The Arno is the Florence river and winding its way through Florence, stands as a defining feature of the city’s landscape.
A tributary of great historical and cultural significance, it has shaped Florence’s destiny, offering both prosperity and peril throughout the centuries. Its currents have witnessed the birth of Florentia, chosen by Julius Caesar’s soldiers in 59 bC for its strategic position, and have been a lifeline for economic activities such as milling and textile production.

See Florence from its river

To experience Florence from the Arno is to unveil a new perspective, revealing hidden treasures and familiar landmarks in a fresh light. The journey along its waters grants glimpses of iconic bridges like Ponte Vecchio and Ponte Santa Trinita, alongside architectural wonders like the Uffizi Gallery and the Vasari Corridor. This unique vantage point provides an intimate encounter with the city’s rich tapestry of history and culture.

Currently, there are three ways to navigate the Arno, each offering a distinct experience.

Traditional and historic boats

The historic boats were once used to get sand from the river that was then used for the construction of Florence building. They have all been meticulously restored and they seat 7 to 14 people maximum for a very personal and intimate experience.
Passengers are offered a serene journey of about one hour through timewhere the goal is to absorb the city’s enchanting vistas at a leisurely pace. They are truly the best and most authentic experience for seeing the Florence from the water.
The cost of the tour varies based on the number of participants.
For more information, please take a look at our site and at our tour.

The Arno dinghies

This activity is perfect for the more adventurous visitors and for those looking for a more hands-on approach: an activity suitable for the more sporty ones!
Led by expert instructors, visitors can have a different experience during their visit to Florence. Rowing on the Arno aboard dinghies is this the perfect mix between sport, tourism and culture. It is therefore a panoramic urban rafting excursion that lasts about two hours and goes from San Niccolò to Santa Rosa.
The cost varies based on the number of participants and the type of activity chosen.

Boat tour

This service was only introduced last year. This small boat with seats for about 25 people gives the possibility to take a short cruise of about 1 hour on the Arno river. Boarding takes place from a pier on the river at pre-established times:

• In the morning   at 10.30, 11.30
• In the afternoon at 3.30pm, 4.30pm and 5.30pm
• In the evening     at 6.30pm, 7.30pm and 9.30pm

Boat tours provide a leisurely cruise along the river, offering audio-guided commentary on Florence’s landmarks and history.
These boat excursions are especially suitable for those who do not like to sit for the entire duration of the journey (you can stand up on the boat) and who are happy to have a less detailed commentary on what they see.
This company also offers to have on addition to self audio guide service also the possibility of an aperitif or a concert. Prices vary from €25 to €35 per person.

Furthermore, no discourse on the Arno would be complete without acknowledging the historical significance of rowing clubs.

Canottieri Firenze

In Italy, modern rowing debuted in Turin, where the “Italian Rowing Club” was founded. The first Florentine company was called “Firenze” that in 1911 became the “Canottieri Firenze”.
This esteemed institution carries the araldic colors of Florence (red and white) and embodys Florence’s enduring connection to its river, fostering a sense of camaraderie and tradition among members while upholding the legacy of Italian rowing.

In conclusion, the Arno remains one of Florence’s most precious resources, witness to its history, its culture and its unique identity. The river has played a vital role in the city’s development over the centuries and continues to be a source of inspiration for residents and visitors.
To behold Florence from its waters is to glimpse into the soul of the city and is therefore truly something absolutely not to miss.