Il cielo attende il tramonto “the sky is waiting for sunset.”
I love taking the time (when I can) to watch the sunset no matter where I am whether that be in Chicago or on my travels. It allows me to slow down (ideally with wine, of course) and take a moment to reflect on the day. Without fail, it always has a way of putting life into perspective. 🙂
So when you are ending what no doubt was a special day in Florence, admiring great works of art, shopping and eating gelato at every corner, you must make sure to find yourself in an opportune spot to watch the sky turn to gold and see the soft yet brilliant orange glow fall over the city. Much like their art, fashion and food, Italian sunsets are unlike any other. I might be biased but first check out this list below and experience it for yourself before making a judgement…Capisci? 😉
Piazzale Michelangelo
Treking up to Piazzale Michelangelo is a must do for any trip to Florence whether you are going to catch the sunset or enjoy a picnic lunch. If you’re in the city center, you can walk up to the Piazzale Michelangelo easily by climbing up the stairs from Piazza Poggi found at the base of the hill that the Pizzale sits on or take bus 12 or 13 from the center. You can also follow via Michelangelo from Piazza Ferruccio. Either way, it is easy to find and you really just need to follow the trail of tourists. It is a very popular spot! (But don’t let that deter you). There is a reason it is so popular. The view will take your breath away (if the trek up the hill didn’t already). 😉 If you are interested in packing a picnic, check out ZEB (wrote a post previously) on the way. Alberto or Giuseppina can help you pick out a great bottle of wine, Tuscan meats and cheeses!
SE-STO on Arno
On the top of the beautiful Westin Excelsior hotel, is the SE-STO restaurant and terrace. The first time we visited was on a cool evening in January and we were the only ones there. I ordered a glass of Cuvee and my husband, a Negroni, and we got the view above all to ourselves. Sognante “dreamy”…cin cin!
Belmond Villa San Michele
You had me at Belmond…this five star luxury hotel group is best known for the famous Hotel Cipriani in Venice but any property they own is one that is worth visiting. Although we did not stay at Villa San Michele located just outside of Florence perched on a hill in Fiesole, we went to enjoy an apertivo before having dinner. The hotel has a complimentary shuttle that picks up in Piazza della Repubblica (note: they prioritize guests of the hotel first so you may or may not have to wait for the next shuttle) and within 25 minutes, you are at the property. It is stunningly beautiful, peaceful and the view overlooking Florence from afar is worth the trip. It will be a little more $$$ and it wouldn’t hurt to put a blazer and dress on but I promise you will be :).
Golden View Open Bar
My husband and I stumbled upon the Golden View walking down Via de Bardi one evening around the time the sun was going down. We were looking for a spot with a view overlooking the river and sure enough we got the perfect table to enjoy an apertif looking out at the Ponte Vecchio. This is a great place to also enjoy dinner and enjoy live jazz music on Mondays, Fridays and Saturdays. Divertiti!
La Terrazza
Of all of the places, La Terrazza is the only one I have not been to but it is at the top of my list for the next time we are in Florence. An American in Rome shares as one of their favorites (she always has great recs!) and the views look spectacular. Located on the roof of the Hotel Continentale, per favore, go and let me know how it is! Grazie 😉
