48 Hours in Florence: Unveiling the Tuscan Treasure

Florence, the cradle of the Renaissance, is a city that resonates with art, history, and a captivating energy. This past weekend, we embarked on an exciting adventure uncovering some hidden gems and soaking in its unique atmosphere. Here's a glimpse into our 48 hours in Florence.

Florence - Holy Trinity Bridge

Friday Afternoon: Palazzo Pitti & Giardini di Boboli
Our adventure kicked off on a crisp Friday afternoon. Palazzo Pitti, the former residence of the Medici family, was our first stop. The vast collection of Renaissance paintings within its walls is a treasure trove for any art enthusiast. After absorbing the artistic brilliance, a visit to the Giardini di Boboli, the palace's sprawling gardens, provided a welcome respite. Wandering through the wide lawns, hidden grottoes, and encountering stunning sculptures offered a peaceful escape from the city bustle and an incredible view.

Florence - Palazzo Pitti

Friday Evening: Aperitivo with a View
As the golden light bathed Florence in a warm glow, it was time for the quintessential Italian ritual – the aperitivo. We found ourselves perched atop the Continentale hotel's Loggia Roof Bar, located not far from Palazzo Pitti, mesmerized by the breathtaking panoramic views of the city. Sipping on two different cocktails while the cityscape unfolded before us was the perfect way to end a stimulating day.

Saturday: Unveiling the Essence of Florence
Saturday was dedicated to delving deeper into the city's soul. Piazza della Signoria, the heart of Florence, pulsated with life. Iconic sculptures like Michelangelo's David stood proudly, a testament to the city's artistic heritage.
Next on the itinerary was the Museo San Marco, a former monastery housing a remarkable collection of Fra Angelico's frescoes. The serenity of the space inspired a sense of quiet contemplation. It is not one of the most common stops in Florence but for us it was enriching.

Monastery of San Marco - Beato Angelico - The Annunciation

Saturday Afternoon: A Sensory Journey
The Mercato Coperto, Florence's central market, was an incredible surprise and sensory overload in the best way possible. Vibrant stalls overflowing with fresh produce, cured meats, and local crafts painted a delightful picture. Wandering through the bustling market and soaking in the energy was a truly immersive experience. Of course we had lunch here with some traditional pastas and some meatballs.

Fresh Ravioli at the Mercato Coperto 

Following the market visit, a stop at the Santa Croce basilica, the final resting place of Michelangelo and Galileo Galilei, was a must. The sheer scale and architectural details of the church demanded a respectful silence.

Santa Croce Garden with Denim Pochette

Saturday Night: Culinary Delights at Trattoria 13 Gobbi
As the day drew to a close, it was time to indulge in the city's renowned culinary scene. Trattoria13 Gobbi, a historical Fiorentino restaurant housed in a historic palazzo, offered a classic meal with pappa al pomodoro and Tuscanian meat. We like to find authentic things!

Pappa al Pomodoro

Sunday: Conquering Heights and Unveiling Artistic Gems
Sunday began with a challenging yet rewarding climb to the top of the Florence Cathedral's dome. The panoramic views from the summit were simply breathtaking and gave us a concrete perception of the city. After some more wandering we had our train back to Como.

View from the tower of the Santa Maria del Fiore Cathedral

Our trusty companion throughout the weekend – a sturdy yet stylish backpack – held all the essentials for our adventures. Whether it was a water bottle for the climb or a guidebook for the museums, the backpack was there to ensure a smooth and comfortable exploration.

Este Backpack in Denim

Florence is a city that leaves a lasting impression. From its artistic treasures to its vibrant culture, there's something for everyone in this Tuscan gem.

Perseo Statue - Boboli Garden