One of the most beautiful and romantic cities in Europe, Florence has to be seen to be believed. The hilly landscape means there are plenty of places to get a great panoramic view of the Renaissance cityscape. Here are some of the best options.
Easily reachable on the Oltr’Arno, across the river from the city centre, Piazzale Michelangelo, home to one of the famous sculptor’s three versions of David, offers stunning panoramic views of Florence. There are also restaurants, cafes and bars here, so you can enjoy a drink and a meal while you breathe it all in, often to the soundtrack of local musicians playing in the square. It’s difficult to think of anywhere better suited to the quintessential Florentine experience.
You could spend days trying to tick off all the churches in Florence, but perhaps the best to visit to get a great view of the city is the lesser-known Church of San Miniato al Monte. It sits on the same hill as Piazzale Michelangelo, so the views are as impressive. You can also explore the interior, parts of which date back more than 800 years. The most prominent features are the Chapel of the Crucifix, designed by Michelozzo in 1448, and the stunning central mosaic dating back to 1297.
Florence has several large gardens, and many of them have become renowned tourist destinations for their landscaping, flora and historical significance. Giardino Bardini isn’t the most well known, but its relatively central location, a short walk from the Arno, and the views it offers at the top make it well worth a stopover. The flowers on display only add to the appeal, especially the amazing wisteria tunnel.
Just below the Piazzale Michelangelo, this small, attractive garden has stood proudly overlooking Florence since 1865. At only around 1ha (2 acres), it’s a tiny space yet offers an exceptionally good view of the rest of the city and is immaculately kept, with hundreds of different species of roses, lemon trees and even a Japanese garden donated by Florence’s twin city, Kyoto.
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The Duomo of Florence is a globally recognisable landmark (especially if you’re a fan of the Assassin’s Creed video game series), and it would be criminal to come here without getting a first-hand look at the ingenious architecture of Filippo Brunelleschi or the frescoes inside. For a truly immersive experience, climb the 400 steps to get to the top of the dome and look over the rooftops of Tuscany’s largest city.
Coffee-addicted, autumn enthusiast and self-taught photographer – I am Francesca, a travel journalist. After living in Italy and Spain, now I spend my days in the lively city of Tirana, Albania. If I'm not exploring the Balkan peninsula, you’ll find me at the local food market or writing about my travels.
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