Exploring Florence: A Family Adventure

Florentine Footsteps
Today, our Florentine adventure took us off the beaten path, exploring corners of this magnificent city that often get overshadowed by the Uffizi and the Duomo. It was a day of quieter contemplation, of soaking in the atmosphere and history that permeates every stone and piazza. Aishath and Ibrahim were excited to discover new facets of Florence, and I was eager to share these experiences with them.
Logò Ristorante. The reviews online had promised a creative and delicious start to the day, and Logò certainly delivered. We enjoyed a leisurely meal, fueling up for a day of exploration. The atmosphere was cozy and inviting, the perfect way to ease into our Florentine Friday.
Basilica of Santa Maria Novella: A Harmonious BlendBasilica of Santa Maria Novella. Just a short walk from our hotel, this basilica stands as a testament to Florence's rich artistic and religious history. What struck me most was the facade, a masterpiece by Leon Battista Alberti, seamlessly blending Renaissance and Gothic styles. It’s fascinating how Alberti managed to create such harmony, even incorporating the existing Gothic structure. Aishath was particularly impressed by the geometric designs using white and green marble.Sometimes, the most profound experiences are found not in the grand spectacles, but in the quiet corners where history whispers and art reveals its secrets.Museo di San Marco: A Sanctuary of Art
Museo di San Marco, housed in a former Dominican monastery. This museum is home to the largest collection of works by Fra Angelico, a Renaissance painter-monk. As we walked through the monastery, I couldn't help but feel a sense of peace and tranquility. The architecture, designed by Michelozzo, is simple yet elegant, creating a perfect backdrop for Angelico's ethereal paintings.
Lunch at Vini e Vecchi Sapori: A Taste of Tuscany
Vini e Vecchi Sapori, a charming trattoria known for its authentic Tuscan cuisine. This place is a gem, tucked away from the main tourist crowds. The menu, handwritten daily, features classic dishes made with fresh, local ingredients. We started with the caprese, a simple yet delicious salad of tomatoes, mozzarella, and basil. For our main courses, Aishath chose the beef stew, while I opted for the paccheri with zucchini flowers and saffron. Ibrahim, always a fan of pasta, devoured his portion of pappardelle with lamb. The food was hearty and flavorful, a true taste of Tuscany. What made the experience even more special was the warm and welcoming atmosphere. The staff treated us like family, making sure we felt comfortable and well-fed. It's these small, personal touches that make a meal truly memorable.
Piazza della Repubblica: A Square of Transformation
Piazza della Repubblica, one of Florence's main squares. This piazza has a fascinating history, dating back to Roman times when it was the site of the city's forum. Over the centuries, it has been a marketplace, a Jewish ghetto, and, in the 19th century, it underwent a major renovation, becoming the grand square we see today.
Peruzzi Firenze, a leather goods store that has been in business for over 60 years. I was impressed by the quality and craftsmanship of their products, and Aishath found a beautiful leather handbag that she couldn't resist. Ibrahim, of course, was more interested in the gelato shop next door.
Shopping at Peruzzi Firenze
Peruzzi Firenze, it was an experience in itself. The store exuded an old-world charm, with its shelves lined with beautifully crafted leather jackets, bags, and accessories. The staff was incredibly helpful, guiding us through their extensive collection and sharing the history of the brand. It's a family-run business, and you can feel the passion and dedication that goes into their products. I ended up purchasing a leather wallet, a timeless piece that I know I'll cherish for years to come. It's a reminder of our time in Florence, a tangible connection to the city's rich artistic heritage.
Dinner at Ristorante Belcore: A Culinary Delight
Ristorante Belcore for dinner. This restaurant, located near the Basilica of Santa Maria Novella, is known for its elegant atmosphere and creative cuisine. The menu features a mix of traditional Tuscan dishes and innovative creations, all made with fresh, seasonal ingredients. We started with the fresh tuna sliced in black pepper crust, followed by fillet steaks and steak salads. The wine list was impressive, and we let our server guide us to a bottle that perfectly complemented our meal. For dessert, we indulged in the crème brûlée. The service was impeccable, and the atmosphere was both refined and welcoming. It was the perfect ending to a day of exploration and discovery.
A Reflective Evening
Golden Tower Hotel & Spa, the city was bathed in the soft glow of streetlights. We talked about our favorite moments of the day, from the awe-inspiring art of Fra Angelico to the delicious flavors of Tuscan cuisine. It was a day of quiet joys, of discovering the hidden gems that make Florence so special. Tomorrow, we plan to visit Brunelleschi's Dome and the Medici Chapels, continuing our journey through this captivating city. I'm excited to see what new adventures await us.