Staying put for the weekend? A new concept for us.
We were initially set to spend the weekend in Budapest but decided that because of the current situation in Ukraine, a neighboring country of Hungary, it would be wisest to stay put with the current state.
I was stoked about that idea because I hadn’t stayed in Florence since my birthday weekend. And honestly, every place I go to makes me realize that Florence ultimately feels like home and is the best place to live. So why not spend the weekend getting to know it a little better?
Thursday night, we decided to stay in and hang out at my friend’s apartment. Yes, you heard that right. Staying in on a Thursday night. And they told me I wouldn’t change over here!
We built a little itinerary for the weekend and got a good night’s sleep before a day we didn’t have to wake up early to catch a train. First, we saw the very famous David of Michelangelo statue kept in a museum with lots of historical artwork. After that, we went to the Gucci Garden, a museum with original artifacts and displays dedicated to its different collections. Gucci is one of the most famous and luxurious fashion brands started in Florence.
Then we went to Giardino Bardini, a gorgeous garden on one of the hills of Florence that overlooks the entire city. It was a beautiful day with such lovely scenery. We then ate lunch on the rooftop bar called Osteria delle Tre Ponche. Without a doubt, it was my favorite lunch I have ever had. We were up against the overhang, which had colorful flowers and plants resting on it. The roof allowed a scenic view of the Arno River, Ponte Vecchio, Palazzo Vecchio, and the Duomo. We all ordered an excellent pasta dish and some drinks and felt as if we were in a scene of a movie.
I walked back to my apartment, watched the sunset, and then got ready for our dinner at Osteria Gusta. This restaurant was a typical, quaint Italian building with minimal tables and a candlelit setting. It is located in Santo Spirito, about a 15-minute walk for us. In contrary to what most would order at an authentic Italian restaurant, I ordered chicken with lemon squeezed dressing on top and, of course, Bruschetta. As someone who does not typically enjoy chicken, this was incredible.
We then went to Julia and Anna’s house and pregamed a bit, which as my Food and Culture professor told us, was not a word or a concept in Italy. We headed to the club Space for a girl’s night of dancing to cap off the night. All 7 of us ended up having a big sleepover at my friend’s apartment. Finally, we woke up and went downstairs to Shake Cafe for a typical American, hungover breakfast of eggs, pancakes, and bacon.
That day we woke up and decided to check out the Leaning Tower, so we purchased $9 and got on the hour train ride to see Pisa for a couple of hours.
Moments like this are my favorite part of this experience. All 7 of us woke up together, talked about our previous night, and just impulsively decided to go to Pisa for $9. That’s all it took. No forethought, no packing, just getting on a train and seeing one of the most iconic historical landmarks.
The Leaning Tower is definitely a spot most people see when visiting Italy. It is funny how prominent tourist attractions can make all people act the same. When we arrived, everyone took “perspective” photos, posing as if they were holding or kicking the tower. This may be one of the best “touristy” spots to visit, not because of the building itself, but just to see how everyone visiting acts.
Yellow Bar was the restaurant we went to that night and one of my favorites this far. It was an open setting with high ceilings, unlike most Italian dining settings. We were recommended the Ravioli with the creamy vodka-like sauce, and it did not disappoint.
It was so fantastic that my friend Carly and I dipped our Margherita pizza in the sauce. After dinner, the night led to, no other than, Lion’s Fountain and the Red Garter and, for Lauren and I, the night capped off at the “Riffy Roo.” This is Il Rifrullo, the bar under our apartment.
When Sunday rolled around, and we weren’t traveling, it was a great relief to just hang out in bed and sleep in for once. I am so thankful that we decided to stay put. Although I am in Florence every day of the week, it is nice to just slow down and enjoy my temporary home for a weekend.
sent with emphasis 