10 Best Photo Spots in Florence + Photography Tips
Wondering where to take photos in Florence? You are in the right place! I will help you discover the best photo spots in Florence and make sure you get some wonderful Florence postcards from your trip.
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!
*Disclosure: This article contains affiliate links. If you purchase after clicking one of these links, we earn a small commission at no extra cost to you. It’s a win-win!
10 best photo spots in Florence
1. Cathedral of Santa Maria del Fiore or Duomo
The Cathedral of Santa Maria del Fiore, often called the Florence Duomo, is a symbol of the city. With its stunning architecture and detailed artwork, it is one of the best photo spots in Florence.
The cathedral is known for its iconic red-tiled dome designed by Filippo Brunelleschi. It is the largest masonry dome in the world. This makes it an architectural masterpiece and a must-see attraction. Have you even been to Florence if you haven’t seen the Duomo?
I am sure you will spend a lot of time at the Piazza del Duomo because it offers a lot of photo opportunities. 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 with your telephoto lens.
⏰ Best time: You will have to give up your beauty sleep and wake up as early as possible. Arriving 10 minutes before sunrise is perfect. This way you can find the right spot and take some test shots.
2. Ponte Vecchio
Ponte Vecchio, Florence’s oldest bridge, has been a symbol of the city since 1345. Spanning the Arno River, this medieval stone bridge has stood through centuries of change, becoming one of Florence’s most beloved landmarks.
The bridge is famous for its row of shops, a tradition that began in the 16th century. Once home to butchers and tanners, these shops now feature sparkling jewelry, handcrafted goods, and souvenirs.
From the bridge, you can enjoy beautiful views of the Arno River and the city skyline. However, the best Florence 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.
Hotel Lungarno is another alternative location to capture the beauty of Ponte Vecchio.
📸 Equipment: 50mm will do a wonderful job from Ponte Santa Trinita – enough to capture the bridge and create a bouquet effect around you. Use telephoto lens to capture the details and windows.
⏰ Best time: It is not a busy place, so you can take a good photo any time of the day. Just make sure that you avoid harsh lights. For sunny days – sunrise and sunset time are the best.
3. Airbnb with the best view of Duomo
When I first came across “Duomo Flat Amazing View in Florence,” I immediately fell in love with the view and spacious terrace. I could picture myself having my morning coffee or a nice aperitivo with Duomo sitting right in front of me.
And when it comes to photography, it offers you one of the most unique views in Florence. I am usually very fast with taking photos, but I spent hours on the terrace taking photos of this beautiful sight. Then again, can you blame me?
If you are looking for a special experience in Florence, you will love this accommodation. However, I have to say that this apartment is located on the last floor and there is no elevator in the building. It is a great way to burn some calories after savoring local goodies!
You might love these hotels with a Duomo view in Florence:
4. 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 iconic attractions in Florence.
Designed in 1869 by architect Giuseppe Poggi, Piazzale Michelangelo is dedicated to the Renaissance master Michelangelo. The square features replicas of some of his most famous works, including the statue of David.
You can reach Piazzale Michelangelo by walking up from the San Niccolò neighborhood, taking a bus, or driving. Once at the top, there are cafés where you can enjoy a coffee or gelato while taking in the view.
📸 Equipment: Bring a telephoto lens, you will want to capture the iconic attractions up close. It is great for portraits as well.
⏰ Best time: This is one of the busiest places in Florence, especially during sunset. This is why you should visit Piazzale Michelangelo early in the morning. You will love the sunrise behind the Florence and golden light for your photos.
5. Giardino Bardini
Located on a hillside overlooking the Arno River, Giardino Bardini is a lesser-known gem that provides stunning views of Florence. From its terraces, you can enjoy views of the city’s famous landmarks, such as the Duomo, Palazzo Vecchio, and Ponte Vecchio.
As you wander through the gardens, you’ll discover quiet corners, elegant statues, and cozy benches, perfect for Florence photography. The gardens are especially charming in spring when the wisteria-covered walkway bursts into bloom.
There are two entrances – Via dei Bardi 1r and Costa San Giorgio 2. If you want to avoid climbing, head to Costa San Giorgio 2 and walk down to the Via dei Bardi 1r. Otherwise, be prepared for a mini hike (not fun on a hot summer day!).
It is open every day from 10 am to 4 pm. The last entrance is at 3 pm. Please note that the gardens are closed every first and last Monday of the month. The entrance fee is 6 euros.
📸 Equipment: A telephoto lens will be needed for the views, especially if you want to recreate the photo above with the Duomo. For the rest of the park, a 35 mm lens will do the job.
⏰ Best time: I recommend visiting late in the afternoon. But keep in mind that it closes at 4 pm and you will need a bit over an hour to visit the entire park.
6. Giardino Delle Rose
Giardino delle Rose, spread over approximately 2.5 hectares, provides stunning views of Florence’s iconic skyline, including the majestic Duomo and Palazzo Vecchio.
As its name suggests, the Giardino delle Rose is most famous for its roses. Housing over 350 varieties, the garden blooms with colors and scents, especially during late spring and early summer.
Though located near the popular Piazzale Michelangelo, the Giardino delle Rose is often less crowded. It is free to enter, which makes it a great choice for budget travelers visiting Florence.
📸 Equipment: This location requires a telephoto lens, especially for the views. If you have a 200mm+ lens, bring it with you!
⏰ Best time: Considering the location, you should visit Giardino Delle Rose right after Piazzale Michelangelo. It is not a busy place, so you can get great photos any time of the day, but early morning offers the best light.
❗️You can also hire a professional photographer in Florence and leave your equipment at home. This is one of the top-rated experiences that delivers fantastic Florence photos.❗️
7. Piazza della Signoria
At the core of Florence’s historic center lies Piazza della Signoria, a square that has served as the city’s political and cultural epicenter for centuries. Dominating the piazza is the Palazzo Vecchio, another iconic landmark.
The Piazza della Signoria is an open-air gallery filled with important statues. The most famous is Michelangelo’s David. Nearby, Bandinelli’s Hercules and Cacus symbolize strength and victory, while the Fountain of Neptune represents Florence’s maritime ambitions.
Even if you are not familiar with these works, you can understand how much beauty you can find in this square. This is, without a doubt, one of the best photo spots in Florence.
📸 Equipment: I used a 35mm lens for the first photo and a telephoto lens for the sculpture. As you can see, the options are endless and will depend on your preferences. A wide-angle lens could be useful to capture the entire square.
⏰ Best time: Early morning is a must, but from my experience, you will never find it empty. Make sure you combine this with another early morning spot, like Duomo or Ponte Vecchio.
8. Basilica of Santa Croce
If the Duomo is the city’s centerpiece, the Basilica of Santa Croce feels like its charming “little cousin.” This beautiful church offers a rich history and artistic significance, all with the bonus of a quieter, more peaceful atmosphere.
Known as the “Temple of the Italian Glories,” Santa Croce is the final resting place of figures like Michelangelo, Galileo, and Machiavelli. Its stunning Gothic facade, detailed frescoes by Giotto, and marble tombs make it a must-visit attraction in Florence.
It shares the same architectural style as the Duomo but is much smaller and easier to photograph. Capturing this lesser-known gem can result in a unique Florence photo that stands out.
📸 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.
⏰ Best time: With a bit of patience, you can take a good photo any time of the day, but I would consider late afternoon for a softer light.
9. Piazza della Repubblica
Piazza della Repubblica is one of Florence’s most iconic and vibrant squares. Located at the heart of the historic center, it offers a lively atmosphere and some great photo opportunities.
At the center of the piazza stands a massive arch that represents the triumph of the Italian Republic. While the square is known for its elegant arcades and surrounding buildings, the real beauty lies in its mix of neoclassical and Renaissance architecture.
In the square, you will find the Merry-Go-Round carousel, which is one of the best photo spots in Florence. Nearby is the iconic Caffè Gilli, a historic café dating back to the 18th century, and the Hotel Savoy, one of Florence’s most prestigious hotels.
📸 Equipment: Square is big enough, so almost any lens can do a great job here. Depends on what kind of result 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.
10. Abbazia di San Miniato al Monte
Perched on a hill overlooking the city, the Abbazia di San Miniato al Monte is one of Florence’s best photo spots. This stunning Romanesque church and monastery built between the 11th and 13th centuries, offers breathtaking views of Florence.
The church’s façade is an example of Romanesque architecture, with marble inlays and a geometric design. The green and white marble used in the construction reflects the architectural style of Florence’s other religious landmarks, such as the Duomo.
Inside, the abbey is equally impressive. The crypt is one of the oldest parts of the church, with its simple yet powerful design and stone columns. The chapel of San Miniato, with its beautiful marble floor, is an especially peaceful place.
📸 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 the best photo spots in Florence
- 10 Most Beautiful Places in Tuscany, Italy
- 10 Most Beautiful Agriturismo Hotels in Tuscany
- Florence Travel Guide: 10 Top Things to Do in Florence
- 10 Amazing Hotels with a Duomo View in Florence
- 25 Photos That Will Make You Visit Siena in Italy
- One Day Siena Itinerary: Discover the Best of Siena in 24 Hours
- Pisa Travel Guide: Do You Need to Spend a Night in Pisa?
- Beyond Leaning Tower: 10 Best Things to Do in Pisa
- One-day Pisa Itinerary: How to Make the Most of Your Trip
- Cinque Terre Travel Guide: Things to Know Before Visiting
- Best Italian Songs to Spike Your Wanderlust
- 100+ Best Italy Quotes and Italy Instagram Captions
In conclusion…
This is the end of the best photo spots in Florence and I am sure you are impatient to snap all the beautiful postcards from Florence.
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 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 ❤️