Oltrarno

Hills, Gardens & Quiet Streets Beyond the Arno

Cross the river to explore Florence’s more relaxed south side, where leafy piazzas, artisan workshops, and panoramic viewpoints offer a quieter take on the Renaissance. From the Rose Garden to San Miniato al Monte, this walk reveals the city’s beauty in its hills, gardens, and everyday rhythm.

The Oltrarno—literally “beyond the Arno”—is Florence’s more relaxed, artisan-rich district, known for its leafy hills, Renaissance villas, and local charm. While the city’s north side draws crowds to the Duomo and Uffizi, the Oltrarno offers a slower rhythm, with scenic gardens, panoramic viewpoints, and some of Florence’s most elegant streets.

These two JCV Walks begin on opposite ends of the district and loop through its most iconic highlights, offering distinct ways to experience its beauty.

This walk has some bus options to reduce the walk distance.

Piazzale Michelangelo & San Miniato al Monte

This walk explores Piazzale Michelangelo and Basilica di San Miniato al Monte with options to continue walking (or taking a bus) to explore the Boboli Gardens, Pitti Palace and Piazza Santo Spirito.

Pitti Palace and Boboli Gardens

This walk explores Piazza Santo Spirito. Pitti Palace and Boboli Gardens with option to continue walking (or taking a bus) to visit Piazzale Michelangelo and Basilica di San Miniato al Monte. 


Photo Credits
  • Palazzo Pitti Garden Side – Photo by Stefan Bauer, licensed under CC BY-SA 2.5, source
  • Piazzale Michelangelo – By Michael Wittwer – Licensed under CC BY-SA 4.0, Source
  • Oltrarno Sunset – By Fitzws – Licensed under CC BY-SA 4.0, Source