A Renaissance Adventure in Florence with Friends

Florentine Dreams Unfold

Today was a day of diving deep into the heart of Florence, a city that continues to enchant me with its blend of art, history, and vibrant culture. From the serene beauty of sprawling gardens to the majestic halls of a palace and the spiritual solace of a basilica, Florence offered a symphony of experiences that resonated deeply within me. I'm excited to share the journey with you, a day where every corner turned revealed another layer of Florentine splendor.

Our day began with a delightful breakfast at Hotel Lungarno. The hotel is owned by the Ferragamo family and is very close to Ponte Vecchio. The breakfast room had a great selection and excellent staff. Sipping on a cappuccino while overlooking the Arno River, I felt a sense of anticipation for the adventures that lay ahead. The hotel’s Ralph Lauren-inspired blues and whites, combined with nautical decor, were a chic way to start the day, reminding me of the calming influence of water amidst this bustling city. After breakfast, my friends and I set off to explore the Boboli Gardens.


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

Boboli Gardens: A Green Escape

Stepping into the Boboli Gardens felt like entering another world. The gardens, located directly behind the Pitti Palace, were commissioned in the 16th century by Eleonora di Toledo, wife of Cosimo I de' Medici. These gardens represent one of the first and most important examples of the Italian garden, which later served as inspiration for many European courts. Wandering through the meticulously designed landscapes, I was struck by the seamless blend of nature and art. The towering trees, vibrant flowerbeds, and hidden fountains created a sense of magic and wonder.

The Boboli Gardens are a testament to the enduring beauty of blending art and nature.

We strolled along the winding paths, discovering hidden grottoes adorned with sculptures and intricate water features. The Neptune Fountain, with its imposing figure of the sea god, was particularly impressive. I couldn't resist snapping a few photos, trying to capture the sheer grandeur of the scene. The gardens offered panoramic views of Florence, a breathtaking reminder of the city's beauty. Elena would have loved running around here, I must remember to bring her next time.

There were tactile and multisensory tours of the Upper Botanica advertised, but we didn't have time to participate. It's good to see that they are offering tours for both sighted and visually impaired, allowing participants to explore the garden through scents, sounds and touch. We also missed the Secret Garden of Camellias, which is only accessible on Fridays, Saturdays and Sundays, but I'll try to come back before April 13th to see the 49 specimens of 37 varieties.

Pitti Palace: A Royal Residence

After our refreshing interlude in the gardens, we made our way to the Pitti Palace, a vast Renaissance palace that once served as the main residence of the Medici family. Originally built for Luca Pitti in 1458, the palace was later purchased by Eleonora di Toledo in 1549 and transformed into a symbol of Medici power and wealth.


Explore the opulent halls and vast art collections of Pitti Palace, a Renaissance gem and former residence of the Medici family in Florence, Italy.

Exploring the opulent halls of the Pitti Palace was like stepping back in time. Each room was adorned with intricate frescoes, elaborate tapestries, and priceless works of art. The Palatine Gallery, in particular, was a feast for the eyes, housing an impressive collection of Renaissance paintings by masters such as Raphael, Titian, and Caravaggio. I found myself lost in the beauty of these masterpieces, marveling at the skill and artistry of the painters.

It was fascinating to learn about the history of the palace, from its humble beginnings as the residence of Luca Pitti to its transformation into a grand ducal palace under the Medici. The palace also served as a power base for Napoleon in the late 18th century and later became the principal royal palace of the newly united Italy. Today, the Pitti Palace is the largest museum complex in Florence, housing five museums, including the Gallery of Modern Art and the Museum of Costume and Fashion. It's amazing to think that King Victor Emmanuel III donated the Palace to the Italian state in 1919. The Boboli Gardens and the Palace were conceived and developed together over three centuries, in a close dialogue between art and nature which led the Boboli Gardens to become the model for royal palaces throughout Europe.

Basilica di Santo Spirito: A Spiritual Haven

Our final stop for the day was the Basilica di Santo Spirito, a serene and understated church located in the Oltrarno quarter. Designed by Filippo Brunelleschi, the basilica is considered one of the preeminent examples of Renaissance architecture. Stepping inside, I was immediately struck by the sense of peace and tranquility that permeated the space.


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

The interior of the Basilica di Santo Spirito is a masterpiece of Renaissance design, with its harmonious proportions, elegant columns, and graceful arches. Brunelleschi’s architecture doesn't define a linear experience: the existing axes and perspectives allow different choices for the observer, allowing visitors to roam free and become one with their surroundings. The Basilica is home to works by renowned Florentine artists, including the wooden Crucifix by the young Michelangelo. The opportunity to view the wooden crucifix sculpted by Michelangelo was a highlight. It was created when Michelangelo was seventeen years old, in exchange for being allowed to make anatomical studies on corpses coming from the convent’s hospital. Today the crucifix is in the octagonal sacristy that can be reached from the west aisle of the church.

In the Basilica di Santo Spirito, art and faith converge, offering solace and inspiration to all who enter.

The Basilica has 38 side chapels, which contain a noteworthy amount of artworks. We took some time to wander through the chapels, admiring the paintings, sculptures, and other works of art that adorned the walls. The Basilica has always been governed by the Friars of the Order of Saint Augustine.

Culinary Delights

After a day of exploring Florence's cultural treasures, we were ready for a delicious meal. For lunch, we dined at Ristorante Borgo San Jacopo, a Michelin-starred restaurant located near the Ponte Vecchio. The restaurant is part of Hotel Lungarno. The meal was a culinary journey, with each dish showcasing the flavors of Tuscany. They are known for their seafood, and the service was top-notch. Borgo San Jacopo boasts the same elegant and exclusive style as the hotel. I thought of Max and wished he was here to enjoy the meal with me.


Discover the epitome of fine dining in Florence at Ristorante Borgo San Jacopo, where traditional Italian cuisine meets modern elegance.

As the sun began to set, we made our way to Golden View Firenze for dinner. This restaurant offers stunning views of the Ponte Vecchio and the Arno River. The intimate atmosphere and energetic staff made for a memorable dining experience. We savored the flavors of Italian cuisine while enjoying the breathtaking panorama of Florence at night. I had celebrated my 22nd birthday here, and it was just as special as I remembered. The lights reflecting off the Ponte Vecchio were incredibly romantic and beautiful. If you want a river view at dinner you will need a reservation. It's a nice place to stop even for just a drink or lunch being close to the Ponte Vecchio.


Experience the best of Tuscan cuisine with stunning views at Golden View Firenze - a culinary gem overlooking the Arno River.

To cap off our day, we decided to visit Atrium Bar for a nightcap. The bar is inside the Four Seasons Hotel Firenze. The Palazzo Della Gherardesca was unusual for its time in that its main interior space, the atrium, was originally designed as a secondary courtyard. Now covered with a glass roof, like the courtyard Lobby, the Hotel's Atrium Bar occupies a vast sun-lit and decorative space. I opted for a classic Negroni, while my friends tried some of the bar's signature cocktails. The atmosphere was relaxed and convivial, the perfect way to end a day of exploration and discovery. The bar also has a gorgeous outdoor terrace, which was a lovely place to get a drink in the afternoons. There was live music, and it was the perfect way to start the evening. The Atrium Bar has an all-day dining menu, and a unique cocktail list, with some house specialties.


Discover the luxurious Atrium Bar in Florence, where exquisite cocktails meet Italian culinary delights in an elegant setting.

As I reflect on today's adventures, I am filled with a sense of gratitude and wonder. Florence has a way of captivating the soul, of transporting you to another time and place. Tomorrow, we plan to visit the Galleria dell’Accademia di Firenze, the San Marco Museum, and Piazza San Marco. I can't wait to see what other treasures this city has in store. Until then, arrivederci!