There are many ways to fall in love with Florence. One, of course, is to capture it in just one gaze from above, allowing yourself to be intoxicated by its admirable architecture developing harmoniously around the Arno, enveloped by the hills behind. Here is our top picks of the best viewpoints:
The most famous place to enjoy this view is Piazzale Michelangelo, an open space created at the end of the 19th century as part of the so-called “improvement”: a redevelopment of the left bank of the Arno that occurred while Florence was the capital of Italy. It is a must-stop, perhaps when you are on your way to the Abbey of San Miniato al Monte.
2. The Abbazia di San Miniato al Monte
This medieval religious building is well-worth a visit both for the building itself and also for the views it offers of Florence. The most spectacular access is via the monumental steps.
3. The gardens near Piazzale Michelangelo
Less universally known but much loved by the Florentines are the gardens placed in the same quarter of the city that offers a view similar to Piazzale Michelangelo, but which also possesses the romantic setting of an ancient garden: that is the case of the Giardino dell’Iris, in Viale Michelangiolo, the Giardino delle Rose, going towards San Miniato, and, a little further on, also the Giardino Bardini.
4. The Boboli Gardens
On the opposite side of the river are the immense Boboli Gardens with their various levels that offer different panoramic views: one of the most loved is Prato dell’Uccellare.
5. Forte Belvedere
Besides being a relevant spot for architecture enthusiasts, it used to be the impenetrable fortress of the Medici family, the Forte is now a not-to-be-missed location for contemporary art lovers. There is also a place for aperitifs.
6. The bridges of Florence
Don’t forget that one of the most charming places from which to view the city is the river itself: in this case, it is not the aerial views that are exciting, but the breathtaking sights of the city, especially at sunset. But avoid Ponte Vecchio, which is very crowded, and focus on Ponte alla Carraia or Santa Trinita.
7. Orti del Parnaso
A little far from the city centre you can visit a rather particular place that is the Stibbert Museum, another charming park where you can admire Florence from high up.
