The warm rubescent hues of the city’s roofs were a welcoming sight after a grueling climb to the top of Florence’s Duomo. The sun felt hotter 463 steps up, but the cooling breeze made up for it. My sister and I encircled the narrow platform, taking in unparalleled 360° views of the city below.

It was the beginning of our day trip to Florence and I was already wowed. Considering it was cool and rainy the first time I visited this city four years ago, I was more than happy to sit in the sun with these views all day. But there were more sights to be seen!

A cup of tea and a cornetto were in need after our brisk morning exercise. We sat at an outdoor café, which offered a different view of the famous Duomo.

We wandered to the Ponte Vecchio to take in the history and do some shopping before deviating to the food vendors along the river. We discovered the city through a tasting of its cannoli, bruschetta, gelato, vino, and pizza offerings.

As the sun slowly retreated beneath the horizon, we witnessed Florence in a dazzling glow. The city’s yellow-washed buildings turned golden in the waning sunlight. I was able to capture the magic while walking to catch our train back to Rome. Florence, we’ll be back!

Girl With Glass