Bardini Gardens

Overview

The Bardini Gardens are a lesser-known gem adjacent to the Boboli Gardens, offering an intimate hillside garden with one of Florence's best panoramic viewpoints. The wisteria-draped Belvedere loggia is particularly photogenic in late April.

Highlights

• Belvedere terrace: A wide viewing platform overlooking the Duomo, Palazzo Vecchio, and the Tuscan hills.
• Wisteria tunnel: Spectacular purple blooms in late April–early May.
• Renaissance staircase: A monumental Baroque stairway climbing through terraced gardens.

History

The gardens belonged to the Mozzi family in the 13th century and were restored by antiquarian Stefano Bardini in the early 1900s. Reopened to the public in 2005 after a lengthy restoration.

Visitor Tips

• Free entry on first Sunday: Of each month; included in the Boboli combo ticket.
• Crowd-free: Far fewer visitors than Boboli—a peaceful retreat.
• Duration: 45–60 minutes.