Bridging Florence’s History: Arno River Self-Guided Walking Tour

Our tour starts in this charming riverside square. Stroll through this peaceful square while learning about Florence's historical connection to the Arno River.

Cross this ancient bridge offering spectacular views of the Arno and surrounding architecture. Experience one of Florence's oldest river crossings, rebuilt after WWII but dating back to the 13th century.

Marvel at Italy's largest library, an impressive neoclassical building housing over 6 million volumes. Discover how "Mud Angels" saved countless precious books when the devastating 1966 flood submerged a third of the collection.

Walk across Florence's most famous bridge, lined with glittering jewelry shops housed in medieval buildings. Enjoy the unique experience of this 14th-century structure where Medici decree transformed former butcher shops into the goldsmith district you see today.

Cross this elegant Renaissance bridge with its distinctive elliptical arches designed by Michelangelo. Marvel at its remarkable history, having been meticulously reconstructed stone by stone after being destroyed during WWII.

Gaze upon this magnificent Baroque palace with its distinctive top-floor loggia overlooking the river. Imagine the noble women who once observed street life from these elegant porches, a common feature of Renaissance Florentine palaces.

Marvel at one of Florence's oldest bridges, offering breathtaking views of the Arno and city skyline. Experience this historic crossing point, repeatedly rebuilt after floods and war damage, now connecting the historic center to the Oltrarno district.

Relax in this elegant square dominated by the Church of San Salvatore and the luxurious St. Regis Hotel. Take in the aristocratic atmosphere of this piazza that was once home to powerful Florentine merchant families.

Admire the simple Renaissance façade of this church hiding artistic treasures inside, including works by Botticelli and Ghirlandaio. Explore this spiritual center of the Humiliati religious order, who were closely associated with Florence's wool industry.

Wander through the authentic "other side of the Arno" where artisans still practice traditional crafts in historic workshops. Experience the contrast between the working-class history of dyers and weavers and the magnificent palaces of wealthy merchants who shaped this district.

Spot this distinctive medieval tower once used to monitor river traffic entering the city. Imagine the customs officials who once collected taxes here on goods arriving by boat, a reminder of the Arno's importance to Florence's economy.

End your tour at this impressive 14th-century gateway in Florence's ancient city walls. Marvel at one of the city's best-preserved medieval gates, once the main entrance for goods arriving from the port of Pisa and the Mediterranean.