. I learned that the sculptures in Piazza della Signoria were undergoing restoration, which gave us a unique opportunity to see the work up close. It was fascinating to watch the restorers meticulously working on the equestrian monument of Cosimo I de' Medici!


Discover the captivating beauty and rich history of Piazza della Signoria, Florence's iconic square filled with art, culture, and vibrant life.

Florence is not just a city; it's a living museum where every corner tells a story of artistic genius and cultural richness.

Next on our list was the iconic Cathedral of Santa Maria del Fiore, or as it's more affectionately known, the Duomo. As we approached, its sheer scale was breathtaking. The intricate marble facade, a symphony of pink, green, and white, seemed to glow even under the winter sky. We stepped inside, and the grandeur continued. The stained-glass windows cast kaleidoscopic patterns on the walls, and the sheer height of the dome was awe-inspiring. Aisha, always curious, peppered us with questions about the building's history and construction. I was particularly fascinated by the clock inside the cathedral which is one of the oldest examples of an hora italica clock in the world! It was at that moment, surrounded by so much history and beauty, that I truly understood why Florence is considered the birthplace of the Renaissance.


Discover the breathtaking beauty and history of the Cathedral of Santa Maria del Fiore in Florence, a true gem of Gothic architecture.

After a morning filled with historical immersion, our stomachs began to rumble, leading us to Caffè Gilli for breakfast. Founded in 1733, this historic café exuded old-world charm. The elegant interiors, the aroma of freshly brewed coffee, and the display of colorful pastries were a feast for the senses. We indulged in cappuccinos and pastries, savoring each bite as we watched the city come to life outside the window. Aisha, of course, opted for a chocolate-filled pastry, her face lighting up with every bite. It was a perfect way to recharge before our next adventure.


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

With renewed energy, we made our way to the Uffizi Galleries. I had pre-booked our tickets, a tip I always share on my blog, to avoid the notoriously long queues. Stepping inside, we were immediately transported into a world of Renaissance masterpieces. Botticelli's Birth of Venus and Leonardo da Vinci's works left me speechless. Aisha, surprisingly, was captivated by the sculptures, particularly the ancient Roman copies of Greek sculptures. Hans, with his engineering background, was fascinated by the architecture of the gallery itself, designed by Giorgio Vasari. We spent hours wandering through the halls, soaking in the artistic brilliance that surrounded us. The Uffizi is truly a treasure trove of Western art, and I felt incredibly fortunate to be able to experience it with my family. I was impressed by the vast collections of paintings from the 14th-century and Renaissance period including works from Giotto, Simone Martini, and Michelangelo.


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

As the afternoon waned, we decided to indulge in a proper Florentine lunch at La Giostra. This restaurant, known for its lively atmosphere and traditional Tuscan cuisine, was a delightful experience. The portions were generous, and the complimentary antipasti were a welcome surprise. We savored each dish, from the pasta to the Florentine steak, while enjoying the warm and inviting ambiance. Aisha, ever the social butterfly, struck up a conversation with the waiter, practicing her Italian phrases. It was a truly memorable meal, a perfect blend of delicious food and delightful company. I must say, the reviews of La Giostra are quite mixed, but I found that the food was amazing and the service was terrific! The owner was a character and the waiters were very attractive.


Discover La Giostra: A premier Tuscan restaurant in Florence offering authentic Italian cuisine amidst enchanting surroundings.

After lunch, with our energy levels slightly dipped, we decided to indulge in some retail therapy at Rinascente Firenze. This department store, located in Piazza della Repubblica, offered a wide array of Italian fashion, accessories, and home goods. I found a beautiful silk scarf, a perfect souvenir to remind me of our trip. Aisha, of course, gravitated towards the toy section, while Hans explored the leather goods. We then headed to the rooftop bar, which offered some of the most stunning views of the city. From up there, the Duomo seemed even more imposing, its dome dominating the skyline. It was the perfect spot to relax and take in the beauty of Florence from a different perspective. The terrace provided an in-your-face view of the Duomo, which helped put Brunelleschi's monumental creation into perspective.


Discover the luxury of shopping at Rinascente Firenze, where fashion meets culture in the heart of Florence.

As evening approached, we made our way to Il Santo Bevitore for dinner. This restaurant, recommended by several locals, promised an authentic Florentine dining experience. The cozy atmosphere, the candlelit tables, and the aroma of Tuscan cuisine created a magical ambiance. We savored each dish, from the handmade pasta to the hearty meat dishes, accompanied by a bottle of local wine. The food was hearty, and the dark wood furniture and candlelight made it feel very cozy! Aisha, surprisingly, tried the ribollita, a traditional Tuscan bread and vegetable soup, and declared it delicious. It was a perfect ending to a day filled with exploration and culinary delights.


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

Reflecting on our first day in Florence, I feel a sense of gratitude and excitement. We've only scratched the surface of what this incredible city has to offer, and I'm eager to continue our exploration tomorrow. According to our itinerary, we will be visiting the Palazzo Vecchio, Ponte Vecchio and Basilica of Santa Croce. I'm particularly excited about visiting the Ponte Vecchio, with its shops built along it. I wonder what treasures we will find there! I'm also hoping we will have some time to check out Rasputin, which I've heard is a great bar. I'm sure Aisha will be fast asleep by then!

I'm also looking forward to exploring the local markets and trying more traditional dishes. And, of course, I'm hoping to find a universal power adapter – a small but essential item that I somehow managed to forget. But even without it, our Florentine adventure has already exceeded my expectations. I can't wait to see what tomorrow brings. Good night from Florence!