A bit quieter and less commercial than the northern side of the river, Oltrarno is a great place to visit for gourmands, walkers and art-lovers. It’s full of history and spectacular views pursue an adventure down streets once frequented by Michelangelo and Galileo.
Oltrarno is the less populated part of Florence, partially because of the enormous hill rising from the banks of the Arno. The district includes three of Florence’s famous neighborhoods and is full of attractions.
Cross the Ponte Vecchio, lined with shops dating back centuries. See how Florence’s most famous family once lived at the Palazzo Pitti, with surprisingly restrained architecture and the impressive landscaping of the adjacent Boboli Gardens.
More art is displayed at the Brancacci Chapel in the Church of Santa Maria del Carmine, with impressive Renaissance frescoes, as well as the Gallery of Modern Art and the Accademia Italiana.
Climb or ride the bus to Piazzale Michelangelo. From here the whole city spreads out, impossibly beautiful.
Wander back to town through the Porta Romana, testament to the long history of Italian trade that made Florence great. As the sun sets, join the milling crowds for aperitivo on Piazza Santo Spirito.
The Oltrarno district is easily accessible from most of Florence’s main sites across the river. Two bus lines offer relief up and down the steep hill that is the area’s most defining feature. The main train station is a 20-minute walk or 15-minute bus ride away. Given Oltrarno’s relatively lower density, it is slightly easier to find parking here than across the river, but walking, public transportation and taxis are still the best options.
On hot, crowded summer evenings, escape the heat of central Florence for a picnic or a glass of wine on the steps of Oltrarno’s San Miniato al Monte, with the sound of monks chanting into the night.
