Family Adventure in Florence: Exploring Renaissance Wonders

Florence Through the Ages

Today was a day of contrasts, a journey through Florence that touched on history, art, breathtaking views, and, of course, the exquisite flavors of Tuscan cuisine. It’s remarkable how much this city offers in a single day, and I'm eager to share every moment of it with you.

Our morning began with a hearty breakfast at the Winter Garden Restaurant. The elegant setting, reminiscent of a 16th-century palazzo, was the perfect start to the day. The quality of the food was exceptional, and the service impeccable. It’s a bit on the pricier side, but sometimes, a little indulgence is just what you need on vacation. I must admit, Hans found the atmosphere a bit too formal for his liking; he prefers the cozy, rustic charm of our favorite haunts back in Sarnen. But even he had to concede that the food was outstanding.


Discover the enchanting flavors of Italy at Winter Garden Restaurant in Florence – where tradition meets modern elegance.

With our stomachs full and spirits high, we set off to explore the Basilica of Santa Croce. As a librarian specializing in historical archives, I was particularly excited about this visit. The basilica is the final resting place of some of Italy's most illustrious figures, including Michelangelo, Galileo, and Machiavelli. Standing in the presence of such historical giants was truly awe-inspiring. Sophie, ever the curious one, was fascinated by the intricate details of the architecture and the stories behind the tombs. I made sure to point out the leather goods sold around the Basilica – a perfect place to find a unique souvenir.


Explore the breathtaking Basilica of Santa Croce, a Gothic masterpiece in Florence, home to great thinkers and stunning Renaissance art.

The beauty of Florence lies not only in its art and architecture but also in the way it invites you to slow down, to savor each moment, and to appreciate the simple joys of life.

The Basilica itself is an architectural marvel, a testament to the enduring legacy of the Franciscan order. The austere interior, a stark contrast to the ornate facade, is home to some of the most impressive frescoes of the fourteenth century. Giotto's works in the Bardi and Peruzzi Chapels, depicting scenes from the life of St. Francis and St. John the Evangelist, were particularly captivating. We spent a good couple of hours wandering through the basilica, soaking in the history and artistry of this remarkable place.

After immersing ourselves in the art and history of Santa Croce, we decided to head to Piazzale Michelangelo for a change of scenery. The walk up to the Piazzale was a bit of a climb, but the views along the way were well worth the effort. January in Florence can be chilly, but the clear, sunny skies provided the perfect backdrop for our ascent. I was glad I remembered to pack warm clothing, as the temperature definitely dropped as we gained altitude.


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

As we reached the top, we were greeted by one of the most breathtaking panoramic views I have ever seen. The entire city of Florence lay before us, bathed in the warm glow of the afternoon sun. The Duomo, Giotto's bell tower, the Ponte Vecchio – all the iconic landmarks were there, spread out like a living postcard. It was the perfect spot for taking photos, and we spent a good while capturing the stunning vista from every possible angle. Even Hans, who usually shies away from touristy spots, was impressed by the sheer beauty of the scene.

Sophie, with her keen eye for photography, was particularly enthralled by the play of light and shadow on the city's rooftops. She experimented with different angles and compositions, capturing some truly stunning shots. I must admit, I felt a surge of pride watching her pursue her passion with such dedication. Perhaps she'll be the next great travel photographer!

From Piazzale Michelangelo, we ventured to Giardino Bardini, hoping to find a tranquil escape from the bustling city. While I knew that the wisteria wouldn't be in bloom in January, I was still eager to explore this hidden gem. Unfortunately, the garden didn't quite live up to my expectations. The winter landscape was rather barren, and the views, while still impressive, weren't quite as spectacular as those from Piazzale Michelangelo. However, we did enjoy a peaceful stroll through the grounds, taking in the serene atmosphere and the occasional burst of color from the winter flora.


Explore Giardino Bardini, a stunning garden in Florence, where tranquility meets history and breathtaking views await every visitor.

By late afternoon, our stomachs were starting to rumble, so we made our way to Il Gatto e la Volpe for lunch. This charming osteria, located near Santa Croce, is known for its traditional Tuscan cuisine and cozy atmosphere. We started with a basket of warm, homemade focaccia, which was simply divine. For our main courses, we opted for a selection of pasta dishes, each one bursting with flavor and authenticity. Hans, being the meat lover that he is, couldn't resist the *filetto di manzo*, which he declared to be one of the best steaks he's ever had. Sophie and I shared a *ravioli au gratin* with bleu cheese and a *bleu cheese risotto*, which were both incredibly rich and satisfying.


Discover authentic Tuscan flavors at Il Gatto e la Volpe in Florence – where every meal tells a story.

As we savored our meal, we couldn't help but reflect on the incredible day we had experienced. From the grandeur of Santa Croce to the panoramic views of Piazzale Michelangelo, from the tranquility of Giardino Bardini to the culinary delights of Il Gatto e la Volpe, Florence had truly captured our hearts.

In the evening, after a short rest at Hotel Cerretani Mgallery Collection, we dressed for dinner at Enoteca Pinchiorri. I had booked a table well in advance, knowing that this three-Michelin-starred restaurant is one of the most sought-after dining experiences in Florence. The restaurant itself is an elegant and refined space, with impeccable service and an extensive wine list. However, I must confess that the experience was a bit underwhelming.


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

The food was certainly well-prepared and beautifully presented, but it lacked the warmth and authenticity that we had experienced at Il Gatto e la Volpe. The atmosphere felt a bit stuffy and pretentious, and the prices were exorbitant. While I appreciate the artistry and skill that goes into fine dining, I couldn't help but feel that Enoteca Pinchiorri was trying too hard to impress. Perhaps my librarian's soul prefers the company of well-loved books to glittering stars.

After dinner, we decided to end the evening with a nightcap at Bitter Bar. This speakeasy-style bar, tucked away in a quiet corner of the city, is known for its innovative cocktails and retro atmosphere. The bartenders here are true mixologists, crafting unique and flavorful concoctions that are as much works of art as they are beverages. I opted for the Prosecco Lavanda, a delightful blend of Prosecco and lavender, while Hans chose the Rosmarino Old Fashioned, a classic cocktail with a hint of rosemary. Sophie, ever the adventurous one, went for the Limoncello Basil Smash, a refreshing mix of Limoncello and basil.


Discover Bitter Bar in Florence – where inventive cocktails and a lively atmosphere create an unforgettable night out.

The Bitter Bar was the perfect place to unwind after a long day of sightseeing. The atmosphere was relaxed and convivial, and the cocktails were simply divine. It was a fitting end to a day that had been filled with so many different experiences and emotions.

As I sit here now, writing this blog post from the comfort of our hotel room, I can't help but feel a sense of gratitude for all that Florence has given us today. It's a city that truly has something for everyone, whether you're a history buff, an art lover, a foodie, or simply someone who appreciates beauty and culture. I'm already looking forward to tomorrow, when we'll be exploring the Museo Galileo, Piazza della Repubblica, and Loggia dei Lanzi. Good night from Florence!

Tomorrow, we plan to visit the Museo Galileo, Piazza della Repubblica, and Loggia dei Lanzi. I’m particularly excited about the Museo Galileo, as I’ve always been fascinated by the history of science. Hopefully, it will be another day filled with discovery and wonder.

Travel is not reward for working, it’s education for living.