Travel around Florence with Bobby
I chose to visit Florence because it’s the heart of the Renaissance, where art and history come alive in every corner. The chance to see masterpieces like Michelangelo’s David and Botticelli’s The Birth of Venus in person was a dream come true. Florence’s stunning architecture, especially the Duomo and the Ponte Vecchio, promised endless inspiration. I was also drawn by the rich Tuscan cuisine—classic dishes like bistecca alla Fiorentina and handmade pasta are famous for a reason! Beyond the landmarks, I knew Florence would have hidden gems and local spots that reveal its authentic charm. It’s a city that truly embodies the essence of Italian art, culture, and warmth.
Day 1Unveiling the Masterpieces – Uffizi Gallery and Ponte Vecchio
Arriving in Florence, I checked into Hotel Brunelleschi, located right in the heart of the city. This charming, historic hotel was a perfect base, just a short walk from Florence’s most famous attractions. I started my Florence adventure at the Uffizi Gallery—a place I’d been dreaming of visiting. Walking through halls filled with masterpieces by Michelangelo, Botticelli, and da Vinci was a surreal experience; each painting was like stepping back in time. Botticelli’s The Birth of Venus was a highlight, and it’s impossible not to be mesmerized by the detail and life in every stroke.
After an inspiring morning, I strolled to the Ponte Vecchio, the iconic bridge lined with jewelry shops that have been there for centuries. The view over the Arno River, with its reflection in the water, was unforgettable. For dinner, I dined at Trattoria Sostanza, where I tried the famous bistecca alla Fiorentina, a thick-cut Tuscan steak cooked to perfection. This hearty meal was the perfect way to end my first day in Florence.
Start your Florence adventure with the Uffizi—it’s a must for any art lover. Make sure to have a reservation to avoid long lines, and try the Florentine steak at least once. You won’t regret it!
Day 2The Grandeur of the Duomo and Florence’s Hidden Streets
I began day two with an early visit to Santa Maria del Fiore, or simply, the Duomo. The striking facade and towering dome designed by Brunelleschi were more breathtaking than any photo could capture. I climbed to the top for an incredible 360-degree view of Florence, where the terracotta rooftops stretched out below, framed by the distant Tuscan hills. After descending, I wandered through the nearby Piazza della Signoria, home to impressive statues and the imposing Palazzo Vecchio.
For lunch, I stopped by Mercato Centrale to experience local flavors. I tried a lampredotto sandwich, a traditional Florentine street food made from tripe, which was surprisingly delicious and bursting with flavor. In the afternoon, I explored the city’s charming alleys and stumbled upon artisan shops selling handmade leather goods and unique souvenirs. Florence’s streets are filled with surprises, and every corner feels like a discovery.
The Mercato Centrale offered an authentic local food experience, with stalls serving everything from fresh pasta to the classic lampredotto sandwich. The flavors were bold, and trying the traditional street food gave me a real taste of Florentine life. Each bite was exciting and deliciously different.
Food
After a full day, returning to Hotel Brunelleschi felt like a welcome retreat. The cozy room and historic ambiance made it feel like I was fully immersed in Florence’s charm. With such a central location, getting around was easy and convenient.
Accomodation
Climbing to the top of the Duomo was challenging but incredibly rewarding, with panoramic views of Florence and the Tuscan hills beyond. The intricate details of the Duomo’s architecture were stunning up close, making the climb worthwhile. The experience felt unique and left me in awe of Florence’s grandeur.
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Climbing the Duomo offers the best view in the city, so it’s worth the effort. Don’t shy away from local specialties at Mercato Centrale—the lampredotto sandwich is a true taste of Florence.
Day 3Michelangelo’s Masterpiece and a Sunset in the Hills
Day three started with a visit to the Accademia Gallery to see Michelangelo’s David—the sculpture that truly defines Renaissance art. Standing in front of this 17-foot marble masterpiece was humbling; the level of detail and lifelike expression make it easy to understand why it’s so famous. Afterward, I walked through the San Lorenzo Market, where stalls were brimming with leather goods, souvenirs, and artisan products that captured Florence’s craft traditions.
In the evening, I took a short bus ride up to Piazzale Michelangelo, a hilltop square with the best panoramic views of Florence. As the sun set over the city, turning the rooftops golden, it was a moment of pure magic. Dinner was at La Terrazza, an outdoor restaurant nearby, where I enjoyed fresh pasta paired with a glass of Tuscan wine while looking out over the illuminated cityscape.
Dinner at La Terrazza, overlooking Florence from Piazzale Michelangelo, was an absolute highlight. The fresh pasta paired with a glass of Tuscan wine made for a perfect Italian meal. The ambiance of dining under the stars with the city lights below was something I’ll never forget.
Food
Hotel Brunelleschi continued to impress with its charm and convenience. The staff was attentive, ensuring every detail was taken care of. It was the ideal place to recharge after a day filled with sightseeing.
Accomodation
Seeing Michelangelo’s David at the Accademia Gallery was a moving experience—the level of artistry and detail left me speechless. The day continued with exploring local markets, adding a fun and lively contrast to the gallery’s historic atmosphere. Ending at Piazzale Michelangelo for sunset views was simply magical.
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Seeing David in person is a must—it’s truly awe-inspiring. End your day at Piazzale Michelangelo for an unforgettable sunset view over Florence; it’s the perfect spot for photos.
Day 4Tuscan Flavors and Farewell to Florence
On my last day, I explored Florence’s culinary side with a cooking class, learning to make handmade pasta and traditional sauces. The chef guided us through each step, and by the end, I felt like I’d captured a piece of Florence’s culinary soul. After our hard work in the kitchen, we enjoyed the fruits of our labor with a delicious pasta lunch that I can still taste!
In the afternoon, I returned to the city’s center for some final shopping and a leisurely stroll. I stopped at Gilli, Florence’s oldest cafe, for an espresso and a pastry, savoring the city’s charm one last time. As I walked back to the hotel, the warm hues of Florence’s buildings and the sound of street musicians created a perfect farewell ambiance.
The cooking class on my last day was an incredible way to connect with Italian culture, and tasting the handmade pasta I created was rewarding. Learning from a local chef brought Florence’s culinary traditions to life. It was a memorable, hands-on experience with flavors to match.
Food
My final night at Hotel Brunelleschi was a relaxing close to the trip, and its location allowed me to enjoy Florence’s cityscape one last time. The cozy yet elegant setting felt like a home away from home. Waking up to the city’s charm every morning was a real treat.
Accomodation
The relaxed pace of the last day, with a coffee stop at Gilli and some final shopping, was perfect for soaking up Florence’s ambiance. Taking a moment to stroll the streets, listen to street musicians, and reflect on my journey felt fitting. The city’s timeless charm made every step feel meaningful.
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A cooking class is a fantastic way to connect with Florence’s food culture. Take time on your last day to savor the city’s slower side—whether it’s with a coffee or a quiet walk, Florence is best appreciated one moment at a time.
Summary of My Trip
Florence was like stepping into a living museum, with every street, artwork, and meal adding depth to the city’s timeless charm. Walking through the Uffizi and seeing masterpieces like The Birth of Venus felt surreal—each piece telling a story that resonated through centuries. The climb to the top of the Duomo rewarded me with breathtaking views, while Piazzale Michelangelo offered the most stunning sunset over the city. Staying at Hotel Brunelleschi made the experience feel authentic, blending comfort with Florence’s historic allure. From the incredible flavors of bistecca alla Fiorentina to the handmade pasta I learned to make myself, the food was unforgettable and spoke volumes of Tuscan culture. Exploring the artisan markets and hidden alleyways revealed Florence’s creative spirit, where even the smallest details had character. The city’s warm atmosphere, layered with history and art, made every moment feel meaningful. Florence truly captured my heart, and I know it’s a place I’ll return to for new discoveries.
Through Bobby's eyes
My experiences
Florence offers an extraordinary blend of art, history, and culinary delights that make it a dream destination. From the iconic landmarks like the Duomo to intimate artisan markets and unforgettable Tuscan flavors, the city is both charming and enriching. While Florence is bustling with life, it remains welcoming, offering incredible experiences worth every moment.
Dinner at Trattoria Sostanza was unforgettable, with the bistecca alla Fiorentina cooked perfectly tender and flavorful. The small, cozy atmosphere made it feel like a true local experience, and the food was a great introduction to Florence’s renowned Tuscan cuisine. Every bite was delicious, and the service was warm and welcoming.
Food
Hotel Brunelleschi is a gem in Florence, located in the city center with a historic charm that matched the city’s essence. The rooms were comfortable, with elegant decor and beautiful views of the surrounding streets. It was the perfect place to start each day’s adventure.
Accomodation
The Uffizi Gallery tour was an inspiring way to kick off my Florence visit, showcasing masterpieces from the Renaissance period. Each room held artwork that brought history alive, and seeing pieces like The Birth of Venus in person was mesmerizing. The experience was well-organized, and I could have spent hours there.
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