Would you like to capture the River Arno, the rooftops of Florence and the dome of the Cathedral of Santa Maria del Fiore in a single photograph?

Head up to Piazzale Michelangelo above the south bank of the river. From the public terrace, you’ll also see the Ponte Vecchio and the tower of the Palazzo Vecchio. The view is free; if you don’t fancy the climb, there’s a bus that goes up there.

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When to visit for the view

Sunset is the most popular time. If you want a spot by the railing, arrive at least half an hour early. Stay for a while after sunset: the city gradually lights up.

It’s usually quieter on the terrace in the morning, and you’ll have fewer people in your photos.

If you find the main viewpoint too busy, carry on a little further up the hill to the church of San Miniato al Monte. In daylight, you can also stop off at the Rose Garden below the square; it closes in the evening.

Admission and opening hours

Piazzale Michelangelo is a public square that is free to access both day and night. No ticket or booking is required.

How to get to Piazzale Michelangelo

On foot from the city centre

The most scenic route leads from the San Niccolò district via Piazza Poggi and the Rampe del Poggi steps.

From the river, allow about 15–20 minutes for the climb; from the Ponte Vecchio, allow roughly 30 minutes. In summer, it’s best to leave this walk for the morning or early evening.

By bus from the railway station

Circular buses 12 and 13 run here from the area around Florence’s main railway station, Santa Maria Novella.

Bus 13 stops at Piazzale il David, right by the viewpoint, whilst bus 12 stops at Piazzale San Miniato.

Before boarding, check the direction and the current timetable: both routes cover a considerable part of the city.

A single journey costs 2 eur and the ticket is valid for 90 minutes. You can also pay by tapping your card on the bus.

Why is the square named after Michelangelo?

In the centre stands a bronze copy of Michelangelo’s David. You can find the original in the Galleria dell’Accademia.

The four other bronze statues are copies of the allegories of Day, Night, Dawn and Dusk; the originals are in the Medici Chapels at the Church of San Lorenzo.

The square, designed as a viewing point, was created in the 19th century by the architect Giuseppe Poggi. If you’d like to see Florence from a different angle and go on a longer trip, head to Fiesole in the hills north of the city.

Where to stay near the viewpoint

The Hotel Silla is situated at the foot of the hill by the Arno. It has a roof terrace with views over Florence and is within easy walking distance of the city centre. When booking, please check the view from your room for your chosen accommodation type.

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