There is always too much to see in Florence

Our initial plans were to head out of town today to Lucca or Livorno, each about 1hr 20 min on the train but last night we decided that it is a long time on the train and there is still so much more of Florence to experience.

Fontana Del Tacca

Fontana Del Tacca

As we had become experts using the bus yesterday, we looked up the schedule, purchased some tickets and caught bus 13 to Piazzale Michelangelo, but not before trying to visit a recommendation from Stefano, Caffè Pasticceria Serafini.  Unfortunately, the shop was closed so we opted for a quick coffee and cornetto at a bar across the road.

Our recommendation was closed

We found an alternative

Bus 13 took us to directly to Piazzale Michelangelo and from here we were able to appreciate the morning sun filled vista of Florence.

 

It was then back on bus 13 that took us back down from the heights of the Piazzale and we were able to take in the local market in Piazza Santo Spirito on the southern side of the Arno river, close to the Ponte Vecchio. 

The market was interesting to walk around with various items from antiques to food and general home items. There were some bargains and also a lot of stuff of lesser value.

It was then time for some more walking and we found ourselves in the boutique clothing district, where Versace, Gucci and Giorgio Armani are common. This did cause a problem, we weren't looking for new clothes, just lunch. Every lunch place (and there weren't many) was very expensive.  To our luck, we popped back into Piazalla dell Republicia and here we found the Red Bookstore.  This store filled with books also had a small seated dining area, where we were able to get a Hamburger with chips, a pasta, a beer and a wine all for around 30 euro, a much better deal than the other expensive restaurants.

Katie wouldn't let me ride the carousel

After lunch more wondering was done, there is so much to see in Florence and we popped into the Church of Orsanmichele then headed in the direction of Palazzo Vecchio.

 

Katie and 'Big Clay' in Piazza Signoria

After reading about Palazzo Vecchio we had slightly raised expectations, however, I would not put it on a must see visit of Florence if you were pushed for time, Pitti Palace certainly rates higher.

We looked through the underground archaeological area and then went up the many stairs to view the opulently decorated rooms.  For us, the rooms would have had more impact if they were furnished with some period pieces.

KFB17573 SFB17887