The magic of Florence on the Arno river
Duration: 1.30 hours
On boat
On foot
What's included in the tour:
Private tour guide
Private boat
Headphones for parties of more than 6 people
Full assistance during the tour
Discover Florence from the Water with Guided Florence Tours
Florence is a city best savored slowly—and there is no better way to do so than by gently gliding along the Arno River.
No rush, no crowds—just the soothing rhythm of the water and the breathtaking view of the city from a different perspective. Aboard an authentic Florentine “barchino”, you will experience the true soul of Florence, drifting beneath its ancient bridges and admiring its beauty from the most tranquil of settings.
Your journey begins with a short introduction to Florence’s history, as you make your way to the boarding area. Once on the river, you will leave the bustling streets behind and immerse yourself
in a world of quiet elegance, where time seems to slow down and the city reveals itself in a new light.
🔹 The Florentine barchino are long, narrow boats expertly guided by rowers with long poles. They recall the historic boats, once used to collect sand from the Arno for constructing Florence’s iconic buildings.
What to expect
As your gondola glides through the water, Florence unfolds before you in a way few ever get to witness.
The golden facades of Renaissance palaces reflect on the shimmering surface of the river. Above, the city hums with life, but down on the water, all you hear is the gentle splash of the oars and the voice of your guide as they unveil the fascinating history and secrets of Florence. You will sail beneath the Ponte Vecchio, passing under its medieval arches as centuries of history echo around you. This is the most peaceful way to experience Florence, where every moment feels like a painting coming to life.
Please Note:
🗓 The tour runs from April to September and may be canceled due to bad weather. If so, a full refund will be provided.
The history of the boats
The boats used for this tour are inspired by the skilled workers who, since the Middle Ages, collected sand and gravel from the Arno to build the city’s most majestic churches and palaces. Their work intertwined the river with the very fabric of Florence, making it an essential part of the city’s history.
Sailing along the Arno, you don’t just see Florence—you feel it. You relive its ancient traditions, admire its grandeur, and experience its magic in the most intimate and tranquil way possible.
🌊 Step aboard and let Florence reveal itself to you—one quiet ripple at a time.
Photo testimonials
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