Rose Garden
A vibrant terraced garden showcasing over 1,000 rose varieties with breathtaking panoramic views of Florence and unique art installations.
Highlights
Must-see attractions
Social
From TikTok & Reddit
Best Time
Peak bloom & fewer crowds
Rose Garden
Best Time
Peak bloom & fewer crowds
Highlights
Must-see attractions
A vibrant terraced garden showcasing over 1,000 rose varieties with breathtaking panoramic views of Florence and unique art installations.
"A must-visit for its stunning roses, panoramic Florence views, and artistic charm."
👟 Wear Comfortable Shoes
Lots of walking and uphill climbs! You'll want comfy shoes to explore all the terraces.
🧺 Picnic Perfection
Bring a blanket and snacks for a lovely picnic with incredible Florence views.
Highlights
Discover the most iconic attractions and experiences
English Rose Terraces
Main garden areas
Wander through a stunning collection of English roses, renowned for their fragrance and beauty. A must-see for any rose enthusiast.
Panoramic Florence Views
Upper terraces
Breathtaking vistas of Florence, including the Arno River and the Duomo. Perfect for photos and soaking in the city's charm.
Folon Sculptures
Scattered throughout the garden
Discover whimsical sculptures by artist Folon, adding an artistic touch to the natural beauty of the gardens.
Japanese Garden
Secluded area
A tranquil escape with a distinct Japanese aesthetic, offering a peaceful contrast to the vibrant rose displays.
Planning Your Visit
Timing is Everything for Peak Blooms
Navigating the Terraces
Best Times
Insider Tips
from TikTok, Instagram & Reddit
👟 Wear Comfortable Shoes
Lots of walking and uphill climbs! You'll want comfy shoes to explore all the terraces.
🧺 Picnic Perfection
Bring a blanket and snacks for a lovely picnic with incredible Florence views.
💧 Refill Your Water Bottle
Water refills are available for €2, saving you money and reducing waste.
⏰ Don't Be Late for Closing
The garden closes at 8 PM sharp and gates are locked! Don't get caught out.
Tips
from all over the internet
👟 Wear Comfortable Shoes
Lots of walking and uphill climbs! You'll want comfy shoes to explore all the terraces.
🧺 Picnic Perfection
Bring a blanket and snacks for a lovely picnic with incredible Florence views.
💧 Refill Your Water Bottle
Water refills are available for €2, saving you money and reducing waste.
⏰ Don't Be Late for Closing
The garden closes at 8 PM sharp and gates are locked! Don't get caught out.
📸 Capture the Views
The panoramic views of Florence are stunning, especially during golden hour.
What Travellers Say
Reviews Summary
Visitors rave about the Rose Garden's stunning beauty, especially its vast collection of roses and breathtaking panoramic views of Florence. Many appreciate the artistic elements like Folon's sculptures and the serene Japanese garden. However, some note the steep inclines can be challenging, and the cafe prices are on the higher side.
"Very large and lovely garden which comprises of multiple gardens and lovely sites in Florence. I got tired of walking at a point so didn't get the full view of the location. Will definitely recommend you give atleast 4hours to explore this holistically"
Maureen C
"A beautiful place to visit on your way up towards the church and monastery. There is a small cafe where you can buy drinks and snacks, as well as public toilets (€1 charge per person). Worth a visit for the views alone!!"
Louise El-Wardany
"This is an absolutely lovely spot, perfect for a picnic! Bring a blanket, buy a takeaway pizza, and enjoy the beautiful view over Florence. It’s a great place for a first date.
There’s live music coming from the café above, which adds to the relaxed vibe. You can buy drinks there (an Aperol Spritz in a plastic cup was €7) and bring them down to the park. They also sell water refills for €2, so bring your own bottle if you can.
Just a heads-up: the park closes at 8 PM sharp, and they do lock the gates — we know a few people who got to learn this the hard way."
Tova Mårtensson
What People Like
What People Dislike
Frequently Asked Questions
🚇 🗺️ Getting There
The Rose Garden (Giardino delle Rose) is located on the slopes of the Oltrarno district, below Piazzale Michelangelo. You can walk up from the Arno river, or take bus routes that stop near Piazzale Michelangelo. Be prepared for a steep walk uphill.
The garden is spread across several terraces with significant inclines, making it challenging for those with mobility issues. While there are some flatter areas, the overall terrain is steep.
Walking from the Ponte Vecchio or other central bridges is a scenic option, though it involves an uphill climb. Alternatively, buses like the 12 or 13 can take you closer to Piazzale Michelangelo, from where it's a short walk down to the garden.
Driving directly to the Rose Garden is not recommended due to limited parking and the ZTL (limited traffic zone) in Florence. It's best to park further away or use public transport.
Parking near the Rose Garden is very limited and often expensive. It's advisable to use public parking garages in the city center and walk or take a bus.
🎫 🎫 Tickets & Entry
No, the Rose Garden is free to enter and explore. It's a public park open to everyone.
The garden is typically open from early morning until sunset. However, it closes promptly at 8 PM, and gates are locked, so be mindful of the time.
Since entry is free, no advance booking is required. You can visit anytime during its opening hours.
You can bring picnics and blankets, which is highly encouraged! However, be respectful of the plants and other visitors.
Generally, pets are not allowed in the main garden areas to protect the delicate plants. It's best to check local regulations or signage upon arrival.
📸 📸 Photography
The 'golden hours' – shortly after sunrise and before sunset – offer the most beautiful light for photography, casting a warm glow on the roses and city views.
The upper terraces offer stunning panoramic views of Florence, perfect for wide shots. The rose-lined paths and the Folon sculptures also make for picturesque compositions.
While not explicitly forbidden, it's best to be considerate of other visitors, especially during busy times. Avoid setting up tripods in narrow pathways.
A camera with good low-light capabilities is beneficial for early morning or late afternoon shots. A wide-angle lens is great for capturing the expansive views, while a macro lens can highlight the intricate details of the roses.
Generally, personal photography is allowed. However, commercial photography or large-scale photoshoots might require special permits. Always be mindful of other visitors.
🍽️ 🍽️ Food & Dining
There is a small cafe located in the upper part of the garden that serves drinks and snacks. You can also bring your own food for a picnic.
The cafe offers drinks like Aperol Spritz (around €7) and water refills (€2). They may also have light snacks available.
Yes, bringing your own picnic is highly recommended and a popular activity for visitors. It's a great way to enjoy the views.
Yes, there are several restaurants and trattorias in the Oltrarno district and closer to Piazzale Michelangelo, offering a range of Tuscan cuisine.
Bringing your own food and drinks is significantly cheaper than purchasing from the cafe, especially for beverages.
For Different Travelers
Tailored advice for your travel style
👨👩👧 Families with Kids
💖 Couples & Romantic Getaways
🚶♀️ Solo Travelers & Explorers
Deep Dives
In-depth insights and expert knowledge
The Artistry of the Rose Garden
Beyond the roses, the garden features a tranquil Japanese garden, a serene space designed with traditional elements. Adding to its artistic appeal are the sculptures by Belgian artist Jean-Michel Folon, which are thoughtfully placed throughout the grounds, creating delightful surprises as you wander. These sculptures, often whimsical and thought-provoking, complement the natural beauty and add a layer of cultural richness to the experience.
Visitors often praise the garden for its peaceful atmosphere, especially during the quieter hours. It's a perfect place for a leisurely stroll, a romantic picnic, or simply to relax and enjoy the vibrant colors and fragrant scents. The combination of diverse flora, artistic installations, and iconic city views makes the Rose Garden a truly special destination.
Navigating the Terraces and Views
Be prepared for a significant uphill walk to reach the higher sections. While the paths are generally well-maintained, they can be steep, so comfortable footwear is essential.
For those seeking the best photo opportunities, the interplay of light and shadow on the roses and the cityscape is magical. The garden's layout ensures that every turn offers a new, picturesque scene, from close-ups of individual blooms to grand vistas of the Tuscan capital.
Social
from TikTok, Instagram & Reddit