The little-known mountain village in Tuscany that offers the best views of Florence

Florence is a One of the world's most notable cities for its artistic wealth, it has been classified as the birthplace of the Renaissance. Very close to it, on top of a hill covered in beautiful olive groves, lies a small town that isn't usually one of the most visited during a trip to the capital of Tuscany: Fiesole. A territory founded in the 7th century , surrounded by hills and preserving several interesting Etruscan and Roman remains.

Today we'll tell you what you can see if you visit Fiesole, how to reach its landscapes from Florence, and some tips to encourage you to plan a trip to this small Tuscan town.

One of the most important historical centers in Italy

As a small town that grew up on the hills above Florence, it has been internationally known since the 14th century as one of the most distinctive historical centers in all of Italy. Its territory was inhabited by the Etruscans, Romans, Lombards, and Florentines, who constantly clashed for control of the region.

Due to its strategic location, it's one of the best vantage points for observing the landscapes of Florence from above. From there, you'll have a great view of the region's capital, with its dome, and the surrounding countryside. Furthermore, its rich Etruscan history, Roman ruins, and remarkable art make it a must-visit destination at some point in your life.

What to see in Fiesole?

Fiesole is a small town, so a full day's sightseeing is enough to explore its most characteristic sites. Here's a list of places you shouldn't miss:

Piazza Mino da Fiesole

This is the town's main square and is dedicated to the Italian Renaissance sculptor of the same name. In its center is an equestrian statue known as the Monument to the Meeting of Tenao , depicting Vittorio Emanuele II and Garibaldi on horseback. It has become an ideal place to spend time together, as the surrounding area is lined with cafés and restaurants where you can enjoy a good time. An antiques market is also held on the first Sunday of every month.

Church and Convent of San Francisco

Going up the slope of Via San Francesco, we'll find another of the town's most interesting spots: the church and convent of San Francesco. Built during the 15th century, they are located in the middle of a steep, walled street with several stone platforms that serve as magnificent viewpoints overlooking Florence. Inside, you can discover the former cells that the friars used as private rooms.

Etruscan-Roman archaeological zone of Fiesole.

Built in the 1st century BC, it is known as the Fiesole Museum and includes the Roman theater, the Archaeological Museum, and the Bandini Museum. In this area, you can see the remains of the theater, a temple, and a thermal bath. The Archaeological Museum displays artifacts from the 3rd and 2nd centuries, while the theater still hosts concerts and events today.

Cathedral of San Romolo

Located next to Fiesole's Piazza Mino is the Cathedral of San Romolo, a 12th-century Romanesque building dedicated to Saint Romo, an evangelizer of the people. Its interior is somewhat austere but retains some gems, such as a chapel with the tomb of Bishop Leonardo Salutati in a sarcophagus sculpted by Mino da Fiesole. The most striking feature of its exterior is a crenellated clock tower that can be seen from any point in the city.

Viewpoint towards Florence

As you stroll through the city's various streets, you'll come across a few viewpoints, especially on Via San Francesco and other streets near Piazza Mino. These are perfect spots for enjoying unforgettable, albeit somewhat distant, views of Florence. You might even be able to make out Brunelleschi's magnificent Dome. A perfect setting for nature photography.

How to get to Fiesole from Florence?

The first thing you need to do is get to Florence. Once there, take the city bus line 7. The service departs from Piazza San Marco and passes through several points in the city. The journey takes approximately 20 minutes.

To use the bus, you must purchase a ticket, which costs €1.50. You must purchase it in advance at any authorized establishment, as it cannot be purchased on the bus.