One of the most beautiful views of the Renaissance rooftops of Florence’s skyline is found at sunset at Piazzale Michelangelo, high above the streets of the old town.
The most direct route to Piazzale Michelangelo is from the stairs just above San Niccolò. From here you can view the various parts of Florence from several angles as the steps rise amidst a surprising amount of greenery (for central Florence) before finally being greeted by a beautiful tangerine sunset glazing the waters of the Arno with a mirror-like sheen, and casting the whole of Florence in a romantic, abstract haze, not unlike Monet’s Impression, Sunrise (only with the captivating silhouettes of Florence’s impeccable time-defying skyline).
This stunning 19th-century viewing terrace was designed in 1869 by the Florentine architect Giuseppe Poggi and offers the most revered panoramic views of Florence and the Arno Valley. All kinds of plans were laid out for the terrace, including a Michelangelo museum, in what is now a restaurant at the top of the hill, most of which never came to light. However several Michelangelo copies, including a David made from bronze, reside at the top.
Be aware that the terrace is almost always full with gipsy bands and street vendors mingling with tourists and locals out for the sunset.
If you’re looking for a convenient starting point for your walk to Piazzale Michelangelo or just a beautiful hotel in central Florence, Gallery Hotel Art: Lungarno Collection, is ideal (and just a few steps from the river). Alternatively, if you enjoy this guide, consider using this link to choose your hotel on Expedia (which will earn Europe Is Our Playground a small affiliate fee).
Below: Sunset over The Ponte Vecchio From Piazzale Michelangelo & The Cattedrale di Santa Maria del Fiore From Piazzale Michelangelo.
How To Get To Piazzale Michelangelo?
Simply look up and to the east from Ponte Vecchio on the river Arno and you’ll see a mass of people peering over an old brick terrace surrounded by the lush green hills of the Tuscan countryside and one or two very beautiful churches. From here walk along the south side of the river towards the Torre San Niccolò (an old tower from the medieval city walls) and follow the glorious looping ramps and rocky paths all the way up to the top of the hill.
Alternatively for those who prefer taking on a slightly challenging set of (a couple of hundred) steps. Start at San Niccolò on the south side of the Arno and head through the Porta San Miniato gateway, up a short though admittedly rather steep street, and then point yourself in the direction of the wide stone steps that lay to the left of the pathway. This is by far the quickest route for walkers and also my favourite. As you walk up the steps take a break or two to turn around, as you climb higher and higher above the streets of Florence, you’ll note that the view becomes more and more spectacular.
You can also take the bus to Piazzale Michelangelo. The bus number 12 or 13 both go there. From the train station, either of these busses will take you up to Piazza Michelangelo and will cost approx €1.20 each way (purchase the ticket in advance at a tabaccheria/tobacconist or from the Santa Maria Novella Station). Alternatively, Florence has finally introduced contactless payment on their buses and trams, so just tap when you board the bus and again when you leave, using a smartphone or your Mastercard, Visa or American Express.
For comparable views directly from your hotel, try the excellent Gallery Hotel Art: Lungarno Collection, home to the excellent Fusion Bar and Restaurant (read our review).
