8 best views in Florence you need to see

There are many things to do in Florence, Italy's Renaissance capital, including taking in a spectacular view that lets you appreciate this city from above. Located in Tuscany, one of Europe's most beautiful regions, this historic city has observation decks, rooftops, and other vantage points you need to experience on your next trip.

You'll find the very best views in Florence in this article, including Brunelleschi's Dome, Arnolfo's Tower, and the Orsanmichele Church and Museum. Also, check out places with free views and unexpected locations that let you look over one of the world's most popular destinations.

Where to get the best views in Florence

Best observation deck in Florence: Campanile di Giotto

Best unexpected place to see the skyline in Florence: Bardini Gardens

Best free view in Florence: Piazzale Michelangelo

Best rooftop and observation deck views in Florence

1. Campanile di Giotto

Campanile di Giotto, or Giotto's Bell Tower, is the stunning bell tower that makes up part of Florence Cathedral. Opened in 1359, it offers a 360-degree view of central Florence and its world-famous landmarks like the Ponte Vecchio bridge.

Insider tip

There's no elevator inside Campanile di Giotto, so you'll need to walk the 414 steps to the tower's observation deck.

Address and opening hours

Cathedral of Santa Maria del Fiore, Piazza del Duomo, 50122 Firenze FI. Open every day, 8:15 AM–6:45 PM.

2. Torre dei Belfredelli

With only seven floors, this 13th-century tower doesn't have the highest view in the whole of Florence. However, its central location makes it one of the best vantage points around, especially if you want to see the historic old town — known for having some of the best restaurants and street food in Florence.

Insider tip

Torre dei Belfredelli is a small building, so there's not a lot of space for large groups of tourists. Come early to avoid long lines. There aren't any elevators, so be prepared to climb lots of steps!

Address and opening hours

Via dei Ramaglianti, 2, 50125 Firenze FI. Opening hours aren't posted.

3. Torre di San Niccolò

This historic tower, built in the 14th century, is only open from June through September. If you're planning a summer trip to Florence, make sure to add this landmark to your itinerary. It offers excellent views of nearby buildings from its rooftop, including Florence Cathedral and the Crypt of Santa Reparata.

Insider tip

Visiting just before sunset lets you appreciate Florence in both the daytime and nighttime.

Address and opening hours

Piazza Giuseppe Poggi, 1, 50125 Firenze FI. Open Friday–Sunday from June to late September. Hours vary depending on the time of the year.

4. Arnolfo Tower

Originally a watchtower, Arnolfo Tower measures 311 feet, making it one of the tallest structures in Florence. You can get fantastic city views from the building's observation deck — if you're prepared to climb the 223 steps to reach the top.

Insider tip

The tower is next to Palazzo Vecchio, Florence's town hall, which is also worth visiting. The building has been a symbol of power in the city for more than seven centuries.

Address and opening hours

P.za della Signoria, 2, 50122 Firenze FI. Open Friday through Wednesday, 9:00 AM–7:00 PM, and Thursday, 9:00 AM–2:00 PM.

Unexpected places to get great views of Florence

5. Basilica di San Miniato al Monte 

This Romanesque abbey isn't as big and elaborate as other landmarks in Florence. However, it's definitely worth a visit. Climb a staircase to the building's rooftop for an impressive view of the city that takes in Florence Cathedral and other attractions you'd normally see on a postcard. 

Insider tip

Monks sing Gregorian chants at Basilica di San Miniato al Monte every afternoon, which will make your visit even more special. 

Address and opening hours

Via delle Porte Sante, 34, 50125 Firenze FI. Open every day, 9:30 AM–1:00 PM and 3:30 PM–7:00 PM.

6. Bardini Gardens

You don't need to travel to the top of a tower to see the best views in this city. Bardini Gardens, home to vegetable patches and fruit orchards, is one of the most scenic spots in Florence, making it a fantastic place for a picnic. You can also overlook the city's skyline from the park's most elevated areas.

Insider tip

Visit Bardini Garden in springtime when the wisteria flowers bloom.

Address and opening hours

Via de' Bardi, 1, 50125 Firenze FI. Open every day, 10:00 AM–6:00 PM.

Free places to get a great view of Florence

7. Piazzale Michelangelo

Located in the Oltrarno district, Piazzale Michelangelo is a public square that boasts one of the best panoramic vistas in all of Florence. You can look out on instantly recognizable landmarks, such as Florence Cathedral and Palazzo Vecchio, without spending a single Euro. There are also telescopes dotted around the square so you can zoom in on your favorite locations. People don't just visit Piazzale Michelangelo for its views. You'll find neoclassical-style buildings surrounding the square, as well as musicians and other street performers.

Insider tip

This is the home of a replica of one of the most famous Renaissance sculptures in history — Michelangelo's "David." It's no wonder, then, that this is one of the top Florence photography spots.

Address and opening hours

Piazzale Michelangelo, 50125 Firenze FI. Open 24 hours a day.

8. Giardino delle Rose

Near the Piazzale Michelangelo is Giardino delle Rose, or the Rose Garden, a small green space in the heart of Florence that contains 400 different varieties of roses. The area is also a popular wildlife spot with cats, fish, and birds. Another favorite feature of the garden is its incredible free view of the Florence skyline.

Insider tip

Florence can get unbearably hot during the summer daytime. If you're visiting Giardino delle Rose at this time of the year, come early in the morning or evening for a more comfortable experience.

Address and opening hours

Viale Giuseppe Poggi, 2, 50125 Firenze FI. Open Monday through Saturday, 9:00 AM–8:00 PM, and Sunday, 10:00 AM–8:00 PM.

FAQs 

What are the best views in Florence?

Campanile di Giotto provides a crowd-favorite vantage point of Florence's old town and all the buildings you'll typically see on a postcard, including Florence Cathedral. 

What are the best free views in Florence?

Piazzale Michelangelo is completely free to the public, which is great if you're traveling on a budget. Giardino delle Rose, which offers incredible views of Florence, is also free. 

What is the best sunset view in Florence?

Torre di San Niccolò is a small tower that provides amazing sunset views. Come here when the sun goes down to see the Florence skyline light up.

What are some other ways to experience Florence?

You could take a Florence walking tour and experience this city from its streets. Alternatively, consider booking a cruise or boat tour in Florence to see the impressive skyline from the Arno River.

What is the best time of the year to visit Florence?

Florence's summers can be hot, so you might want to visit during late spring or early fall when temperatures are more moderate. Christmas is also a great time to travel to the city, with many churches decorated for the festive season.