I love lookouts, I think it’s the best way to contemplate the architecture and structure of the city. And if you also enjoy this type of tour, be sure to check out the wonderful view from Michelangelo Square, from where you can see a good part of Florence, as well as the hills around it and the bridges that cross the Arno River. In short, the view boils down to a painting of the city founded by the Romans.
Piazzale Michelangelo
Piazzale Michelangelo is actually a terrace that is located on a hill on the left bank of the Arno River. Built there in the late 19th century by architect Giuseppe Poggi , it is named after the talented Renaissance artist Michelangelo . Its great highlight is its privileged location from which you have one of the most beautiful views of Florence and surroundings.
From the top of Michelangelo Square you will contemplate the main attractions of the city such as:
Ponte Vecchio
From Michelangelo Square you will have the most beautiful panoramic view of the Ponte Vecchio, which is the most famous and photogenic bridge that crosses the Arno River in Florence.
Florence Duomo
And it is through Michelangelo Square that you can see all the grandeur of the beautiful cathedral of Florence, the Duomo.
Ancient city wall ruins
Looking to the left side of the square you will see a very wooded area where you can see a huge wall, which are the ancient ruins of the wall of Florence that leads to the Belvedere Fort .
Palazzo Vecchio
The tallest tower in Florence stands out among the roofs of the city, the Palazzo Vecchio tower.
The splendor of Michelangelo Square is really the incredible view of Florence, it is certainly the best place to see all the charm of this historic and photogenic city. However, don’t expect too much from the square, it is very simple and what you find there are food and souvenir stalls, a garden, a restaurant with a terrace, and right in the center of the square is a replica of the statue of Michelangelo (the original is in the Accademia Gallery).
Sunset at Michelangelo Square
Michelangelo Square is one of the most privileged places to see the sunset. The view is breathtaking and yields wonderful pictures worthy of a painting.
To see the sunset in Michelangelo Square, the tip is to arrive well ahead of time to reserve a seat. As it is one of the most popular shows in the square, the end of the day is the busiest time. People arrive early to guarantee a place on a staircase that is in a very strategic part of the square, which is why there is a lot of competition.
Useful tip : if you like wine, the tip is to take a good wine to contemplate the sunset in style. And if you want, I think it’s worth taking food and drinks for a picnic.
Other attractions around Michelangelo Square
And very close to Michelangelo Square is the charming Basilica of San Miniato al Monte , which has Florentine romantic architecture. Right around the church is the Monumental Cemetery , where some famous Italian characters rest, such as Carlo Lorenzini (known as Carlo Collodi), the creator of the character Pinocchio .
Getting to the Basilica of San Miniato is simple, from Michelangelo Square just follow the street that goes up the hill in a walk that takes about 6 minutes.
How to get to Michelangelo Square?
Bus : Take bus 12 or 13 from Santa Maria Novella Train Station or downtown.
Car : for those who want more convenience, you can rent a car and then leave it in the parking lot in Michelangelo Square, which, by the way, is quite large.
On foot : it is the most recommended option for those who like to do things with emotion. It was on foot that I reached Michelangelo Square. The walk is tiring, but it’s worth the effort because it’s a way to explore Florence a little more and discover new places.
Leaving the center, from Ponte Vecchio, the journey on foot takes around 20 minutes. Just cross the Arno River and then follow Via del Monte alle Croci or the steps of Piazza Giuseppe Poggi . The challenging part for those who are short of breath is that as it is on a hill, it is necessary to face several stairs.
Another option to get to Michelangelo Square is to go by public bus and walk back, as the way back is just downhill, it is less tiring.