Romantic things to do in Florence: Date ideas for every couple

The Tuscan light lends the scenery a romantic, dusky tint in Florence. Discover anniversary ideas and date activities that will make your partner swoon, and explore the most enchanting and romantic things to do in Florence, from serene strolls along the Arno River to finding some Florentine hidden gems. With such a stunning backdrop, it’s no surprise this city is brimming with romance. Take cute couple photos on a Vespa, sip on Chianti wine, and climb to the top of Piazzale Michelangelo for the perfect honeymoon in Florence: this is a journey you’ll look back on for years to come.

Discover Florence’s romantic side

Showstopping romantic activities for special occasions: Take a private gondola ride on the Arno River at sunset.

Romantic neighborhoods to explore on date night: The charming streets of the Oltrarno district.

Secret spots for romantic moments: Bardini Gardens offers breathtaking views and secluded corners.

Cultural experiences for couples: Visit the Uffizi Gallery to admire world-renowned art together.

Scenic viewpoints for romantic photos: Capture the magic of Florence from the top of Giotto’s Campanile.

The best things to do as a couple

1. Get the best couples’ photos with a private photoshoot

Make sure the memories of your romantic trip never fade. Perfect as a memento of your romantic trip, a private photo shoot will take you to the most photogenic spots in Florence, like Ponte Vecchio, and leave you with professional photos you can look back on over the years. This experience is perfect for anniversaries, engagements, or celebrating your love in one of the world’s most romantic cities.

Hot tip

For a truly magical photo, schedule your shoot at sunrise or sunset. The soft light will enhance the romantic atmosphere and create breathtaking images.

2. Ride through the Tuscan hills on horseback

The countryside around Florence is stunning, with its golden light and rolling hills — and on horseback is one of the most romantic ways to experience it. Saddle up, and enjoy this horseback ride and olive oil tour through the beautiful Chianti Hills. Visit one of Tuscany’s most famous olive oil farms, learn about oil production techniques, and enjoy an authentic Tuscan lunch with a glass of Chianti wine.

Hot tip

Avoid the heat of July and August: late spring or early autumn will be ideal.

3. Ride a Vespa through the Chianti countryside

For the most aspirational romantic vacation photos, hop on a Vespa and strike a pose. Vespas are the pinnacle of Italian romance — live out your Roman Holiday fantasy in the safety of the countryside on a Vespa tour of Tuscany. Ride through the Chianti region: enjoy the spectacular scenery, medieval villages, and a delicious Tuscan meal with Chianti wine after the ride.

Hot tip

Stop by a local winery for a tasting session and enjoy a picnic amidst the Tuscany vineyards. It’s a perfect way to add a special touch to your ride.

4. Find the way to their heart with an Italian cooking class

What could be more romantic than food in Florence? The answer is Italian food, hand-cooked by your special someone. For a fun and original couples’ activity, learn to prepare traditional dishes like pasta, pizza, and tiramisu from expert chefs. This hands-on experience enhances your culinary skills and creates lasting memories as you enjoy the fruits of your labor together.

Hot tip

Choose a class that includes visiting a local market to pick fresh ingredients. It’s a great way to immerse yourselves in the local culture and make the experience even more special.

The best date ideas

5. Thrill to the melodious sounds of Italian opera

”How silver-sweet sound lovers’ tongues by night, like softest music to attending ears.” For an extra-special romantic activity for music lovers, treat them to an opera. The arias are by Italian composers such as Verdi, Puccini, and Rossini. This will be a date night to remember.

Hot tip

Book tickets to a performance at the renowned Teatro della Pergola for an extra special night. Arrive early to explore the elegant architecture and enjoy a pre-show drink.

Address and opening hours

Via della Pergola, 12/32, 50121 Florence. Check the theater’s schedule for performance times and ticket availability.

6. Drive into the sunset in a vintage car

For an idyllic and quintessentially Italian date, try a sunset wine-tasting tour in a vintage car. Enjoy the beautiful scenery of olive groves and vineyards in the golden Tuscan evening light as you glide by in a Fiat 500. Following the drive, enjoy a cocktail and wine tasting and a snack of delicious local produce.

Hot tip

Plan your drive to coincide with sunset for a truly magical experience. Bring a picnic to enjoy at a scenic spot as the sun sets over the Tuscan landscape.

7. Paddle down the River Arno

Adventurous couples will love a romantic paddle boarding tour as a date idea — gently drift down the River Arno on paddle boards, taking in the city’s sights and bathing in Florence’s famous golden dusk. This romantic activity allows you to glide past historic Florence landmarks like the Ponte Vecchio and the Uffizi Gallery while enjoying the tranquility of the water. It’s a perfect way to spend quality time together and enjoy the city’s beauty.

Hot tip

Opt for an evening paddle to enjoy the stunning colors of the sunset reflecting on the River Arno, creating a magical atmosphere.

8. Take a dreamy day trip to the Val d’Orcia

The Val d’Orcia region is a breathtaking region of natural beauty and cultural history. On a day trip to Val d’Orcia, visit Montalcino and learn about Brunello di Montalcino, counted among Italy’s most prestigious wines, before traveling on to the stunning village of Pienza and ending in the stunning medieval village of Montepulciano.

Hot tip

Travel to Val d’Orcia in spring to see the blooming poppy fields; travel in summer for the region’s famous golden yellow wheat fields. Either way, it’s stunning.

The best anniversary ideas

9. Be dazzled by the stunning Cinque Terre and Ligurian coast

One of Italy’s most scenic spots, Cinque Terre has inspired generations of artists with its dramatic cliffs, pastel-colored villages, and fishermen’s boats. On a Cinque Terre day trip, explore the charming villages of Vernazza, Corniglia, Monterosso, and Manarola, then take a boat to the fishing village of Riomaggiore before returning to Florence.

Hot tip

Due to the region’s Mediterranean climate, late spring and autumn are the most pleasant times of year in Cinque Terre.

10. Make your own wine in a boutique Chianti winery

Life is too short to drink bad wine. With a wine-making experience, discover the secrets of wine blending, experience a tasting of 5 classic wines from the Chianti region, and indulge your taste buds with a delicious meal in a boutique winery. It’s the ultimate romantic activity in the beautiful surroundings of the Tuscan countryside.

Hot tip

Choose a winery that offers a guided tour of the vineyards and cellars, followed by a wine-tasting session. Pair your wines with local cheeses and charcuterie for a complete experience.

11. Be swept off your feet by Renaissance Florence at the Uffizi

For lovers of art and beauty, no trip to Florence is complete without marveling at the city’s many Renaissance treasures at Galeria Uffizi. Home to masterpieces by Botticelli, Michelangelo, and Leonardo da Vinci, this world-renowned museum offers an intimate and inspiring experience. Wander through the stunning halls and let the beauty of the artwork sweep you off your feet.

Hot tip

Book a private guided tour to gain deeper insights into the artworks and avoid the crowds. End your visit with a romantic stroll along the nearby Arno River.

Address and opening hours

Piazzale degli Uffizi, 6, 50122 Florence. Open Tuesday to Sunday, 8:15 AM – 6:50 PM.

12. Swoon in a hot air balloon over the valleys of Tuscany

Those seeking date ideas can take to the skies in a hot air balloon over some of Italy’s most spectacular hills. Admire the Tuscan vineyards, picturesque castles, and rolling cypress hills from a bird’s eye view with a balloon tour over Tuscany. Upon landing, enjoy a delicious breakfast and a sparkling glass of champagne.

Hot tip

This romantic activity takes place year-round, but ”ballooning season” in Tuscany is from March to November. Flights will depend on weather conditions.

FAQs

What are the most romantic activities to do in Florence?

Florence has no shortage of romantic activities and anniversary ideas. Pack a picnic and head to the stunning Boboli Gardens or the Garden of Roses, enjoy a romantic meal of delicious Ligurian cuisine, or take a day trip to the beautiful Chianti countryside.

What are some offbeat romantic things to do in Florence?

Visit the Santa Maria Novella perfume shop for a unique sensory experience. The perfumery has been in this building for 600 years and boasts elegant chandeliers, soft lighting, and stunning artwork, as well as a host of colored bottles, aromas, and scents. The store’s signature scent, Acqua di Santa Maria Novella, is a blend of bergamot and aromatic spices.

What are the most romantic spots to watch the sunset in Florence?

If you’re looking for the best views of the city, skip the overcrowded Piazzale Michelangelo, and hike up the hill a little further to get to San Miniato al Monte. This stunning Romanesque church offers an ideal view of the city to enjoy the sunset.

What are some romantic day trips from Florence?

The Chianti countryside is among the most beautiful in Italy. Visit the nearby medieval towns of Fiesole, Montepulciano, and San Gimignano, see the spectacular Siena Cathedral, or go up the coast to see the rugged cliffs and romantic pastel seaside villages of Cinque Terre.

What are the best places to take romantic photos in Florence?

Visit the Wisteria Tunnel at the Bardini Gardens in April for a spectacular purple backdrop to your date. The Giardino delle Rose is another stunning spot popular among visiting couples for photos — visit in spring when the roses are in bloom. The Oltrarno neighborhood is another popular photo spot, with its beautiful stone walls, famous gardens, and the lovely Piazza Santo Spirito.