The Majestic Fortress of Belvedere: A Historical Gem in Florence
Explore the stunning Forte di Belvedere in Florence, a historical fortress offering breathtaking views and rich cultural experiences.
Perched on a hill overlooking Florence, Forte di Belvedere is a must-visit fortress that combines stunning architecture with breathtaking views. Explore its rich history and enjoy panoramic vistas of the city as you walk through its historic walls, making it a perfect destination for history lovers and casual tourists alike.
A brief summary to Forte di Belvedere
- Via di S. Leonardo, 1, Florence, Metropolitan City of Florence, 50125, IT
- +39055055
- Visit website
- Tuesday 10 am-8 pm
- Wednesday 10 am-8 pm
- Thursday 10 am-8 pm
- Friday 10 am-8 pm
- Saturday 10 am-8 pm
- Sunday 10 am-8 pm
Local tips
- Visit during sunset for the best views of Florence bathed in golden light.
- Check the fortress's schedule for any special exhibitions or events before your visit.
- Wear comfortable shoes, as the terrain can be uneven and requires some walking.
- Bring a camera to capture the stunning views and the fortress's unique architecture.
- Plan your visit on a weekday to avoid larger crowds on weekends.
Getting There
-
Walking
From the city center, start at Piazza della Signoria. Head towards the Uffizi Gallery and exit onto Ponte Vecchio. Cross the bridge and follow the road uphill, taking Via de' Guicciardini. Continue straight until you reach Via Romana. Turn left onto Via Romana and follow this street until you reach the entrance of Giardino di Boboli. Enter the garden and walk through it, following the paths toward the top of the hill.
-
Walking
After exploring the gardens, exit through the upper gate of the Boboli Gardens, and you will find yourself on Via di S. Leonardo. From here, you can see Forte di Belvedere in the distance. Follow Via di S. Leonardo directly to the fortress. The walk is approximately 15 minutes and provides beautiful views of Florence.
-
Public Transport
If you are near the Santa Maria Novella train station, take Bus 12 or 13 towards 'Piazza della Libertà'. Get off at the stop 'Piazza della Libertà' and then walk towards the Pitti Palace. Continue straight through the Pitti Palace gardens (Giardino di Boboli) and follow the walking directions mentioned above to reach Forte di Belvedere.
-
Walking
For those coming from the Oltrarno district, start at Piazza Santo Spirito. Walk up Via Santo Spirito, then turn left onto Via de' Serragli. Continue until you reach the intersection with Via Romana, then turn right and follow the path that leads towards the Boboli Gardens. From there, follow the previous walking directions to Forte di Belvedere.
Discover more about Forte di Belvedere
Iconic landmarks you can’t miss
Obelisco di Boboli
0.3 km
Explore the Obelisco di Boboli, a magnificent Egyptian obelisk in the heart of Florence's Boboli Gardens, where history and beauty intertwine.
Costa S. Giorgio
0.3 km
Explore the serene beauty of Costa S. Giorgio in Florence, where breathtaking views and rich history come together in a peaceful oasis.
Lungarno 23
0.4 km
Experience the essence of Tuscan cuisine at Lungarno 23, where exquisite flavors meet stunning river views in the heart of Florence.
Piazza dè Mozzi
0.4 km
Discover the serene charm of Piazza d'è Mozzi in Florence, where history, culture, and local life converge in a tranquil setting.
Palazzo Temple Leader
0.5 km
Explore Palazzo Temple Leader, a historic landmark in Florence that embodies the city's artistic legacy and architectural splendor.
Il Pitti Soggiorno
0.5 km
Discover the charm of Florence at Il Pitti Soggiorno, a perfect blend of comfort and cultural immersion in the heart of Tuscany.
Casa Botticelli in San Felice
0.5 km
Discover tranquility at Casa Botticelli in Florence, where elegance meets comfort in a prime location near iconic attractions and local culinary delights.
SoprArno Suites
0.5 km
Experience the charm of Florence at SoprArno Suites, a peaceful bed and breakfast that serves as your gateway to Tuscany's art and culture.
Piazza Nicola Demidoff & Lungarno Serristori
0.5 km
Discover the enchanting Piazza Nicola Demidoff & Lungarno Serristori in Florence, a harmonious blend of history, culture, and riverside beauty.
Oratorio di San Sebastiano de' Bini
0.5 km
Explore the serene beauty and historical significance of the Oratorio di San Sebastiano de' Bini, a hidden gem in the heart of Florence.
Parcheggio LA TERRAZZA DEL PRINCIPE
0.5 km
Discover Florence with ease at Parcheggio La Terrazza del Principe, your free parking solution just minutes from the city's iconic attractions.
Lungarno Anna Maria Luisa de' Medici
0.6 km
Experience the serene beauty and historical significance of Lungarno Anna Maria Luisa de' Medici, a must-see riverside promenade in Florence.
Ponte Vecchio
0.6 km
Discover the historic Ponte Vecchio, Florence's iconic bridge adorned with shops, breathtaking views, and rich cultural heritage.
La Specola
0.6 km
Explore the wonders of nature and science at La Specola, Florence’s cherished natural history museum with stunning exhibits and breathtaking views.
Piazza dei Giudici, 1
0.6 km
Explore the historic Piazza dei Giudici in Florence, a stunning square rich in architectural beauty and cultural significance, perfect for every tourist.
Unmissable attractions to see
Porta San Giorgio
0.1 km
Discover the historical significance and architectural beauty of Porta San Giorgio, an iconic landmark in Florence, Italy.
Fontana del Nettuno
0.1 km
Explore the stunning Fontana del Nettuno, a Renaissance masterpiece in Florence's vibrant Piazza della Signoria, showcasing intricate sculptures and rich history.
Bulwark of San Giorgio
0.2 km
Discover the Bulwark of San Giorgio, a historical fortress in Florence that offers stunning views and a glimpse into Italy's rich architectural heritage.
Villa Bardini
0.2 km
Discover the serene blend of art, history, and nature at Villa Bardini, a must-visit heritage museum and park in Florence, Italy.
Fontana di Ganimede
0.3 km
Explore the Fontana di Ganimede, a breathtaking historical landmark in Florence, showcasing exquisite Renaissance artistry and tranquil beauty.
Ghiacciaia
0.3 km
Discover the charm of Ghiacciaia, a serene tourist attraction in Florence with rich history and stunning architecture, perfect for a peaceful escape.
Giardino Bardini
0.3 km
Discover the serene beauty and historical charm of Giardino Bardini, a breathtaking garden in Florence offering stunning views and lush landscapes.
Fountain of the Artichoke
0.3 km
Discover the captivating Fountain of the Artichoke in Florence, a stunning cultural landmark blending Renaissance artistry with serene beauty.
Fontana di Giove
0.4 km
Discover the serene beauty of Fontana di Giove, an artistic drinking water fountain in the heart of Florence's vibrant Piazza de' Pitti.
Chiesa Parrocchiale di San Leonardo in Arcetri
0.4 km
Experience the tranquility and historical beauty of Chiesa Parrocchiale di San Leonardo in Arcetri, a hidden gem in Florence's picturesque hills.
Oltrarno
0.4 km
Experience the artisan spirit of Oltrarno, Florence's charming district filled with craftsmanship, delicious cuisine, and stunning historical sites.
Palazzo Pitti
0.4 km
Explore the artistic heritage of Florence at Palazzo Pitti, a stunning Renaissance palace filled with art, history, and beautiful gardens.
Pitti Palace
0.4 km
Explore the grandeur of Pitti Palace, a Renaissance marvel in Florence, featuring stunning art collections and serene gardens that reflect the Medici legacy.
Gallery of Modern Art
0.4 km
Explore the Gallery of Modern Art in Florence – a treasure trove of Italian creativity from the 18th to the 20th century, housed in the majestic Palazzo Pitti.
Palatine Gallery
0.4 km
Explore the Palatine Gallery in Florence, home to Renaissance masterpieces and the luxurious history of the Medici family, a must-see for art lovers.
Essential places to dine
Ristorante dei Rossi
0.5 km
Discover authentic Tuscan cuisine at Ristorante dei Rossi in Florence – where tradition meets modern dining in a cozy atmosphere.
Olivia Bistrot del Frantoio Santa Téa
0.5 km
Experience authentic Tuscan cuisine at Olivia Bistrot del Frantoio in Florence – where tradition meets culinary excellence.
Osteria Le Pietre
0.5 km
Experience authentic Tuscan cuisine at Osteria Le Pietre in Florence—where every dish celebrates Italy's rich culinary heritage.
Golden View Firenze
0.5 km
Experience the best of Tuscan cuisine with stunning views at Golden View Firenze - a culinary gem overlooking the Arno River.
Osteria Lo Sdrucciolo
0.5 km
Discover authentic Tuscan flavors at Osteria Lo Sdrucciolo in Florence – a culinary delight awaits!
Ristorante Borgo San Jacopo
0.6 km
Experience exquisite Tuscan cuisine at Ristorante Borgo San Jacopo, overlooking Florence's scenic Arno River.
Osteria Del Pavone
0.6 km
Experience authentic Tuscan cuisine at Osteria Del Pavone in Florence - where tradition meets culinary excellence.
Tuscan Taste Florence
0.6 km
Discover authentic Tuscan flavors at Tuscan Taste Florence – where every dish tells a story.
Buca dell'Orafo
0.6 km
Discover Buca dell'Orafo: An enchanting restaurant in Florence offering authentic Tuscan dishes within a charming cellar setting.
Ora d'Aria
0.6 km
Experience innovative Italian cuisine at Ora d'Aria in Florence - where tradition meets modern gastronomy.
I'Raddi di Santo Spirito
0.6 km
Discover authentic Tuscan flavors at I'Raddi di Santo Spirito, Florence's affordable deli-style restaurant offering traditional Italian cuisine.
Gustapanino
0.6 km
Discover Gustapanino in Florence – where traditional Italian flavors meet a vibrant atmosphere in the heart of Piazza Santo Spirito.
Osteria dell'Enoteca
0.6 km
Experience authentic Italian flavors at Osteria dell'Enoteca in Florence, where exquisite steaks and fine wines await every discerning palate.
La Buchetta Food & Wine Restaurant
0.7 km
Discover La Buchetta in Florence for an unforgettable journey through traditional Tuscan cuisine paired with exquisite local wines.
Osteria Santo Spirito
0.7 km
Experience authentic Tuscan flavors at Osteria Santo Spirito in Florence's charming piazza – a culinary delight not to be missed.
Markets, malls and hidden boutiques
D.VERS@
0.5 km
Discover unique treasures at D.VERS@ in Florence, a charming gift shop offering artisanal crafts and authentic local souvenirs.
39 rosso
0.5 km
Discover unique souvenirs and authentic Florentine crafts at 39 Rosso, a charming store in the heart of Florence, Italy.
Anna
0.5 km
Explore Anna, Florence's premier leather goods store, offering exquisite handbags, luggage, and fashion accessories in a charming atmosphere.
The Gallery
0.5 km
Discover the essence of Italian craftsmanship at The Gallery, Florence's premier destination for handcrafted leather goods and stylish accessories.
La Pelle Srl Firenze
0.5 km
Explore La Pelle Srl Firenze for exquisite Italian leather goods, from handbags to shoes, celebrating craftsmanship and style in the heart of Florence.
Italian Wine Shop
0.5 km
Discover the rich flavors of Tuscany at the Italian Wine Shop in Florence, your go-to destination for authentic Italian wines.
Shanti Deva boutique
0.5 km
Explore Shanti Deva Boutique in Florence for unique handicrafts and authentic Italian art, a must-visit for culture-loving travelers.
Artisans of Sdrucciolo
0.5 km
Explore the Artisans of Sdrucciolo in Florence, where tradition meets craftsmanship in a charming shopping experience filled with unique handmade treasures.
HUMILIS Made in Assisi
0.5 km
Explore the exquisite craftsmanship at HUMILIS Made in Assisi, where Italian artistry meets timeless elegance in the heart of Florence.
9 ROSSO
0.5 km
Explore the charm of Florence at 9 ROSSO, a vintage clothing store offering unique fashion and exquisite costume jewelry.
Stefania Masini Vintage
0.6 km
Explore the elegance of bygone eras at Stefania Masini Vintage, Florence's premier vintage clothing and antique store.
Signum Florence
0.6 km
Explore Signum Florence, a unique gift shop offering handcrafted treasures and artisanal goods in the heart of Florence.
C’est Chic Vintage Oltrarno
0.6 km
Explore unique vintage clothing and accessories at C’est Chic Vintage Oltrarno, a fashion gem in Florence’s historic Oltrarno district.
Massimo Ravinale - Foulard e Accessori esclusivi, Made In Italy
0.6 km
Explore exclusive Italian fashion accessories at Massimo Ravinale, where elegance meets craftsmanship in the heart of Florence.
Bjork Florence
0.6 km
Discover unique and curated finds at Bjork Florence, a boutique showcasing the spirit of Florence through niche brands and artistic treasures.
Essential bars & hidden hideouts
Enoteca Pitti Gola e Cantina
0.5 km
Discover the authentic flavors of Tuscany at Enoteca Pitti Gola e Cantina, a charming wine bar and Italian restaurant in the heart of Florence.
The High Bar
0.5 km
Discover the vibrant ambiance and unique drinks of The High Bar in Florence, where every sip is a taste of local culture.
Gusta Bar
0.6 km
Discover Gusta Bar in Florence, where artisanal drinks and a vibrant atmosphere come together to create a unique local experience.
Vanilla Club - Speakeasy
0.6 km
Discover the charm of Vanilla Club, a hidden speakeasy in Florence known for its exquisite cocktails and vibrant nightlife, perfect for every visitor.
Loggia Roof Bar
0.6 km
Experience breathtaking views and exquisite cocktails at Loggia Roof Bar, Florence's premier rooftop destination for relaxation and indulgence.
Friends Pub
0.6 km
Experience the vibrant nightlife of Florence at Friends Pub, where locals and tourists unite over drinks and good times.
La Terrazza Rooftop Bar
0.7 km
Experience breathtaking views of Florence at La Terrazza Rooftop Bar, where exquisite cocktails meet stunning cityscapes in a chic atmosphere.
Langolino
0.7 km
Experience the best cocktails in Florence at Langolino, where creativity and tradition blend for unforgettable nightlife.
The Old Stove Irish Pub
0.8 km
Experience the perfect blend of Irish charm and Florentine culture at The Old Stove Irish Pub, a vibrant spot for food, drinks, and entertainment.
Quelo Bar
0.8 km
Discover the vibrant atmosphere of Quelo Bar, a charming spot in Florence that blends delicious drinks with authentic Italian hospitality.
Djària - American Bar
0.8 km
Experience the best of American cuisine and cocktails at Djària, a lively bar in Florence offering gourmet burgers and unique drinks.
Piccolo Cafè
0.8 km
Discover the vibrant and inclusive atmosphere of Piccolo Cafè in Florence, a must-visit bar for cocktails and camaraderie.
Kikuya Pub
0.8 km
Discover Kikuya Pub, a lively spot in Florence offering a mix of local and international drinks in a vibrant atmosphere filled with warmth and charm.
Vintage Wine Bar
0.9 km
Experience exquisite Italian wines and local delicacies at Vintage Wine Bar, a charming spot in the heart of Florence.
La Petite
0.9 km
Discover the vibrant La Petite in Florence, where exquisite cocktails and authentic Italian cuisine come together for an unforgettable dining experience.