The train ride from Rome to Florence was relaxing. We were seated in first class with two other guests…and while some people napped, I was taking in the countryside from the large windows. Even though we were on a high-speed train, the farms and villas that dotted the rolling hills were perfectly spaced so as to give me ample time to study each one before the next appeared. I couldn’t keep still… looking left to right…not wanting to miss any of the beauty.
When we arrived in Florence, we were taken to our hotel in a large Mercedes that I anticipated would never fit the narrow streets! Suddenly we were (safely) at our destination, the Hotel Brunelleschi. It was in the heart of the city, yet it had the aura of an inn…a perfect blend of old and new. The manager greeted us and spoke about our travel agent, Michelle, like she was an old friend. The lobby was beautiful with a very romantic feel. The staircase that led to the upper floors was made completely of glass. We were told that the tower on the right side of the hotel is the oldest in Florence, dating back over 1,000 years. Our room was crisp white and it had every modern amenity.
On our first full day in Florence, we took a tour of the city that ended at the Statue of David. Unfortunately, our tour guide in Florence was a disappointment, but the shops and the food were wonderful. Breakfast each morning was a delightful buffet, after which we’d venture out to explore the streets and visit the shops. We’d walk from piazza to piazza (piazzas being the town squares that are full of shops and restaurants with outdoor seating).
People bustling in every direction gave the city a wonderful energy, but it wasn’t the same as that of a typical American city. One piazza had a carousel…and that became our landmark for finding our way back to the hotel each day. There were so many shops to visit, but my favorite was Manifattura Ginori. Their porcelain pieces can only be described as art with every shelf being another display of their masterful work. I’ve never seen such vivid colors. It was a true delight for the eyes. There was a small lounge area in the shop…and even the couch and chairs were beautiful. I took a picture of the window, but I wish you could be there in person.
On our last day in Florence, we decided to take a recommendation from our friends Roger and Amy. They had spent their honeymoon in Italy and said the best part of their time in Florence was the Red Bus tour. So, we located the bus and hopped up to the second level. From there, the trip became a breathtaking adventure. If you ever visit Florence, remember to take this tour. You will travel all around the area until you find yourself in a small town called Fiesole in the Italian region of Tuscany. Fiesole overlooks the city of Florence…and it was magnificent! We explored the town on foot and ate lunch outside. This might be my favorite part of the trip. And I shouldn’t forget to mention the incredible gardens!
On our last night in Florence, we dressed up for dinner in “the tower” of the hotel. This was to be an intimate evening with just a few other tables. The atmosphere was quiet and romantic. The waiters spoke softly and approached each table with an air of elegance. My companion and I both enjoyed an amazing five-course meal. The true mastery of food preparation and presentation was evident in each course…and the chef’s love of his craft could be tasted in every bite…including the amazing desserts.
We loved the Hotel Brunelleschi and I highly recommend it to anyone who plans to visit Florence. The next morning, we were off by train to the Amalfi Coast.
