Boboli Gardens – Florence, Italy

Boboli Gardens should be on every Florence itinerary, especially if you have more than a day or two set aside to explore the city. If you enjoy sculptures, grottos, fountains, and stunning views, this is the garden for you! The main entrance is close to the major sites of Florence so even if you are short on time, you can easily pop in and have a quick walk around. Tickets can be purchased online to avoid the lines. There are alternate entrances, worth looking into if you are staying outside central Florence. It is a great little escape from the hustle and bustle of Florence City Center and can be enjoyed for (at least) three distinct purposes, or any combination thereof.

1.) Art & History Created in the early 1500’s by the Medici Family, the gardens boast a rich history. There is plenty to learn as you explore the architecture, fountains, grottos and sculptures. True to the original vision, much of the gardens have remained the same though additions and optimizations have been made over the centuries. Add on Pitti Palace for an ultimate half day of Florentine history and art.

2.) Relax and Enjoy Simply come to the gardens to relax and enjoy the views. Pack a picnic and spend the afternoon sipping wine, people-watching and taking a break from sightseeing and museums. All the amazing art in Florence can be, well, a lot.

3.) Mini Hike Get your heart pumping for a mini hike. This garden has some serious inclines (which is why the views are so amazing) with abundant stairs and hills. While there is no one official path, we easily clocked in a mile by meandering through the main paths of the gardens just once. Switch it up a bit and go around a few times and you got yourself a workout!

Amazing views of Florence throughout most of Boboli Gardens.
Citrus, olive and quintessential Tuscany.
One of the best parts of Boboli Gardens is looking to the South (or what feels like the back) makes it seem like you have been instantly transported to the Tuscan hillside.
The Kaffeehaus, was built in 1777 and is a rare example of Rococo architecture in Tuscany. There is no actual coffee here, so don’t be fooled into chasing after some refreshments. Bring your own, or check out the snack bar in the Pitti Palace.
Knight’s Garden Building (c. 1527). Be sure to check out the details on the statues atop the building.

Whatever your plan or purpose, Boboli Gardens provides a space to enjoy sweeping views of Florence, to dream of what it was like being a member of the Medici family during the height of the Renaissance and to simply step away and enjoy nature.

All Cedars and Sunsets adventure posts are meant for inspiration only. Always consult a proper map, and check online resources for updated ticketing info and possible closures.

Be safe, have fun and keep adventuring!

XOXO – Jennie B.