Exploring the Renaissance Wonders of Florence with Erika

Florentine First Impressions

Today marked the beginning of our Florentine adventure, and what a start it has been! Stepping into this city feels like entering a living museum, where every corner whispers tales of artists, scholars, and revolutionaries. Erika and I were eager to dive headfirst into the heart of the Renaissance, and Florence certainly didn't disappoint.

Our day began bright and early with a hearty breakfast at Caffè Gilli. The aroma of freshly baked pastries and strong Italian coffee filled the air, creating a perfect start to a day of exploration. Erika opted for a classic cappuccino and a flaky croissant, while I chose a strong espresso accompanied by a slice of traditional almond cake. The cafe buzzed with locals and tourists alike, all eager to start their day in this beautiful city. The service was excellent, with Tomas and Donald making sure everyone felt welcomed. It was the perfect spot to fuel up before tackling the Duomo.


Experience timeless elegance at Caffè Gilli in Florence – where every sip and bite tells a story steeped in tradition.

Our first stop was the magnificent Cathedral of Santa Maria del Fiore, or as it's more commonly known, the Duomo. As we approached, the sheer scale and intricate detail of the facade took our breath away. The crisp January air nipped at our cheeks, but the clear blue sky provided a stunning backdrop for Giotto's Campanile and Brunelleschi's Dome. We decided to climb to the top of the dome, a feat that required some stamina but offered unparalleled panoramic views of Florence. From above, the city unfolded before us like a tapestry of terracotta rooftops, winding streets, and hidden gardens. The Duomo is currently celebrating Jubilee 2025, which made the visit feel even more special.


Discover the breathtaking beauty and history of the Cathedral of Santa Maria del Fiore in Florence, a true gem of Gothic architecture.

The true beauty of Florence lies not just in its monuments, but in the way it stirs the soul and ignites a passion for history and art.

Next on our list was the Uffizi Galleries, home to some of the world's most renowned Renaissance masterpieces. We had booked our tickets in advance, which I highly recommend, as the lines can be quite long. Inside, we wandered through halls filled with works by Botticelli, Leonardo da Vinci, Michelangelo, and Raphael. Erika was particularly captivated by Botticelli's Birth of Venus, while I was drawn to Leonardo's unfinished Adoration of the Magi. As an antique shop owner, I always find myself studying the details in these paintings – the craftsmanship, the materials, the stories they tell. I can spend hours admiring the brushstrokes and the way the artists captured light and shadow. The Michelangelo and Power exhibition is running until January 26, but we decided to save that for another day.


Discover the Uffizi Galleries, Florence's premier art museum boasting masterpieces from the Renaissance and a rich cultural history.

After immersing ourselves in art, we were ready for a taste of authentic Florentine cuisine. We found a cozy spot at Vini e Vecchi Sapori for lunch. This osteria is tucked away on a small street, and it felt like a true hidden gem. The menu changes daily, and there are some rules posted outside. It's clear that they take their food seriously! We shared a plate of homemade pasta with wild boar ragu and a hearty ribollita, a traditional Tuscan bread and vegetable soup. The flavors were rich and comforting, and the atmosphere was warm and inviting. I was especially impressed by the friendly staff, who made us feel like regulars even though it was our first visit. Erika enjoyed a glass of local Chianti, while I savored a crisp Tuscan white wine. The owner, Tommaso, was bopping around the restaurant, making sure everyone was having a good time.


Experience the true flavors of Tuscany at Vini e Vecchi Sapori, where authentic Italian cuisine meets warm hospitality in the heart of Florence.

With our bellies full and our spirits high, we strolled across the Ponte Vecchio, the only bridge in Florence spared from destruction during World War II. The bridge is lined with shops, now mostly jewelers and souvenir vendors, but it once housed butchers and tanners. According to what I read, Cosimo I de' Medici didn't want to deal with the smells of animals, blood, and meat when he crossed the bridge, so he invited goldsmiths and jewelers to take over the shops instead. The glittering displays sparkled in the afternoon sun, and the Arno River flowed gently beneath us. We paused to admire the view and soak in the atmosphere. I was fascinated to learn more about the Vasari Corridor, the secret passageway built for the Medici family that runs above the shops. It's now open to visitors, and I'm keen to explore it further during our stay.


Discover the Ponte Vecchio, Florence's iconic bridge adorned with shops and rich history, offering stunning views and a vibrant atmosphere.

Erika, of course, was keen to do a little shopping, so we ventured into Rinascente Firenze, a department store located in Piazza della Repubblica. The store is known as the Store of Craft, and it emphasizes being for the city, with the city, in the city. The January sales were in full swing, and Erika found a beautiful silk scarf at a reasonable price. I enjoyed browsing the selection of leather goods and admiring the craftsmanship. We didn't buy much, but it was fun to experience the Florentine shopping scene.


Discover the luxury of shopping at Rinascente Firenze, where fashion meets culture in the heart of Florence.

As evening approached, we made our way to La Giostra for dinner, a restaurant recommended by several friends. The restaurant is known for its traditional Tuscan dishes and its lively atmosphere. We started with a complimentary glass of Prosecco and a generous plate of antipasti, a delightful assortment of cheeses, cured meats, and olives. For our main courses, Erika chose the ravioli with pear and pecorino cheese, while I opted for the Bistecca alla Fiorentina, a massive Florentine steak cooked to perfection. The portions were enormous, and the flavors were incredible. The sixteenth-century brick arches and historied walls that once housed the shiny horses of a nearby carousel now hold the 16 tables where new stories begin each night. The staff was attentive, and the ambiance was warm and inviting. It was the perfect end to a perfect day.


Discover La Giostra: A premier Tuscan restaurant in Florence offering authentic Italian cuisine amidst enchanting surroundings.

As we walked back to Hotel Rex, hand in hand, we reflected on our first day in Florence. We had seen so much, tasted so much, and learned so much. I am already looking forward to tomorrow, when we plan to visit Palazzo Vecchio, the Basilica of Santa Maria Novella, and the Loggia dei Lanzi. And perhaps we'll have a drink at Mad - Souls & Spirits. Florence has a way of capturing the heart and igniting the imagination. I feel a deep connection to this city, its history, and its art. I can't wait to see what tomorrow brings.


Discover comfort and convenience at Hotel Rex, your ideal base for exploring Florence's history and culture, just a stroll from the city center.

Tomorrow promises more Florentine delights, with a visit to the Palazzo Vecchio and the Basilica of Santa Maria Novella on the agenda. I am also hoping to find some time to explore the Oltrarno district, known for its artisan workshops and leather goods. Until then, buona notte from Florence!