Location: Oltrarno
Top Things to do in Oltrarno
What to do and see in Oltrarno, Tuscany: The Best Sights & Landmarks
Florence is an art historian’s dream. The Galleria dell'Accademia bursts with works by Michelangelo, who is entombed within the frescoed walls of the Basilica di Santa Croce. Budding photographers can snap pics of the Ponte Vecchio bridge, and serious shoppers can spend a blissful afternoon wandering the shops of Piazza Santo Spirito. Tuscan cuisine pays homage to the region’s bounty. Swipe a hunk of crusty bread across a pool of local olive oil and you’ll be instantly transported to your happiest place.
Restaurants in Florence
1. Ponte Vecchio
Overall Ratings
4.5 based on 20,586 reviews
Erected during Roman times, this is the most ancient and photographed bridge in Florence, which is characterized by three arches and two wide arcades on each side housing the famous and unusual "botteghe" or shops.
Reviewed By MaggieBtravels
The Ponte Vecchio is a must see when in Florence. Crossing the bridge itself is interesting, if only for the crowds of people, the history, and the path that leads to new streets to explore. The real beauty of the old bridge though is in a stroll along the Arno, especially at night to take advantage of the incredible reflections, to view the bridge from along the river.
2. Basilica di Santo Spirito
Overall Ratings
4.5 based on 379 reviews
While it may not look like much from the outside, the elaborate interior of Brunelleschi's landmark church proves that it is a masterpiece of Renaissance architecture.
Reviewed By artmac21 - Inverness, United Kingdom
I came across this church after visiting the Pitti Palace. It was in an area recommended by a local for eating out in. The Church, a Basilica nonetheless, is simple on the outside but a joy inside. It’s much larger than I anticipated on the inside, but full of light, no mean feat given the time it was built. Others refer to its simplicity but it’s not. It’s full of space and light which makes everything seem less overwhelming to take in. I understand it was designed by the same architect as the Duomo, and that makes sense, as it’s got genius in it. Their is some incredible art, and an alter that is astounding. It’s free to get in but you need two euros in coins to access the sacristy with Michelangelo’s crucifix. I didn’t have that and was slightly disappointed but next time I will be prepared. However, the works available freely made up for this. It’s a working church and I suspect locally cherished so no photos please. I know it seems unfair but it is place of worship first and foremost. An unexepected joy, which is a massive achievement as I’d just seen the Uffizi and the Pitti so I should have been exhausted by the art. I wasn’t. It renewed me and astounded me, given the age of the church, it’s construction and art are mind blowing. A real treasure.
3. Santa Maria del Carmine
Overall Ratings
4.5 based on 175 reviews
An elegant church decorated by Masaccio's famous frescoes on the life of St. Peter.
4. Cappella Brancacci
Overall Ratings
4.5 based on 640 reviews
The church and convent of the Carmine in Florence were founded shortly after the middle of the thirteenth century, by a group of Carmelite monks from Pisa. In the church we find the Brancacci Chapel, a masterpiece known around the world for its frescoes of the Life of Saint Peter by Masaccio and Masolino. Created between 1425-1427, the frescoes were left incomplete and finished by Filippino Lippi between 1481 and 1482
Reviewed By jennyf818 - Montreal, Canada
The Chapel is definitely worth seeing,as the frescoes are breath-taking. Much of the Church is cordoned off due to restorations but do not let that prevent you from visiting. As small as the Chapel is, the frescoes run the length and breadth of the walls - an absolute marvel to see! An audio/video guide is also provided to further elaborate on the works of art in the Chapel.
5. Piazza Santo Spirito
Overall Ratings
4.5 based on 549 reviews
This unique Florentine piazza is the center of the artisan quarter. Dominated by the last masterpiece of Brunelleschi, the Basilica of Santo Spirito, the square is home to little local markets and antique fairs.
Reviewed By Rach1167
Piazza Santo Spirito is my favorite square in Florence- local farmer/artisan markets at least a few times a week, great restaurants, cafes, plus it has a water fountain and trees!
6. Church of Santa Felicita
Overall Ratings
4.5 based on 116 reviews
The small church of Santa Felicita was used by the Medici family dukes and holds the Mannerist artist Pontormo's masterpiece, "The Deposition." The unusual colors, exaggerated poses and expressive portraits are an unforgettable theatrical scene..
Reviewed By 130Doug - Kennett Square, United States
We had grabbed a quick meal somewhere nearby and just stumbled onto this place. Absolutely beautiful place that you shouldn't miss. It's a bit brighter in this cathedral than in some others. The smell of incense combined with the frescoes and paintings, and we could have stayed in here longer, but it's a big city that calls to every sense!
7. Giardino Bardini
Overall Ratings
4.5 based on 1,099 reviews
Reviewed By sophiem923 - Ermenonville, France
The garden was recommended by a guide book and it did not disappoint. It is quite simply the most beautiful view on Florence. Definitely worth the climb. I was able to get some fresh air despite the heat. Do not miss this hidden gem!
8. Chiesa di Santa Monica
Overall Ratings
4.5 based on 95 reviews
Reviewed By SeleneF116 - Prato, Italy
I visited Florence in March and among the numerous monuments and churches and streets and palaces that are the artistic heart of this wonderful city, I had the occasion to assist at one of Italian Opera Concert in St. Monaca church. The church is also amazing, with a wonderful renaissance ligneus chorus and many wall pictures of the same period, but what impressed me was the great, wonderful, possent and sensitive voices I had the pleasure to hear: a soprano and a bassbaritone of clear fame that interpreted the most beautiful arias and duets of Italian Opera by Verdi, Puccini, Bellini and Donizetti. Really very very amazing. I hope you all could participate at one of Italian Opera Florence concert!!!
9. Villa Bardini
10. San Felice in Piazza
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