Florence

                        

The beautiful Duomo

The Duomo entrance

View after climbing the 473 steps

Beautiful city views

Firenze Valley

Photo - op

Cool arches everywhere

Statue of David Replica 

Arno River in Florence

Ponte Vechicco Bridge, lined with amazing jewelry shops

Open air Market

Our little Panini Shop

Views from Piazzale Michelangelo 

Duomo off in the distance there

After we left Rome we took a train to Florence, or as the Italians know it Firenze. It's about a two hour train ride from Rome to Florence, and right through the Tuscany region of Italy. It was a gorgeous ride, and one I would love to do again in the summer. 

I didn't really know what to expect from Florence, but it was also an amazing city, full of charm and beauty. The first stop on our tour, was the Basilica di Santa Maria del Fiore, or the Duomo. It was completed in 1436, and is what St. Peter's Basilica was modeled after. We took the 436 steps to the top of the Dome, and got to enjoy gorgeous views of the Firenze city, and valley. The views were pretty breath taking. The rest of the day we spent wandering through the city, taking in the local culture, and enjoying some terrific food. Brad let Derek and I have the night to ourselves so we could have a romantic dinner, and it was delicious. 

The next day, we got up and walked to the open air Market, and went to a little Panini shop I found on trip advisor. It was by far the best meal of the trip. When we arrived there was a huge line out the door, so we knew we were in for a treat. The man behind the counter asked what we would like, and I told him something a little spicy. He then crafted us the most delicious sandwich of our lives. The slices of fresh foccacia with buffalo mozzarella, and eggplant, with a spicy red pepper pesto, and turkey totally hit the spot. Only 5 Euro each, which was by far the cheapest meal of the trip too. If you are ever in Florence, it is a must to stop by at All'Antico Vinaio. 

Our next stop was visiting the Statue of David, by Michelangelo. It was amazing!! The craftsmanship  and details were pretty outstanding. It's hard to believe it was crafted by hand. Unfortunately we couldn't take photos, but I snuck a couple with my handy I phone. We then finished off the trip by visiting the original location of the statue of David,  Piazzale Michelangelo. Again, with gorgeous views of the city. 

We had an amazing trip, and I would absolutely love to go back.