Where to see the sunset in Florence: the 6 best locations

If morning is the best time to explore Florence’s main attractions and evening is ideal for getting to know the city’s nightlife, the perfect moment to fully enjoy its immeasurable charm is at sunset.

If you want to admire the spectacular sight of the sun setting over Florence, here are six places from which to view it. 

From the balcony of your hotel

If you have chosen to stay in one of the beautiful Florence hotels with balcony, you will have no problem watching the sunset, even if you have to find yourself in the hotel. Some of Florence’s most incredible accommodations are located right in the city center and provide the opportunity to not only have a front row seat to golden hour but also to be able to enjoy a privileged view of Florence’s most iconic attractions, such as the Cupola of the Duomo and the surrounding wonders. An experience such as this one should not to be missed if you are also looking for moments of intimacy and privacy to share only with yourself, your significant other, or your fellow travelers.

Piazzale Michelangelo

One of the most popular places to watch the sunset is, of course, from the Piazzale Michelangelo — one of the most famous destinations in Florence. From here you can admire the extraordinary skyline of the city, with a view from Ponte Vecchio to the Duomo. Keep in mind, however, that due to its popularity it is also very crowded. Therefore, if you are looking to watch the sunset in solitude or at least with few people around, it may not be the best option. Nearby is also the Rose Garden, another beautiful, more intimate spot on the left side of the esplanade.

The surroundings of the Arno River

Admiring the colors of sunset reflected on the waters of the Arno River is definitely something magical and romantic. The most scenic spot along this river in Florence is at Ponte Vecchio. Here, the sunset is truly poetic and it is even worth sharing with the many other people who come to the bridge for the spectacular view. However, the other bridges in Florence are also great for enjoying a romantic view. One of the most beautiful is Ponte delle Grazie, from which you can also admire Ponte Vecchio as it is kissed by the sun.

San Miniato al Monte

Not far from Piazzale Michelangelo you will find a lesser-known tourist location: the Abbey of San Miniato al Monte. It is a small masterpiece of 12th-century Florentine Romanesque art, as beautiful on the outside as it is on the inside. Nearby, you will also find a beautiful panoramic terrace where you can watch the spectacle of the sunset in peace from an even higher perspective than at the Piazzale Michelangelo.

The Forte Belvedere

Like Piazzale Michelangelo, Forte Belvedere is another one of those must-visit places in Florence. It is a historical 16th-century fortress where the Medici family kept their treasures. The entire fort is now surrounded by a beautiful green lawn from which you can enjoy a wonderful view of downtown Florence. It is only open in the summer months, so this means that you have to plan your trip well if you want to visit this spot.

The panoramic views of the major attractions

Here is another list of the main attractions from which you can watch the sunset if you are out and about in Florence. First among them is Giotto’s Campanile, which is a great spot to see the sky tinged orange.

If you are at the Uffizi you can look out from the terrace, where you can see the Duomo and Palazzo Vecchio.

Finally, you can also go to the Oblate Library, now the municipal library, where you can stop for a drink on its terrace just as the sun is setting.

Conclusion

Florence is full of stunning and otherwise romantic places to view the sunset. So immerse yourself in the city and enjoy all of its beauty and splendor.