5 best hikes in Florence for stunning views

Explore the best hikes in Florence, from rolling vineyard walks to shady forest paths, with routes for all skill levels.

Jessica Holom

Apr 14, 2025·15 min read

5 best hikes in Florence for stunning views

From the iconic green-and-pink marbled Duomo to the medieval Ponte Vecchio, the best hikes in Florence are so breathtaking that it’s no wonder the city inspired Michelangelo, Leonardo, and Donatello. Beyond colorful architecture, these landscapes define Tuscany — rolling hills with cypress trees, orderly olive groves, and romantic vineyards.

These hikes highlight the best things to do in Florence, from the windy climb to Piazzale Michelangelo to hidden gems like the Vallombrosa Forest Trail. With some trails weaving through the city into the hills, hiking in Florence is an enchanting way to explore its history, nature, and culture.

1. Monte Ceceri

Stunning valley views from Fiesole hiking area near Florence.

Best hike for a nod to Leonardo da Vinci

Route information

Distance and elevation: 3.6 miles (5.8 km); 700 feet
Hike time: 1.5-2 hours, loop
Difficulty level: Easy to moderate
Terrain type: Woodland paths, slight inclines
Distance from city center: 25-minute drive or bus ride

Not only is Monte Ceceri a stunning hike, but it’s a great way to experience Leonardo da Vinci's inventions firsthand. This rewarding loop in Fiesole takes you to the historic Monte Ceceri, where the Renaissance man is said to have tested his flying machine in 1505. But this hike is more than just a history lesson. Overlooking the rolling hills of the Arno River Valley, the loop begins and ends near Piazza Mino in Fiesole and includes a scenic overlook with a breathtaking panorama of the city. One of the best hikes near Florence for views, the trail winds through the rolling Tuscan countryside, past peaceful oak and cypress forests, and grey sandstone quarries of pietra serena, the material Florentine sculptors used to create their artworks.

Know before you go

This is one of the safest and easiest hikes for families and those in Florence on a solo adventure
Build a stop at the cave-like Braschi Brothers Quarry along the route
A panoramic lookout point is positioned just up from the quarry

Best time to hike

Spring and fall offer perfect weather for hiking near Florence, which has mild temperatures and clear views. Avoid the heat in summer by hiking during the morning or evening.

Address

Parco di Monte Ceceri, Via Cave di Maiano, 2, 50014 Fiesole FI

Opening hours

Open 24 hours, not recommended at night

From La Spezia: Round-trip Transfer to Florence & Accademia

8 hours

Certified by GetYourGuide

Livorno: Florence & Pisa Shore Excursion with Food Tasting

8 hours

Certified by GetYourGuide

Booked 3 times yesterday

Florence: Arno River Cruise with Aperitivo

50 minutes

Florence: Arno River Cruise with a Live Concert

50 minutes

From Rome: Discover Florence and Pisa in a Full-Day Tour

1 day • Skip the line • Small group

Certified by GetYourGuide

Florence: Guided City Tour by Rickshaw

1 - 1.5 hours • Optional audio guide

Florence: Classics Photoshoot with Ponte Vecchio Bridge

30 minutes - 1.5 hours

From Rome: Florence & Tuscany Day Tour by High-Speed Train

12 hours

Likely to sell out

2. Sentiero degli Dei (Path of the Gods)

Via_degli_Dei _Pontassieve _da_Vetta_le_Croci_a_P._Pratone_04-LOWRES.jpg

Shaded trail on Monte Ceceri, a prime Florence hiking destination.

Best hike for dramatic mountain views

Route information

Distance and elevation: 11.5 miles (18.5 km); 1,174 ft
Hike time: 5-6 hours, one-way
Difficulty level: Moderate
Terrain type: Rocky paths, steep sections, some roadways
Distance from city center: 30-minute drive to the trailhead

A fantastic day trip from Florence, this shorter version of the iconic 81-mile Bologna-to-Florence trail carries wary pilgrims along segment six of the Path of the Gods. From the stunning mountain pass of Vetta Le Croci near the quaint hillside village of Vaglia through ancient pathways carved into the scenic hills above Florence, you can expect green windswept views over the vibrant vineyards and valleys, orderly olive groves and terraced farms, and of course, local legends.

Know before you go

Wear sturdy hiking shoes for the rocky sections
There are charming villages along the route to stock up on water and snacks
Best for confident hikers, backpackers, and campers comfortable with uneven terrain

Best time to hike

The best conditions for trekking near Florence are found in spring and fall. Avoid rainy days when trails can be slippery.

Address

Vetta le Croci, 50036 Vaglia, Metropolitan City of Florence

Opening hours

Open 24 hours, not recommended at night

Dome Climb Ticket & Duomo Complex 3-Day Pass

3 days • Skip the line • Optional audio guide

Florence: Balloon Flight Over Tuscany

3 hours

Florence: Cinque Terre Day Trip with Optional Hike

13 hours

Certified by GetYourGuide

Likely to sell out

Tuscany by Vespa Full-Day Tour to Chianti Wine Region

6 hours • Small group

From Florence: Cinque Terre and Pisa Day Trip

12.5 hours

Certified by GetYourGuide

Likely to sell out

Florence: Horseback Riding Tour with Wine Tasting & Transfer

3 hours • Small group

Florence: Countryside Vintage Fiat 500 Driving Tour

5 hours • Small group

From Florence: Tuscan Countryside Vespa Tour with Tastings

5 hours

3. Vallombrosa Forest Trail

Spring path on Monte Morello, just a short hike from Florence.

Best hike for a serene nature retreat near a historic abbey

Route information

Distance and elevation: 6.1 miles (9.8 km); 1,653 ft
Hike time: 3.5–4 hours, loop
Difficulty level: Moderate to challenging
Terrain type: Shaded forest paths with waterfall views
Distance from city center: 50-minute drive

Starting from historic Vallombrosa Abbey’s parking lot, this is a top hike for those looking to avoid the sun in a shady, serene sanctuary while enjoying outdoor activities near Florence. These various forest hikes around Florence take you through the ancient woods with towering fir trees, open meadows, and the short but beautiful cascades of the Fosso dei Bruciati. The Vallombrosa - Macinaia - Monte Secchieta route covers it all, culminating in panoramic views from the peak of Monte Secchieta. On the Ring of Giants trail, you'll also spot the tallest tree in Italy, the 205-foot Douglas fir known as the "Italian Tree King." If you're more interested in architecture and religion, the Circuit of the Chapels of Vallombrosa route takes you through a series of unique religious sites dotting the forest, including the 11th-century Vallombrosa Abbey, famed for its arboretum with a collection of more than 5,000 plants.

Know before you go

Begin or end your tour at Vallombrosa, home to the Museum of Sacred Art, featuring works by Fabbrini and other prominent artists
Vallombrosa is safe for solo hikers and families

Best time to hike

Visit in spring and summer for lush greenery and fall for bright orange and yellow foliage for one of the best day hikes from Florence.

Address

Vallombrosa Abbey, Via S. Benedetto, 2, 50066 Vallombrosa FI

Opening hours

Daytime recommended. Vallombrosa Abbey is open daily, 6:30 AM–7:00 PM

Brunelleschi's Dome Climb Entry Ticket & Duomo

3 days • Skip the line • Optional audio guide

Likely to sell out

Booked 82 times yesterday

Cathedral & Brunelleschi's Dome Ticket & Audio App

1 - 3 days • Skip the line • Access by Foot

Likely to sell out

Dome Climb Ticket & Duomo Complex 3-Day Pass

3 days • Skip the line • Optional audio guide

Duomo Guided Tour with Optional Dome Climb Upgrade

30 minutes - 1 hour • Skip the line

Likely to sell out

Duomo Cathedral Guided Tour

1 hour • Optional audio guide

Duomo Cathedral Fast-Track Entry Ticket

45 minutes • Skip the line

Skip-the-Line Duomo Tour and Giotto's Bell Tower

3 hours • Skip the line

Florence: Duomo Complex and Giotto's Bell Tower Entry Ticket

3 days • Skip the line

4. Chianti Vineyards Walk

Chianti hiking trail winds through vineyards near Florence.

Best hike for wine lovers and countryside charm

Route information

Distance and elevation: 8.3 miles; 1,515 ft
Hike time: 4 hours, loop
Difficulty level: Moderate to challenging
Terrain type: Gravel paths, rolling hills
Distance from city center: 1-hour drive

Explore the dreamy landscapes of the Chianti wine region with one of the most beautiful treks near Florence. The route winds through elegant vineyards, rugged olive groves, historic farmhouses, and dramatic castles. Starting near Greve in Chianti, the Chianti Vineyards route often includes stops at wineries for tastings, including the famous Castle of Colognole, the Castle of Verrazzano, and the Castle of Vicchiomaggio, making it the top choice for those looking to explore food and drinks in Florence.

Know before you go

Wear comfortable walking shoes (not heavy hiking boots)
Pack sunscreen and a hat for sun protection
Some hiking trails near Florence pass through private land, so stay on marked paths
Wine tastings require reservations at most vineyards

Best time to hike

Spring or fall is best for vineyard colors and mild weather when trekking around Florence in the Chianti region.

Address

Greve in Chianti, 50022 Greve in Chianti, Metropolitan City of Florence

Opening hours

Trail open 24 hours, vineyard hours vary

Florence: Chianti Wineries Tour with Wine Tasting

5.5 hours

Booked 48 times yesterday

From Florence: Small Group Wine Tasting Tour to Tuscany

4.5 hours

Certified by GetYourGuide

Booked 25 times yesterday

From Florence: Chianti Half-Day Afternoon Tour

6 hours

Certified by GetYourGuide

Booked 15 times yesterday

From Florence: Tuscany Wine & Food Tour with Guide

8 hours

Certified by GetYourGuide

Likely to sell out

Tuscany by Vespa Full-Day Tour to Chianti Wine Region

6 hours • Small group

Florence: S. Gimignano, Siena, Chianti & Wine Tasting Lunch

11 hours

Certified by GetYourGuide

Booked 13 times yesterday

From Siena: Chianti and Castles Tour with Wine Tastings

5 hours

Florence: Chianti E-Bike Tour with Lunch & Two Wine Tastings

6 hours • Small group

5. Michelangelo Square Walk

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Florence vista from Piazzale Michelangelo, a popular endpoint.

Best hike for city sights and picture-perfect views

Route information

Distance and elevation: 6.4 miles (10.3 km); 702 ft
Hike time: 2.5–3 hours, return
Difficulty level: Moderate
Terrain type: Paved roads, gentle inclines, some stairs
Distance from city center: Starts in the heart of Florence

This uber-instagrammable urban hike is a must for first-time visitors to Florence and an ideal touchpoint for the most scenic sights in the city. Beginning at the iconic Florence Duomo Complex, you’ll pass the masterpiece-filled Uffizi Gallery, home to Botticell’s “The Birth of Venus” and da Vinci’s “The Annunciation.” The trail then crosses the historic medieval Ponte Vecchio with its famous jewelry shops, climbing up to Piazzale Michelangelo for staggering panoramic views of the Florence skyline and the Arno River. Centered in the square is a replica of Michelangelo’s "David" — the cherry on top of one of the best treks in Florence.

What to bring

Comfortable walking shoes (some uphill sections)
A camera for the incredible photo opportunities

Best time to hike

Sunset is magical at Piazzale Michelangelo, but morning Florence trekking sees fewer crowds.

Address

Piazza del Duomo, 50122 Florence, Metropolitan City of Florence

Opening hours

Open 24 hours

Michelangelo's David Skip-the-Line Entry Ticket

1 day • Skip the line

Likely to sell out

Booked 121 times yesterday

Brunelleschi's Dome Climb Entry Ticket & Duomo

3 days • Skip the line • Optional audio guide

Likely to sell out

Booked 82 times yesterday

Skip-The-Line Uffizi Gallery Timed Entry Ticket

1 day • Skip the line • Optional audio guide

Certified by GetYourGuide

Likely to sell out

Booked 158 times yesterday

Accademia Gallery Skip-the-Line Guided Tour

1 hour • Skip the line

Booked 101 times yesterday

Reserved Entry Ticket to the Boboli Gardens

1 day • Skip the line

Certified by GetYourGuide

Booked 46 times yesterday

Florence: Pisa, Siena and San Gimignano Day Trip with Lunch

12 - 12.5 hours

Booked 33 times yesterday

Uffizi Priority Ticket & Masterpieces Audio App

1 day • Skip the line • Optional audio guide

Cathedral & Brunelleschi's Dome Ticket & Audio App

1 - 3 days • Skip the line • Access by Foot

Likely to sell out

Best hikes in Florence: FAQs

Generated with the help of AI

What are the best hiking spots in Florence, Italy?

Florence offers a variety of scenic hiking routes. Explore the Viale dei Colli for panoramic views, or enjoy a leisurely walk in Parco delle Cascine, the city's largest public park. For a more secluded experience, head to the Bellosguardo Hill, known for its stunning vistas. The Oltrarno district provides charming paths through historic neighborhoods, while the gardens of Villa Corsini in Castello offer a peaceful escape. Each location provides a unique perspective of Florence's natural beauty and historical allure.

Is it possible to walk from Florence to Fiesole?

Yes, you can walk from Florence to Fiesole in about two hours. One popular route starts in the Salviatino area, near Piazza Edison on the Bus 7 route. This path offers glimpses of stunning villas and panoramic views of Florence as you ascend.

Are there mountains near Florence, Italy?

Yes, Monte Morello is the highest mountain near Florence, standing at 934 meters. It's located northwest of the city and spans the municipalities of Vaglia, Sesto Fiorentino, and Calenzano. This area offers scenic trails and stunning views, making it a great spot for hiking enthusiasts visiting Florence.

Can I find scenic viewpoints on hikes around Florence?

Florence offers numerous hiking trails with stunning viewpoints. For example, the hike up to Piazzale Michelangelo provides panoramic views of the city and its iconic landmarks. The trails around Fiesole also offer breathtaking vistas of the Tuscan countryside, allowing hikers to enjoy both natural beauty and historical sites.

Are there any historical sites to see while hiking in Florence?

Many hiking trails around Florence pass by historical sites. The trail to Fiesole, for example, takes you through ancient Roman ruins and offers views of the Florence Cathedral from a distance. Hiking in the hills around Florence can also lead you to charming medieval villages and centuries-old churches, adding a cultural dimension to your outdoor adventure.

About the author

Jessica is a writer and editor who has traveled to 40+ countries over the past decade. Being from Montana, she is home in the outdoors and especially enjoys hiking or biking in nature.

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