The most famous place to enjoy this view is Piazzale Michelangelo, an open space created at the end of the 19th century as part of the so-called “improvement”, the redevelopment of the left bank of the Arno that occurred while Florence was capital of Italy. It is an obligatory stopping place, perhaps when you are on your way to the Abbey of San Miniato al Monte.

A medieval religious building that merits a visit in itself (read our article), but also for the views it offers of Florence. The most spectacular access is via the monumental steps.

Less universally known, but much loved by the Florentines, are the gardens placed in the same quadrant of the city, which offer a perspective similar to Piazzale Michelangelo, but which also possess the romantic setting of an ancient garden: that is the case of the Giardino dell’Iris, in Viale Michelangiolo, the Giardino delle Rose, going towards San Miniato, and, a little further on, also the Giardino Bardini.

On the opposite part of the river, on the other hand, are the immense Boboli Gardens, with their various levels, offering different panoramic points: one of the best loved is Prato dell’Uccellare.

A little outside the centre, but within reach if you have been prompted to visit that rather particular place that is the Stibbert Museum another charming park where you can admire Florence from high up.