Fiesole
A hilltop town north of Florence with Etruscan and Roman ruins, a monastery and panoramic terraces, a good destination for a half-day trip.
Located about 8 km northeast of Florence on a hill around 300 metres above sea level, Fiesole has a history older than Florence itself. Sights include the Roman theatre and baths ruins and archaeological museum (about €12), the Romanesque cathedral, and the steep walk up to the Franciscan monastery, where lookouts along the way overlook all of Florence and the Arno valley. In summer, the Estate Fiesolana music festival is held at the Roman theatre. Take bus No. 7 from Piazza San Marco, about 25 minutes.
Opening hours
Archaeological area about 09:00–19:00 (shorter in winter)
Nearby sights
- Galleria dell'Accademia
- Basilica of Santa Croce
- Florence Cathedral (Duomo)
- Mercato Centrale
- Bargello National Museum
- Medici Chapels & Basilica of San Lorenzo
- Giotto's Campanile
- Piazzale Michelangelo