Exploring the Artistic Treasures of Florence with Friends

Florentine Discoveries on a Sunday

Today was a day of delightful discoveries here in Florence. From exploring the wonders of science to admiring architectural marvels and finding a moment of peace in a beautiful basilica, Florence truly offered a bit of everything. Sharing these experiences with my friends made it even more special.



The day began with a hearty breakfast at Atto di Vito Mollica. The reviews I read online were spot on; it was a delightful way to fuel up for a day of exploring. The elegant interior, with its marble floors and crisp white tablecloths, set a sophisticated tone. I enjoyed a creamy risotto with fresh seafood and herbs, which was simply divine. The coffee was also superb, providing the perfect kickstart to our Florentine adventure. What a great way to start the day!


Discover exquisite Tuscan cuisine at Atto di Vito Mollica in Florence - where tradition meets culinary artistry.

Our first stop was the Museo Galileo, a place I was particularly excited about. As someone who enjoys technology and history, I was eager to see Galileo's original instruments. The museum did not disappoint! It was fascinating to stand before the very telescopes he used to make his groundbreaking discoveries. The museum is well-organized, with 18 thematic rooms that walk you through the history of science. It's incredible to see how far we've come, and to think about the brilliant minds that paved the way. I even managed to capture a few good photos, though I was so engrossed in the exhibits that I almost forgot to take them.


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

Science is but a perversion of itself unless it has, as its ultimate goal, the betterment of humanity.

Next, we ventured to the Piazza del Duomo. Even though the weather was a bit cloudy, the square was bustling with activity. The Duomo itself is breathtaking. We spent a good amount of time just wandering around, taking in the sights and sounds. The architecture is stunning, and you can feel the history all around you. I took some photos, trying to capture the grandeur of the cathedral, but it’s one of those places you really have to see in person to appreciate fully. While we were there, we caught a glimpse of some street performers, which added to the lively atmosphere of the piazza. I remember Omar asking me a lot of questions about the construction of the Duomo when we visited last year, so it was a bit nostalgic to be there again without him and Fatima.


Explore the architectural splendor and vibrant atmosphere of Florence's iconic Piazza del Duomo, a cultural gem in the heart of the city.

For lunch, we headed over to Il Vezzo, a restaurant I had read about that promised a genuine Florentine experience. And genuine it was! The restaurant was cozy and welcoming. I decided to try their beef ragu with papperdelle, and it was absolutely delicious. The pasta was perfectly cooked, and the ragu was rich and flavorful. It was a perfect example of simple Italian cooking done exceptionally well. My friends enjoyed their meals as well. It was the perfect spot to relax and recharge before continuing our exploration.


Discover authentic Tuscan flavors at Il Vezzo, Florence's beloved Italian restaurant offering a delightful dining experience.

After lunch, we made our way to the Basilica di Santo Spirito. Tucked away in the Oltrarno neighborhood, this church offered a peaceful respite from the busy city center. The interior was beautiful, with its simple yet elegant design. We spent some time admiring the art and architecture, and just enjoying the quiet atmosphere. I am not particularly religious, but I always find something calming about visiting these old churches. It’s a chance to reflect and appreciate the beauty around you. Luckily, we were able to attend the Sunday mass, which added another layer of depth to the visit.


Discover the architectural and artistic marvel of Basilica di Santo Spirito in Florence, a peaceful sanctuary rich with Renaissance heritage.

Before dinner, we decided to do a little shopping. Boutique Nadine caught my eye with its unique window display. The store had a Narnia-inspired feel, with a mix of vintage clothing, accessories, and quirky home décor items. I ended up buying a vintage scarf that I absolutely loved. It was a bit of a splurge, but I figured it would be a nice souvenir from our trip. Plus, Fatima would love it too. I almost forgot to buy something for her, but thankfully I remembered just in time.


Discover unique women's fashion and accessories at Boutique Nadine, a premier shopping destination in the heart of Florence, Italy.

Finally, for dinner, we had reservations at Il Palagio. This Michelin-starred restaurant promised a fine dining experience, and it certainly delivered. The service was impeccable, and the food was exquisite. Each course was a work of art, both in terms of presentation and taste. I tried the tasting menu, which included a variety of dishes featuring local ingredients. It was a truly memorable meal and a perfect way to end our day of exploration. I think I'll make sure to reserve a table for Fatima and me when we return to Florence.


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

As I reflect on the day, I am filled with gratitude for the experiences we shared. Florence has a way of captivating you with its beauty and charm. I'm also looking forward to tomorrow's itinerary, which includes visits to the Museo Nazionale del Bargello, the Basilica of Santa Croce, and the Leonardo da Vinci Interactive Museum. I'm particularly excited about the Leonardo da Vinci Museum, as I've always been fascinated by his inventions. And perhaps we'll have time to stop by Mad - Souls & Spirits for a drink in the evening. For now, though, I'm content to savor the memories of today and look forward to more adventures tomorrow.