When you live in Florence, visiting the city’s famous landmarks gradually becomes part of everyday life rather than simply a sightseeing activity.
One of our favorite walking destinations from our apartment is Piazzale Michelangelo, one of the best places to enjoy panoramic views of Florence.
There are several ways to walk there.
I like being able to choose a different route depending on how much time and energy I have that day. This is one of the pleasures of living in Florence.
When I Don’t Feel Like Walking Too Far: Along the Arno River
On days when I don’t feel like taking a long walk, I usually follow the Arno River, walk through the Rose Garden, and then continue uphill toward Piazzale Michelangelo.
The route becomes quite steep toward the end, but it is relatively short.
When I want to get some fresh air without spending too much time walking, this is the route I usually choose.
On other days, when I feel like walking a little farther, I start from Porta Romana.
The climb from Porta Romana is more gradual, so it is a pleasant route when I want to take my time.
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A Green Walking Route from Porta Romana
The route from Porta Romana to Piazzale Michelangelo passes through surprisingly green surroundings.
There are many shaded sections, and at times it is easy to forget that I am walking through the center of Florence.
Even during the hot summer months, I find this route pleasant because I can often stay in the shade.
There is also a small square along the way.
Recommended café near Porta Romana
There is a bench beneath a large tree, and I can hear the sound of running water nearby.
Every time my daughter and I pass this spot, we say,
“It would be nice to bring a book and spend some time here.”
But somehow, we always end up walking past it.
I would still like to bring a book one day and spend some time there.
I think having these little “one day, I’d like to…” plans is also part of the pleasure of living in Florence.
Walking with Music and Watching Florence Appear
The route from Porta Romana to Piazzale Michelangelo has long stretches surrounded by greenery, so I also enjoy listening to music while I walk.
As I continue along the path, the view gradually opens up.
Then, little by little, the Florence skyline comes into view.
And suddenly I think:
“There’s the Duomo!”
When I first started walking, Piazzale Michelangelo seemed quite far away. Before I know it, I am almost there.
A Beautiful Viewpoint Where Artists Come to Paint
There is also a beautiful viewpoint along this route where I often see artists painting.
They set up their easels and paint while looking out over Florence.
For an artist, it must be difficult to imagine a more inspiring view.
It is also a quieter way to enjoy Florence, away from some of the busier tourist areas.
The View from San Miniato al Monte
One of my favorite parts of this walk is the view of Florence from San Miniato al Monte.
No matter how many times I see it, I still find myself thinking,
“It really is beautiful.”
When you have lived in Florence for a long time, you inevitably see the same views again and again.
But the scenery always looks slightly different depending on the season, the weather, and the time of day.
Instead of thinking, “I’m going to visit a tourist attraction today,” I can simply think,
“Today, I feel like walking out to see this view.”
That is one of the differences between visiting Florence as a tourist and living here.
Taking a Shorter Route Home
After enjoying the views from Piazzale Michelangelo and San Miniato al Monte, I usually take a slightly shorter route home.
The entire walk takes about an hour, although it can easily take longer if I stop to enjoy the views, take photographs, or have a rest.
It is less about visiting one particular attraction and more about enjoying Florence while walking through the city.
A Walk to Enjoy During a Longer Stay in Florence
When you are visiting Florence for only a few days, it is natural to want to make the most of your time.
You might visit the Uffizi Gallery, see the Duomo, and then continue on to Palazzo Vecchio.
There is nothing wrong with that. These are wonderful ways to experience Florence.
But when you stay for a week, two weeks, or even a month, you don’t have to spend every day rushing from one sightseeing spot to another.
You can wake up slowly, have a coffee, put on a comfortable pair of walking shoes, and head out for a walk.
You can sit on a bench and take a break.
You can stop at San Miniato al Monte and look out over Florence.
On the way home, you can have a cappuccino at a neighborhood bar.
That kind of ordinary day can become one of the most enjoyable parts of staying in Florence.
Experience Florence by Living, Not Just Sightseeing
From our apartment, you can enjoy this kind of walk to Piazzale Michelangelo.
Of course, you don’t have to walk all the way there every time.
You can turn around whenever you feel like it.
If you get tired, you can stop at a local bar for a coffee.
If you feel like walking a little farther, you can continue to San Miniato al Monte.
Having the freedom to spend your time this way is one of the pleasures of a longer stay in Florence. It is a little different from staying in a hotel for a few nights and following a fixed sightseeing schedule.
If you are planning to stay in Florence for a month, I encourage you to spend some time walking through the city like a local rather than visiting only the major tourist attractions.
There are so many small pleasures hidden in everyday life here that you won’t necessarily find in a guidebook.
Stay in Florence like a local and discover the city at your own pace.
Explore our Florence apartment for longer stays
Note: The walk from Porta Romana to Piazzale Michelangelo takes approximately 45 minutes on foot.
"The listed rates apply to monthly stays; for extended visits exceeding two or three months, please contact us directly […]
