Family Adventure in Florence: Exploring Renaissance Wonders

A Day of Discovery

Today, I embraced the charm of Florence, wandering through its historic streets and immersing myself in its rich artistic and cultural tapestry. It was a day of simple pleasures, from savoring authentic Florentine cuisine to marveling at Renaissance masterpieces. Sophie, who has been particularly interested in Renaissance art, was very excited about today's itinerary.

Our Florentine Sunday began with a delightful breakfast at Ristorante dei Rossi. It was a cozy start to the day, with the aroma of freshly brewed coffee filling the air. The restaurant was bustling with locals and tourists alike, all eager to start their day with a taste of Italy. I enjoyed a classic cappuccino and a flaky croissant, while Hans opted for a more hearty breakfast of scrambled eggs and local cheese. Sophie enjoyed a fruit salad, which she claimed was the best she'd ever had. It's these simple moments, shared over good food, that make our family trips so special.

After breakfast, we set out to explore the Oltrarno neighborhood, starting with the Basilica di Santo Spirito. Designed by Filippo Brunelleschi, the basilica is a stunning example of Renaissance architecture. Its unassuming façade belies the beauty within. As we stepped inside, we were immediately struck by the serene atmosphere and the harmonious balance of space and light. The interior, with its elegant grey sandstone columns and rounded arches, exuded a sense of calm and reverence. Sophie was particularly fascinated by Michelangelo's wooden crucifix, which she had studied in her art history class. It was incredible to see it in person, a testament to the artist's skill and devotion. I found myself captivated by the Basilica's ribbed vaults and the numerous side altars, each adorned with unique artwork.


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

Sometimes, the most profound experiences are found in the quiet corners of a city, away from the bustling crowds.

Leaving the Basilica, we strolled through Piazza Santo Spirito, a vibrant square that embodies the heart and soul of the Oltrarno district. Despite it being January, there was a bustling market in full swing. The air was filled with the sounds of vendors hawking their wares and locals catching up with friends. We browsed the stalls, admiring the handcrafted jewelry, leather goods, and local produce. Sophie was particularly drawn to a stall selling vintage postcards, and she spent a good half-hour poring over them, selecting a few to send to her friends back home. Hans, ever the pragmatist, was more interested in the food stalls, sampling local cheeses and cured meats.


Experience the vibrant heart of Florence at Piazza Santo Spirito, a charming square filled with art, culture, and local life.

For lunch, we ventured to Murales Bistro', a charming spot known for its creative cuisine and quirky décor. The bistro's interior was a delightful mix of urban chic and artistic flair, with murals of cartoon characters adorning the walls. The menu featured a variety of Italian and Mediterranean dishes, with a focus on fresh, local ingredients. I opted for the seafood pasta, which was cooked to perfection and bursting with flavor. Hans chose the seared salmon, which he declared was one of the best he'd ever tasted. Sophie, always the adventurous one, tried the paccheri with octopus and burrata, and was pleasantly surprised by the combination of flavors.


Discover the authentic flavors of Italy at Murales Bistro – where culinary tradition meets modern charm in the heart of Florence.

Our afternoon was dedicated to exploring the magnificent Palazzo Pitti. This grand Renaissance palace, once the residence of the Medici family, is now home to several museums, including the Palatine Gallery and the Gallery of Modern Art. We began our visit in the Palatine Gallery, where we were immediately transported back in time. The gallery's opulent rooms were filled with masterpieces by Raphael, Titian, and Rubens. Sophie was in her element, pointing out the various artistic techniques and historical details. I was particularly impressed by the way the paintings were arranged, not chronologically, but by thematic and chromatic affinity, creating a visually stunning effect.


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

Next, we explored the Gallery of Modern Art, which houses a collection of paintings and sculptures from the late 18th century to the early 20th century. The gallery offered a fascinating overview of Italian art during this period, with works by the Macchiaioli movement and other modern Italian schools. From the gallery, we enjoyed wonderful views of the Boboli Gardens. We decided to skip the gardens today, as it was quite cold, but we made a mental note to return in the spring when the flowers are in bloom.

As the day drew to a close, we sought refuge in Antico Caffè del Moro - Art Bar Firenze, a hidden gem known for its unique atmosphere and artistic flair. This bar was recommended to me by a librarian friend back in Sarnen. The bar's interior was adorned with captivating artwork, creating an inspiring backdrop for relaxation. We ordered a round of cocktails, and Hans and I enjoyed a glass of local wine. The atmosphere was lively and convivial, with locals and tourists mingling and chatting. It was the perfect way to end our Florentine Sunday, soaking in the city's vibrant energy and artistic spirit.


Experience the vibrant ambiance and exquisite drinks at Antico Caffè del Moro, Florence's charming art bar that celebrates local culture.

Tomorrow marks the end of our Florentine adventure. We plan to visit the Piazza del Duomo, Leonardo da Vinci Museum, and Brunelleschi's dome, ensuring we soak up every last drop of this Renaissance city. We'll also be stopping by Scuola del Cuoio S.r.l. for some last-minute souvenir shopping. It’s hard to believe our time here is almost over; Florence has truly captured our hearts.

As I reflect on our day, I am filled with a sense of gratitude for the opportunity to experience the beauty and culture of Florence with my family. These are the moments that we will cherish forever, memories that will stay with us long after we return home to Sarnen. Florence, with its art, history, and culinary delights, has truly captured our hearts, and I know that we will be back again soon.

The city's charm is undeniable, and I'm already looking forward to our next adventure, wherever it may take us.

Despite a wonderful day, I couldn't help but notice that I had forgotten my portable phone charger and raincoat. These are two items I will definitely remember to pack on our next trip!