Boboli Gardens

Boboli Gardens
Boboli Gardens
Photo by Claudia van de Kamp
Photo by Bucketlist
Photo by Franz Schneider


Take a deep breath and enjoy a relaxing walk or scenic picnic in these iconic Florentine gardens with shady avenues, tranquil ponds and historic sculptures.

The Boboli Gardens are large, formal gardens behind Florence’s Pitti Palace. They were created between the 15th and 19th centuries and have many historic features, including the amphitheatre, grottoes and Roman and Renaissance sculptures. Wander through the garden’s different sections, which are beautiful to see year round.

Enter this garden and open-air museum filled with Florentine treasures from the past. Admire one of the park’s major architectural structures, the amphitheatre, formerly used for entertaining the palace occupants. Today it takes on a slightly different appearance as the surrounding area has been turned into gardens decorated with hedges and trees.

Step close to the water basin that irrigates the park to see the Fountain of Neptune, a large statue of the Roman god holding his trident.

To see a fantastic collection of statues, head to the Grotto Grande, which features stalactites, sculptures and water features. Previously Michelangelo’s The Prisoners was displayed here, before being moved to the Academia Gallery. Michelangelo built the ramparts for the Giardino del Cavaliere. Discover the Kaffeehaus, an old coffee house that today provides stunning views over the city and rolling landscape.

On a warm day in Florence Boboli Gardens is a perfect place to find refuge. Stroll along avenues of shady foliage and walk under oak trees that are over a century old. Bring a picnic to eat in one of the gardens and enjoy the tranquility. If you’re visiting in spring, the colours and fragrances of the rose garden give an extra special touch to the gardens.

The gardens are open every day during normal hours, except for the first and last Monday of each month when they are closed all day. Admission is free for children under 6. Use your admission for entrance to the three on-site museums, the Costume Gallery, the Porcelain Museum and the Silver Museum, as well as nearby Bardini Gardens. Though considerably smaller, the Bardini Gardens have a fantastic display of flowers and are the perfect location for a short stroll.

When in Florence, escape the city crowds and enjoy the peaceful and elegant Boboli Gardens.

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Reviews of Boboli Gardens

4.3
Top destination
5 - Excellent
85
5 - Excellent 51%
4 - Good
61
4 - Good 37%
3 - Okay
16
3 - Okay 10%
2 - Disappointing
4
2 - Disappointing 2%
1 - Terrible
1
1 - Terrible 1%

4/5 - Good

SKM

Excellent views across Florence and to the surrounding hills from the top of the gardens. Not a fan of the modern sculptures in the park.

3/5 - Okay

Verified traveller

Perhaps because Italy was going through an unusual heatwave and it was a blisteringly hot August day so maybe the plants had been fried, but the Boboli Gardens didn’t live up to our expectations. Yes, there are statues and fountains and intricately laid out parterres, but the rose garden was unkempt and devoid of any flowers, there are “keep of the grass” signs and the climb up the terraces are very steep. It’s certainly not a plantsman’s garden. There are better gardens to be enjoyed in Florence.

4/5 - Good

Verified traveller

Excellent from the perspective of historical landscape architecture, but don't go expecting massively planted-up gardens like we would have in England.

1/5 - Terrible

Verified traveller

Poor signposting. Lack of water fountains or anywhere to buy refreshments. Only one section worth looking at. Wear flats. Take lots of water. Better still, don’t go st all!

3/5 - Okay

Verified traveller

Some very steep paths!

5/5 - Excellent

Verified traveller

Don't miss this! All the musums are expensive but this is worth it for the views and beauty.

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Things to do near Boboli Gardens

Boboli Gardens in Florence, Tuscany, is a captivating destination where visitors can explore stunning art exhibits, admire beautifully landscaped gardens, and enjoy the historic architecture that surrounds them. The gardens offer a serene escape, perfect for leisurely strolls, while also providing breathtaking views of the city. Cultural enthusiasts will appreciate the various sculptures and fountains that enhance the enchanting atmosphere of this renowned outdoor museum.

Shopping

For a delightful shopping experience near Boboli Gardens, explore Pitti Vintage, a charming store just 483m away. The Central Market and Mercato di Sant'Ambrogio, both 1.6km away, offer vibrant city vibes and local goods. If you're up for a drive, consider visiting larger shopping malls further afield.

Recreation

The Nelson Mandela Forum, located 3.2km from Boboli Gardens, offers a serene atmosphere for relaxation and wellness activities. Stadio Artemio Franchi, also 3.2km away, is perfect for sports enthusiasts, while Costoli Pool provides a family-friendly outdoor setting for swimming and recreation, just a short distance away.

Adventure

Embark on an exhilarating FiesoleBike Day Tour, located 1.6km from Boboli Gardens, offering outdoor exploration. For motorsport enthusiasts, the Mugello Circuit, 27.4km away, promises thrilling races. Alternatively, hike the scenic trails of Parco di Montececeri, situated 6.4km from the gardens, for a perfect adventure.

Nightlife

The nightlife near Boboli Gardens offers a blend of culture and entertainment. Enjoy a romantic evening at Teatro Verdi or Teatro della Pergola, both 0.8 and 1.4km away, respectively. For a unique experience, visit the Arcetri Observatory, just 1.4km away, and gaze at the stars.

*Distances are measured in a straight line; actual driving distances may vary depending on the route.

Find the best attractions near Boboli Gardens

Visitors to Boboli Gardens in Florence can immerse themselves in a rich cultural experience by exploring nearby attractions such as picturesque piazzas, historic churches, and captivating art museums. These points of interest provide a delightful blend of culture and city life, making it an ideal destination for families and culture enthusiasts alike. Enjoy a leisurely stroll through the gardens while discovering the artistic treasures that surround this enchanting area.

  • Uffizi Gallery: A treasure trove for art lovers, the Uffizi Gallery houses masterpieces by renowned artists such as Botticelli and Michelangelo. Its rich collection and stunning architecture offer a captivating glimpse into the Renaissance era, making it an essential stop for cultural enthusiasts.
  • Cathedral of Santa Maria del Fiore: This magnificent cathedral, with its iconic dome designed by Brunelleschi, dominates Florence's skyline. Inside, intricate frescoes and beautiful stained glass windows create a serene atmosphere, reflecting the city's deep historical roots.
  • Ponte Vecchio: Famous for its charming shops built upon it, this historic bridge spans the Arno River. Strolling across the Ponte Vecchio, you'll enjoy picturesque views and a vibrant atmosphere, steeped in Florentine culture.

Best time to go to Boboli Gardens

The best time to visit Boboli Gardens is dependant on what kind of holiday you are seeking. July and August are its hottest month on average. At the time of August, visitor numbers are moderately high and weather is sunny. January is its coolest month on average. At this time, visitor numbers are moderately low and weather is mostly sunny with light rain.

calendarCalendar MonthtemperatureTemperaturerainPrecipitationmostlyCloudinessoccupationOccupancypricePricing
January41.4°F (5.2°C)Light RainMostly SunnyModerately LowSlightly Low
February43.0°F (6.1°C)Light RainMostly SunnyModerately LowSlightly Low
March47.8°F (8.8°C)Light RainMostly SunnyAverageAverage
April54.3°F (12.4°C)Light RainMostly SunnyAverageAverage
May60.4°F (15.8°C)Light RainMostly SunnyAverageSlightly High
June69.6°F (20.9°C)Light RainSunnyAverageSlightly High
July75.2°F (24.0°C)No RainSunnyModerately HighAverage
August75.2°F (24.0°C)No RainSunnyModerately HighAverage
September67.3°F (19.6°C)Light RainMostly SunnyModerately HighSlightly High
October58.8°F (14.9°C)Light RainMostly SunnyAverageAverage
November50.2°F (10.1°C)Light RainMostly SunnyAverageSlightly Low
December43.5°F (6.4°C)Light RainMostly SunnyModerately LowAverage

Booking tips and Expedia advantages for Boboli Gardens

For a budget-friendly visit to Boboli Gardens in Florence, consider travelling during the off-peak months of January, February, or November when accommodation prices are lower. Booking your hotel about a month in advance can also help save money, and don’t overlook last-minute deals on platforms like Expedia. Aim for a Monday stay for the best rates, while Fridays tend to be pricier. Utilise Expedia’s search tools to filter by budget and combine your hotel, flights, and activities for potential savings. Exploring free attractions in Florence can further enhance your experience without breaking the bank.

  • The most and least expensive months on average to stay in a hotel: The cheapest months to stay around Boboli Gardens are January to February and November, where the prices are slightly lower. This is in comparison to May to June and September, where prices are slightly higher.
  • The best time to book a hotel: The cheapest time to book a hotel around Boboli Gardens is usually 1 month out from when you are planning to stay, though if you're late to the party, have a look at Expedia's last minute deals - the green banner below the hotel's price indicates a discounted rate.
  • The most and least expensive days on average to stay in a hotel: The least expensive day to stay around Boboli Gardens is Monday. The most expensive day to stay around Boboli Gardens is Friday.
  • Find cheap hotels on Expedia: Utilise Expedia’s search tool to refine your preferences, including your budget, preferred location, and desired hotel type. To discover the most affordable prices and offers, simply sort the price filter from lowest to highest.
  • Consider bundling your trip: You might find that you can save money by combining your hotel reservation for the Boboli Gardens with your flights and activities through an Expedia package.

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