Intro: Florence offers a number of spectacular views over the city from above and lovely views of architecture from ground level. If you're like me and love to take photos in the best light, or simply you love a good view to enjoy the end of the day the below tips should give you plenty of exciting options. Let me know what you think at the comment section at the bottom of the page!
Piazzale Michelangelo is a square with a panoramic view over Florence and was probably my highlight from my fews days there. Its the most perfect place to grab a drink and watch the sunset a top a hill with the most spectacular views over Florence.
The view captures the heart of Florence from Forte Belvedere to Santa Croce, across the lungarni and the bridges crossing the Arno, including the Ponte Vecchio, the Duomo, Palazzo Vecchio, the Bargello and the octagonal bell tower of the Badia Fiorentina. Beyond the city are the hills of Settignano and Fiesole and if you visit at sunset you should be treated to beautiful silhouettes of the famous high trees of Florence in the distance.
Giardino Bardini. The baby of the Boboli Gardens this place often left out or missed simply due to its position hidden by the larger Boboli Gardens. Bordini is basically a beautiful Italian Renaissance garden filled with statues, colourful flowers and a perfect view over the Duomo.
Ponte Santa Trinita (Bridge). For the best view of the famous Ponte Vecchio bridge is from the bridge just a short walk away - the Ponte Santa Trinita. Being on this side of the Ponte Vecchio means that as the sun sets to the West the golden light will fall and glow on the side facing you. From the other side the bridge, although still looking fabulous, is in the shade.
The Westin Excelsior. Is a five star hotel in the centre of historic Florence. I went up to the very popular Belvedere terrace for a sunset cocktail. Here you have views along the Arno river and a nice side able of the Duomo. The staff know how to make you feel welcome and you’ll feel like you are being treated well - make the most of it!
Many people were flooding here for the evening $20 buffet. I arrived at 15 minutes early and just grabbed a cocktail (this was still $8) and there is a minimum charge 7pm-9pm - so be warned. However the buffet did look pretty great and you could get as much food as you desired.
La Terrazza Lounge Bar (https://www.lungarnocollection.com/la-terrazza-lounge-bar)
a cocktail bar at the top floor of the medieval Consorti tower of the fashionable Hotel Continentale. Surrounded by the most impeccable views of the Arno, Brunelleschi's Dome, San Miniato, Palazzo Vecchio and Forte Belvedere.
Grand Hotel Baglioni. - Panoramic Restaurant (https://www.hotelbaglioni.it/en/bars-restaurants/the-panoramic-restaurant) On the fifth floor of the Grand Hotel Baglioni you can find our restaurant, a special place where you can enjoy haute cuisine whilst enjoying a spectacular panoramic view of Florence's skyline.
