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How to Prepare Your Home for the Summer Season in Florence

Florence remains one of the most sought-after tourist destinations during the summer months. Its artistic heritage, vibrant cultural life, and unique atmosphere attract millions of visitors every year. In this context, short-term rentals in Florence present a valuable opportunity for those who own property in the historic center or surrounding areas. However, preparing a home for the summer season requires attention to detail, care, and a hospitality-oriented approach.

Climate Comfort: A Must for the Florentine Summer

Summer heat in Florence can be intense. For this reason, a home intended for short-term rentals must ensure good thermal comfort. Installing or maintaining an efficient air conditioning system is essential. Natural solutions such as blackout curtains, ceiling fans, and shutters can also help maintain a pleasant temperature. A cool and well-ventilated home is more inviting and increases the chances of receiving positive reviews.

Details That Make a Difference in Summer Hospitality

During the summer months, guests look for a relaxing and functional experience. A welcome kit with fresh water, city maps, and tips for the best gelato spots or shaded terraces can make a big difference. Providing summer accessories such as straw hats, fans, or mosquito nets can further enhance the guest experience. Attention to detail is what turns an ordinary stay into a real vacation.

Cleaning and Maintenance: Top Priorities

In summer, with increased bookings, maintaining a high standard of cleanliness is essential. Scheduling a deep clean before the start of the season and planning regular checks between stays ensures a consistently perfect environment. Likewise, preventive maintenance of appliances, plumbing, and air conditioning systems helps avoid unpleasant surprises.

Outdoor Spaces: An Added Value in Summer

Those who choose short-term rentals in Florence during the summer often want to enjoy a moment of relaxation outdoors. A small balcony decorated with plants, a terrace with an umbrella, or a courtyard equipped with chairs and a table can become strong selling points. Outdoor lighting, with soft lights or lanterns, also helps create a pleasant atmosphere for summer evenings.

Communication and Visibility: Promote Your Home the Right Way

Preparing your home for summer isn’t just about improving its physical state. A well-crafted listing, updated with seasonal photos and a description focused on summer benefits, can greatly boost online visibility. Clearly mentioning climate comfort, outdoor spaces, and extra summer services will catch the attention of travelers searching for short-term rentals in Florence.

Entrust Your Home to SweetDreamsInFlorence: Worry-Free Professional Management

If you want to take advantage of the opportunities offered by short-term rentals in Florence but lack the time or skills to manage all aspects, SweetDreamsInFlorence is here to help. We offer a comprehensive property management service designed for homeowners who want to stay informed and compliant without dealing with daily management. From online promotion to guest care, cleaning, maintenance, and regulatory compliance, we handle everything. Contact us through our website www.sweetdreamsinflorence.com to propose your property: we’ll turn it into a source of income, leaving you with nothing but the satisfaction of the results.

Investing in summer preparation for your home is essential to maximize the return from short-term rentals in Florence. Focusing on comfort, details, cleanliness, and online presentation helps you stand out in a competitive market and offer guests a memorable experience in the stunning summer setting of the Tuscan capital.

Calcio Storico Fiorentino: The Fierce and Timeless Soul of Florence

Calcio storico fiorentino is more than a game. It’s a celebration of history, courage, and the fierce identity that defines Florence. Every June, the iconic Piazza Santa Croce transforms into a sand-covered arena, echoing with drums and the roar of tradition. For visitors, experiencing the calcio storico fiorentino is not just a peek into local folklore—it’s an immersion into the very soul of the city.

Ancient Origins and Renaissance Spirit

The origins of calcio storico fiorentino date back to the 16th century, although some believe it draws from Roman military games. The most legendary match took place on February 17, 1530, during the siege of Florence by the imperial troops of Charles V. As a bold act of resistance, the city staged a match in Piazza Santa Croce, declaring that its spirit would not be broken. This defiant gesture lives on, and today, every game played is steeped in that same pride and resilience.

The Four Competing Neighborhoods

The tournament involves four teams, each representing a historic district of Florence: Santa Croce (Blue), Santo Spirito (White), Santa Maria Novella (Red), and San Giovanni (Green). Each team has its own color, symbols, and loyal supporters. Being part of a neighborhood team is a deep honor, and players—known as calcianti—are selected not only for their physical prowess but also for their ties to the community.

A Game Like No Other

Calcio storico fiorentino is played on a sand-covered field set against the backdrop of the Basilica of Santa Croce. The rules are unique and intense: 27 players per team, 50 minutes of non-stop action, and very few limitations. The game is a dramatic mix of football, rugby, and hand-to-hand combat. There are no substitutions, and injuries are common. Brutal yet disciplined, it is a test of strength, endurance, and above all, honor.

A Living Tradition

Today, calcio storico fiorentino is more alive than ever. The final match takes place on June 24th, the feast day of San Giovanni, Florence’s patron saint. Before the match, a grand Renaissance parade winds through the city center, with musicians, drummers, and flag bearers in period costume. It’s a breathtaking display that transforms the city into a living page from the past, captivating both locals and visitors.

Calcio Storico Fiorentino in Contemporary Culture

Despite its rawness, calcio storico fiorentino is deeply embedded in Florentine life. Locals speak of their neighborhood teams with passion, and many players are regarded as community heroes. The game has inspired documentaries, articles, and even films, all capturing the intensity and uniqueness of this centuries-old tradition. It is one of the few urban rituals that has resisted time and commercialism, staying true to its original spirit.

A Must-See Event in Florence

If you’re visiting Florence in June, seeing a match of calcio storico fiorentino is a must. It’s a chance to witness something truly unforgettable—an explosion of history, identity, and raw energy. The sound of the drums, the clash of players, the banners flying in the wind: every detail tells the story of a city that has never lost its pride.

On Sweet Dreams in Florence, telling the story of calcio storico fiorentino means honoring a tradition that still beats strong in the heart of the city—and continues to inspire awe, generation after generation.

Discover where to stay near Piazza Santa Croce to enjoy the spectacle…

The Medici’s Giraffe: An Exotic Gift That Enchanted Renaissance Florence

Among the many fascinating stories that make up the rich history of Florence, one stands out for its sense of wonder and faraway mystery. It is the story — both real and legendary — of the Medici’s giraffe, a rare and exotic creature whose arrival in Renaissance Florence left the city in awe.

A diplomatic gift for Lorenzo the Magnificent

In the year 1487, Lorenzo de’ Medici, known as “the Magnificent,” received an extraordinary gift from the Sultan of Egypt: a giraffe. At the time, this animal was a true rarity in Europe — so much so that it hadn’t been seen on the continent since the days of ancient Rome.

Its journey to Florence was long and complex, crossing the Mediterranean and Italian territories before finally arriving in the city. The gift was not just a marvel of nature; it was also a powerful political symbol — a gesture of diplomacy that confirmed Florence’s reputation as a city of influence, wealth, and cultural supremacy.

Awe and wonder in the heart of the Renaissance

The giraffe’s presence caused a sensation. Tall, graceful, and unlike anything most Florentines had ever seen, the animal quickly became the talk of the city. Crowds gathered to witness it. Poets praised its elegance, and artists were inspired by its form. It wasn’t just an animal; it was a spectacle — a living emblem of Florence’s unique position at the crossroads of East and West, curiosity and ambition, culture and exotic allure.

Its time in Florence, however, was short-lived. While historical records hint at an untimely end, the details remain vague and open to interpretation. What remains clear is the impression the giraffe left on the city. That brief but dazzling appearance only deepened its mythical status, making it a symbol of the extraordinary — a fleeting vision that still lingers in the city’s imagination.

Florence as a city of wonder and vision

The story of the Medici’s giraffe is more than a curious anecdote. It reveals a lot about the spirit of Florence during its golden age: a city bold enough to engage with the world, to blend diplomacy with drama, and to surprise even its own citizens. It reminds us that behind every stone of this city lies a story — and sometimes, even a legend.

Stay in the heart of Florence’s history: Dimora Savelli

If you’re planning a stay in Florence and want to experience the city’s timeless charm, Dimora Savelli is a place unlike any other. Located in the heart of the Oltrarno district, this noble apartment blends history and elegance with contemporary comfort.

With its refined interiors, historic atmosphere, and central location, Dimora Savelli offers more than just a place to stay — it invites you to live Florence as the Medici once did, surrounded by beauty, heritage, and quiet sophistication.

Unusual Itinerary: Medieval Florence Between Alleys and Towers

Florence is widely celebrated for its Renaissance treasures, but for travelers eager to explore the city’s more ancient soul, a journey through its medieval remnants offers a rich and evocative experience. Hidden behind the splendor of the Renaissance lies a labyrinth of towers, narrow streets, and forgotten churches that tell the story of a turbulent and fascinating past.

Towers of Power: The Medieval Skyline

In the Middle Ages, Florence was a battleground for influential noble families. To assert dominance and protect themselves, they built tall stone towers that shaped the city’s early skyline. Many of these towers still exist, especially along streets like Via dei Cerchi, Via della Condotta, and Via delle Terme. Notable examples include the Buondelmonti Tower, the Donati Tower — once the home of Dante Alighieri’s family — and the well-preserved Torre della Castagna, which historically hosted the meetings of the Priors’ Council.

Discovering the Medieval Alleys

Stepping away from Florence’s wide avenues and iconic squares, one can delve into the medieval heart of the city. Streets like Borgo Albizi, Chiasso dei Baroncelli, Via dei Magazzini, and Piazza dei Cimatori maintain their original layout and architectural style. Walking through these alleys is like traveling through time. Carved family crests, arched doorways, and stone windows still adorn the facades, offering a glimpse into the political and social tensions that once defined this urban landscape.

The Forgotten Churches of the Historic Center

Beyond Florence’s grand cathedrals lies a network of smaller, lesser-known medieval churches, rich in history and character. Santa Margherita dei Cerchi, a small church often linked to Dante and his muse Beatrice, offers a moment of quiet reflection. Nearby stands San Martino del Vescovo, associated with the city’s guilds and adorned with frescoes and coats of arms. These churches offer a more intimate view of medieval Florence, revealing the daily lives and spiritual practices of its citizens.

Experiencing Medieval Florence at Dusk

As night falls and the city calms, medieval Florence comes alive with atmosphere. The fading light softens the city’s stone facades, and the narrow streets echo with the footsteps of evening strollers. Areas like Piazza San Martino, Via delle Brache, and Via del Corso take on a mysterious charm that transports visitors to another era. It is during these twilight hours that the soul of medieval Florence is most tangible.

A Break in Historic Taverns and Wine Bars

To enhance the experience, stop at one of the many wine bars nestled in medieval cellars. These venues often feature original stone vaults and rustic furnishings, maintaining a sense of authenticity. Recommended stops include Antica Vinaia, known for its Tuscan wine selections and cured meat platters, and Il Gatto e la Volpe, a cozy trattoria serving traditional dishes in a historical setting.

Thematic Tours for In-Depth Exploration

For those eager to deepen their understanding, several guided tours focus specifically on medieval Florence. Led by local historians or architecture experts, these tours often grant access to hidden courtyards and include detailed explanations of the city’s urban evolution. They are ideal for visitors who wish not only to see Florence but to comprehend its historical depth.

Contemporary Art in Florence

When people think of Florence, they often imagine the masterpieces of the Renaissance—Michelangelo, Botticelli, and the Uffizi Gallery. But this iconic Tuscan city is more than a celebration of the past: in recent years, it has become an exciting destination for contemporary art lovers. If you’re a traveler drawn to modern expression, cutting-edge creativity, and unconventional exhibition spaces, Florence invites you to explore a vibrant and evolving cultural scene that reaches far beyond the classics.

The Strozzina: Contemporary Art in the Heart of Renaissance Elegance

Located in the historic center, Palazzo Strozzi is renowned for hosting international exhibitions. Within its grand halls, the Strozzina offers a dynamic space dedicated to contemporary art. This gallery focuses on thought-provoking installations and thematic shows that reflect today’s social, cultural, and political conversations. Visiting the Strozzina is a powerful experience—each exhibition is curated with care and often features emerging or mid-career artists who challenge conventional boundaries through innovative forms.

Beyond the Classics: Independent Galleries in the Oltrarno

Crossing the Arno River into the bohemian Oltrarno district opens up a whole new artistic world. This neighborhood, rich in personality and creativity, is home to some of Florence’s most compelling independent art spaces. Places like NAM – Not a Museum, part of the Manifattura Tabacchi cultural hub, as well as galleries tucked into the side streets of via Maggio and San Frediano, offer rotating exhibitions and multimedia installations that embody Florence’s experimental side. It’s in these quieter, less touristy corners that the city’s artistic pulse beats loudest—alive with new voices and contemporary energy.

Urban Creativity: Street Art and Cultural Spaces in Transformation

Contemporary art in Florence isn’t limited to galleries—it spills into the streets, parks, and former industrial zones. Urban art, open-air installations, and interdisciplinary centers are reshaping the city’s cultural map. Initiatives like PARC – Performing Arts Research Centre highlight Florence’s growing role as a creative lab, where visual art blends with performance, sound, and digital experimentation. As you explore the city, keep an eye out for public art interventions that turn unexpected places into stages for imagination and dialogue.

Where to Stay for a Creative Experience

To make the most of Florence’s contemporary side, choosing the right accommodation is key. Sweet Dreams in Florence’s apartments offers the perfect base: centrally located, peaceful, and thoughtfully designed. Whether you’re heading to a gallery opening or returning from a day of artistic exploration, you’ll find comfort, charm, and inspiration waiting in our welcoming rooms. Staying with us means being close to the heart of the city’s culture—both classic and contemporary.

A New Way to See Florence, Beyond the Renaissance

Florence is not only a window into the past but also a living city where the present takes shape through art. If you’re a traveler who craves depth, discovery, and creativity, this alternative itinerary will show you a side of Florence that’s fresh, unexpected, and deeply engaging. Come and experience an art scene that speaks to the now, and fall in love with a city that continues to reinvent itself through beauty and imagination.

Book here your ticket for Palazzo Strozzi

The Via degli Dei from Florence, a Journey of Trekking

Florence is not only a treasure trove of art, museums, and Renaissance beauty—it is also the starting point for a unique journey that blends physical adventure with inner exploration. The Via degli Dei (Way of the Gods) is one of Italy’s most fascinating long-distance trails, beginning right in the heart of Florence and stretching all the way to Bologna. This route takes hikers through ancient roads, breathtaking landscapes, and centuries of history. It’s the ideal experience for those seeking a meaningful walk that combines nature, history, and spiritual reflection.

From Florence to the Apennines: A Journey Through Time and Landscape

The path begins in the historic center of Florence, near Piazza della Signoria, with Renaissance landmarks still in sight as the journey begins. From there, the trail gradually leads you out of the city and into the Tuscan hills, passing through places like Fiesole, Monte Senario, and the Futa Pass. Along the way, you’ll encounter Roman roads, medieval monasteries, and quiet hilltop villages. This is a side of Tuscany that few tourists see—peaceful, raw, and full of hidden stories waiting to be discovered.

A Pilgrimage of the Soul: More Than Just a Trek

While the Via degli Dei is a physically rewarding hike, it’s also a spiritual path. The rhythm of walking day after day allows space for deep reflection and personal connection. Pilgrims along this route often speak of a sense of peace and perspective that grows with every step. The trail is dotted with chapels, mountain crosses, and contemplative spots that invite you to slow down and listen—to nature, to your thoughts, and to the sacred silence around you.

Start Your Journey Right: Stay in Florence Before You Walk

If you’re planning to walk the Via degli Dei, Florence is the perfect place to begin your journey—mentally and physically. At Sweet Dreams in Florence, you can relax in comfort before setting off, taking time to enjoy the city’s vibrant atmosphere, art, and cuisine. Our La Limonaia apartment, close to the trail’s departure point, is ideal for resting, preparing, and starting your pilgrimage with energy and inspiration. Your journey with the gods begins with a peaceful stay in the heart of the city.

A Memorable Adventure with a Florentine Soul

The Via degli Dei is more than just a hike—it’s a transformative experience that leaves a lasting imprint. It’s a path of gratitude, discovery, and renewal. And Florence, with its rich history and warm hospitality, is not just the beginning of this adventure—it’s an essential part of it. Join us, and let your journey unfold step by step, starting from one of the most beautiful cities in the world.

Discover more about The Via degli Dei on the official website

What to Do in Florence from April 25 to May 1

Spring in Florence brings a renewed energy, filling the city with vibrant colors, enticing scents, and cultural events that turn every corner into a celebration of beauty. If you’re in town between April 25 and May 1, 2025, you’ve chosen one of the most enchanting times of the year. During this special week, Florence hosts two iconic events: the Florence International Handicrafts Trade Fair and the Spring Flower Exhibition at the Horticulture Garden—a perfect blend of creativity and nature.

 

The Craft Fair: A Journey Through the Hands of the World

From April 25 to May 1, the historic Fortezza da Basso becomes the stage for the International Handicrafts Trade Fair (MIDA), an event that has celebrated handmade excellence for over 80 years. Artisans from Italy and around the globe come to showcase their finest creations, offering visitors the chance to discover unique products, watch live demonstrations, and even participate in creative workshops. It’s a great opportunity to find one-of-a-kind items, support local and global crafts, and experience the vibrant atmosphere of this historic fair. Plus, there are food zones with traditional Tuscan flavors, live performances, and interactive exhibitions that enrich the experience.

 

Florence in Bloom: The Spring Flower Show at the Horticulture Garden

Meanwhile, just a short walk from the city center, the Giardino dell’Orticoltura bursts into bloom for the Spring Flower Exhibition, a beloved event that transforms this 19th-century park into a botanical wonderland. Stroll among rare flowers, bonsai trees, aromatic herbs, and garden accessories while enjoying the peaceful elegance of Florence’s green heart. The setting, complete with its glass-and-iron greenhouse, offers the perfect escape from the city buzz—ideal for photos, a relaxing break, or picking up natural products directly from local growers.

 

Culture, Relaxation, and the Joy of Discovery

Between the two fairs, Florence offers countless ways to fill your days with art, history, and leisure. Museums stay open, piazzas come alive with music and conversation, and spring evenings are perfect for sipping wine in a hidden courtyard. Use this festive time to explore lesser-known neighborhoods like San Niccolò or the Oltrarno, where artisan workshops, panoramic views, and authentic local life come together in a unique blend of tradition and charm.

 

Your Home Away from Home in Florence

For a truly comfortable and memorable stay during this busy and exciting week, choose a place where you can unwind and feel at home. Sweetdreamsinflorence offers apartments, with stylish atmosphere in a central location, just steps from the city’s most iconic landmarks and both major events. After a day filled with flowers, markets, and sunshine, our cozy rooms will welcome you with peace, care, and the charm of true Florentine hospitality.

 

A Week of Beauty and Inspiration in the Heart of Tuscany

From April 25 to May 1, Florence becomes a city of creativity and renewal. Whether you’re passionate about design, love gardening, or simply want to enjoy the best of spring in Italy, this is the perfect time to visit. Book your stay early, discover the many faces of Florence, and let yourself be enchanted by a city where every detail tells a story.

Book here your ticket for the Florence International Handicrafts Trade Fair 

April 25 in Florence: history, emotion, and timeless beauty

A city that breathes freedom

April 25 is a day of deep meaning for Italy, but in Florence, it becomes something truly poetic. As you wander through streets where the past lives in every stone, the celebration of Liberation Day turns into a vibrant encounter between memory and beauty. If you’re lucky enough to be visiting the city at this time, prepare for an experience that will touch both your eyes and your heart.

A morning of remembrance in the heart of the city

The day begins with an air of reverence. In Piazza Unità Italiana, a wreath is laid in memory of those who fought for freedom, followed by a solemn procession through the historic center toward Palazzo Vecchio. Here, a public ceremony brings together city officials, citizens, and visitors in a powerful tribute to Florence’s role in the Italian Resistance.

As the day unfolds, the city blossoms with energy. In the afternoon, Piazza della Signoria becomes a stage for the Filarmonica Rossini’s concert, filling the Renaissance square with soaring music and a touch of magic.

Florence in bloom: culture, gardens, and spring light

April is a perfect month to fall in love with Florence. All around the city, events flourish like spring flowers. Cultural centers and libraries host readings and exhibitions, where stories of the past meet modern creativity. For a sensory delight, walk up to the Bardini Gardens: a hillside garden overlooking Florence, where wisteria and roses bloom in stunning harmony.

And for art lovers, the city offers an unmissable gift: many museums open their doors for free on this special day. From the Uffizi to the Pitti Palace, from the Boboli Gardens to the Bargello Museum, it’s the perfect time to dive into the artistic soul of Florence without spending a euro.

Walking through memory

Those with a passion for history can take part in guided walks through sites linked to the Resistance. Places like the Monument to the Executed in the Cascine Park or the Casone dei Ferrovieri open a window into the struggles and hopes of a generation that fought for freedom. In Florence, history is not locked in books—it lives in the streets, ready to be discovered.

Practical tips for visitors

April 25 is a national holiday in Italy, so the city will be lively and full of events. Book museums and restaurants in advance, and plan to explore on foot. Florence is especially charming in the spring light—stop for a gelato in Piazza della Repubblica or climb to Piazzale Michelangelo for a sunset you’ll never forget.

On this day, Florence doesn’t just welcome you. It embraces you with its stories, its songs, and its soul.

Easter in Florence

Easter in Florence: a Journey Through Tradition, Art and Flavors

Spending Easter in Florence feels like stepping into a living painting—surrounded by Renaissance art, rich traditions, and flavors that tell the story of Tuscany. The city, already a masterpiece year-round, becomes even more magical during the Easter holidays. Historic rituals, cultural events, and a vibrant spring atmosphere make it an unforgettable destination for a short getaway.

The “Scoppio del Carro”: A Must-See Tradition

The highlight of Easter in Florence is undoubtedly the Scoppio del Carro, or “Explosion of the Cart,” a spectacular tradition that takes place on Easter Sunday in Piazza del Duomo. A richly decorated cart, known as the Brindellone, is pulled by oxen to the space between the Baptistery of San Giovanni and the Cathedral of Santa Maria del Fiore. At noon, during the Easter Mass, a mechanical dove (symbolizing the Holy Spirit) glides along a wire from the altar to ignite fireworks inside the cart—setting off a dazzling explosion. According to legend, a successful blast brings good luck for the year to come.

Discover Art and Breathtaking Views

During the Easter weekend, Florence offers endless opportunities to explore its artistic treasures and enjoy some of the best views in Italy. One of the best ways to start the day is with a walk or bike ride up to Piazzale Michelangelo, where you can take in the full panorama of the city—the Duomo rising above red-tiled roofs, framed by Tuscan hills.

Art lovers will find the Uffizi Gallery and the Accademia (home of Michelangelo’s David) hard to resist. Be sure to book tickets in advance, as this is a popular time for both locals and tourists. For a more relaxed stroll, walk along the Arno River or cross the iconic Ponte Vecchio, soaking in the romantic atmosphere of Florence in bloom.

Traditional Easter Flavors in Florence

Easter is also a feast for the senses, and Florence’s culinary scene doesn’t disappoint. Local trattorias and restaurants—especially in authentic neighborhoods like San Frediano or Sant’Ambrogio—serve up traditional dishes such as roast lamb with potatoes, Tuscan crostini, and sweet treats like schiacciata di Pasqua, a soft, anise-flavored Easter bread. You’ll also find artisan-made Colomba cakes, the Italian dove-shaped symbol of Easter.

Many restaurants offer special Easter menus that blend tradition and innovation, giving you the chance to taste regional classics reinterpreted with a modern twist.

Spring Vibes and Easter Markets

Spring is arguably the best season to explore Florence. The mild weather, blooming gardens, and longer days add a special charm to every piazza and hidden corner. During Easter, you’ll find open-air markets and artisan fairs, perfect for picking up handmade gifts, local delicacies, or seasonal decorations.

For a peaceful break from the city buzz, visit the Boboli Gardens or the Bardini Garden—both offer lush landscapes, historic statues, and blooming wisteria tunnels that feel like something out of a dream.

A Memorable Easter Getaway

Whether it’s the excitement of the Scoppio del Carro, the scent of fresh-baked Easter breads, or the golden sunset over the Arno, Easter in Florence is an unforgettable experience. It’s a time when the city’s timeless beauty, cultural richness, and warm hospitality come together—offering every visitor a chance to create lasting memories in one of the most enchanting places in the world.

Dettaglio dei fiori di glicine lilla a Villa Bardini

Wisteria Blooming at Villa Bardini

The Wisteria Bloom at Villa Bardini: A Springtime Spectacle in Florence

Every spring, a small miracle of nature takes place in the heart of Florence: the wisteria bloom at Villa Bardini. A burst of color and fragrance transforms this historic garden into a corner of paradise, drawing thousands of visitors, photographers, and nature lovers every year. This enchanting event has become one of the most iconic highlights of the Florentine spring—a must-see for those who cherish beauty, nature, and history.

Villa Bardini: A Hidden Gem in Florence’s Hills

Located on the hills of the Oltrarno district, Villa Bardini is one of the most fascinating and lesser-known locations in Florence. Though less famous than other tourist landmarks in the city, it offers one of the most breathtaking panoramic views of the historic center and the Arno River. The garden, originally designed in the 17th century, was restored and reopened to the public in 2005 after decades of neglect. Today, it’s a haven where art, culture, and nature coexist in perfect harmony.

The Magic of the Wisteria Pergola

The true star of spring at Villa Bardini is the long wisteria-covered pergola, which turns vibrant shades of lilac, violet, and lavender when in bloom. The wisteria season in Florence typically occurs between mid-April and early May, with slight variations depending on the weather. When the blooms reach their peak, the walkway becomes a dreamy, fragrant tunnel that enchants every passerby.

Strolling beneath the flowering canopy is a sensory delight: sunlight filters through the cascading blooms, casting delicate shadows, while the intoxicating scent of wisteria envelops visitors. Add to this the sweeping views over Florence, and the experience becomes unforgettable.

A Picture-Perfect Spring Destination

The wisteria bloom at Villa Bardini has also become a social media phenomenon. Every spring, Instagram and TikTok fill with stunning photos and videos shot beneath the famous pergola. Influencers, travelers, and photography enthusiasts flock here to capture one of the most poetic moments of the year, helping this spot gain recognition as a must-visit seasonal attraction.

To enjoy the bloom in a more peaceful setting, it’s best to visit on weekdays or early in the morning.

How to Visit Villa Bardini During the Bloom

Villa Bardini is located at Costa San Giorgio 2 and is easily reachable by foot from Florence’s city center or by public transport. Entry to the garden requires a ticket, but it’s often included with admission to the Boboli Gardens or with the Firenze Card. Since the bloom period varies each year, it’s a good idea to check Villa Bardini’s official website or social media channels for real-time updates on flowering status and visiting hours.

An Experience Worth Living At Least Once

The wisteria bloom at Villa Bardini is more than just a botanical event—it’s a moment to reconnect with nature, the rhythm of the seasons, and the wonder that only certain places can evoke. It’s an invitation to slow down, observe, and savor the beauty around us. Whether you’re a tourist discovering Florence or a local looking for a moment of peace, a walk beneath the wisteria in full bloom is an experience to cherish at least once in your lifetime.