Oltrarno

The Basics

In addition to the Medici’s magnificent Palazzo Pitti, there are a number of other important sights in the Oltrarno, including Brunelleschi’s Santo Spirito Basilica and the church of Santa Maria del Carmine (home to the Brancacci Chapel, frescoed by Filippino Lippi). One of the most memorable views in Florence is from Piazzale Michelangelo, a scenic square set in the hills above this bustling neighborhood, where crowds gather each evening to watch the sunset.

The best way to enjoy both the culture and cuisine of the Oltrarno is by joining a walking tour that explores its attractions and culinary scene. Many tours of the Oltrarno include highlights paired with food or wine tastings, often scheduled for sunset to enjoy the view over Florence. Another interesting option is a private tour that visits the neighborhood’s artisans and workshops, where you can learn about the local handicrafts firsthand.

Things to Know Before You Go

• Walking tours of the Oltrarno are mostly outdoors, so be sure to wear sunscreen and a hat in summer.

• You will be doing a considerable amount of walking to explore the neighborhood, so choose comfortable footwear.

• Churches require modest attire that covers knees and shoulders.

• Some churches and monuments in the Oltrarno are not accessible to wheelchairs, and much of the historic center is paved with cobblestones.

How to Get There

The Oltrarno is located just across the Arno River from the Uffizi Gallery; to reach this historic neighborhood, simply walk across the famous Ponte Vecchio.

When to Get There

Florence is one of the most visited cities in Italy, and even the quiet Oltrarno can be crowded in the high-season summer months. Plan your tour for the spring or fall, when the weather is mild but the streets are less overrun.

Piazzale Michelangelo The Best View in Florence

Piazzale Michelangelo, set on a hillside in the Oltrarno, is the most famous scenic overlook in Florence, offering sweeping views over the city’s rooftops. From this 19th-century square, the panorama stretches from the Ponte Vecchio to the tower of the Palazzo Vecchio, across the Duomo and bell tower, and to the Tuscan hills beyond.

Ways to explore

The best way to enjoy both the culture and cuisine of the Oltrarno is by joining a guided walking tour that explores both its historic attractions and culinary scene. Many tours of the Oltrarno include artistic and architectural highlights paired with food and wine tastings, often ending at sunset to enjoy the view over Florence from the Piazzale Michelangelo scenic overlook. Another interesting option is a private or small-group tour that visits the neighborhood’s artisans and workshops, where you can learn about the local handicrafts firsthand and even purchase one-of-a-kind souvenirs.

Accessibility

Most of Oltrarno is flat and paved, but the steep route to Piazzale Michelangelo may be challenging for people who use wheelchairs.

Age limits

Wine-tasting tours require participants to be 18 or older to sample wine.

What to pack

Camera and battery pack, water bottle, layers

What to wear

Clothing that covers shoulders and knees to enter churches, comfortable shoes, sunscreen

Not allowed

It’s considered good form to purchase a small item from artisan workshops after visiting.

Amenities

Shops, restaurants, public restroom in Piazza Santo Spirito

Address

Oltrarno is located across the Arno River from the Uffizi Gallery; to reach this historic neighborhood, walk across the famous Ponte Vecchio.

Driving

Much of Oltrarno is restricted to authorized vehicles only, and parking is very limited. Opt to explore this compact area on foot, instead.

Public transportation

Several city bus lines connect the Santa Maria Novella train station to various locations in Oltrarno. Bus routes 12 and 13 run between the station and Piazzale Michelangelo.

Best times to visit

Visit by day to take in the area’s churches and museums, at sunset for the best views from Piazzale Michelangelo, and in the evening for local nightlife.

Best days to visit

Many artisan workshops are closed on Sundays and Monday mornings, while the dining and drinking scene is at its liveliest on weekends.

Best months to visit

Spring and fall bring mild weather and fewer crowds to Oltrarno compared to summer.

Special events

Piazza Santo Spirito often hosts special events, including an antique market on the second Sunday of the month and an organic food market on the third Sunday of the month.