The best walks and hikes in Florence

Florence offers a vast network of hiking trails, with over 2,800 routes recorded on komoot. These range from easy urban walks to more challenging mountain trails, ensuring options for all ability levels and preferences.

The hiking trails in Florence are highly rated by the komoot community, with an average score of 4.4 stars from over 10,000 reviews. Hikers particularly appreciate the diverse landscapes, from rolling hills with panoramic city views to serene forests and picturesque vineyards. The blend of natural beauty with historical charm is a recurring highlight.

Yes, the region offers trails leading to beautiful waterfalls. The renowned Dante's Acquacheta Waterfall Trail from San Benedetto in Alpe in the Casentinesi Forests is a notable option. Another related route is the Classic Acquacheta Ring Trail. You can also find the Embrace Waterfall listed as a highlight in the area.

Many trails around Florence are suitable for families, offering varying lengths and difficulties. Shorter, easier walks through areas like Fiesole or along the Arno River provide gentle terrain and interesting sights. For specific recommendations, look for routes marked as 'easy' on komoot, which are generally well-suited for families.

Yes, Florence has many excellent circular hiking routes. Popular options include the landscapes around Greve in Chianti – Ring tour, which takes you through vineyards, and the View over Florence from Monte Ceceri – ring tour, offering stunning city vistas. The Monte Morello Three Peaks Loop is another great choice for a more challenging circular hike.

Many popular hiking areas around Florence, such as Fiesole, are easily reachable by local buses from the city center. For trails further afield, like those in the Chianti region or near Monte Morello, regional buses or trains can provide access to starting points, though some may require a short walk or taxi from the station.

For breathtaking panoramic views, consider hikes in the hills surrounding Florence. Areas like Fiesole, Monte Ceceri, and the Bellosguardo area offer elevated perspectives. The View over Florence from Monte Ceceri – ring tour is specifically designed for this, and a walk up to Piazzale Michelangelo also provides iconic city views.

Absolutely. The Chianti wine region, easily accessible from Florence, offers numerous trails that wind through its iconic vineyards and olive groves. A prime example is The landscapes around Greve in Chianti – Ring tour, which allows hikers to experience this quintessential Tuscan agricultural landscape firsthand.

For a more solitary experience away from the main tourist paths, explore the protected natural areas further from the city center. The Vallombrosa Forest offers serene, shady hikes, and the Riserva Naturale Acquerino-Cantagallo provides continuous wilderness in the Tuscan-Emilian Apennines. The forest of the Casentinese way – Ring tour is another excellent choice for tranquility.

Yes, about 30 kilometers from Florence, you can discover the dramatic landscape of the Balze of Valdarno. These ochre-colored pinnacles offer a unique and striking setting for walks, providing a distinct geological experience compared to the rolling hills and forests closer to the city.

Yes, Florence is close to several ancient and lush forests. The Casentinesi Forests, Mount Falterona and Campigna National Park, located about 1.5 hours away, boasts over 600 km of trails through ancient woods. The Vallombrosa Forest also offers serene hikes among towering fir trees. Consider the challenging Ascent to Monte Falco and Monte Falterona — Ring tour for an immersive forest experience.

Many hiking routes around Florence integrate historical elements. You can hike through charming medieval villages, or along ancient pilgrimage routes like sections of the Via Francigena. The historic hilltop town of Fiesole, with its Etruscan and Roman ruins, is a popular starting point for hikes. You can also visit highlights like Braschi Quarry (Monte Ceceri) or the Cave and Spring of San Filippo Benizi.