Venice, a city of winding canals, breathtaking architecture, and timeless history, is truly one of a kind. Its charm is magnetic, and its beauty undeniable, but navigating its outdated and overly complicated ticketing system can make even the most patient traveller question their resolve. However, as we discovered, Venice rewards persistence with moments and memories that last a lifetime.

Our first day in Venice began at St Mark’s Square, the bustling heart of the city. Surrounded by iconic landmarks, history and grandeur. Dominating the scene is the Doge’s Palace, a Gothic masterpiece that once served as the residence of Venice’s leader, the Doge, nothing to do with doge coin- I don’t think

Once we entered we were transported back in time as we explored chambers with gilded ceilings and magnificent frescoes. The Sala del Maggior Consiglio, where Venice’s Great Council once met, overwhelmed us with its scale (its huuuge) I mean insanely huge! The Bridge of Sighs, connecting the palace to the prison, added a sombre note to the experience. the stories of prisoners catching their final glimpse of freedom, left a lasting impression.

After leaving the palace, we wandered Venice’s labyrinthine streets, soaking in postcard-perfect views at every turn. Narrow alleys opened onto charming bridges, gondolas glided through serene canals, and hidden piazzas revealed little slices of Venetian life.i

Late afternoon brought a refreshing change when we arrived at the Campo San Polo ice skating rink, one of Venice’s beloved winter attractions. Georgia and Ali laced up their skates and glided under twinkling lights, laughing as Christmas music played. The rink, surrounded by historic Venetian buildings, felt like a scene from a winter fairytale. Watching them skate was the perfect antidote to the day’s earlier frustrations and a reminder of the joy Venice can offer.

Our second day in Venice was, without a doubt, the highlight of the trip it was a day filled with tranquillity, creativity, and festive magic.

We began with a scenic boat ride to Murano, an island renowned for its glass-blowing artistry. The journey offered stunning views of Venice’s lagoon and a peaceful escape from the bustling main island. On Murano, we watched master artisans transform molten glass into delicate works of art, their skill was a sight to behold.

Ali and Georgia tried were able to try their hand at blowing glass. they shaped molten glass into their own creations then exploded it in water at the end adding some fun to the experience, we couldn’t resist picking up a few Murano glass souvenirs to remember the day. It was an experience that we won’t forget.

Returning to Venice, we enjoyed a leisurely lunch before heading to the Museo Correr in St Mark’s Square. This museum offered a fascinating glimpse into Venice’s maritime history and artistic achievements. Ali also explored a nearby basilica, we visited some tat shops to pass the time.

In the evening, we got a boat back to the bus station and took a bus to Mestre on the mainland, where the festive atmosphere at the Christmas market in Piazza Ferretto was nothing short of magical. Traditional wooden stalls lined the square, offering handcrafted goods, holiday decorations, and delicious treats. The market’s twinkling lights, cheerful vendors, and ice skating rink created a cosy, welcoming ambiance that put us firmly in the holiday spirit. Strolling through the market with hot chocolate in hand, we felt immersed in the festive magic that the main island of Venice had struggled to provide.

The day ended with a leisurely walk back to our Airbnb and a stop at a cosy pizza shop, where we reflected on a day filled with fun and memorable experiences.

Venice is a city of contrasts. Its beauty, history, and unique charm are undeniable, but its outdated ticketing system and the surprisingly subdued festive decorations on the main island left us wanting more in terms of holiday spirit.

Would we return? Absolutely—but next time, we’ll come prepared for the ticketing system, lower our expectations and be prepared for the hustle and bustle and of course know what we’re doing!

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After an incredible visit to Pompeii, we set our sights on Venice, a journey we had to split so…. With a long drive ahead, we planned an overnight stop in Torreorsina, a charming and peaceful town tucked into the Italian countryside. However, Little did we know that the day’s most remarkable moment wouldn’t be part of the plan—it would be a spontaneous detour that took our breath away.

As we drove north, the name Monte Cassino appeared on a sign, and we couldn’t ignore it. Knowing its historical and spiritual significance, we couldn’t resist a detour. As we already found out, the best adventures are the ones you don’t plan. So we turned off the main road, curiosity driving us towards the unknown.

From a distance Monte Cassino stands proud the abbey is perched high on the hilltop . The drive up was a beautiful journey in itself, with very tight winding roads offering glimpses of the Italian countryside below. Upon reaching the summit, the Abbey of Monte Cassino rose before us, a sight that can only be described as awe-inspiring considering its size and the fact it’s been rebuilt more times that triggers broom has had a new handle..

Anyhow, stepping into the church, we were amazed by its tranquillity. The mosaics, vaulted ceilings, and history created a strange to describe atmosphere. The abbey’s story of destruction and rebuilding through the centuries made it even more amazing to see in all its glory.

From the abbey, the views down into the valley were breathtaking. The rolling hills, patchwork fields, and distant mountains created a scene that felt almost too perfect to be real. Standing there, it was impossible not to feel humbled by the sheer scale of it all.

Later, we continued on to Torreorsina and arrived just as the sun was dipping below the horizon. Our accommodation offered yet another treat—amazing views of the valley, stretching out below us in every direction. Bathed in soft evening light, the landscape felt peaceful and timeless, the perfect backdrop for reflection after such an inspiring day.

Sometimes, the most memorable moments are the ones you don’t see coming. Our unplanned visit to Monte Cassino turned out to be another part of our twisting journey, reminding us why we are travelling—to experience beauty, history, and to embrace the unexpected.

If you ever find yourself on this route, take a moment to stop, even if it wasn’t part of your original plan. Whether it’s looking at Monte Cassino or soaking in the views from the air BnB in Torreorsina, you won’t regret it.

plan your own adventure today—and don’t be afraid to take an unexpected turn!

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Have you ever had a day start off wrong but end up unforgettable? That was our family adventure to Mount Vesuvius—a mix of ticket mishaps, breathtaking views, and moments that will stay with us forever.

We began with a classic traveler’s blunder: we’d accidentally booked tickets for the wrong day. Cue sheepish smiles and a scramble to buy new ones. Not exactly the best start, but hey, what’s an adventure without a curveball? Determined not to let it ruin our day, we dusted ourselves off and began our climb.

The misty trail leading up Vesuvius felt almost otherworldly, as if the mountain was testing us before revealing its beauty. Dotty, happily perched in her carrier on Ali’s back, was the picture of contentment. And Ali? Absolute trooper, powering through every step with our little passenger giggling along the way.

Georgia was the real MVP. Having walked 11 miles through Pompeii just the day before, she still tackled the climb like a champ, her determination shining through. Not a single complaint, just excitement for the adventure ahead—and perhaps for the hot chocolates we promised at the top.

As we climbed, the clouds began to lift, unveiling spectacular views of the Bay of Naples. It felt like the mountain was rewarding our persistence. When we reached the summit, we savored the moment: hot chocolates in hand, a tube of Pringles between us, and smiles all around.

Georgia found her treasure—a volcanic ball with crystals inside—her face lighting up as if she’d discovered hidden treasure. Moments like these, where joy is so pure and simple, make the journey even more special.

At the summit of Mount Vesuvius, we stood in awe, soaking in the breathtaking views and the sheer magnitude of the volcano’s power. The jagged edges of the crater stood as a reminder of its fiery past, while the sparkling Bay of Naples stretched endlessly before us, bathed in golden sunlight as the clouds cleared. We took a moment to snap some amazing photos, capturing the rugged beauty around us and the joy on our faces. But more than that, we simply stood together, the fresh crisp mountain air, the quiet hum of nature, and the surreal feeling of being atop one of the world’s most famous peaks was amazing.

The descent was magical. The sun lit up the rugged landscape, and we took our time to take in the view. By the time we reached the base, tired but happy for every twist, turn, and even the ticket mishap.

Planning your own climb? Don’t let a little mistake hold you back. Double-check your tickets, pack some snacks, and prepare for a day that will challenge and reward you in ways you won’t expect. Vesuvius has a way of turning even cloudy beginnings into sunlit memories.

we’d love to hear your stories and maybe swap some travel tips! Let’s inspire each other to keep exploring.

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Some places leave a mark on your heart forever, and Pompeii is undoubtedly one of them. Our visit to this ancient Roman city wasn’t just about seeing the ruins it became a day filled with history, family milestones, and emotional discoveries.

We arrived in Pompeii on a beautiful, sunny day, with temperatures sitting comfortably at 20°C—perfect weather for exploring one of the world’s most famous archaeological sites. The timing was extra special because it was also Ali’s birthday, and what better way to celebrate than with an unforgettable journey into the past?

From the moment we entered Pompeii, we were captivated. This once-thriving city, preserved under layers of volcanic ash from Mount Vesuvius’ eruption in AD 79, felt alive in a way we hadn’t expected. Walking along the cobbled streets, surrounded by the remnants of ancient homes, temples, and marketplaces, was like stepping back in time.

Georgia amazed us all with her energy, walking miles through the sprawling ruins without a single complaint. She explored every nook and cranny with boundless curiosity, taking in the mosaics, the amphitheater, and the remarkably preserved frescoes that told stories of a long-gone world. Dotty, too, was an absolute star—content and cheerful throughout, taking in the sights and sounds around her and she even navigated the cobblestone roads with some help but she did suffer a few stumbles and grazed knees

Pompeii’s ruins are a haunting reminder of how quick things in life can change, one day a thriving modern city the next life is forgotten and frozen in time, everything changed a stark reminder to make the most out of life!

Among the many fascinating sites we visited were the Forum, the thermal baths, and the beautifully preserved houses like the House of the Faun. Each spot offered a glimpse into the everyday lives of the people who lived here nearly 2,000 years ago.

But it was the plaster casts of the victims that struck us the most. Seeing the shapes of men, women, and children frozen in their final moments was deeply emotional and sobering. It’s one thing to read about history in a book; it’s another to stand face-to-face with its human side. The experience left us reflective and grateful—a powerful reminder of the resilience of life and the importance of cherishing every moment.

A Birthday to Remember

Amidst the ruins and the poignant moments, we also celebrated Ali’s birthday in the best way possible—surrounded by history, sunshine, and family. As we walked through the ancient city, we made sure to pause and take it all in, snapping plenty of photos to capture the day. Later, we treated Ali to a well-deserved birthday lunch on the site and reflected on incredible experiences we have shared.

Pompeii Should Be on Your Bucket List

Pompeii is a journey through time that leaves you in awe of the past and reflective about the present. It might be the sheer scale of the ruins, the intricate details of Roman life, or the emotional impact of its tragic history, there’s something here for everyone to connect with.

For us, it was a day of discovery, family bonding, and meaningful moments. If you’re planning a trip to Italy, make sure to add Pompeii to your itinerary Walk its streets, touch its history, and let it remind you of the beauty and how fragile life is.

Have you ever visited Pompeii, or is it on your travel bucket list? Let us know in the comments—we’d love to hear your thoughts and stories!

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Our journey from Rome to Pompeii was meant to be a straightforward drive with maybe a quick coffee stop along the way. That was until Ali suggested a brief detour to Ostia Antica, an ancient Roman port town she’d read about. She mentioned its impressive amphitheater, and we thought, “Why not stop for 30 minutes to stretch our legs?” Well, as travel often teaches us, the best experiences are the unplanned ones, and Ostia Antica turned out to be one of those unforgettable detours.

What we hadn’t accounted for were two surprising things: first, the sheer size of the site, and second, the unexpected crowds. To our delight, we quickly learned why it was so busy—our visit coincided with Free History Day, held on the first Sunday of every month in Italy. Sites like Ostia Antica offer free entry on these days, making it the perfect opportunity for history lovers and families alike to explore without worrying about admission fees.

Journey Back in Time

As we stepped into the ruins, it became clear that 30 minutes wouldn’t do this place justice. Ostia Antica is vast—much larger than we had anticipated. Walking through the cobbled streets lined with ancient buildings, we were transported back in time to what was once a bustling hub of commerce and culture. The amphitheater was breathtaking, with its semi-circular rows of seating still intact, giving us a glimpse of the grand performances that once entertained thousands.

What stood out most was the sense of preservation. Unlike the chaotic ruins of central Rome, Ostia Antica felt peaceful and immersive, as if time itself had paused to let us wander through history. From beautifully preserved mosaics to the remnants of Roman baths and temples, every corner told a story waiting to be discovered.

A Few Hours Well Spent

Our “quick stop” turned into a few glorious hours of exploration. We wandered through the forum, peeked into ancient shops, and let the walked free on the sprawling grounds no restrictions are in place so it’s free access to look at anything as you like. For a moment, we forgot about the itinerary and just soaked in the magic of stumbling across history we hadn’t even known existed.

Travel Tip: Plan for the Unexpected

If you’re traveling through Italy, take note of the Free History Day on the first Sunday of every month. It’s a fantastic opportunity to visit iconic historical sites like the Colosseum or Pompeii without spending a penny. However, those days can be busy, so it’s worth arriving early or being prepared for crowds.

Anyhow, Ostia Antica wasn’t part of our original plan, but it ended up being a highlight of our journey. And sometimes, the best memories aren’t found in guidebooks—they’re discovered on detours. So, if you ever find yourself heading south from Rome, we highly recommend stopping here. Just don’t plan on staying for only 30 minutes!

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Rome is a city where history comes alive at every turn, seamlessly blending ancient ruins with the energy of modern life. For families, it’s a destination that inspires awe, curiosity, and a touch of adventure. From the monumental Colosseum to the charm of hidden piazzas, Rome promises a journey filled with wonder for travelers of all ages.

Planning your own family adventure to the Eternal City? Here’s a glimpse into how we embraced the magic of Rome, walked its cobblestone streets, and uncovered its countless surprises—while navigating some of the quirks that make Rome, well, Rome.

The Colosseum: Ancient Wonder, Modern Crowds

Our Roman journey began at the Colosseum, a symbol of the city’s grandeur and history. Standing before this ancient amphitheater, its sheer size took our breath away. Inside, the buzz of other visitors couldn’t overshadow the feeling of stepping into a place where gladiators once battled and crowds roared.

While the crowds were expected, the experience was worth every moment. Walking along its ancient pathways, we were all imagining tales of epic battles, and the enormity of the arena sparked our imaginations. It was a vivid introduction to Rome’s stories of old.

The Roman Forum: A Peaceful Escape

A short stroll from the Colosseum brought us to the Roman Forum, a quiet oasis amidst the city’s lively pace. Here, we wandered among ruins that once formed the heart of ancient Roman life—temples, arches, and remnants of bustling marketplaces.

Under the warmth of the sun and a refreshing 20-degree breeze, we spent a leisurely afternoon exploring, we soaked in the tranquility and reflected on the Forum’s historical significance. It was a peaceful counterbalance to the Colosseum’s energy, inviting us to linger and imagine life in Ancient Rome we could have spent days here if we didn’t have the kids with us, amazing place.

Wandering Through History

Rome isn’t just about its headline attractions—it’s about the what you discover along the way. Some of our most cherished moments came from wandering aimlessly and stumbling upon hidden treasures tucked into quiet corners.

One of many highlights was the Trevi Fountain, where Georgia tossed in a coin to the makeshift bath and made a wishe, we were captivated by the city’s grandeur. The surrounding streets buzzed with life, and nearby gelato stands offered sweet rewards for explorers although we didn’t stop for any today!

Thankfully, our Mountain Buggy handled the cobblestone streets like a pro. The uneven terrain that might have been tricky with other pushchairs this allowed us to navigate Rome’s charming (but bumpy!) alleys with ease. It gave us the freedom to explore without worrying about Dotty’s comfort or getting stuck.

Rome’s magic lies in its layers of history, visible everywhere. Around every turn, we encountered ancient buildings, ornate fountains, and cobblestone alleys that seemed straight out of a storybook. Many of these moments weren’t on our itinerary, proving that Rome’s streets are a living, open-air museum waiting to be explored.

Rome’s Rougher Edges

As much as we fell in love with Rome’s history and charm, it’s impossible to ignore that the city has its rougher sides. Of course, some wear and tear is expected in a city so ancient—it’s part of its character—but the modern-day traffic and piles of rubbish in certain areas don’t do it any favors.

The chaos of the roads is an experience in itself, with cars and scooters zipping past seemingly without rules, adding to the city’s lively (and occasionally nerve-wracking) atmosphere. And while many streets are beautifully kept, others felt a little neglected, which can take the shine off an otherwise magical moment.

That said, these imperfections don’t define Rome—they’re just part of its unique personality. The magic and beauty of the city far outweigh the occasional messiness, and embracing its quirks is all part of the adventure.

Tips for a Family Trip to Rome

• Comfortable Shoes Are Essential: Cobblestone streets are charming but tough on feet—pack sturdy footwear for everyone.

• Bring an Off-Road Pushchair: Navigating Rome’s uneven cobblestones and ancient ruins can be a challenge, but an all-terrain pushchair like the Mountain Buggy makes it easy. It handled the streets and alleys with ease, keeping our little one comfortable and making exploration stress-free.

• Plan Breaks: Balance busy landmark visits with downtime in peaceful spots like the Villa Borghese Gardens or Piazza Navona.

• Be Flexible: Some of the best experiences come from unexpected discoveries—don’t be afraid to wander off the map.

Rome: A City of Timeless Magic

Exploring Rome as a family was a journey we’ll never forget. From the awe-inspiring Colosseum to the peaceful Roman Forum and countless surprises in between, the Eternal City captured our hearts. While it has its quirks—traffic, rubbish, and some rough edges—these are just part of what makes Rome real and relatable.

It’s a city we would love to visit again, even just for a couple of days. And if you’re exploring without kids in tow, you could fully immerse yourself in its rich history, vibrant culture, and timeless magic.

Ready to Explore Rome?

Dreaming of a Roman adventure with your family? Start planning today!

If you have been then share your favorite Rome memories or tips in the comments—we’d love to hear your stories. And don’t forget to subscribe to our newsletter for more family travel inspiration and tips to make your journeys unforgettable.

The post Rome With Kids: Discovering History Around Every Corner appeared first on Tantrumming Trailblazers.

Hello !

It has been a wild first week and half for us, starting our journey under gray skies and drizzle, only to find that we are now driving through snowy mountain passes a few days later and basking in sunshine by the time we reached the Tuscan countryside.

That’s exactly how our adventure has unfolded so far! From the iconic White Cliffs of Dover to the charming streets of Lucca, our travels have been a whirlwind of changing seasons, breathtaking scenery, and unforgettable moments.

We’ve watched Georgia light up at Parisian carousels , marveled at Leonardo da Vinci’s genius in his hometown, and driven through landscapes that seemed to shift with every passing mile—farms, vineyards, snowy peaks, and golden beaches. Each stop has brought new surprises, delicious food, and memories we’ll cherish forever.

Here’s a roundup of our journey so far, with links to each adventure so you can follow along with us. Whether you’re dreaming of your own family adventure or just love to travel from the comfort of your screen, we hope you enjoy coming along for the ride!

1. Departure from Dover

Every great journey begins with a single step—or in our case, a ferry ride!  We left the White Cliffs of Dover behind as we set sail for Calais, full of excitement and anticipation for the adventures ahead.

Read about our departure from Dover here.

2. Paris: The City of Lights

Our first major stop was Paris, and it did not disappoint. From the Eiffel Tower  to the Louvre , Paris offered a magical mix of art, history, and fun for the whole family. We loved soaking up the lively atmosphere, and we all indulged in some incredible French pastries while looking at the Notre Dame through the cafe window.

Discover our Paris adventures here.

3. From Paris to Roche-la-Molière

Our journey took us southward, transitioning from wintry drizzle  in Paris then blizzards to golden sunlight in Roche-la-Molière. The drive was an adventure in itself, with snow giving way to rolling hills sunshine and cozy villages.

Read about our drive from Paris to Roche-la-Molière here.

4. From France to Italy

Crossing into Italy brought its own share of surprises. From picturesque farms to snowy alpine passes, this leg of our journey was filled with scenic beauty. By the time we reached the Italian coast, we were greeted with blue skies  and the shimmering Mediterranean.

Explore our journey from France to Italy here.

5. Lucca: A Magical Day of Festive Charm

Lucca swept us off our feet with its enchanting streets and festive holiday atmosphere . The city felt like something out of a fairy tale, with its Christmas markets, twinkling lights , and warm sense of community. We all loved walking around the car-free streets, and we all agreed that Lucca has a magic unlike anywhere else we had been before.

Read about our magical day in Lucca here.

6. Florence: A Day of Art, History, and a Few Surprises

Florence dazzled us with its artistic treasures and vibrant streets. While it didn’t quite capture the magic of Lucca, the Vinci Interactive Museum  and a family carousel ride added highlights to our day.

Read about our day in Florence here.

7. Vinci: Exploring the Birthplace of a Genius

A short trip from Florence brought us to Vinci, Leonardo da Vinci’s birthplace. This charming town stole our hearts with its peaceful vibe, fascinating museums, and stunning views of the Tuscan hills worth a few hours to visit if you are passing .

Discover our day in Vinci here.

The Journey Continues

From rainy city streets to sun-drenched Tuscan hills, our adventure so far has been nothing short of incredible. Each destination has added a new layer to our story, and we’re so excited to see what’s next on this ever-changing horizon.

Next up, we’re heading to Rome for a few days to explore its historic sites, including the iconic Colosseum  and the grandeur of the Roman Forum . Stay tuned as we delve into the Eternal City’s rich history and vibrant culture!

Join Us on Our Journey
We’d love to hear your thoughts on the places we’ve visited so far—have you been to any of these spots? 

Let us know in the comments or follow along on our blog for more stories, tips, and updates.

Adventure awaits! 
Dennis, Ali, Georgia, and Dotty
Visit Tantrumming Trailblazers for more stories and updates!

Tantrumming Trailblazers

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Today, we took a delightful day trip to Vinci, a small hilltop town that’s famous for being the birthplace of Leonardo da Vinci. It was a relatively short and scenic drive through the Tuscan countryside, filled with rolling hills, vineyards, and olive groves that gave us plenty of reasons to pause and take in the beauty.

Vinci greeted us with its charming cobbled streets and a peaceful, authentic atmosphere. We started our day with a visit to the Museo Leonardiano, a museum dedicated to the life and work of Leonardo da Vinci. Spread across two locations in the town, the museum showcases fascinating models of Leonardo’s inventions, along with detailed sketches and explanations of his incredible ideas. We were good and we could see Leonardo’s concepts come to life meaning that learning and fun collided perfectly for the whole family.

Before heading to Leonardo’s Birthplace, we stopped for a delicious lunch in the heart of Vinci. Georgia chose a classic Italian pizza, which she moaned about as per normal, while Ali enjoyed a some vegetarian dish (I cannot recall what it was). I decided to try Leonardo’s beef stew, a dish inspired by the regional flavors of Tuscany, and it was incredible—tender, rich, and full of flavor. The meal was simple yet authentic, perfectly complementing the atmosphere of this historic town.

After lunch, we made our way to Leonardo’s Birthplace, which is a short drive from the town center and well worth the trip. This quiet, rustic house, nestled in the countryside, offered a glimpse into the environment that shaped one of history’s greatest minds. We spent some time enjoying the views, which were breathtaking in every direction. It wasn’t hard to imagine how such a peaceful and inspiring place could nurture a genius like Leonardo and visiting his home was something that had to be done!

What stood out about Vinci was its quiet charm and the sense of connection to history that were on every corner. It’s a place that doesn’t overwhelm you with crowds or grand monuments, but instead invites you to slow down and immerse yourself in the life and work of one extraordinary man, a thinking town?

Planning Your Own Trip to Vinci?

If you’re visiting Tuscany, we highly recommend adding Vinci to your itinerary. Whether you’re a Leonardo da Vinci enthusiast or just looking for a peaceful, family-friendly day out, this little town offers something for everyone. Be sure to visit the Museo Leonardiano and Leonardo’s Birthplace, enjoy a traditional Tuscan meal, and don’t forget to treat yourself to some gelato along the way!

Let us know in the comments if you have ever been there— who knows your tips might inspire our next adventure!

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Our journey to Florence began with an easy and scenic train ride. The Italian rail system made the trip smooth and stress-free, offering us a chance to relax and take in the Tuscan countryside. Traveling by train in Italy is cheap and easy, with comfortable seating 3 level trains made it simple to get to Florence.

Once in the city, we made our way to one of the highlights of our visit: the Vinci Interactive Museum. This hands-on experience was a fantastic way to delve into the genius of Leonardo da Vinci. The museum is packed with reconstructions of his incredible inventions, offering interactive displays where you can truly get a feel for the brilliance of his ideas. Georgia and Dotty both loved exploring the museum. They got to play with models of da Vinci’s machines, testing out pulleys, gears, and other fascinating contraptions. Watching them engage so enthusiastically made the experience even more special for us .

Later in the day, we decided to visit the Boboli Gardens, one of Florence’s iconic outdoor spaces. Unfortunately, we were disappointed to find that the gardens closed at 3:30 PM and we arrived at 3:31, American tourists who arrived at 3:29 were expressing a dislike to Italian time keeping, we walked away, sadly we had hoped to spend some time wandering through the beautiful landscape, but the early closure meant we missed out on that experience. It was a letdown.

While in Florence, we also made time to explore the historic streets and enjoy one of the highlights of any trip to Italy—gelato! Georgia and I treated ourselves to some ice cream and while it was nice it wasn’t the best we’ve had on our travels it was far better than the UK ice cream, Dotty does not enjoy ice cream so was happy to snack on the cone. The gelateria was a charming little spot, and the creamy, rich flavors were the perfect treat. We also took a ride on a beautiful carousel, which added a touch of joy to the day in the main square and Georgia loved it, and Dotty was thrilled to watch the horses go round and round.

That said, while we enjoyed our time in Florence, it didn’t quite have the charm or magic we found in Lucca. Lucca’s quiet elegance and pedestrian-friendly streets had captured our hearts in a way Florence couldn’t match or even compare too, Florence, for all its grandeur, felt a bit overwhelming / underwhelming at times—dirty and run down and busy and bustling with people shoving which was a stark contrast to Lucca’s tranquil charm. But that’s not to say we didn’t have memorable moments there.

In the end, while Florence didn’t steal our hearts like Lucca, it still offered a day full of learning, exploration, and family fun. The Vinci Interactive Museum was the clear highlight, and despite the occasional hiccup, we left Florence grateful for the opportunity to experience its run down beauty and history.

Planning your own trip to Florence or Tuscany?

We’d love to hear your thoughts if you’ve visited Florence—did it live up to your expectations? Or are you more enchanted by quieter spots like Lucca you visited?

If you’re planning a trip to Florence then we highly recommend adding the Vinci Interactive Museum to your list (and double-checking park hours at the Boboli Gardens!). Let us know in the comments or share your own Tuscan travel tips—we’re always looking for new adventures to inspire us!

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After a day exploring Pisa and its world-famous leaning tower, I didn’t have high expectations for Lucca. It’s often described as a quaint, walled city—pretty but not extraordinary. How wrong I was! By the end of the day, Lucca had completely won us all over with its magical charm, festive spirit, and undeniable beauty.

We stayed overnight inside the city walls, which made exploring so easy. Although the Airbnb wasn’t anything special, being right in the heart of the action more than made up for it. Lucca is the kind of place best discovered on foot, with its narrow streets and hidden corners inviting you to wander and get pleasantly lost.

Our day started with a truly indulgent breakfast: thick, velvety hot chocolates that were more like molten fondant than a drink, paired with buttery, flaky pastries. Sitting outside a small café as the morning light crept over the city’s historic rooftops really felt like stepping into another time.

One of the day’s highlights was climbing the Torre Guinigi (Guinigi Tower). Though we didn’t manage to walk the city walls, the view from this iconic tower gave us a similar perspective. The trees growing atop the tower added to the strangeness of it all, the views of Lucca’s terracotta rooftops and the surrounding Tuscan hills were unforgettable, watch the video below to see what I mean!

Anyhow, lunch came in the form of pizza—of course. There’s nothing quite like Italian pizza, with its paper-thin crust and fresh, simple toppings. We sat inside and we enjoyed one of the best pizzas we’ve ever had.

As the afternoon faded into evening, Lucca began to glow with Christmas magic. The twinkling lights strung across the streets added a festive warmth to the city, and an accordion player filled the air with music, making every moment feel cinematic. There weren’t any Christmas markets just yet, but the shops were open late, and we wandered in and out of boutiques and artisan stores. From handmade gifts to local delicacies, every shop had its own charm.

The city’s maze of narrow streets and picturesque squares felt even more enchanting at night. Every corner seemed to reveal another historic church, cozy café, or festively decorated window. It’s hard to put into words how beautiful Lucca is—especially when it’s lit up for the holidays.

Our last stop of the evening was a perfect end to the day. We returned to a little café famous for serving hot chocolate fit for royalty—literally. It’s said to be a favorite spot of King Charles, and it’s easy to see why. We indulged in another impossibly thick hot chocolate and tried Lucca’s famous buccellato cake, a traditional sweet bread flavored with raisins and anise. It was the perfect combination of comforting and festive, and an experience we will always remember.

Honestly, Lucca is one of the most beautiful places I’ve ever visited. Its quiet charm, rich history, and holiday joy completely caught us off guard. That said, I can imagine it’s a very different place in the summer, likely packed with tourists, which might take away some of its charm.

So a visit in late November was absolutely perfect. The streets were lively but not crowded, and the festive atmosphere felt authentic and warm.

I would say if you’re ever near Pisa, don’t miss the chance to explore Lucca. It’s a city that quietly works its way into your heart—and leaves you dreaming of your next visit.

Have you ever been to Lucca, I am honestly interested to know if it left you with the same feeling as us!? Let me know in the comments if you have!

Catch you later in the week!

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