4,4/5 ()

Florence River Cruise on a Traditional Barchetto

Easy
1h
20 people
City Tours
Florence
Renaissance
Florentine Gondola Experience
Feature
Group Tour
Feature
Boat Tour

Have you ever wanted to see the Cradle of the Renaissance from a different perspective? See and experience the splendour of Florence on a traditional boat from the Arno River.

Languages Available
English
English

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What to Expect

A slow river journey through Florence’s bridges, palaces, and hidden stories

An Italy boat ride would usually be associated with Venice or the Amalfi Coast. However, this romantic boat trip of the River Arno allows you to see a different side of Florence that you don’t get from a walking or cycling tour. Float away with the charm of a traditional boat and relaxed atmosphere.


See Florence in a new light with an ancient tradition

Come aboard a Florentine gondola for a romantic and unique cruise and “Aperitivo” on the Arno River where you’ll see Florence from a completely different perspective. Where is the Arno river? It passes through the centre of Florence, Empoli and Pisa on its way to the Tyrrhenian Sea.


Float away and enjoy the relaxing atmosphere

You’ll enjoy a leisurely cruise on a “barchetto,” one of only four traditional wooden boats left in Florence. A “barcaiolo”, a true Florentine tradition holder, will guide the boat expertly down the river with his long-reaching pole. There are no noisy engines on the Arno, only the charm and tradition and the voice of your expert guide. They will unveil the secrets of the river as well as inform you of the history of the grand palazzos which line the ancient waterway. You’ll even hear a few colourful local stories!


Discover the most beautiful buildings by the river with a glass of wine

You will pass by the Uffizi gallery, under the Ponte Vecchio, and you’ll find out more about the mysterious Vasari Corridor. You will also have the chance to discover the Santa Trinita Bridge and the amazing Palazzo Corsini. All of this with a glass of wine in your hand as you enjoy a refreshing treat. There really is no better way to enjoy the charm of the Florence Italy river than from the relaxed comfort of a traditional gondola-style boat!

Under Ponte Vecchio

Under Ponte Vecchio

See Florence’s most iconic bridge from a rare and memorable angle on the water.

Riverside Florence

Riverside Florence

Drift past elegant palaces and discover the city’s quieter, more reflective side.

Stories of the Water

Stories of the Water

Listen to local tales and cultural insights tied to the Arno and its landmarks.

A Toast on Board

A Toast on Board

Enjoy a glass of wine as the city’s history unfolds along the riverbanks.

Meeting Point
Via dei Vagellai 22, 50122 Firenze
Meeting Point
Meeting Point
Via dei Vagellai 22, 50122 Firenze

Meet your tour leader in Via dei Vagellai, 22 red, corner with Piazza Mentana (opposite to the Arno River).

Tour Point 2
Tour Itinerary

A Different Side of Florence: Begin your experience on the Arno River and discover a quieter, more intimate view of Florence, far from the rhythm of the streets.


Aboard a Traditional Barchetto: Step onto a historic barchetto, one of only four traditional boats still remaining in Florence, and enjoy a leisurely cruise shaped by local heritage and timeless charm.


Florence from the Water: As the boat glides along the river, admire the Uffizi Gallery and the elegant palazzos that line the riverbanks, revealing the city from a rare and evocative perspective.


A Toast to Florence: During the cruise, enjoy a glass of wine and take in the atmosphere of the city in a relaxed and memorable way.


Stories Along the Arno: Throughout the journey, entertaining commentary and colorful local anecdotes bring the river, its landmarks, and Florentine traditions vividly to life.

Included
  • Mini Cruise on the Arno River aboard a Florentine Gondola (approx. 45 min)
  • Cool Wine aboard (soft drink for children)
  • English speaking fully licensed history guide
  • Only in English for the highest quality
Excluded
  • Hotel pick-up and drop-off
  • Additional food and drinks not specified
  • Personal expenses
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From €59
Free Cancellation