Florence at sunset is a sight that inevitably lingers in the memory long after the last rays of the day have faded into the gathering dusk.
The spectacle of the breathtaking monuments of the world’s most important Renaissance city transforming into a masterpiece of light and shadow worthy of the era’s greatest painters is, simply put, jaw-dropping.
I’ve lived in Florence for years, and I still make time to seek out the sunset almost each and every day at the Golden Hour. The warm hues of gold, orange, and crimson that wash over the city’s terracotta rooftops, church domes and winding streets cast a magical glow that feels almost otherworldly. This is the time of day that our Florence at Twilight introductory walking tour begins, so trust us when we say that we know a thing or two about where to see breathtaking sunsets in the City of the Medici!
Whether you’re looking for a romantic rooftop spot to spend the aperitivo hour or a habitual sunset chaser hunting the perfect vantage point, Florence offers countless places to marvel at this superb daily spectacle. From historic bridges and hilltop terraces to quiet gardens and bustling piazzas, there’s no shortage of breathtaking spots to witness the sun bidding farewell to the city. So where can you find the most unforgettable views? Follow along as we explore some of the best locations in Florence to experience the magic of the sunset hour!
Florence Tours
Experience the Magic of Florence
No self-respecting list of the best sunset spots in Florence could begin anywhere else. While Florence looks sensational from any angle, you’d be hard pressed to match the heart-stopping vista on show from this hilltop square to the south of the river Arno. Make the climb up here at twilight to drink in miraculous sunset views over the Florentine rooftops, past Brunelleschi’s iconic dome and away to the distant Tuscan countryside beyond.
If the crowds at Piazzale Michelangelo are off-putting (and to be sure it’s a very popular spot), then climbing just a bit higher up the hill will reward you with a more tranquil sunset experience in the shadow of a remarkable Romanesque abbey – one of our favourite churches in Florence. A spiritual atmosphere pervades the air as the Renaissance city spreads out below, framed by rolling hills and the Arno.
Florence’s oldest and most iconic bridge offers up an excellent vantage point to watch the sun go down. Be warmed by the golden light that beautifully illuminates the jewellers’ shops lining both sides of the bridge, then head to the viewing platform halfway along its length to watch twilight descend as a beautiful statue of Renaissance sculptor Benvenuto Cellini transforms into a silhouette in the lengthening shadows.
The only problem with watching the sun set from Ponte Vecchio? From here you can’t see the sun set OVER Ponte Vecchio! To remedy that, head just a little way further down the Arno to Ponte alle Grazie, where you’ll be confronted with the swoon-worthy apparition of Florence’s most spectacular bridge haloed by a blazing orange sky above and reflected in the calm waters of the Arno below.
Located on the roof of trendy hotel, co-working space and general hangout spot the Social Hub, this terrace is always buzzing with youthful energy and offers up great views over Florence as well as cocktails, wine and light bites – not to mention a swimming pool. The Social Hub is also one of our favorite places to stay in Florence – for more top accommodation picks, see our guide to where to stay in Florence here.
For a sunset with a literary twist, head to the rooftop Café del Verone located in this historic library dating back to the 13th century situated in Florence’s university quarter on lovely Piazza di Santissima Annunziata. Order a coffee and, with the shimmering dome of the cathedral as your stunning backdrop, let the setting sun of Florence inspire your inner poet.
A historic fortress turned cultural hotspot, Forte Belvedere opens up in the summer months with a rich calendar of cultural events. It’s a great place to drink in the sunset whilst sipping on a cocktail or glass of wine, and as the fort is located across the city from Piazzale Michelangelo, the vista that unfolds before you is completely different to the panorama you’ll experience from, the city’s most famous sunset spot.
Another bridge with beautiful views down the Arno, this is an always peaceful spot to watch the sun going down over the Ponte Vecchio, transforming the historic old bridge into a kaleidoscope of colors.
Sunset views don’t get much better than from the rooftop terrace of the luxurious Grand Hotel Baglioni. The drinking and dining options here certainly don’t come cheap, but if you’re looking to splurge on some exquisitely made cocktails or a gourmet dinner then there are few more elegant spots in Florence to watch the day slowly melt into evening.
Located to the north of Florence’s city centre, this terraced park boasts swoon-worthy views of the city as well as a staircase decorated with a mosaic sculpture of a dragon reminiscent of Antoni Gaudi’s extraordinary work in Bsrcelona’s Parc Guell.
Another Piazzale Michelangelo adjacent spot that doesn’t attract nearly the same crowds, this charming hilltop garden is awash with color when the roses are in bloom, and boasts dreamy views over Florence – absolutely unmissable in spring or early summer.
Just a short drive or bus ride from Florence, Fiesole offers an escape into the Tuscan countryside. From its hilltop perch, you’ll enjoy sweeping sunset views that include the city, the rolling hills, and the wide-open sky—bring some nibbles and a bottle of wine, and you have the makings of the most romantic aperitivo imaginable.
Florence Tours
Immerse Yourself in the Magic of Florence!
