Family Adventure in Florence: Exploring Renaissance Wonders

Florentine Awakening

Florence! The name itself conjures images of artistic masterpieces, architectural wonders, and a rich history that has shaped Western civilization. Today marked the beginning of our family's Florentine adventure, and I couldn't wait to immerse ourselves in the city's beauty. Despite the January chill, a sense of warmth enveloped me, a feeling of being connected to something timeless and profound.

Our day began, as all good days should, with breakfast. We ventured to Caffè Gilli, a historic establishment dating back to 1733. Even though Irene Bar at our hotel, Hotel Cerretani Mgallery Collection, is undergoing renovations and offering breakfast at Gilli as an alternative, I was excited to experience this iconic café. The pastries were exquisite, the coffee rich and aromatic, and the atmosphere buzzing with the energy of locals and tourists alike. It was the perfect way to fuel up for a day of exploration.


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

Our first stop was the magnificent Cathedral of Santa Maria del Fiore, also known as the Duomo. As we approached, its sheer scale and intricate façade left us speechless. The polychrome marble panels, in shades of green and pink bordered by white, shimmered even under the overcast January sky. It's truly a testament to the ambition and artistry of the Renaissance. Work on the Duomo started in 1296, and in 2025 it is still a magnificent sight to behold. The Jubilee year celebrations were in full swing, with the Cathedral of Santa Maria del Fiore participating as one of the churches where pilgrims can receive the gift of indulgence. The festive lights, still illuminating the historic center from the Christmas season, added to the spiritual ambiance.


Discover the breathtaking beauty and history of the Cathedral of Santa Maria del Fiore in Florence, a true gem of Gothic architecture.

To truly appreciate the beauty of Florence, one must wander its streets, get lost in its history, and embrace its artistic spirit.

Next, we decided to climb Giotto's Bell Tower. Sophie, full of energy, practically skipped up the 414 steps, while Hans and I took a more leisurely pace. The climb was well worth it, though. From the top, we were rewarded with panoramic views of Florence, a sea of red-tiled roofs punctuated by the iconic dome of the Duomo. I tried to imagine what it must have been like for Giotto himself, overseeing the construction of this magnificent tower nearly 700 years ago.


Discover the breathtaking Campanile di Giotto in Florence, a Gothic masterpiece offering stunning views and rich artistic history, a must-see for every traveler.

After descending from the bell tower, we made our way to the Baptistery of St. John, one of the oldest buildings in Florence. Dedicated to the city's patron saint, this octagonal building is renowned for its three sets of bronze doors. The most famous, the Gates of Paradise by Lorenzo Ghiberti, were breathtaking in their detail and artistry. Sophie was particularly fascinated by the stories depicted on the doors, scenes from the Old Testament brought to life in bronze. The Baptistery is a minor basilica, and the interior is just as impressive as the exterior. The marble floor looks like a rug, and the geometric patterns are an influence from the Eastern world. We also observed the baptismal font sculpted by some of the greatest artists of the age, including Donatello.


Discover the breathtaking Baptistery of St. John in Florence, where history, art, and architectural beauty converge in a stunning Renaissance masterpiece.

For lunch, we sought refuge from the cold at Il Vezzo, a charming trattoria tucked away on Via Guelfa. The restaurant was small and rustic, with a cozy atmosphere that immediately made us feel at home. We shared a plate of handmade pasta, rich with Tuscan flavors, and a hearty Florentine steak cooked to perfection. It was the perfect midday meal, simple yet satisfying.


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

In the afternoon, we indulged in a bit of retail therapy at Rinascente Firenze, a department store in Piazza della Repubblica. While I browsed the latest fashions, Hans and Sophie explored the home goods section. The store was bustling with activity, a vibrant mix of locals and tourists. I read that Rinascente is celebrating its revamped architecture and internal fittings with events, but unfortunately, we didn't come across any today.


Discover the luxury of shopping at Rinascente Firenze, where fashion meets culture in the heart of Florence.

As evening approached, we made our way to Trattoria Sostanza for dinner. This historic restaurant, dating back to 1869, is known for its traditional Florentine cuisine. The atmosphere was warm and inviting, the staff friendly and attentive. We ordered the artichoke omelette, a house specialty, and the butter chicken, a dish that was as decadent as it was delicious. It was the perfect ending to a perfect day.


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

The weather in Florence today was chilly, with temperatures hovering around 10°C, and mostly cloudy skies. I was glad I packed warm clothing, including my trusty wool coat and scarf. It seems January is the coldest month in Florence, so we came prepared.

One thing I forgot to pack was a portable phone charger, and I found myself constantly searching for outlets to keep my phone alive. It's a small detail, but one that can make a big difference when you're relying on your phone for navigation and photography.

As I reflect on our first day in Florence, I'm filled with a sense of gratitude and excitement. This city is a treasure trove of art, history, and culture, and I can't wait to explore more of its wonders. Tomorrow, we plan to visit the Uffizi Gallery, Piazza della Signoria, and Palazzo Vecchio. I'm particularly excited to see the masterpieces of Renaissance art housed in the Uffizi, and to wander through the historic streets of Florence.

Tonight, as I sit in our cozy hotel room, sipping a glass of Tuscan wine, I can't help but feel a sense of awe and wonder. Florence has already captured my heart, and I know that this is just the beginning of an unforgettable adventure. I am so glad that my family and I are experiencing this together.

I'm also thrilled that we are experiencing the Jubilee year celebrations in Florence. I read that Pope Francis opened the Holy Door of St. Peter's Basilica on December 24, marking the beginning of the Jubilee year. The Jubilee will be celebrated in the Cathedral of Santa Maria del Fiore, where pilgrims will be able to receive the gift of indulgence.

I'm looking forward to tomorrow and the rest of our trip! There is so much to see and discover in this magnificent city.

I must remember to buy a raincoat. The weather forecast is unpredictable, and I don't want to get caught in the rain without proper protection.

For tomorrow, I plan to wear my comfortable walking shoes. I know we'll be doing a lot of walking, and I want to make sure my feet are happy. I’ll also bring my camera to capture all the beautiful sights we'll see.

I’m so glad we decided to come to Florence. It's a dream come true.

I’m also looking forward to experiencing the traditional Florentine cuisine. I’ve heard so much about the bistecca alla fiorentina, and I can’t wait to try it.

I can’t wait to share more of our Florentine adventure with you all! Stay tuned for tomorrow's blog post, where I'll be sharing our experiences at the Uffizi Gallery, Piazza della Signoria, and Palazzo Vecchio.