We cross over into Italy by train making our way to Florence or Firenze as they say here.  I love the train, the gentle motion as you glide by  the towns and villages, the breathtaking sea views in the distance.

We spend a few days here,  taking in the sights as I fight a nasty cold. My first one of the trip though and it’s not going to keep me down too much.

There is lots to see in this Tuscan city and the surrounding area is lovely. Pity we don’t have the time savour the area a little longer, but that seems to hold true wherever we go. I feel another trip in the not too distant future.

We quickly learn here that anything you want to see requires long lines, advance tickets or both. We instead enjoy wandering around the city, enjoying the sights and markets.

Pisa

The weather here hasn’t been our friend but we decide to take a chance and head to Pisa….heard there was some cool tower there. It’s pouring rain as we board the train but magically disappears as we pull out of Florence.

Pisa is another picturesque walled city, not big but large enough to have a long walking street with interesting shops and restaurants.

We set off down the street, admiring the shops and sights and wind our way along until we turn a corner and that’s when my jaw dropped.  Such a sight to see!