Family Adventure in Florence: Exploring Renaissance Wonders

A Day of Florentine Delights

As our Florentine adventure draws to a close, today was a bittersweet symphony of artistic immersion, architectural marvels, and the pursuit of Florentine craftsmanship. It was a day filled with experiences that will forever be etched in our memories, a perfect culmination to our family's Renaissance sojourn.

Our final day in Florence began, as many of our mornings here have, with the promise of Italian flavors. We savored a delightful breakfast at Buca dell'Orafo. The aroma of freshly baked pastries and strong Italian coffee filled the air, setting a cheerful tone for our last day of exploration. It's these simple, shared moments that often become the most cherished memories of our travels.


Discover Buca dell'Orafo: An enchanting restaurant in Florence offering authentic Tuscan dishes within a charming cellar setting.

Our first destination was the heart of Florence, the magnificent Piazza del Duomo. Even after several visits during our stay, the sheer scale and artistry of the Duomo still took my breath away. The crisp January air nipped at our cheeks as we gazed up at the intricate façade, a testament to human ingenuity and artistic vision. Despite the winter chill, the piazza was bustling with activity, a vibrant mix of locals and tourists all drawn to this iconic landmark. It’s hard to believe the Cathedral is closed to the public every Sunday and on the 25th and 26th of December, as well as the 1st and 6th of January. We were lucky to be able to admire it today, on our last day in Florence.


Explore the architectural splendor and vibrant atmosphere of Florence's iconic Piazza del Duomo, a cultural gem in the heart of the city.

Art is not what you see, but what you make others see.

Next on our itinerary was a visit to the Leonardo da Vinci Museum. I was particularly excited about this, as I've always been fascinated by Da Vinci's boundless curiosity and innovative spirit. Sophie, with her keen interest in art and science, was equally enthusiastic. The museum offered a captivating journey into the mind of the Renaissance genius, showcasing his inventions and artistic endeavors. Hans, ever the pragmatist, was intrigued by the mechanics of Da Vinci's machines, while I was drawn to the anatomical studies and artistic reproductions. It was fascinating to see the breadth of his intellect and the lasting impact of his contributions. It’s a shame that the museum will be closed from January 7th to February 6th for maintenance, but I'm glad we were able to experience it before it closed!


Explore the intersection of art and science at the Leonardo Da Vinci Museum, a must-visit attraction in Florence showcasing the genius of the Renaissance.

After immersing ourselves in the world of Da Vinci, we decided to tackle the ascent to Brunelleschi's Dome. The climb was challenging, to say the least. The narrow, winding staircases tested our endurance, but the promise of panoramic views kept us going. As we emerged at the top, we were rewarded with a breathtaking vista of Florence. The city unfolded beneath us, a tapestry of terracotta rooftops, winding streets, and iconic landmarks. The Arno River snaked its way through the landscape, reflecting the winter sunlight. It was a moment of shared triumph and awe, a perfect way to appreciate the beauty of Florence from a unique perspective. I made sure to remember that the Dome is closed on December 25th and January 1st, so if we ever decide to come back during that time, we’ll have to plan accordingly.


Explore the breathtaking Brunelleschi's Dome in Florence, an architectural marvel and a symbol of Renaissance ingenuity, offering stunning views and rich history.

For lunch, we ventured to Logò Ristorante, a charming establishment recommended by a local artisan we had met earlier in the week. Tucked away on a quiet side street, the restaurant offered a welcome respite from the bustling city center. We savored traditional Florentine dishes, rich with flavor and local ingredients. The warm ambiance and friendly service made it a truly delightful culinary experience. I opted for the Ribollita, a hearty bread and vegetable soup, while Hans enjoyed the classic Bistecca alla Fiorentina. Sophie, always adventurous, tried the Pappardelle al Cinghiale, a wild boar pasta dish. Each bite was a celebration of Tuscan gastronomy.


Experience authentic Italian flavors at Logò Ristorante in Florence – where tradition meets culinary excellence.

In the afternoon, we embarked on a different kind of exploration, a visit to the Scuola del Cuoio S.r.l., a renowned leather-making school and workshop. I had read about this hidden gem and was eager to witness the artistry firsthand. Tucked away behind the Basilica di Santa Croce, the Scuola del Cuoio is a testament to Florentine craftsmanship. We watched in fascination as skilled artisans meticulously crafted leather goods, from handbags and wallets to belts and jackets. The air was filled with the rich aroma of leather, a sensory experience that transported us back in time. I was particularly drawn to a beautiful leather-bound journal, its pages waiting to be filled with stories and reflections. It felt like the perfect memento of our Florentine journey.


Explore Scuola del Cuoio in Florence for exquisite handmade leather goods and immersive crafting experiences that reflect Italy's rich artistic heritage.

As the day drew to a close, we indulged in a final Florentine dinner at Ristorante Romantico il Paiolo. The restaurant's cozy atmosphere and candlelit tables created a romantic ambiance, perfect for a farewell meal. We reminisced about our favorite moments from the trip, sharing stories and laughter. The food was exquisite, a fitting tribute to the culinary delights we had experienced throughout our stay. I savored the Osso Buco, a tender veal shank braised in white wine and vegetables, while Hans opted for the seafood risotto. Sophie, ever the pasta enthusiast, chose the truffle ravioli. Each dish was a masterpiece, a testament to the chef's skill and passion.


Experience authentic Tuscan flavors at Ristorante il Paiolo in Florence, where romance meets exceptional Italian dining.

Our time in Florence has been nothing short of magical. From the awe-inspiring architecture to the exquisite art and the delectable cuisine, Florence has captured our hearts. As we prepare to leave tomorrow and embark on our drive back to Sarnen, I know that we will carry these memories with us forever. Florence has a way of weaving its way into your soul, leaving an indelible mark on your heart. I am grateful for the opportunity to have shared this experience with my family, creating memories that will last a lifetime.

While this chapter of our Italian adventure may be closing, I know that our travels are far from over. The world is vast and full of wonders waiting to be explored. As a librarian specializing in historical archives, I am constantly reminded of the richness and diversity of human history and culture. Travel is my way of experiencing that history firsthand, of connecting with different cultures, and of expanding my understanding of the world.

And as we bid farewell to Florence, I can't help but feel a sense of anticipation for what lies ahead. The open road beckons, and I am eager to discover new destinations, new cultures, and new stories. After all, isn't that what travel is all about? It's about embracing the unknown, stepping outside of your comfort zone, and allowing yourself to be transformed by the experiences you encounter along the way. And who knows, perhaps one day we'll return to Florence, to relive the magic and create even more cherished memories. Until then, arrivederci, Firenze!

As we head home tomorrow, I'm already thinking about our next adventure. Perhaps we'll explore the Swiss Alps in the summer, or maybe we'll venture further afield to discover the ancient wonders of Greece. The possibilities are endless, and I can't wait to see where our travels take us next.

Our family adventure in Florence has come to an end, but the memories we’ve made will last a lifetime. As we pack our bags and prepare for the journey back to Sarnen, I can’t help but smile, knowing that we’ve experienced something truly special together. Until next time, Florence!