Last Days in Tuscany

Our eleven days in Tuscany ended, and we squished in so many different experiences.

We booked an appointment to see the Uffizi Gallery before we left the U.S. because they sell out quickly. It was amazing and overwhelming—two vast floors of art, sculptures, and more fill every nook and cranny. The headsets helped us learn about the rooms and individual art pieces. But, I admit, I got pooped at the end, and art was starting to look alike, even though we were progressing through the centuries.

If you have not seen “Medici,” a Netflix series, it is educational and beautifully filmed even though it is non-fiction.

Although we found some excellent restaurants in Florence, thanks to recommendations, we went to the Mercato Centrale (Central Market). Mathis and I selected a variety of options. Pasta, pizza, beef, chicken, fish, bruschetta, wine/beer, etc. The only problem is that the Mercato was not air-conditioned, so we only went at night.

We’re so glad we packed light. I’m so proud of myself since I took a box filled with unnecessary things to DHL in Florence to lighten my load even more. Plus, it prevents me from buying things since “if you buy it, you carry it.”

Our Florence Airbnb was perfect as a base camp. Near the train station, yet easy to get to the center of the city. It was stocked with everything, including bath robes, coffee, wine, pastries, and lots of nice towels.

Here is a summary of our Tuscany days: (you can read about these days in older blogs)

Day 1 Florence – walked until we dropped

Day 2 Florence - Morning hop on the red double-decker bus. Touristy AND very informative; gave us the lay of the land and took us to places we would not have gone. We continued on the bus and hopped off at Piazzale Michelangelo. Great views on the lush, green side of Florence. Later in the afternoon, we went to Ponte Vecchio and had dinner. Tons of walking!

Day 3 Guided tour of Accademia di Belle Art where Michelangelo's David is, along with other fabulous art. We climbed the 463 steps to the top of the Duomo.

Day 4 Cinque Terre - a full-day trip to three of five villages

Day 5 Strolled through Florence

Day 6 Siena - full day excursion on our own

Day 7 Chianti Wine Tour in the morning. Not sure what we did in the afternoon.

Day 8 Venice

Day 9 Venice

Day 10 Venice then Florence

Day 11 Lucca