Florence
We woke early the next morning and got back on our bus for our bus ride to Florence! A note about the bus rides, I actually really enjoyed them. There was tons of space and I was able to see so much of the country.
I also loved the rest stops where semi-gourmet food was served AND there was always a delicious espresso.
Because we were making great time, Stephanie surprised us with a stop at the Florence American Cemetery (https://www.abmc.gov/cemeteries-memorials/europe/florence-american-cemetery) a 70 Acre memorial to the many soldiers who fought and died in WWII. It was very moving to see the 4393 burials and to express gratitude for the sacrifice these brave men made.
After the visit to the monument, we were back on the road to Florence to check into our hotel and then hit the streets for Renaissance walking tour of the city's historic center.
We were able to see and learn about Brunelleschi's magnificent cathedral dome, Ghiberti's Baptistery doors, and other creations that helped define this world-changing era.
We ended that day at the Accademia Gallery and were able to marvel at works of sculptural genius: Michelangelo's rough-hewn Prisoners and his greatest masterpiece, David. It was so amazing to be able to skip the line and get right into the Accademia with our Tour Group. It was an amazing first day in one of my favorite cities in the world Florence!
"Everything about Florence seems to be colored with a mild violet, like diluted wine." - Henry James
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Our next full day in Firenze was all about discovering the Renaissance art of the Uffizi -
home to the most amazing collection of Italian paintings anywhere in the world! I loved seeing the works of Leonardo, Botticelli, Michelangelo, and more. Again it was so amazing to have a quick pass into the museum and access to a very knowledgeable and charming guide, Ricardo. I felt like I was able to see all of the masterpieces without being rushed.
After the Uffizi, we had the afternoon to ourselves to explore the city. Mom and I had a blast shopping and visiting the Pontevico Bridge before heading back to the hotel to clean up and get ready for our last group feast at Ristorante Giglis Rosso.
The meal was amazing and being there as part of a Rick Steve's tour you were treated like visiting family with just a touch of royalty. We ate until we were stuffed and then they rolled out the dessert cart and bottles of aperitifs.
No matter where we were in Italy, being with Stephanie made me feel safe and like I was "part of the in-crowd." She seemed to have genuine connections with so many people along our journey; it was magic to be in her circle. Gratzie Stephanie!