Text and cover image by Sofia Maria Dalmau Bermeo and Rhone Philip Malcolm Spink-Knight.
Florence is known for its stunning views, and as the days get longer and the weather warms up, there’s no better time to experience them. Whether you’re looking for a peaceful spot to relax, a place to catch up with friends, or the perfect vantage point to watch the sunset, Florence offers a variety of locations that provide the ideal setting. From bustling viewpoints to quiet parks, these five spots offer some of the best places to unwind and enjoy the city’s evening light. Some locations are lively and full of energy, while others provide a serene escape. So grab a snack, put in your headphones, or simply enjoy the view as the sun sets over one of the most beautiful cities in the world.
#1 – Piazzale Michelangelo, The Iconic Overlook
Piazzale Michelangelo is an ideal destination for tourists and locals alike. With live music and a great atmosphere almost every day, it’s a perfect spot to relax and wind down or start your night with friends. There are a couple of ways to reach this hilltop location: you can either walk from Ponte Vecchio, which takes about 20 minutes or take bus number 12 from one of the many nearby stops.
This place has grown very popular on TikTok, so if you want to secure a spot on the iconic stairs during sunset, make sure you arrive early. Piazzale Michelangelo not only offers stunning views of the Duomo and the city centre but also overlooks the rose garden and the old city walls. While it tends to be more tourist-oriented, it’s definitely worth a visit if you’re prepared for crowds, especially on weekend evenings.
#2 – Cascine Park, Riverside Serenity
Cascine, the largest public park in Florence, offers numerous spots to relax and hang out with friends and family. Originally a farm owned by the Medici family, it was transformed into a public park in 1786. During the Christmas season, the park hosts the popular Ice Village event, featuring a Ferris wheel, ice skating, food stalls, and more. It’s an ideal place for picnics or walks with friends, as the park runs along the river. Unless there is an event happening, the park is usually never be too busy.
#3 – San Miniato al Monte, A Quiet Retreat
San Miniato is one of the best spots to watch the sunset in Florence. It is located just above Piazzale Michelangelo but is much quieter. From the top, you can enjoy a panoramic view of the city, including the Duomo, the Arno River, and all the iconic red rooftops. When the sun sets, the church glows and the city takes on a golden hue. Aim to visit in the early evening, especially in spring or fall. For the best view, sit on the steps in front of the church. It’s a peaceful spot, surrounded by trees and away from the crowds. If you have time, be sure to explore the interior of the church, as it is a hidden gem often overlooked by visitors.
#4 – Fiesole, Tuscan Hillside Escape
Just a short bus ride from the city centre, Fiesole is a charming village nestled in the hills, offering breathtaking views of Florence. Located on a Tuscan hillside, it provides sweeping vistas of the entire city, especially stunning at sunset, when Florence is bathed in a golden glow. The best time to visit is in the late afternoon, especially in spring or early autumn. For the most spectacular views, we recommend heading to the terrace near the Monastery of San Francesco or the open spaces next to the ancient Roman amphitheatre. Both locations offer panoramic views of the Florence skyline, the Arno Valley, and the surrounding hills. In addition to the beautiful scenery, you can also explore the old ruins, including the well-preserved Roman amphitheatre.
#5 – Rose Garden, Floral Fragrance and City Views
Tucked away on the same hill as Piazzale Michelangelo, the Rose Garden offers a peaceful retreat with stunning views of the Florence skyline. This serene place is a perfect escape from the bustling city centre. The garden features over 400 varieties of roses as well as a Japanese Shorai oasis. The best time to visit is between April and June when the roses are in full bloom. Depending on the time of day, the garden can be quiet or busier; however, due to its proximity to Piazzale Michelangelo, most visitors tend to gather there around sunset. This creates an ideal opportunity to relax, unwind, and enjoy the beauty of the garden in a tranquil setting.
