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Whether you're a photography enthusiast, a history buff, or simply someone who loves soaking in the beauty of a place, these five viewpoints will leave you mesmerised.
Let's explore the top must-see spots for breathtaking views of Florence.
01 Piazzale Michelangelo
No visit to Florence is complete without a stop at Piazzale Michelangelo, perhaps the city's most iconic viewpoint. Situated on a hill on the southern bank of the Arno River, this expansive square offers an unrivalled panoramic view of Florence's skyline. From this vantage point, you can see all of Florence's key landmarks: the majestic Duomo (Cathedral of Santa Maria del Fiore), Palazzo Vecchio, Ponte Vecchio, and the rolling Tuscan hills in the distance.
Designed in 1869 by architect Giuseppe Poggi, the Piazzale was built as part of the city's redevelopment and is dedicated to Michelangelo, Florence's most famous Renaissance sculptor. In the centre of the square stands a bronze replica of Michelangelo's iconic sculpture of David. This replica isn't the reason people flock here, though; it's the sweeping view that stretches across the city to the foothills beyond.
While the view is stunning at any time of day, sunset is truly magical. As the golden hues of the setting sunbathe Florence in a warm glow, the entire city takes on a dreamlike quality. If you're planning a visit, bring a bottle of wine and some snacks - many visitors like to enjoy a small picnic as they watch the city change colours beneath the Tuscan sky.
How to Get There: Piazzale Michelangelo is easily accessible by car, but for those on foot, a 20-minute uphill walk from the city centre will get you there. For a more leisurely option, you can also take a bus (lines 12 and 13).
02 The Dome Of The Florence Cathedral - Il Duomo
Climbing to the top of Il Duomo, Florence's renowned cathedral dome, is an unforgettable experience. Designed by Filippo Brunelleschi in the 15th century, the dome itself is an architectural marvel. Once at the top-after climbing a challenging 463 steps - you'll be rewarded with a 360-degree view that is well worth the effort.
The views from the dome allow you to see Florence from a different perspective, with its terracotta rooftops stretching as far as the eye can see. The towering spires of nearby churches, such as Santa Croce and San Lorenzo, rise up against the backdrop of the surrounding hills.
The experience of standing atop this masterpiece of Renaissance engineering, surrounded by centuries-old architecture and the modern life of Florence buzzing below, is exhilarating.
The ascent up the narrow stairways inside the dome also provides a close-up view of Vasari's frescoes of the Last Judgment, painted on the interior of the dome. These magnificent frescoes serve as an added bonus on your climb.
Tip: Be sure to purchase tickets in advance, as lines to climb the dome can be long, especially during peak tourist season.
How to Get There: The Florence Cathedral is located in Piazza del Duomo, right in the heart of the city. The entrance to the dome climb is separate from the main cathedral entrance.
03 Bardini Gardens (Giardino Bardini)
For those looking for a quieter and more tranquil spot, the Giardino Bardini offers lush greenery and a hidden view of the city. Located near the famous Boboli Gardens, Giardino Bardini is often overlooked by tourists, making it a peaceful escape from the bustling city below. The gardens date back to the 13th century and are a blend of Renaissance and Baroque styles.
As you wander along the terraced gardens, you'll encounter beautiful statues, fountains, and flower-lined walkways. The most breathtaking part of the garden is at the top, where you'll find a terrace with a sweeping view of the city's most famous landmarks.
The advantage of Giardino Bardini is its peaceful atmosphere's a great place to enjoy a moment of quiet reflection. In spring, the wisteria tunnel is in full bloom, creating an Instagram-worthy scene that feels like a secret garden. Grab a seat on one of the benches and take in the serenity while gazing out at Florence's skyline.
How to Get There: Located in the Oltrarno district, the entrance to Giardino Bardini can be found on Costa San Giorgio, just a short walk from the Ponte Vecchio.
While technically not within Florence itself, the small hilltop town of Fiesole is just a short drive or bus ride from the city and offers one of the most spectacular panoramic views of Florence and the surrounding countryside. Fiesole sits about 9 kilometres (5.6 miles) from the city centre and has been inhabited since ancient times, offering a perfect blend of history, charm, and incredible vistas.
From the town's main square, it's a short uphill walk to San Francesco, a small church perched at the top of the hill. Along the way, you'll pass by olive groves, stone walls, and ancient Roman ruins. Once you reach the summit, you'll be greeted by a stunning view of Florence spread out beneath you, framed by the Tuscan hills in the distance.
Because Fiesole is less crowded than the more tourist-heavy spots in Florence, it's the perfect place for those looking to escape the city for a few hours. After taking in the view, you can explore the town's charming streets, visit the Roman theatre, or enjoy a meal at one of the local trattorias.
How to Get There: You can take bus number 7 from Piazza San Marco in Florence to Fiesole. The journey takes about 30 minutes.
04 Fiesole
While technically not within Florence itself, the small hilltop town of Fiesole is just a short drive or bus ride from the city and offers one of the most spectacular panoramic views of Florence and the surrounding countryside. Fiesole sits about 9 kilometres (5.6 miles) from the city centre and has been inhabited since ancient times, offering a perfect blend of history, charm, and incredible vistas.
From the town's main square, it's a short uphill walk to , a small church perched at the top of the hill. Along the way, you'll pass by olive groves, stone walls, and ancient Roman ruins. Once you reach the summit, you'll be greeted by a stunning view of Florence spread out beneath you, framed by the Tuscan hills in the distance.
Because Fiesole is less crowded than the more tourist-heavy spots in Florence, it's the perfect place for those looking to escape the city for a few hours. After taking in the view, you can explore the town's charming streets, visit the Roman theatre, or enjoy a meal at one of the local trattorias.
How to Get There: You can take bus number 7 from Piazza San Marco in Florence to Fiesole. The journey takes about 30 minutes.
05 Torre Di Arnolfo At Palazzo Vecchio
For a more historical experience combined with a jaw-dropping view, head to the Torre di Arnolfo at Palazzo Vecchio. This medieval tower rises above the Palazzo Vecchio, which has served as Florence's town hall since the 14th century.
Climbing the tower's 418 steps rewards visitors with an exceptional view of Florence's historical center. From here, the dome of the Florence Cathedral seems almost within reach, and you can see across the Piazza della Signoria, the Uffizi Gallery, and the surrounding Renaissance architecture.
The tower's name comes from Arnolfo di Cambio, the architect who designed it, and the Palazzo Vecchio itself is an important historical and political symbol in Florence's history. The climb might be steep and narrow, but the effort is well worth the payoff. You can also take the opportunity to explore the interiors of the Palazzo, including the grand Salone dei Cinquecento.
How to Get There: Palazzo Vecchio is located in the heart of Florence in Piazza della Signoria, just a short walk from the Ponte Vecchio and the Uffizi Gallery.
Final Thoughts
From the iconic Piazzale Michelangelo to the lesser-known heights of Fiesole, these five must-see spots will give you a new perspective on the city and its timeless beauty. Whether you're enjoying a peaceful moment in a garden or standing atop a centuries-old tower, the views of Florence are guaranteed to take your breath away.
Florence is a city that never fails to impress, and while its art, history, and culture are what draw most visitors,
the panoramic views are what leave lasting memories.
