A Memorable Trip to Florence: Art, Architecture, and Celebrations
Florence, Italy, had always been on my travel bucket list, and what better occasion to visit than to celebrate my 30th birthday? From iconic art to stunning architecture, Florence offered a mix of culture and charm. Here’s a detailed account of our trip, including tips and insights for planning your own visit to the heart of Tuscany.
Getting to Florence: Flying into Bologna
Our journey began with a flight from Manchester to Bologna, which took just over two hours. If you’re ever landing in Bologna, make sure to snag a window seat — the aerial views of the old town and landmarks like the Asinelli Tower are breathtaking!
Upon arrival, we hopped on a local bus from Bologna Airport to the central train station, a quick 20-minute ride. From there, a fast train whisked us to Florence in under an hour. Traveling this way was smooth and efficient, and I’d highly recommend it if you’re flying into Bologna.
Exploring Florence with a Plan (or Not!)
Being the planner that I am, I arrived in Florence armed with a strict itinerary. Florence is packed with incredible sights, and I wanted to see them all. However, my wife soon pointed out that my over-ambitious plan didn’t leave much room for relaxation — so we dialled it back and embraced a more laid-back approach.
We decided to purchase the Firenze Pass, which provides access to many of Florence’s main attractions. While it promises to let you skip the lines, we quickly realized that most other tourists also had the pass, so queue-jumping wasn’t as effective as expected. Additionally, for some attractions, you still need to collect separate tickets, which added a layer of confusion.
Top Attractions in Florence
Our first stop was the iconic Cathedral of Santa Maria del Fiore. The colourful brickwork on the exterior was unlike anything I’d ever seen — it’s truly one of the most stunning cathedrals in the world. However, while the exterior was jaw-dropping, the interior felt surprisingly plain in comparison.
Next, we ventured to see one of Florence’s most famous masterpieces: David by Michelangelo. While I had seen countless pictures of this sculpture, nothing could prepare me for seeing it in person. Its immense size and intricate detail are awe-inspiring. It’s an experience I’ll never forget.
Another highlight was our visit to the Uffizi Gallery, home to some of the most renowned works of art in history. The main attraction here is The Birth of Venus by Botticelli. Standing in front of such an iconic painting was surreal — a moment every art lover dreams of.
Culinary Highlights in Florence
Florence isn’t just about art and architecture — it’s also a foodie’s paradise. Most evenings, we dined at local restaurants, indulging in delicious Italian cuisine. One standout experience was at Kitsch 2, a pub offering an aperitif buffet. For the price, the food selection was fantastic, and it’s a great way to try a variety of dishes.
For my 30th birthday, we celebrated with dinner at La Petite. The food and drinks were excellent, and the outdoor seating made it even more special. By chance, we realized we were dining at 30 Via Pellicceria — a quirky coincidence that added a touch of fun to the evening.
Overcoming Fears at Giotto’s Bell Tower
On our final day, we climbed Giotto’s Bell Tower, adjacent to the cathedral. While the views of Florence from the top were absolutely stunning, the climb itself was a challenge for me. As someone who’s not a fan of heights, navigating the crowded and narrow spaces at the top made it less enjoyable. If you love panoramic views, it’s worth it — just be prepared for a bit of a squeeze!
Final Thoughts: Should You Visit Florence?
Florence is undoubtedly a city everyone should visit at least once in their lifetime. From the breathtaking architecture of the Cathedral of Santa Maria del Fiore to the timeless masterpieces like David and The Birth of Venus, it’s a place rich in culture and history.
That said, would I return? Probably not. While I loved the city, I often found the interiors of its churches and palaces underwhelming compared to their impressive exteriors. Despite that, Florence delivered an unforgettable birthday celebration, and I’m grateful for the experience.
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