Exploring Florence: A Family Adventure

Sunday in Florence: Art, Fountains, and Breathtaking Views

Another day in Florence, and the city continues to enchant. Today was a mix of artistic exploration, historical appreciation, and simply soaking in the Florentine atmosphere. It's amazing how much history and beauty is packed into every corner here. I’m excited to share the highlights of our Sunday adventure with you all.

Our day began with a delightful breakfast at Ristorante Oliviero 1962. The reviews I had seen online were spot on; the food was delicious, and the service impeccable. It’s the kind of place that sets the tone for a great day. Aishath particularly enjoyed the pastries, while Ibrahim was a big fan of the fresh fruit. Fully energized, we set off to explore the first attraction on our list: the Basilica di Santo Spirito.

Basilica di Santo Spirito: A Serene Start

The Basilica di Santo Spirito, designed by Brunelleschi, is a stunning example of Renaissance architecture. The interior is characterized by its harmonious proportions and serene atmosphere. As a software developer, I found myself particularly drawn to the geometric precision and mathematical ratios that Brunelleschi employed in his design. The way the light filters through the windows, highlighting the clean lines and elegant columns, is simply mesmerizing. Aishath, with her nursing background, appreciated the sense of peace and tranquility that the basilica exuded. Ibrahim, ever curious, was fascinated by the artwork and sculptures.

The beauty of Florence lies not just in its grand monuments, but in the quiet corners where art and history intertwine.

Stepping inside, I was immediately struck by the basilica's sense of calm. Despite the bustle of Florence outside, within these walls was a haven of peace. The architecture was breathtaking, a testament to Brunelleschi's genius. The basilica's design, with its emphasis on symmetry and proportion, created a harmonious space that was both awe-inspiring and comforting. Ibrahim was fascinated by the artwork, especially the intricate details of the altarpieces. Aishath found solace in the quiet atmosphere, taking a moment to reflect in one of the side chapels. We spent a good hour exploring every nook and cranny, each of us finding something that resonated with us personally. It was a perfect way to start our Sunday, grounding us in the beauty and history of Florence.


Discover the breathtaking Basilica di Santo Spirito in Florence, a stunning blend of art, history, and spirituality in the heart of Tuscany.

The Fountain of Neptune: A Maritime Marvel

Next on our itinerary was the Fountain of Neptune in Piazza della Signoria. Commissioned by Cosimo I de' Medici in 1559, the fountain is a celebration of Florence's maritime ambitions. Designed by Bartolomeo Ammannati, with contributions from other artists like Giambologna, it depicts Neptune, the Roman god of the sea, standing atop a chariot pulled by sea horses. The fountain is a magnificent sight, a testament to the artistic prowess of the Renaissance.

As we approached Piazza della Signoria, the Fountain of Neptune immediately captured our attention. The sheer scale of the monument is impressive, and the intricate details of the sculptures are remarkable. The kids were particularly fascinated by the sea horses and the various mythological figures that adorn the fountain. I found myself admiring the craftsmanship and the historical significance of the monument. It’s amazing to think that this fountain has been standing here for centuries, witnessing the ebb and flow of Florentine life. The fountain's presence dominates the piazza, a powerful symbol of Florence's historical importance and artistic achievements.

The Fountain of Neptune, also known as Il Biancone (the white giant), has an interesting history. Cosimo I de' Medici wanted to create a fountain that would symbolize Florence's dominion over the sea. Bartolomeo Ammannati was chosen to design the fountain, and he collaborated with other artists to bring the vision to life. The statue of Neptune was made of white Carrara marble, and the fountain was adorned with bronze figures of river gods, satyrs, and sea horses. The fountain was completed in 1575 and quickly became one of Florence's most famous landmarks.

One interesting fact about the Fountain of Neptune is that the face of Neptune is said to resemble Cosimo I de' Medici himself. This was a common practice during the Renaissance, as artists often incorporated the likenesses of their patrons into their works. The fountain has undergone several restorations over the years, but it remains a testament to the artistic and cultural heritage of Florence. The kids enjoyed tossing coins into the fountain, making wishes for their future adventures. Aishath and I took some time to admire the intricate details of the sculptures, marveling at the skill and artistry of the Renaissance masters.


Discover the stunning Fountain of Neptune in Florence's Piazza della Signoria, a masterpiece of Renaissance art that embodies the city's rich cultural heritage.

After admiring the Fountain of Neptune, we decided to grab a quick lunch at Il Latini. This traditional Florentine restaurant is known for its authentic Tuscan cuisine and lively atmosphere. We managed to snag a table in the cozy courtyard and ordered a selection of local specialties to share. The hanging Parma hams and rustic decor added to the charm of the place. I appreciated the family-style dining experience, where everything is shared in the middle of the table. It was a great way to sample a variety of dishes and soak in the local culture. The food was hearty and delicious, providing us with the energy we needed for the rest of our day.


Discover authentic Tuscan cuisine at Il Latini in Florence - where tradition meets flavor in every dish.

Leather Shopping: A Florentine Tradition

No trip to Florence is complete without indulging in some leather shopping. Florence is renowned for its high-quality leather goods, and there are countless shops and markets offering everything from jackets and bags to wallets and belts. After lunch, we strolled through the streets, browsing the various leather shops. There are two main areas known for leather goods: San Lorenzo and Mercato Nuovo. These markets offer a wide range of items, mostly geared towards tourists. However, if you venture off the beaten path, you can find smaller artisan workshops that offer unique, handcrafted items.

As we explored the leather markets, I couldn't help but feel a sense of excitement. The aroma of genuine leather filled the air, and the vibrant colors of the various products were visually stimulating. We browsed through numerous shops, each offering its unique selection of leather goods. I was particularly interested in finding a high-quality leather jacket, while Aishath was on the lookout for a stylish handbag. The kids were more interested in the smaller items, such as wallets and keychains. We took our time, examining the quality of the leather, the stitching, and the overall craftsmanship.

One of the most important things to look for when buying leather in Florence is the quality of the leather itself. Genuine Italian leather should have a distinct, musky aroma and a soft, supple texture. Avoid anything that smells like chemicals or feels stiff and artificial. Also, look for the fleur-de-lys symbol, which indicates that the product was made in Florence. It's also worth noting that the price of leather goods in Florence can vary widely. Jackets costing less than £180 might be made in Italy, but the leather may come from elsewhere. A genuine, good-quality Italian jacket typically costs between £225 and £270 off the peg. Belts can range from £30 in the market to £130 in more upscale shops like Cellerini.

Aishath and I eventually found a small artisan shop tucked away in the Oltrarno district. The shop was filled with the creations of a local craftsman who had been working with leather for over 30 years. We were impressed by the quality of his work and the attention to detail. Aishath found a beautiful handbag made from supple, brown leather, while I found a classic leather jacket that fit perfectly. We both felt that we had found something truly special, a piece of Florentine craftsmanship that we would cherish for years to come. Ibrahim picked up a small leather-bound journal, perfect for jotting down his travel adventures.


Explore the finest Italian leather goods in Florence, where tradition and elegance harmoniously meet.

Piazzale Michelangelo: A Panoramic Finale

Our final stop for the day was Piazzale Michelangelo, a panoramic viewpoint offering breathtaking views of Florence. Designed by architect Giuseppe Poggi in 1869, the Piazzale is a popular spot for both locals and tourists. As we made our way up to the Piazzale, the anticipation grew. We had heard so much about the stunning views, and we were eager to experience them for ourselves.

Arriving at Piazzale Michelangelo, we were immediately struck by the sheer beauty of the scene before us. The entire city of Florence lay spread out beneath us, bathed in the warm light of the late afternoon sun. The iconic Duomo, the Ponte Vecchio, and the Palazzo Vecchio stood out against the backdrop of the rolling Tuscan hills. It was a truly breathtaking sight, one that I will never forget.

The Piazzale itself is a large, open square with a bronze replica of Michelangelo's David statue at its center. People were milling about, taking photos, and simply enjoying the view. There was a lively atmosphere, with street performers and vendors adding to the ambiance. We found a spot along the edge of the square and simply took in the scene. The kids were mesmerized by the panoramic view, pointing out various landmarks and asking questions about the city's history. Aishath and I sat in comfortable silence, appreciating the beauty of the moment and the joy of sharing it with our family.

As the sun began to set, the sky transformed into a canvas of vibrant colors. The buildings of Florence glowed with a warm, golden light, creating a magical atmosphere. It was the perfect ending to a perfect day. We lingered at Piazzale Michelangelo until the last rays of sun had faded, reluctant to leave this enchanting spot. The view of Florence from Piazzale Michelangelo is truly unforgettable, a reminder of the city's timeless beauty and artistic legacy.


Experience the stunning panoramic views of Florence at Piazzale Michelangelo, an iconic plaza that captures the city's beauty and charm.

For dinner, we decided to try Ristorante Pietrabianca, known for its seafood cuisine. The restaurant is located in a historic building and offers an intimate and welcoming atmosphere. We started with a selection of seafood appetizers, followed by a delicious pasta dish with clams and mussels. The food was fresh and flavorful, and the service was excellent. It was a perfect way to end our Sunday in Florence.


Experience authentic Tuscan cuisine blended with fresh seafood at Ristorante Pietrabianca in the heart of Florence.

Reflecting on the day, I felt a deep sense of gratitude for the opportunity to experience the beauty and history of Florence with my family. From the serene Basilica di Santo Spirito to the breathtaking views from Piazzale Michelangelo, every moment was special. Florence has a way of captivating your heart and leaving you wanting more. I’m already looking forward to our adventures tomorrow, which include visits to the Palazzo Pitti, the Loggia del Bigallo, and the Bargello National Museum, followed by drinks at Locale Firenze. Until then, *arrivederci*!