Family Adventure in Florence: Exploring Renaissance Wonders

Florentine Majesty Unveiled

Today was a day steeped in the grandeur of the Renaissance, a journey through the opulent world of Florentine art and history. Leaving the modern comforts of our Hotel Cerretani Mgallery Collection behind, we stepped back in time, ready to be enchanted by the treasures that awaited us. It was a day of exploration, of soaking in the artistic legacy that Florence so generously offers.


Experience the heart of Florence at Hotel Cerretani Mgallery Collection, a luxurious stay near iconic landmarks, offering top-notch amenities and exceptional service.

Our day began, as it often does in Italy, with a delightful breakfast at Il Palagio. The aroma of freshly brewed coffee and the sweet temptation of pastries set the perfect tone for a day dedicated to exploring the artistic heart of Florence. Fueled and ready, our first destination was the magnificent Boboli Gardens.


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

Wandering Through the Boboli Gardens

The Boboli Gardens in January possess a unique, understated charm. The crowds are thinner, allowing for a more intimate experience with the statues and fountains that adorn the landscape. Though the vibrant blooms of summer are absent, the skeletal trees and the muted tones of the earth create a different kind of beauty, a serene and contemplative atmosphere. Sophie, ever the observant one, was fascinated by the intricate details of the sculptures, while Hans, with his carpenter's eye, admired the stonework and the way the garden was terraced into the hillside. We even discovered the Secret Garden of Camellias, a hidden gem within Boboli, though visits are limited to Fridays, Saturdays and Sundays. I made a mental note to try and visit this again before we leave Florence. The air was crisp, and the occasional burst of sunlight through the clouds added a touch of magic to the scene. It was a refreshing start to the day, a chance to stretch our legs and breathe in the Florentine air before diving into the artistic depths of the Pitti Palace.


Explore the opulence of Palazzo Pitti, a Renaissance masterpiece in Florence with stunning art collections and beautiful gardens.

The beauty of Florence lies not just in its art, but in the way its history is woven into the very fabric of the city.

Immersed in the Pitti Palace

Leaving the tranquility of the Boboli Gardens behind, we made our way to the imposing Pitti Palace. This immense structure, once the residence of the Pitti family and later the Medici, now houses a complex of museums, each offering a unique glimpse into the lives and tastes of its former inhabitants. We decided to focus our attention on the Palatine Gallery and the Royal Apartments, eager to immerse ourselves in the world of Renaissance and Baroque art.


Explore the Palatine Gallery in Florence, where Renaissance art comes to life through masterpieces and opulent history.

The Palatine Gallery is an experience in itself. Unlike modern museums with their minimalist displays, the Palatine Gallery embraces a more is more aesthetic. Paintings are hung salon style, covering almost every inch of wall space, creating a visually overwhelming and utterly captivating effect. The collection is rich in masterpieces by Raphael, Titian, Rubens, and other giants of the Renaissance, each painting vying for attention amidst the opulent surroundings. Sophie was particularly taken with Raphael's portraits, while I found myself drawn to the vibrant colors and dramatic compositions of the Venetian masters.

The Royal Apartments offered a glimpse into the private lives of the Medici and their successors. The rooms, lavishly decorated with frescoes, stuccos, and period furniture, spoke of power, wealth, and refined taste. It was fascinating to imagine the daily routines of the Grand Dukes and Duchesses, to picture them receiving guests, conducting affairs of state, and simply living their lives within these gilded walls. It was interesting to note that the Royal Apartments have recently undergone extensive restoration, reopening just this January after being closed to the public since 2020. It felt special to be among the first to explore these meticulously preserved rooms.

A Culinary Interlude at Vini e Vecchi Sapori

Experience the true flavors of Tuscany at Vini e Vecchi Sapori, where authentic Italian cuisine meets warm hospitality in the heart of Florence.

By lunchtime, our appetites were as stimulated as our minds. Following a recommendation, we ventured to Vini e Vecchi Sapori for lunch. This charming trattoria, tucked away on a quiet street, offered a welcome respite from the crowds and a chance to savor authentic Florentine cuisine. The menu was simple, focusing on fresh, seasonal ingredients, and the atmosphere was warm and inviting. We shared a plate of handmade pasta with truffle sauce, a dish that epitomized the simple elegance of Italian cooking. Hans, of course, paired our meal with a local Chianti, adding another layer of flavor to the experience. It was the perfect interlude, a moment to recharge and reflect on the artistic wonders we had witnessed.

Shopping for Treasures at Boutique Nadine

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

After lunch, with a renewed sense of energy, we decided to indulge in a little retail therapy. Sophie, with her keen eye for fashion, had read about Boutique Nadine, a vintage store known for its curated collection of clothing and accessories. We located the shop without issue. It was a delightful treasure trove of unique finds, a place where old and new mingled in a harmonious and inspiring way. Sophie, who shares a name with the Boutique, was in heaven, trying on vintage dresses and admiring the quirky accessories. I even found a beautiful silk scarf, a perfect memento of our Florentine adventure. It was a fun and frivolous detour, a chance to add a personal touch to our day of cultural exploration. I was reminded of my own mother, Nadine, and how much she would have enjoyed browsing through the vintage finds.

An Evening of Tuscan Flavors

As the day drew to a close, we made our way to Ristorante Oliviero 1962 for dinner.
Experience authentic Tuscan cuisine at Ristorante Oliviero 1962 in Florence—where tradition meets modernity in every delicious bite.

This elegant establishment, known for its refined Tuscan cuisine and impeccable service, offered a fitting end to our day of Renaissance grandeur. The ambiance was sophisticated, the food was exquisite, and the wine list was extensive. We savored each course, from the delicate seafood appetizers to the succulent Florentine steak, accompanied by a full-bodied Super Tuscan. It was a culinary journey, a celebration of the flavors of Tuscany, and a perfect way to reflect on the day's experiences.

As we walked back to our hotel, the city was bathed in the soft glow of streetlights, casting long shadows on the ancient buildings. The air was cool and crisp, and the sound of our footsteps echoed on the cobblestone streets. It was a magical moment, a feeling of contentment and gratitude for the opportunity to experience the beauty and history of Florence. Tomorrow, we plan to visit the Basilica of Santa Croce, Piazzale Michelangelo, and Giardino Bardini, and perhaps end the day at Bitter Bar.

Today was a day of immersion, of losing ourselves in the artistic and cultural richness of Florence. It was a reminder of the power of art to transport us, to inspire us, and to connect us to the past. And as I drift off to sleep, I am filled with anticipation for the adventures that await us tomorrow.

I am also very glad I decided to pack my comfortable walking shoes, as I knew we would be doing a lot of walking. I was kicking myself earlier in the trip when I realised I had forgotten my portable phone charger, but I was glad to have remembered my travel guidebook on Florence. A raincoat would have also been a good idea, but thankfully the weather was on our side today.

It's moments like these that make me so thankful for my job and my passion for sharing my experiences with you all. Until tomorrow!