Villa Bardini

"Gardens of Tranquility The Bardini Garden is one of Florence 's best kept secrets. It was built in the 12th century as part of a large estate owned by the Mozzi family. During the 20th century it was closed for many years and only reopened in 2005 after significant restoration. The garden is small and easy to walk through in about an hour and its hillsides offer spectacular views of Florence. Wandering among the terraces and flowers is an excellent way to escape from the touristy historic center and instead feel part of what this old city once was. During the off-season and in the morning or late afternoon, you may be the only visitor! The Bardini Garden can be accessed in two ways. One is by going into Boboli Gardens and exiting on the left side—this can be hard to find, but is marked on the Boboli Gardens map you receive on admission. The second way is via street da Costa San Giorgio 2. The garden opening hours vary according to season. It is closed the first and last Monday of each month. Admission is included in the Boboli Gardens ticket, or can be purchased separately for around 10 euros (and includes admission to the villa). There is also a restaurant with beautiful terrace views."

Florence off the beaten track

"Grand in design, but intimate in scale, the Giardino Bardini has a pergola-covered stairwell leading up to the Belvedere panoramic terrace. The beautiful terraced garden with a spectacular view of the city. Know that ascending requires a slight effort—the stairs are shallow and long. It's the perfect pit-stop if you're sick of traipsing around museums, as the garden doesn't present anything all that urgent to do, other than the obvious: stop and smell the flowers." - Erica Firpo

"What is this place? Giardino Bardini is a beautiful terraced garden with a spectacular view of the city . Grand in design, but intimate in scale, the garden has a pergola-covered stairwell leading up to the Belvedere panoramic terrace; ascending requires a slight effort—the stairs are shallow and long. There's nothing specific to do here other than the obvious: stop and smell the flowers. Any standout features or must-sees? The Belvedere terrace and the Villa Bardini itself, which hosts a temporary exhibitions as well as permanent collection of artwork by the modern Italian artist Pietro Annigonsi. Was it easy to get around? This garden has good signage and is easy to navigate. All said and done, what—and who—is this best for? This is perfect for those in need of a break from the museum scene ; anyone looking for a view; and families with kids." - Erica Firpo