The slender bell towers of the churches, the battlements of the medieval palazzo, the red tiled roofs of the houses, above which the marble splendor of the Cathedral, crowned with the magnificent dome of Brunelleschi ... Looking at Florence at least once from a bird's eye view - you fall in love with the city once and for all.
For you, we have compiled a list of viewing platforms that offer an unforgettable panoramic view of the cradle of the Renaissance.
Arnolfo Tower
The Arnolfo Tower (Torre di Arnolfo), around which the palace of the city government of the Palazzo Vecchio was built in the 14th century, proudly rises above Piazza della Signoria.
Until now, the palace is a symbol of political power for the Florentines, because part of the building is the city hall. To rise under the bells of a 95-meter tower, you have to master 418 steps.
- Working hours: check here.
- Full ticket price: 10 €.
In case of adverse weather conditions, the tower is closed to visitors.
Giotto's bell tower
Giotto's Campanile (Campanile di Giotto) is part of the architectural ensemble that adorns the Cathedral Square of the city (piazza del Duomo). The construction of the tower began in 1298 according to the project of the ingenious Florentine, better known as a painter, and not an architect - Giotto di Bondone (Giotto di Bondone), and lasted almost 60 years.
414 steep steps - and you will find yourself at an altitude of 82 meters from the groundand the magnificent dome of Brunelleschi will appear at arm's length.
- A single ticket costs 18 euros (besides climbing to the bell tower of Giotto, with the same ticket you can visit the rest of the monuments of the cathedral complex: the Baptistery, the Museum at the Cathedral, Crypt, and conquer the Brunelleschi dome itself (only after ordering the exact time and day of the rise).
- Working hours: check the link
An incredible view of the city opens from the hills that lie on the other side of the Arno River - Oltrarno. One has only to cross one of the bridges of the historic city center and make a climb to one of these places.
Piazale Michelangelo
Piazzale Michelangelo is a favorite place for both citizens and visitors alike. In the middle of the square is a copy in bronze of the famous David Michelangelo, and its foot is decorated with copies of the beautiful sculptures of Day, Night, Dawn and Sunset from the Medici Tombs. The Piazzale offers unforgettable views of Florence. Be sure to visit at any time of the day and access is completely free!
Basilica of San Miniato
If you are not too lazy to climb another fifty steps from the Piazzale Michelangelo to the entrance to the Basilica di San Miniato al Monte - you will be rewarded with a breathtaking view of the whole of Florence and the Arno River Valley.
The 11th century basilica is one of the best examples of Romanesque style in Tuscany. Facing the facade, look on the marble threshold of the first door on the left for the carved inscription "HAEC EST PORTA COELI", which literally translates as: "This is the door to heaven."
- Opening hours of the Basilica: www.sanminiatoalmonte.it/orari
- the entrance is free
Forte di Belvedere
Forte di Belvedere fortress, built on the top of Boboli Hill in the 16th century at the request of the Dukes of Medici, is one of the highest points in the city. From May to October, exhibitions of contemporary art are held here, and in winter, Forte is closed to visitors.
- Opening time and entry cost: check here
Bardini Gardens
To get to the gardens of Bardini (Giardino Bardini), which are broken on the hill Montecuccoli, facing the city, you can either from Costa San Giorgio 2 (a stone's throw from Forte di Belvedere) or from Via dei Bardi 1 / R.
In spring and summer, aromas of roses, irises and wisteria hanging from purple waterfalls hover over the gardens. A luxurious baroque staircase leads to a small coffee house - it is from here that the whole of Florence is visible in full view. The upper part of the gardens is made in a romantic English style - here and there are copies of antique sculptures and the murmur of a stream under the shady crowns of trees.
- Opening hours: www.bardinipeyron.it
- The cost of a full ticket is 7 euros, children under 18 are free
Hotel Terraces
The Florentines themselves joke that the sunsets in the city are special: lilac-pink-vanilla. You can admire the setting sun in the warm season in the company of loved ones or friends, accompanied by light snacks and a glass of good wine or a cocktail from the panoramic terrace bars of the city.
Pre-booking is recommended for visiting all the places listed below!
Hotel Plaza Lucchesi
Plaza Hotel Lucchesi is located right on Arno's seafront, a stone's throw from the Santa Croce Basilica. The rooftop bar in the warm season offers visitors an aperitif from 19.30 pm - a generous buffet with a variety of snacks and cocktails to the sounds of live music and a unique sunset, reflected in the water of a chic outdoor pool.
Price: 25 euro
Grand hotel minerva
"Our terrific terrace with pool and bar is located on the sixth floor of the Grand Hotel Minerva, but the feeling will be like the seventh heaven!" - promises one of the best 4-star hotels in the city.
From 19.00, both hotel guests and visitors can enjoy the "Happy Hour" in Italian, admiring the sunset over a glass of Italian wine or another special drink from the bartender.
And if you want something very romantic, then from 19.00 to 24.00 anyone can order a private Private Sky Lounge area directly above the pool. Enjoy great drinks and breathtakingly beautiful panoramas.
- We advise you to study: the best hotels of Florence 4 stars
Sesto sul arno
In the cozy All Saints Square (piazza Ognissanti) on the sixth floor of The Westin Excelsior, you will find the Se-Sto restaurant and cocktail bar. The chef is one of the best in the city. Here you can both have lunch and dinner.
For lovers of aperitifs, the restaurant opens its doors from 19.00-21.00.
- Cost: 21 euro
Continentale
Continentale Hotel is owned by the Lungarno group, owned by the famous Salvatore Ferragamo fashion house. On the roof of the hotel, a few meters from one of the main attractions of the city of Ponte Vecchio, in the warmer months you can enjoy the evening coolness and unforgettable views of the Arno River. A wine list and cocktail menu can be found here.
I am sure this list of the best viewing platforms in Florence will be useful to you and will help make your vacation unforgettable. Waiting for you on my author's excursions.
