Piazzale Michelangelo is not only a must stop for tourists visiting the city, but also much loved by Florentines. It’s the most famous place to admire the city’s panorama and – for a guaranteed spectacular effect, or if you are feeling romantic – go there at sunset.

Piazzale Michelangelo is one of the most charming viewpoints in Florence, an unmissable terrace on the city; extremely popular by tourists but also among Florentines. From here you can admire Santa Croce, the Arno riversides, Ponte Vecchio, the Duomo with its dome, Giotto’s Bell Tower, Palazzo Vecchio and, in the distance beyond, the hills surrounding Florence.

The construction of the square dates back to 1869, as part of the urban renewal plan on the occasion of Florence’s election as capital of Italy. In the design by architect Giuseppe Poggi the square was to become a monument to Michelangelo, whereas the Neoclassical loggia was to serve as a museum for all the great artist’s works. However, this idea was very soon rejected and in 1876 the loggia was turned into a restaurant and panoramic coffee bar, still open today.

In the piazza dedicated to Michelangelo you can find bronze reproductions of his famous works: the David and the four allegories from the Medici Chapels in San Lorenzo. You can reach the square by bus or on foot, walking along the Arno riverside, or from Piazza Poggi in the San Niccolò district, by climbing up the charming Rampe del Poggi, a series of flights of steps, grottos and fountains.

What are you waiting for? Admire the city in all its splendour!