Solo Cultural Retreat in Florence

Florence's Enduring Allure

Today was a deep dive into the heart of Florence, a city that continues to enchant me with its artistic and historical treasures. From the hallowed halls of a basilica to a museum brimming with Renaissance masterpieces and a panoramic vista point, each location offered a unique perspective on this captivating city. It's days like these that remind me why I started this blog – to share the magic of travel and the joy of discovering new stories in every corner of the world.

My day began with a hearty breakfast at Cinto-Cucina In Torre. The reviews I had read were spot on; the food was excellent, and the service impeccable. Fuelled up and ready for the day, I set off to explore the Basilica of Santa Croce, a place of immense historical and artistic significance.


Experience authentic Tuscan cuisine at Cinto-Cucina In Torre - where tradition meets modern flavor in the heart of Florence.

Santa Croce: A Pantheon of Italian Glories

Santa Croce is not just a basilica; it's a pantheon, a resting place for some of Italy's most illustrious figures. As I stepped inside, I was immediately struck by the grandeur of the architecture and the sense of history that permeated the air. The neo-Gothic facade, with its varying shades of colored marble, was magnificent, a testament to the city's artistic heritage. I wandered through the basilica, paying my respects at the tombs of Michelangelo, Galileo, and Machiavelli. It was a humbling experience to stand in the presence of such great minds, to feel the weight of their contributions to art, science, and philosophy.

The interior of the basilica is adorned with stunning frescoes, some of which are remarkably well-preserved. I was particularly drawn to Giotto's works in the Bardi Chapel, depicting scenes from the life of St. Francis. The vibrant colors and intricate details of the frescoes transported me back to the 14th century, offering a glimpse into the artistic and religious sensibilities of the time. I also made sure to see the late-15th-century glazed terracotta bust of Christ by Andrea della Robbia, an often-overlooked treasure overshadowed by Cimabue's large painted wooden cross.

Santa Croce is more than just a church; it's a repository of Italian history and culture. As I walked through its hallowed halls, I couldn't help but feel a sense of awe and reverence for the artistic and intellectual giants who are buried here. It was a truly unforgettable experience, one that deepened my appreciation for the rich cultural heritage of Florence.


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

To walk through Santa Croce is to walk through the heart of the Renaissance, a testament to the enduring power of art, science, and human ingenuity.

Museo Nazionale del Bargello: A Sculpture Lover's Paradise

From the Basilica of Santa Croce, I made my way to the Museo Nazionale del Bargello, a place I had eagerly anticipated visiting. Housed in one of Florence's oldest buildings, the Bargello is a sculpture lover's paradise, boasting an impressive collection of Florentine Renaissance masterpieces. As I entered the museum, I was immediately struck by the grandeur of the building itself. The Palazzo del Bargello, with its fortress-like structure and crenellated walls, has a rich history, having served as a palace, a prison, and a police headquarters before becoming a museum in the 19th century.

The Bargello's collection is primarily focused on sculpture, with works by some of the biggest names of the Renaissance, including Donatello, Michelangelo, and Ghiberti. I was particularly excited to see Donatello's David, a groundbreaking work that challenged the artistic conventions of its time. The statue's lifelike realism and expressive features were truly remarkable, a testament to Donatello's mastery of his craft. I also admired Michelangelo's Bacchus, a sculpture that showcases the artist's early talent and his ability to capture the human form with incredible detail. According to what I read, this was Michelangelo's first free-standing work!

The Museo Nazionale del Bargello is a treasure trove of Renaissance art, a place where visitors can immerse themselves in the beauty and creativity of this transformative period in history. As I wandered through its halls, I was struck by the sheer talent and innovation of the artists whose works are housed here. It was a truly inspiring experience, one that left me with a deeper appreciation for the artistic legacy of Florence.


Discover the artistic heritage of Florence at Museo Nazionale del Bargello, home to masterpieces by Michelangelo and Donatello.

Piazzale Michelangelo: A Panoramic Finale

As the afternoon drew to a close, I decided to make my way to Piazzale Michelangelo, a panoramic viewpoint that offers stunning views of Florence. The climb up to the Piazzale was a bit of a workout, but the reward was well worth the effort. As I reached the top, I was greeted by a breathtaking vista of the city, bathed in the warm glow of the setting sun. The Duomo, Ponte Vecchio, and other iconic landmarks stood out against the cityscape, creating a picture-perfect scene. I was lucky enough to visit on a day when the weather was particularly clear, so the view was absolutely stunning.

Piazzale Michelangelo is more than just a viewpoint; it's a gathering place, a spot where locals and tourists alike come to admire the beauty of Florence. As I stood there, taking in the view, I was surrounded by people from all walks of life, all united by their appreciation for this magnificent city. There was a lively atmosphere, with street performers entertaining the crowds and vendors selling souvenirs. I even saw a musician playing some lovely Italian music which added to the atmosphere.

As the sun began to set, the sky was painted with a riot of colors, casting a magical glow over Florence. It was a truly unforgettable moment, one that I will cherish for years to come. Piazzale Michelangelo is the perfect place to end a day of sightseeing in Florence, a place where you can reflect on all that you've seen and experienced while taking in the beauty of this remarkable city. The breeze was a bit chilly, but I was glad I had remembered to bring my jacket with me. Greta would have been proud!


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

Evening Indulgence

For dinner, I decided to try Cantinetta delle Terme. I had read some great reviews, and I was eager to experience their cuisine firsthand. The restaurant had a cozy atmosphere, and the staff were friendly and welcoming. I decided to try the seafood pasta, and it was absolutely delicious. The pasta was cooked to perfection, and the seafood was fresh and flavorful. The portion was also generous, leaving me feeling satisfied and content. I also enjoyed a glass of local wine, which complemented the meal perfectly.

After dinner, I ventured out to Rasputin, a speakeasy-style bar known for its extensive whisky collection and expertly crafted cocktails. Finding the place was an adventure in itself, as it's deliberately hidden and not accurately located on Google Maps. After ringing the doorbell, I was ushered into a dimly lit, intimate space. The bartender was a true whisky enthusiast, and I enjoyed sampling a few different drams from their impressive selection. It was the perfect way to end a day of cultural immersion in Florence.

Tomorrow, I plan to visit the Ponte Vecchio, Loggia dei Lanzi and Palatine Gallery. I am really looking forward to continuing my exploration of this beautiful city. I think Lila would love the Ponte Vecchio with all the shops. I should bring her here someday.

Today was a day of Renaissance wonders, a journey through the artistic and historical heart of Florence. From the hallowed halls of Santa Croce to the panoramic vistas of Piazzale Michelangelo, each location offered a unique perspective on this captivating city. It's days like these that remind me why I love to travel, to discover new stories and to share them with the world.

February in Florence is proving to be quite the experience. I heard that the Carnival parade will be held on February 15, so perhaps I will stick around to see it!