Romantic Renaissance Escape in Florence

Florence: A Dream Come True

Arriving in Florence felt like stepping into a dream, a world painted with the vibrant colors of the Renaissance. David and I were instantly captivated by the city's charm, its narrow streets whispering stories of artists, poets, and revolutionaries. It was a day of firsts, of immersing ourselves in the heart of Florentine culture, and of course, indulging in the exquisite flavors of Italy. I am excited to share all the beautiful and delicious details with you.



Our Florentine adventure began as soon as we landed. The flight from Canada was long, but the anticipation of seeing Florence kept our spirits high. After landing, we took a taxi to Hotel California, our home for the next week. The hotel is perfectly located, and after quickly settling in, we ventured out to explore. Even though I had forgotten my umbrella and power adapter, I was too excited to let that dampen my mood.


Experience the charm of Florence at Hotel California, a serene escape with modern amenities, close to iconic attractions, perfect for every traveler.

A Morning Steeped in History

Our first stop was the magnificent Cathedral of Santa Maria del Fiore, or simply, the Duomo. The sheer scale of it took my breath away. Its history is as rich and complex as its design, with construction beginning in the late 13th century. We admired the exterior, a stunning display of polychrome marble panels in varying shades of green and pink, bordered by white. It was truly a feast for the eyes!

Explore the iconic Cathedral of Santa Maria del Fiore, a masterpiece of Gothic architecture and a must-see attraction in Florence, Italy.

Florence is a land of dreams, where beauty and history intertwine to create an unforgettable tapestry of experiences.

Next, we visited the Baptistery of St. John, standing just in front of the cathedral. This ancient religious center of Florence is a masterpiece of Italian Romanesque architecture. The octagonal building, with its three bronze doors, each more impressive than the last, was a sight to behold. We learned that the Baptistery is believed to have been built on the foundations of a Roman building and that for centuries, it served as the city's cathedral.

Discover the exquisite beauty and rich history of the Baptistery of St. John, a must-visit landmark in Florence showcasing stunning Romanesque architecture.

Following the Baptistery, we ascended Giotto's Bell Tower. The climb was a bit challenging, with 414 steps and no elevator, but each step brought us closer to a panoramic view of Florence. As we reached the top, the city unfolded before us in all its glory – the terracotta rooftops, the winding Arno River, and the distant hills of Tuscany. It was a truly breathtaking experience. I must admit, my Tai Chi classes in the park back in Stratford have been preparing me for this!

Explore the breathtaking views and architectural brilliance of Giotto's Bell Tower, a must-see landmark in the heart of Florence's historic center.

Lunch at Ristorante Romantico il Paiolo

After all that climbing, we were ready for a delightful lunch at Ristorante Romantico il Paiolo. The restaurant was cozy and inviting, and the menu was filled with traditional Florentine dishes. David and I shared a tagliatelle alla bolognese and spaghetti al pomodoro e basilico, and each dish was a celebration of simple, fresh ingredients. It was the perfect way to recharge before continuing our exploration.

Experience authentic Tuscan flavors at Ristorante il Paiolo in Florence, where romance meets exceptional Italian dining.

An Afternoon in Piazza della Signoria

Our afternoon was spent in Piazza della Signoria, the heart of Florence's political and social life. The square is a living museum, filled with statues and historical landmarks. We saw a copy of Michelangelo's David, standing proudly in front of the Palazzo Vecchio, the Neptune Fountain, and the Loggia dei Lanzi, an open-air sculpture gallery. The square was bustling with tourists and locals alike, all soaking in the vibrant atmosphere.

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

As we strolled through the square, I couldn't help but imagine the historical events that had unfolded here – the triumphs, the tragedies, and the everyday moments that shaped the city's identity. It was a powerful reminder of Florence's rich and complex past.

Shopping at Rinascente Firenze

Before dinner, we decided to indulge in some retail therapy at Rinascente Firenze. This department store is more than just a shopping destination; it's an experience. Emphasizing “for the city, with the city, in the city”, Rinascente feels like a stage for fashion and unique proposals. From high-end fashion to local crafts, there was something for everyone. We explored the various floors, each offering a different theme and experience. The terrace on the top floor provided another stunning view of Florence, making our shopping trip even more memorable.

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

Dinner at Il Santo Bevitore

For dinner, we chose Il Santo Bevitore, a restaurant recommended for its authentic Tuscan cuisine and warm atmosphere. The restaurant was bustling with activity, and we were lucky to get a table. We started with a chicken liver terrine, with brioche and a Vino Santo reduction and then indulged in potato gnocchi, deer ragout and black cherry sauce. For the main course, we had a tender, tasty lamb shank. Each dish was a culinary masterpiece, showcasing the best of Tuscan flavors. The service was impeccable, and the wine list was extensive. It was the perfect ending to a perfect day.

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

The atmosphere was cozy, with dark wood furniture and candlelight, making it one of Florence's most romantic spots. It was clear that the restaurant was a favorite among locals and tourists alike, and we felt privileged to be a part of the experience.

Final Thoughts

As we walked back to our hotel, hand in hand, I reflected on our first day in Florence. It was a whirlwind of art, history, and culinary delights. We had seen some of the city's most iconic landmarks, tasted its delicious cuisine, and soaked in its vibrant atmosphere. I am looking forward to tomorrow when we plan to visit the Uffizi Gallery, Ponte Vecchio, and Palazzo Vecchio. Florence had already captured our hearts, and I knew that the next few days would be just as magical.

February in Florence is a unique experience. The weather is mild, the crowds are smaller, and the city feels more intimate. There are also several events and festivals taking place, adding to the city's charm. I am hoping to see the Carnival Parade which highlights diverse world cultures.

Tomorrow, we plan to visit the Uffizi Gallery, Ponte Vecchio, and Palazzo Vecchio. I can't wait to share those experiences with you as well!

Until then, arrivederci!