Top Florence On the Water

A Florentine gondola boat tour offers a unique way to experience the beauty and history of Florence from the tranquil waters of the Arno River. Unlike Venice’s famous gondolas, Florence has its own traditional boats, known as “barchetti” or “renaioli,” which were originally used to transport goods along the river. Today, they provide an authentic and intimate way to discover the city from a completely different perspective.

The panoramic excursion includes the descent of the stretch of the Arno river that flows through the historic center of Florence, from San Niccolò to Santa Rosa. The river offers a truly unique perspective, with the possibility of taking magnificent photographs of the most famous buildings and monuments (Pontevecchio, Vasari Corridor, Uffizi Gallery, Ponte Santa Trìnita etc.). A perfect mix of sport and culture, the guides who will accompany you will tell anecdotes about the river and its centuries-old relationship with the city. Paddling in a group under the arches of Pontevecchio, an unforgettable experience!

Head to the Italian Riviera on a small-group day trip from Florence to the Cinque Terre, a UNESCO World Heritage site of five cliffside villages. After the drive, travel by boat (weather dependent) and short train rides to Monterosso, Vernazza, and either Riomaggiore or Manarola. Enjoy free time for swimming or exploring local artisan workshops.

Explore the UNESCO-listed Cinque Terre on this full-day excursion from Florence. Travel stress-free with all bus, train, and ferry tickets included. See the colourful coastal villages your way—choose a solo trip to explore independently, opt for a guided tour, or add a street food experience featuring traditional Ligurian focaccia and ice cream.

Take in the top sights in Florence from both land and water with this unique combined walking and boat tour. Get a unique perspective on the Tuscan city’s Renaissance heritage as you stroll through the old town, then board a traditional gondola for a scenic cruise down the Arno River. Listen to stories about the city and its famous past residents from your guide, and toast to your introduction to Florence with a glass of bubbly Prosecco.

Kayak down the Arno River in Florence, and see the Ponte Vecchio and other historical bridges from the water. Skipping the sidewalk crowds, you’ll paddle down the peaceful waterway with a guide and enjoy unobstructed views of Florence as you go. Use of a lifejacket is included, and you’ll learn about the Vasari Corridor and the goldsmiths of the Ponte Vecchio from your guide.

Florence packs its landmarks into a compact center, but seeing it on foot misses the view from the river that shaped the city. Combine both on this private tour, walking past the historic landmarks before heading onto the Arno for a different vantage on the same skyline. A guide covers the city's history along the way, with a glass of prosecco to round out the time on the water.

Activity suitable for everyone: slowly glide along the Arno River on a wide and safe board, with a professional instructor who directs us on this memorable Florentine adventure. The calm of the river and the peace within us! Here's what we'll see during our passage on the Arno: The Uffizi Gallery, the palaces of the ancient families who lived on the Lungarno The Ponte Vecchio, the only bridge that was not mined during the Second World War The Ponte di Santa Trinita, rebuilt in 1946 exactly as it was in the 16th century The Palazzo Spini Ferroni, home of the Ferragamo fashion house. It's truly an emotion to pass under such famous bridges, it seems like going back to the Middle Ages and the Renaissance. Standing Up Paddle is accessible to everyone, even those who don't like surfing or doing sports. You paddle safely on a huge board and there is no chance of falling A memorable opportunity to enjoy the art and nature of Florence in a single experience!