During my short stay in Italy, I made it priority to visit THE most culture-rich city, Florence. Ever since learning of the Renaissance I have been fascinated by this place and all the talented artists and great minds who once walked those same streets.
But, upon arrival at the Firenze train station, we were greeted with a disturbing cold that reflected the complete opposite of Rome's weather. This slightly dampened our moods. Even worse was our hotel. Pros of staying at the Residenza Millenium: being super close to the train station. Cons: pretty much everything else.
The moral of the story is just be wise in your hotel choices, read up on reviews, and be prepared for anything.
Some of the more pleasant experiences in Florence were first and most importantly: the food. I was especially excited to try the pasta. We ended up going to Trattoria Gargani, a cozy place with a casual, family-oriented atmosphere. Hands down, BEST pasta I've ever had! The noodles were homemade and brought out still in the pan, all buttery and sprinkled with the perfect amount of pepper. I made the mistake of forgetting to take a picture, though...
On our last day we happened across Pescheria San Pietro, which was conveniently located by the train station. Although we were the evening's first customers, we were warmly welcomed by the owners, a man and woman who, I can honestly say, love to sing. They even took my mom's song requests and we all sang and hummed together until more customers arrived later on. I ordered the green pasta with a dory fish sauce. I was at first hesitant because I am very particular about my choices in fish, but this was an amazing dish.
The Accademia Gallery also featured a unique little hall, the Museum of Musical Instruments. I was particularly interested in this section which featured stringed instruments, because I'm a cellist, so I loved seeing the cello that was used in the Medici String Quartet, pictured below.
However, you don't need to spend all day inside of Florence's impressive buildings. Even though it remained cold, we strolled around the city, admiring structures such as the Duomo. I love the colors of the church!
Last but not least, make sure you make your way to the river, stopping by Ponte Vecchio on the way. Although there's lots of people there, the trek is worth it.
But, upon arrival at the Firenze train station, we were greeted with a disturbing cold that reflected the complete opposite of Rome's weather. This slightly dampened our moods. Even worse was our hotel. Pros of staying at the Residenza Millenium: being super close to the train station. Cons: pretty much everything else.
The moral of the story is just be wise in your hotel choices, read up on reviews, and be prepared for anything.
Some of the more pleasant experiences in Florence were first and most importantly: the food. I was especially excited to try the pasta. We ended up going to Trattoria Gargani, a cozy place with a casual, family-oriented atmosphere. Hands down, BEST pasta I've ever had! The noodles were homemade and brought out still in the pan, all buttery and sprinkled with the perfect amount of pepper. I made the mistake of forgetting to take a picture, though...
On our last day we happened across Pescheria San Pietro, which was conveniently located by the train station. Although we were the evening's first customers, we were warmly welcomed by the owners, a man and woman who, I can honestly say, love to sing. They even took my mom's song requests and we all sang and hummed together until more customers arrived later on. I ordered the green pasta with a dory fish sauce. I was at first hesitant because I am very particular about my choices in fish, but this was an amazing dish.
After glancing at the dessert menu, I couldn't wait to try some. I originally ordered the non-alcoholic raspberry sorbet, but when I was informed that they were out of the flavor I had to opt for the lime instead. ONE OF THE BEST CHOICES IN MY ENTIRE LIFE. The dessert was perfectly flavored, not too sweet yet not too bitter. I was truly amazed at how something so perfect could actually exist. Does all sorbet in Italy taste this great? If so, I cannot wait to go back.
We did make it to the Uffizi Gallery and the Accademia. I was looking forward to Michelangelo's David the most.
However, you don't need to spend all day inside of Florence's impressive buildings. Even though it remained cold, we strolled around the city, admiring structures such as the Duomo. I love the colors of the church!
Last but not least, make sure you make your way to the river, stopping by Ponte Vecchio on the way. Although there's lots of people there, the trek is worth it.
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