Florence is a green city which offers many spots for people to step in and relax in the lap of nature, take a stroll around or enjoy with outdoor activities. Florence has parks ranging from large ones like the Cascine, to tiny ‘pocket parks’ in the neighbourhoods. Here is a list of some of the best known parks of Florence;
Boboli Gardens and Bardini Gardens
Boboli gardens stand at Piazza Pitti and is closed every first and fourth Monday of the month. The Entrance fee is €6 which includes admission to the Bardini Gardens. Bardini Gardens are a favourite of the locals as it features a sweeping baroque stairway, hidden statues, fountains, grottoes, a small amphitheatre and breathtaking views shaded by oak and cypress trees.
Le Cascine
Standing near Porta al Prato, alongside the Arno, on the west side of Florence, Le Cascine was once a private hunting reserve for the Medici dukes. A bike path meanders through the entire park, with plenty of space for rollerblading as well. A bit of advice here would be to avoid the park after dark or on Tuesdays and Sundays when it gets crowded with people.
Giardino Comunale di Borgo Allegri
The park stands at Borgo Allegri 18, in the Santa Croce neighbourhood, nestled between two residential, historic buildings of Borgo Allegri. There are lots of shady trees, and people of all age group flock here. This is also a hot spot for those who love picnicking.
Giardino Alessandro Chelazzi
The park stands near the Piazza dei Ciompi, lies in the heart of the Ciompi antiques area. So, you can first have a look at the antiques in the surrounding area and then can rest in one of the many benches in the shade. The park allows pets inside.
Piazzale Michelangelo
When you go up to the Piazzale Michelangelo from the Torre di San Niccolò, you find on the way scattered along the curving road benches half-hidden among the trees and a magnificent view of the skyline of Florence. The dazzling view of the Duomo, the diverse trademark bell towers of Florence, and the Arno with its graceful bridges is breathtaking.
Japanese Rose Garden
This is one of the most panoramic gardens in Florence offering a breathtaking view of the Florence and the hills. This is a terraced garden with over 1,000 varieties of roses. The Japanese Rose Garden can be reached by following the curving road up to the Piazzale Michelangelo from the Torre di San Niccolò.