Romantic Renaissance Escape in Florence

A Day Among Gardens and Palaces

Today was a beautiful immersion into the green heart of Florence, a welcome contrast to the stone and artistry of the previous days. David and I set out to explore the Boboli Gardens, Pitti Palace, and Giardino Bardini, each offering its unique charm and perspective on this magnificent city. It was a day of wandering, discovery, and, of course, delicious food.


Explore the historic Boboli Gardens in Florence, a breathtaking blend of art, nature, and Renaissance beauty.


Explore the opulent halls and vast art collections of Pitti Palace, a Renaissance gem and former residence of the Medici family in Florence, Italy.


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

Our day began with breakfast at Le Cappelle Medicee Restorante. I chose this place based on its proximity to the Medici Chapels, which we visited yesterday, and also because I was craving some authentic Italian pastries. The reviews I had read mentioned their delightful pastries, and they did not disappoint! David opted for a simple cappuccino and a cornetto, while I indulged in a ricotta-filled sfogliatella. It was the perfect start to a day filled with exploration.


Experience authentic Italian cuisine at Le Cappelle Medicee, where delicious pizzas meet succulent steaks in the heart of Florence.

We then made our way to the Boboli Gardens, just behind the Pitti Palace. Even in February, the gardens held a certain serene beauty. The bare trees and dormant flowerbeds had a stark elegance, and the sculptures stood out against the muted landscape. We wandered through the various sections, marveling at the Fountain of Neptune and the Grotta Grande. The sheer scale of the gardens was impressive; it felt like stepping into another world, a green oasis away from the bustling city. Despite the winter chill, the gardens were peaceful, and we enjoyed a leisurely stroll, taking in the views of the city from different vantage points.

Sometimes, the most beautiful discoveries are made when you allow yourself to get lost.

Next on our list was the Pitti Palace itself. This immense palace, once home to the Medici family, is now divided into five museums, and we decided to focus on the Palatine Gallery and the Gallery of Modern Art. The Palatine Gallery was a feast for the eyes, filled with masterpieces by Raphael, Titian, and Caravaggio. The opulent rooms, decorated with frescoes and intricate stuccowork, were as captivating as the art itself. It was fascinating to imagine the lives of the Medici family, surrounded by such splendor and power. The Gallery of Modern Art, on the other hand, offered a glimpse into a different era, with works by Italian artists from the 18th century to World War I. While I am more drawn to Renaissance art, I found the collection to be thought-provoking and a welcome contrast to the classical works in the Palatine Gallery. The palace itself is undergoing some renovations, with some of the royal apartments recently reopened after being closed for five years. It’s a real treat to see these treasures of culture, history and art.

After immersing ourselves in art and history, our stomachs began to rumble, signaling it was time for lunch. I had made a reservation at Trattoria Sostanza, a Florentine institution known for its traditional Tuscan cuisine. This place is a real gem! From the moment we stepped inside, we felt like we had been transported back in time. The trattoria was small and cozy, with white-tiled walls adorned with photographs and prints. We were seated at a communal table, which added to the convivial atmosphere. David and I both ordered the *petti di pollo al burro* (butter chicken), which came highly recommended. It was simply divine – tender chicken breasts cooked in a rich, buttery sauce. We also shared a *tortino di carciofi* (artichoke tart), which was equally delicious. The meal was hearty, comforting, and exactly what we needed after a day of exploring. I made sure to try the house red wine, and it paired perfectly with our meal. This is the kind of place I'll remember for years to come.


Discover the authentic taste of Italy at Trattoria Sostanza in Florence – home to delicious steaks and classic Tuscan dishes.

With our bellies full and our spirits high, we ventured to our final destination: the Giardino Bardini. Located on a hill overlooking Florence, this garden offered breathtaking panoramic views of the city. The climb was a bit steep, but the reward was well worth it. The Giardino Bardini is divided into three sections: a baroque staircase, an English garden, and a farming area with olive trees. We strolled through each section, admiring the sculptures, fountains, and, of course, the stunning views. Although it’s February, and not everything was in bloom, the garden had a quiet charm. I could only imagine how beautiful it would be in the spring, with wisteria covering the pergola and flowers in full bloom. The Bardini Garden is a bit higher than the city, so the wisteria isn’t quite blooming yet, but I hear it’s gorgeous in just a week or two. The views of the Duomo from above the tunnel were especially memorable. It was the perfect spot to reflect on our day and soak in the beauty of Florence.

Before dinner, we squeezed in a bit of shopping at Davide Cerasi Leather Boutique. I had read about this shop online and was intrigued by its reputation for quality leather goods. While I don't usually buy myself expensive things, I wanted to get a nice souvenir from Florence. I ended up purchasing a beautiful leather wallet, and David got a new belt. The shop assistant was very helpful, and I felt good about supporting a local business. I remember reading that the owner, Davide, is known for his quality tailored coats. Maybe next time I'll treat myself to one of those!


Experience the artistry of Italian leather at Davide Cerasi Leather Boutique, a must-visit destination for luxury shoppers in Florence.

For dinner, we had reservations at Buca dell'Orafo, a small restaurant near the Ponte Vecchio. This *buca* (cellar) restaurant is known for its traditional Florentine fare and cozy atmosphere. We descended the steep stairs into the dimly lit cellar and were greeted by the friendly staff. The menu was filled with tempting dishes, and we struggled to choose. Finally, I decided on the *taglierini ai piselli freschi* (pasta with fresh peas), while David opted for the *bistecca alla fiorentina*. My pasta was simple but delicious, the fresh peas adding a touch of sweetness. David's steak, cooked perfectly, was a testament to the quality of Tuscan beef. For dessert, we shared the *torta della nonna*, a classic Italian custard tart. The Buca dell'Orafo was the perfect ending to a perfect day – a hidden gem serving authentic Florentine cuisine in a warm and inviting setting.


Discover Buca dell'Orafo: An enchanting restaurant in Florence offering authentic Tuscan dishes within a charming cellar setting.

As I sit here now, writing this blog post in our cozy hotel room, I can't help but smile. Today was a day of simple pleasures: beautiful gardens, stunning art, delicious food, and good company. Florence has a way of captivating the senses and nourishing the soul. I feel so grateful to be here, experiencing the beauty and culture of this incredible city. Tomorrow, we're off to the Galleria dell’Accademia to see Michelangelo's David, the San Marco Museum, and the Basilica of Santa Maria Novella. I can't wait to see what new wonders await us!

“The world is a book and those who do not travel read only one page.” – St. Augustine