10 Best Photo Spots in Florence, Italy
Wondering where are the best photo spots in Florence? You are in the right place! I will help you discover the most beautiful places in Florence and make sure you have the best photos to share on your Instagram account.
Florence is one of the most photogenic cities in Italy with its elegant Renaissance architecture, charming cobblestone streets, and breathtaking panoramic views. This is why you want to bring your camera and take epic photos during your trip.
My guide to the best photo spots in Florence is going to ensure that you don’t miss a single photo opportunity! I will share additional photography tips, the best time to see these places without crowds, and help you pick out the right lens. Let’s get started!
10 best photo spots in Florence
Cathedral of Santa Maria del Fiore or Duomo
We have to start with one of the best photo spots in Florence and that is Duomo. Massive cupola, attention to detail, pieces of gold, and 463 steps to arrive at the top. Add hundreds of years of history!
Even though the Cathedral of Santa Maria del Fiore is a masterpiece of art, it is not easy to take photos here. The square is small and it is always filled with people, so you have to own a wide-angle lens and prepare yourself for a sunrise mission.
I think that this beautiful location deserves a colorful and long dress. I want you to pop out in the photo.
Equipment: If you want to capture the entire front of Duomo, you will need a wide-angle lens. You can take some beautiful portraits and detailed photos.
Best time: You will have to give up your beauty sleep and wake up as early as possible – 10 minutes before sunrise is perfect, so you can find the right spot and take some test shots.
Ponte Vecchio
Ponte Vecchio is another iconic photo spot in Florence. However, the best photos are taken from Ponte Santa Trinita – it offers the best view of the bridge and gives you a lot of space to capture the magic of Arno.
Little pastel houses with colorful window shutters build on top of the bridge make it charming and unique. I’m sure you haven’t seen anything like that before.
Hotel Lungarno is another alternative location to capture the beauty of Ponte Vecchio.
Location: Ponte Santa Trinita, 50100 Firenze FI, Italy
Equipment: 50mm will do wonderful work – enough to capture the bridge and create a bouquet effect around you.
Best time: It is not a busy place, so you can take the photo any time – just make sure that you avoid harsh lights. For sunny days – sunrise and sunset time are the best.
RELATED: Best Things to Do in Florence, Italy
Airbnb with the best view on Duomo
Do you remember I said that I found a magical apartment with the best view on the Cathedral of Santa Maria del Fiore? This is the apartment and the view that I was talking about.
The terrace is perfect to capture the magic of Duomo. Set up aperitivo and enjoy the magic of Italian sweet life. It is more than just a perfect photo spot of Florence. Escape the busy tourist streets of Florence, but keep the magical rooftop views over Duomo.
Also, I did my research and there is not a single restaurant in Florence that offers a view like this!
Click here to check prices and availability.
Equipment: It is easy to take good photos in this location, but I decided to play with a 50mm lens – you won’t be able to take a full-body picture, but this lens makes the cupola look massive!
Best time: Here you don’t have to worry about other people in your photos, because it is your private balcony. I advise you to meet sunset here with drinks and some food.
Piazzale Michelangelo
When it comes to Florence photography, you simply can’t leave this city without the photo in Piazzale Michelangelo. This square offers you a magical view over the rooftops of Florence, Arno, Duomo, and many other attractions of Florence.
I have to warn you that this place gets very crowded. Mostly because it is loved by locals. I came here for sunset and it was a struggle, but with a bit of patience, I still got the photos that I wanted.
However, once you see the crowds, that’s when you really understand that this is one of the best photo spots in Florence.
Equipment: Bring your zoom lens collection – it creates unique views over the city!
Best time: As mentioned, this place is crowded! So come here for a sunrise photoshoot… if you are patient like me, you can try sunset, because that’s the time when you can enjoy the true magic of this viewpoint.
Giardino Bardini
I have been to Florence before, but I never heard about Giardino Bardini. It seems like it has become popular in recent years because it offers a beautiful alley of wisteria. To be honest, it has so much more.
Keep in mind that wisteria blooms between April and May, but you still should visit Giardino Bardini even if you are coming to Florence outside these months.
Why? Well, it’s a beautiful garden filled with flowers and peace that you won’t find anywhere else in Florence. On top of that, it offers a great view over Florence – you will find it right after the ticket office at the entrance on Costa San Giorgio 2.
Location: Q774+HC Florence, Metropolitan City of Florence, Italy
Equipment: Zoom, zoom, zoom! I personally love this photo from Florence and I still get questions on Instagram about the place and equipment that I used for it because it is so unique. Zoom lens will do a great job here.
Best time: Working hours are constantly changing, so advise you to call them before. I think late afternoon is the best time to visit – keep in mind that you will need a couple of hours to see it all.
Giardino Delle Rose
Giardino Delle Rose is very similar to Giardino Bardini, however, the view of the city is very unique and that’s what makes it one of the best photo spots in Florence.
It is right under Piazzale Michelangelo and it is free to visit. Giardino delle Rose was created in 1865 and it’s home to more than 400 varieties of roses. If you are visiting in summer, come here to see the flowers and escape the crowds from Piazzale Michelangelo.
Equipment: Another location that lets you play with a zoom lens and get creative! Try it! Picture above was taken with 200mm or even 300mm lens.
Best time: You should combine it with Piazzale Michelangelo. Not too crowded, so easy to take photos, but once again, avoid harsh lights.
Piazza della Signoria
Piazza della Signoria and Palazzo Vecchio – it doesn’t get more Tuscanian than this. Typical colors of Tuscany, traditional architecture, and square that attractions thousands of tourists every day.
I have to admit that it is very difficult to take photos here because there will always be someone around. Luckily, the square is big, so few people won’t be so visible in your photos.
Make sure you see The Fountain of Neptune in Florence and appreciate every detail of this masterpiece. Don’t forget to capture it as well!
Equipment: I used 35mm for the photo that you see above. I think this little street created a beautiful framing around Palazzo Vecchio.
Best time: Make sure you combine this with another spot, maybe Duomo or Ponte Vecchio.
Basilica of Santa Croce
This is not your typical Instragam photo spot in Florence. In fact, I would even say that this is a hidden gem of Florence. I visited around 11 am and there were not many people around. Especially not many to capture the beauty of this distant cousin of the Cathedral of Santa Maria del Fiore.
It has the same style as Duomo, however, it is much smaller and easier to capture. Yes, it is not as impressive as Duomo of Florence, but it still deserves a photo. In fact, it will help you create a unique photo that not everyone has.
Equipment: The square in front of the Basilica of Santa Croce is relatively big, so you have a lot of space to capture it. I used a 50mm lens because whenever I have enough space, I choose to use a zoom lens in order to create a unique effect.
Best time: You can take a photo here any time of the day, but always avoid time from midday until 3/4 PM.
Piazza della Repubblica
Another beautiful square in the heart of Florence. In this square, you will find many Italian designers, beautiful column buildings, even an arch, but the thing that makes it magical? Historical carousel in the middle of the square.
I think you should experiment here and find a way to capture the beauty of the carousel and the art that surrounds it!
Dress up like Italians would, don’t be camera-shy, and have fun! I guarantee that the results will be amazing.
Equipment: Square is big enough, so almost any lens can do a great job here. Depends on what kind of result do you want to get.
Best time: Don’t get scared of crowds, it is part of the essence. If you come here early in the morning, it just doesn’t have the same energy.
Abbazia di San Miniato al Monte
is a basilica in Florence, central Italy, standing atop one of the highest points in the city. While you can see it from most of the places in Florence, people still don’t make effort to visit this hidden gem.
It has been described as one of the finest Romanesque structures in Tuscany and one of the most scenic churches in Italy. Yet I don’t see anyone talking about this cool spot in Florence.
You can get a beautiful photo with a facade, but make sure you visit inside as well!
Equipment: You will need a wide-angle lens because the square is tiny and you don’t have much space to capture it. The photo that you see above is taken from Giardino Bardini with 200mm lens.
Best time: Late afternoon is a perfect time to visit and take photos. You can combine it with Piazzale Michelangelo, Giardino Bardini, or Giardino Delle Rose.
Further reading for Italy
Or read about other popular regions of Italy
Dolomites | Liguria | Lombardy | Piedmont | Puglia | Sicily | Tuscany | Veneto
Other useful tips for visiting Italy
🏠 Need a place to stay? Browse Booking or Agoda
💃 How about fun experiences? GetYourGuide and Viator have it all
🚗 Considering renting a car in Italy? Use Rentalcars
✈️ Looking for the best flight deals? Check WayAway
🔒 Don’t forget about travel insurance from HeyMondo
In conclusion…
I’m sure that after reading this article you will have the best photos from your trip to Florence and you are fully prepared now. Don’t forget to try local Tuscanian dishes, connect with locals and enjoy this magical city.
I would love to hear your thoughts, so if you have any feedback or additional tips, leave a comment below. Also, check out my Instagram for regular travel videos and travel inspiration. Or explore other destinations on this travel blog.
Pin it for later and make sure you save the best photo spots in Florence!
You are SO talented with your camera! These spots all look gorgeous. I especially love the Cathedral of Santa Maria del Fiore. It’s amazing you could get a shot like that! Waking up before sunrise sure paid off!
Florence is such a photo-worthy destination! Your photos are also always SO lovely!
You’ve definitely captured the essence of Florence with these photos! Great guide.
Wow love the photos! I really want to learn how to take better photos now because I’m so inspired! Beautiful list as well names all the hot spots!
This post brings back happy memories. I was in Florence a few months ago and so know well here you took these photos. Alas, my photos are not as beautiful as yours!
Your images are always so incredibly stunning, Lasma. And you always have the best spots around for these photo ops. Thanks for sharing these with the world!
Lasma, I am enamored by your photos. as always, PERFECT! Your outfit, accessories, the colors, the lighting the view… simply perfection. Very weel orchestrated and coordinated. Brava!!!
These are all such lovely spots for photos! I love your views of the Duomo from that hotel. I would love to sit there in the morning with a cup of coffee and in the evening with a glass of wine. What a beautiful view! Thanks for sharing 🙂
Beautiful photos and descriptions once again Lasma! Time to hop on a plane and stay at that apartment you’ve posted here, for the views of course! But also because the location looks stunning. :). Thank you so much for sharing, I appreciate how much effort goes into capturing your experiences travelling!
Wow, Lasma, this is yet again another fantastic inspirational post! You are always making me want to book plane tickets to the destination. I am impressed by your photographic skills! I have not been to Florence, but it’s now on my list!
Florence was my favorite city in Italy and there were just so many good photo spots. Definitely hard to get good photos without alot of people in them.
Lasma — another set of gorgeous inspirational photos! The shot of Cathedral of Santa Maria del Fiore or Duomo is simply magnificent. When we were in Florence we climbed a nearby tower to view the duomo.
Florence is one of the few large cities I haven’t been to in Italy. After reading your article, I absolutely wish we had made the time to see it. You did an outstanding job the top spots. That lavender dress photo is just spectacular! As always, amazing work!
The cathedral in Florence is an architectural gem and I wished we could have stayed and explored it a bit longer. Your photo spots are spectacular and inspire me to return to this beautiful city.
Florence is so magical, and your beautiful photos made me wish I were back there. Thank you for sharing this fabulous post!
Makes me so happy to read this! I miss Florence as well 😍
Florence is so beautiful and your dresses are nice. Thanks for sharing those useful tips good for all travellers and photographers!
Your post makes me want to return to Florence. We had only one day when we visited and we rushed from spot to spot. And I love you were there early enough to get a sunrise pic.
These photo spots in Florence look absolutely magical! What a beautiful city! I’d especially love to visit Giardino Bardini. Thanks for sharing this great guide!
Oh my god! That apartment view! It’s unbelievable. I have to book it when I’ll go to visit Firenze. Wonderful article, amazing pictures and you are beautiful like always 😘
Thanks for the great content.
Each of these locations are so beautiful and you captured them perfectly! It makes me miss Florence! The view of the Duomo from the Airbnb is priceless!
The view from Ponte Vecchio might just be my favorite. I love that you get a little bit of the city and a little bit of the river in the shot!
Your photos are everything, makes me want to go to Florence
Yaay!! Thanks ❤️
The photo of you at the Cathedral of Santa Maria del Fiore is absolutely gorgeous! I love cathedral architecture and that would definitely be something I’d like to replicate.
I would love to see your result! And I’m so happy you like it… thanks ❤️
Beautiful photos, dream-like.
Thank you! ❤️
Beautiful photos! I’ve been to Florence for 1 night in 2013. I need to go back ASAP. And I love how you shared how you shot this with what lense you used.
Thank you so much! My first visit was similar, but this time I stayed 3 nights and really had the time to enjoy the place ❤️
take me there now!!! I have never been to Florence, but your photos are so stunning, it is going to move waaaay up on my must see list 🙂
Makes me so happy to read that! You have made the right decision, Florence is amazing ❤️
I love Florence so much! To be honest I think all Tuscany is amazing. However, these photo spots you picked are incredible and I cannot believe what amazing quality photos you have! Such a great list to make you visit to Florence even more memorable. Thanks for sharing!
Thank you so much, Francesca! I appreciate your kind feedback ❤️ And you are right, the rest of the Tuscany is amazing as well!
We had a very quick day in Florence. We saw a lot but we would love to go back and enjoy some of these spots at a more leisurely pace. I will certainly look for an Airbnb with a view! I love that you found so many times when there was less people around.
Thank you so much! I hope you can go back and enjoy more pf that Florence magic! It’s hard to enjoy the place when you have to rush around, right? So it’s a good reason to go back ❤️ and hopefully enjoy that view as well!
Florence looks like such a beautiful city! Your photos are stunning! I would love to visit one day. I especially love Piazza della Repubblica – I can’t resist a carousel! Thanks for the great guide!
Thank you so much, Hannah. I’m glad to hear your feedback! Carousel is waiting for you ❤️
Wow beautiful pictures! Will Pin this for when i go back to Florence, its an amazing place 🙂
Thank you so much! ❤️
Love it. Pinning so I can come back and find the airbnb with the amazing balcony. Have been to Florence a couple of times and would happily go back!
Thank you! I hope you can manage to stay there.. I simply didn’t want to leave that view 😍
What a beautiful place to capture wonderful photos! What a great list of places to get the photo-very detailed-thanks! Definitely a wonderful city to explore!
Thank you so much! Florence is stunning, so many beautiful places for photos as well ❤️
WOW these photos are amazing. I’ve been dying to get back to Florence, I’m definitely going to check out these photo spots when I finally get back there! And that AirBnB is perfect!!
Make sure you book that Airbnb as well! Thank you so much, I’m glad to hear that! ❤️
Your photos are absolutely gorgeous!! Will definitely have to check back here to make sure I hit all these spots if I ever get to Florence!!
Aww thank you so much! I love photography, so means a lot❤️
Wow! What great photos. Love the one on the balcony of the Airbnb. Nice to be at eye level with the dome. Amazing how there are no, or sometimes just a few, people in your pics. Those sites always seem crowded.
Thank you! That’s a real gem 😍 I like to wake up early and spend some private time with the most popular places! And search for hidden places during the rest of the day!
There are definitely beautiful places in Florence to get extraordinary shots.
Right?!😍
Stunning photos! You’ve made Florence look absolutely dreamy!
Thank you so much ❤️
Your photos are great, so I’m very happy I found this guide… Truly best photo spots in Florence.
Thank you so much!
Che bellezza questi luoghi e queste foto! Firenze è davvero una città eccezionale ma vista con le tue foto risulta ancora più bella! vivissime congratulazioni!
Grazie mille! Sono contenta che ti sia piaciuto l’articolo, Rita ❤️
These are definitely the best photo spots in Florence! so many beautiful things to discover in Tuscany! now you have such a complete information about Florence with this article and your previous! keep doing the great job ❤️
Thank you so much, Flavio! I hope other readers can agree ❤️