Travel Gourmande

How's your Saturday going? Weekend is travelling at lighting speed as always.

Speaking of speed, the train ride from Rome to Florence was approximately an hour and a half. The Trenitalia's final destination was Milan and Florence, being the first stop.

We stayed in Hotel Residence La Contessina, a few blocks away from the train station located at the heart of the city and is walking distance from the Florence Duomo. It is a stylishly designed hotel inclusive of a breakfast buffet with lots of homemade goodies at a very reasonable price. We love the place! The standard loft type suites include a foyer, spacious bathroom, huge living area, kitchen and dining. The space is perfect for a family or a couple on a honeymoon. Each of us took our own separate rooms. The bedroom is located on the mezzanine and each suite is equipped with LCD screens. The atmosphere is very homey and the receptionist is very accommodating and helpful, making our very brief stay in Florence a memorable one. The suites open up to a central courtyard that we all find very charming.

We were all excited to explore the historic city centre immediately. Cobble stone streets lined by cafes, shops, restaurants and pubs housed in elegant well preserved Renaissance buildings. It was a Saturday and the square was filled with weekend flea markets. The vibe was festive. It made me understand why it has been nominated as the most desirable destination for tourists around the world.

Piazza del Duomo, Baptistery on the Left

Florence Cathedral

The walk to the Piazza del Duomo was entertaining, watching tourists decide where to go for dinner and all the fashionably dressed elegant locals out and about. We sat at Piazza della Republica people-watching until it grew dark. It was like sitting at the front seat of a fashion runway. No doubt why Florence was once Italy's fashion capital.

Piazza della Republica

By late evening, we found a very welcoming restaurant not far from our hotel, Ristorante La Falterona situated along Via Zannoni. The tables were along the street with table cloths, candles and obviously marked as more than casual dining. We were gladly accommodated. We took advantage of the evening by ordering a fine selection of Chianti Classico Reserva. The taste was smooth and one of the best wines I've ever tasted. For more information on the restaurant click here . We were serenaded by a street musician, a music student practicing his craft in the streets of Florence. He played several of our requested songs with his classic guitar. His great voice drifted joyfully in the air over delicious local cuisine. Three greats: Food + music + great wine.

It was a night to remember! A perfect evening of bliss.