Florence is one of the most romantic cities in Italy — compact, beautiful, and steeped in art and history, with the Tuscan countryside at its edge. It's a classic honeymoon and couples' destination, and beyond the must-see sights, it offers endless small pleasures for two. Here's how to plan a romantic trip.
The sunset views. Begin (or end) with the views. Piazzale Michelangelo, the hilltop terrace across the Arno, offers the definitive panorama of Florence, and watching the sun set over the city's domes and towers from there is the romantic moment of a Florence trip. For something quieter, climb a few minutes higher to San Miniato al Monte, or take in the city from a hotel rooftop terrace with a drink.
The river and the bridges. A stroll along the Arno at golden hour, and across the Ponte Vecchio with its glittering jewelry shops, is pure romance — especially in the early morning or evening when the crowds thin. The neighboring Ponte Santa Trinita offers the classic view of the Ponte Vecchio itself, beautiful at sunset.
Intimate art and gardens. Choose smaller, atmospheric sights for two. The Bargello and the Medici Chapels offer sublime art without the crowds. The Boboli and (especially) the smaller, quieter Bardini Garden are lovely for a romantic wander, with gorgeous views — the Bardini's wisteria tunnel is magical in spring. And seeing Michelangelo's David together remains a genuine shared awe.
Food, wine, and the Tuscan escape. Romance and Tuscan food go hand in hand. Share a bistecca alla fiorentina and a bottle of Chianti at a candlelit trattoria, linger over wine at an enoteca, or take a Chianti wine country day trip — a day among the vineyards with tastings and a long Tuscan lunch is one of the most romantic things you can do from Florence. Cap evenings with gelato on a quiet piazza.
Where to stay for romance. Choose a hotel with a view or character: a riverside suite overlooking the Ponte Vecchio (Portrait Firenze or Hotel Lungarno), a grand palace on the Arno (The St. Regis), or an intimate, characterful boutique in the artisan Oltrarno (SoprArno Suites). A room with a river or Duomo view makes a Florence stay unforgettable.
Slow down. As anywhere, the real romance of Florence is in its unhurried pleasures — wandering the Oltrarno hand in hand, lingering over a long lunch, watching the light change on the river. Plan the essentials, book the museums ahead, and then leave plenty of room to simply enjoy the city together.
