Piazzale Michelangelo

The basics

A stop to take in the stunning views from Piazzale Michelangelo is a must during Florence walking tours, shore excursions, or day trips. Many travelers pair a visit to the square with a private tour of the nearby Basilica of San Miniato al Monte. Plenty of Piazzale Michelangelo tours are done on foot, though its location along a panoramic road winding up the Florentine hills makes it a popular destination for tours by car or Vespa scooter.

Things to know before you go

• In the center of the square is a monument with bronze replicas of Michelangelo’s famous sculptures. The best known is David, the original of which is on display in the Accademia Gallery (Galleria dell'Accademia).

• For a romantic evening, watch the sun set over Florence from Piazzale Michelangelo, then enjoy a lovely view of the city’s twinkling lights after dark.

• There is no shade over the square, so bring a hat and sunscreen if you visit during the day.

• During the summer, a number of nearby cafés and nightclubs with music and outdoor seating offer a taste of Florence’s vibrant nightlife.

How to get there

By foot, cross the Ponte alle Grazie bridge near the Florence Santa Croce Basilica (Basilica di Santa Croce) and make your way to Piazza Poggi. From there, climb the steps and pathways leading uphill from the river to the square. The walk is pleasant but steep, so allow at least 45 minutes. Otherwise, bus lines 12 and 13 both stop near the overlook.

When to get there

The square is at its most picturesque (and crowded) at sunset, so get there at least an hour before the sun goes down to snag a seat on the panoramic staircase. To avoid crowds, go early in the morning or during the day—just keep in mind that there’s very little shade during the hot summer months.

San Miniato al Monte

Farther up the hill, San Miniato al Monte is considered Tuscany’s finest Romanesque church and one of the most scenic in Italy. The church dates back to 1013 and adjoins an Olivetan monastery where monks produce liqueurs, honey, and herbal teas, sold in the monastery's shop.

Ways to explore

A stop to take in the stunning views from Piazzale Michelangelo is a must during Florence walking tours, shore excursions, and day trips. Given its hilltop location, the square is also a popular destination on Vespa and e-bike tours that zip past the nearby San Miniato al Monte and around the Florentine hills. While the views from Piazzale Michelangelo are splendid at all hours, it's busiest at sunset, when visitors gather at its panoramic staircase to drink wine and listen to the occasional busker.

Accessibility

Piazzale Michelangelo is flat and wheelchair accessible, but it’s only reachable via steep roads and stairs. Golf cart tours and taxis can get you there if you have limited mobility.

Age limits

None

What to pack

Camera, water, sunscreen

What to wear

There’s little shade at Piazzale Michelangelo, so dress for the weather and wear comfortable walking shoes for hiking up to the hilltop square.

Not allowed

Piazzale Michelangelo is very crowded at sunset. While you’re welcome to enjoy a picnic on the stairs, you might get dirty looks for laying out a blanket with an elaborate spread. To avoid taking up precious space, pack a sandwich or something you can easily eat on your lap.

Amenities

The square is home to a restaurant, as well as a few kiosks that sell drinks, food, and souvenirs.

Address

You can reach Piazzale Michelangelo on a steep—but very scenic—walk from Florence’s main sights within about 30 minutes. Cross to the south side of the Arno via the Ponte alle Grazie bridge, then make your way to Piazza Poggi, and from there, you’ll find a winding uphill pathway to Piazzale Michelangelo. To avoid walking, use public transportation or book a Florence bike or Vespa tour.

Driving

Tourists aren’t generally permitted to drive in Florence’s historic center, so it’s best to take a taxi to Piazzale Michelangelo—reachable within 15 minutes from most attractions.

Public transportation

From the Santa Maria Novella train station, walk to the nearby Fratelli Rossi bus stop and take line 13 to Piazzale Michelangelo. You can also hop on the 13 bus from Piazza Beccaria, not far from Piazza Santa Croce.

Best times to visit

The square is beautiful (and busy) at sunset, so get there early to snag a seat on the panoramic staircase. Or, avoid the crowds by visiting in the morning.

Best days to visit

Piazzale Michelangelo can get extra crowded on weekends, so plan a weekday trip for a calmer experience.

Best months to visit

The open-air viewpoint is best visited during Florence’s balmy spring months—ideally in May, when flowers are in bloom at the nearby rose and iris gardens.

Special events

Just around the corner from Piazzale Michelangelo is the Iris Garden, which displays hundreds of iris varieties for a few fleeting weeks in April and May.