Exploring the Renaissance Wonders of Florence with Erika

A Day of Art, Nature, and Reflection

Today in Florence was a journey through different facets of the Renaissance – from the sculpted landscapes of the Boboli Gardens to the artistic mastery housed in the Florence Academy of Fine Arts and the spiritual solace found within the Basilica di Santo Spirito. Erika and I embraced the day with open hearts, ready to absorb the beauty and history that permeated every corner.

Our day began, as it has for most of this trip, with breakfast at the Winter Garden Restaurant. The spread was delightful, and it fueled us for a day of exploration. I especially enjoyed the fresh pastries and Erika, as always, savored the strong Italian coffee.

First on our itinerary was the Boboli Gardens. Stepping into the gardens felt like entering a different world. Even in January, the greenery was vibrant, and the sculptures stood majestically against the backdrop of the rolling hills. It was easy to imagine the Medici family strolling through these very paths centuries ago. The crisp winter air added a certain clarity to the statues and fountains, allowing us to appreciate every detail. We wandered through the meticulously designed landscapes, discovering hidden grottoes and grand fountains. The Fountain of Neptune, with its imposing figure, was particularly striking. Erika, with her keen eye for detail, pointed out the intricate carvings and the way the light played on the water. We even stumbled upon the Kaffeehaus, a rare example of Rococo architecture in Tuscany. Though the Porcelain Museum is currently closed for refurbishment, the gardens themselves offered more than enough to captivate us.


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

The beauty of Florence lies not just in its individual masterpieces, but in the way they harmonize to create a symphony of art and history.

After our refreshing walk through the Boboli Gardens, we made our way to the Florence Academy of Fine Arts. As an antique shop owner, I've always admired the skill and dedication required to create lasting works of art. Seeing the masterpieces up close, like Michelangelo's David, was awe-inspiring. The sheer scale and detail of the sculptures left me speechless. Erika, with her background in literature, provided insightful commentary on the historical context and artistic techniques used. We spent hours wandering through the halls, marveling at the talent and creativity on display. It was fascinating to see the progression of art through the ages and to gain a deeper understanding of the Renaissance ideals that shaped Florence. It was interesting to note that The Florence Academy of Art also has workshops in California, which is quite a distance from Florence.


Explore the Florence Academy of Fine Arts, home to Michelangelo's David and a treasure trove of Renaissance art and education in Florence.

Our last stop of the day was the Basilica di Santo Spirito. Located in the Oltrarno district, the basilica is known for its simple facade, which belies the rich Renaissance architecture within. Designed by Filippo Brunelleschi, the church is a testament to symmetry and harmonious proportions. Stepping inside, we were immediately struck by the sense of peace and tranquility. The interior is bathed in soft light, highlighting the intricate details of the altars and chapels. Erika and I took our time to admire the artwork, including the Nerli Chapel and the wooden crucifix sculpted by Michelangelo, a piece he crafted for the Augustinian friars as a teenager. The Basilica is a true architectural marvel, representing a definitive break from the Gothic tradition and marking the beginning of a new way of understanding space.


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

Before dinner, we stopped by Antico Caffè del Moro - Art Bar Firenze. The bar was cozy and inviting, with a lively atmosphere. We ordered a couple of cocktails and enjoyed the creative presentations. It was the perfect way to unwind after a day of sightseeing. The staff was friendly, and the drinks were both delicious and visually stunning. It was a delightful experience that added a touch of modern flair to our Renaissance-filled day.


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

For dinner, we had reservations at Ristorante Borgo San Jacopo. The restaurant is known for its innovative cuisine and stunning views of the Arno River. We started with the scallops served on a warm rock and covered in lardo, a dish that was both visually appealing and delicious. For our main courses, Erika had the tempura red mullet fillets, while I opted for a pasta dish with sea urchins. The flavors were exquisite, and the presentation was impeccable. The service was attentive, and the atmosphere was elegant and refined. It was a truly memorable dining experience that perfectly capped off our day of exploration.


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

Today was a reminder of why Florence holds such a special place in my heart. The city is a living museum, where every street and building tells a story. As we walked back to Hotel Rex, hand in hand, Erika and I reflected on the beauty and history we had encountered. The memories of the Boboli Gardens, the Florence Academy, and the Basilica di Santo Spirito will stay with us long after we leave this enchanting city.


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, we plan to visit the Palatine Gallery, the Museo Galileo, and The Baptistery of St. John. I am also excited to visit Il Cancello vintage e antichità. I am particularly looking forward to the Museo Galileo, as I have always been fascinated by the history of science. I am sure Erika will enjoy the Palatine Gallery, with its collection of Renaissance paintings. And of course, we can't miss The Baptistery of St. John, with its iconic bronze doors. It promises to be another day filled with discovery and wonder.

Before concluding this entry, I must mention our lunch at Saporium Firenze. The restaurant stood out with its contemporary Tuscan cuisine and farm-to-plate philosophy. It was a culinary experience that truly highlighted the flavors of the region. The ambiance was sophisticated, and the service was exceptional. It's easy to see why Saporium Firenze has earned its Michelin star.


Experience fine dining at Saporium Firenze – where traditional Tuscan cuisine meets modern culinary artistry along the Arno River.

As I sit here writing, I am filled with gratitude for the opportunity to experience Florence with Erika. Each day brings new adventures and discoveries, and I am excited to see what tomorrow holds. Until then, arrivederci from Florence!