When researching where to go during our two week jaunt through the beautiful country of Italy, I kept reading and hearing that Florence was a majority favorite as a hub to explore the Tuscany Region. There are so many charming towns just a short train or car ride away and if we'd had more time during this part of our trip that's exactly what we would've done. But it didn't really pan out as a storm settled in for a couple days so we decided to stay close and roam around this easily walkable city. Which was perfectly fine because there's so very much to appreciate! An art enthusiast's delight, one could spend their entire vacation in Florence and still not see everything this historic, culturally rich destination has to offer.
The train ride from Naples to Florence was about three hours of beautiful scenery displaying the changing landscape as we traveled through Italy's diverse regions. After spending the beginning of our trip on the calm Amalfi Coast, the bustling city of Florence was an energetic change and we were excited to explore.
Arriving on a Sunday in late August, we checked into our spacious flat with a vast view of the Florence skyline from the balcony. I chose this particular Airbnb space not only for the view, but because there was a lift in the building, air conditioning, and a washing machine. Knowing we would need to do some laundry at this point of our trip because we travel pretty light with only carry-on size luggage.
I can't stress enough how important it is to do your best only to bring luggage that you are comfortable carrying long distances and up lots of steps when traveling in Europe.
Once we settled in and purchased some groceries from a nearby market to sustain us for the next couple days, we set out for a stroll to see where the rest of the day would take us. Immediately feeling like locals, we wandered aimlessly, enjoying the sounds of the alleyways, marveling at the architecture, and stopping for refreshments along the way.
Obviously, the most recognizable and stunning feature of Florence is Cattedrale di Santa Maria del Fiore, one of the largest churches in the world. Completed in 1436, you can see the dome and bell tower from virtually any direction and we found our way back most days to take in the majesty and details of its architecture.
This is definitely the place to immerse yourself in great works of art as there is a plethora of museums to choose from including the must see Uffizi Gallery and the Galleria dell'Accademia to view Michelangelo's "David" sculpture. Get tickets in advance to the popular ones because otherwise you'll be in line for hours! We watched a standstill queue wrapped around the Duomo for as long as we could take it and then continued on our stroll.
Also, be aware that a lot of restaurants close from 2pm to 5pm so be mindful of the time and plan ahead for your hunger needs.
I can't remember how many steps we accrued this day but there were lots and we certainly earned our pasta and vino that night. 🍝🍷
Monday morning, we sipped espresso and did some laundry while catching up on emails. Then walked to Mercato Centrale (Mercato di San Lorenzo) and were blown away by the sheer size and amount of fresh produce, flowers, baked goods, and treasures on display. We delighted in sampling cheeses, meats, and local wine while wishing we had such a place close to home.
Later we made our way through more intricate alleys and piazzas as an afternoon storm came through just in time to put our feet up back at the flat. We watched the sunset from our terrace with the delicious €4 bottle of rose I purchased from the market, pure bliss! Followed by a walk over to the trattoria around the corner to try their truffle ravioli pasta before a peaceful rest.
Waking early on Tuesday, we sought out espresso from the charming Café Pasticceria Gamberini, deciding also to try a decadent croissant which we contentedly enjoyed by the river. Nearly going back for another melt-in-your-mouth treat, we opted to continue on our journey of exploration to find more sensory delights. During our aimless strolls, I kept finding myself pointing out film locations from many familiar movies which always causes a giddy feeling as the realization hits of actually being there and seeing it with my own eyes. 🎬
Eventually we found ourselves near the famous Ponte Vecchio. Spanning across the Arno River, this medieval stone arch bridge is renowned for the shops built all along it. Mostly jewelry, art, and souvenir stores nowadays, we tried to window shop beyond the crowds of like minded tourists.
Traditionally while in new destinations, I like to take the time to write postcards and send them to loved ones. So we found possibly the most beautiful post office I've ever set foot in to purchase stamps. Interestingly but not surprisingly, it took two months for our postcards to reach their destinations in the USA. 🐌📮
Throughout our time in Florence, our Airbnb host was very helpful with local suggestions and offered to get us dinner reservations at I'Brindellone just across the river from where we were staying. Tucked away off the beaten path, this family owned restaurant was invitingly covered in sports memorabilia and brimming with history. Of course we had to try their Florentine steak and it was huge and tasty! Also got truffle pasta and the best €10 vino de la casa ever! The wine arrived in a lovely carafe of their own brand and was deliciously chilled to perfection. Certainly a gastronomical highlight and a great way to spend our last night in Florence.
The following morning, we packed up and headed to the train station to continue our adventure to Bologna and learn about the Emilia-Romagna Region of Italy. Will forever be grateful for the brief time I got to feel like a Florentine and look forward to future visits to explore more of Tuscany! Follow along for the rest of our journey! 💫