Florence: Hidden Parks Guided Walking Tour with Picnic

If you’re looking to see a different side of Florence beyond its famous museums and historic streets, this Hidden Parks Guided Walking Tour offers a refreshing glimpse into the city’s lesser-known green spaces. Spanning just two hours, this experience promises peaceful strolls through lush gardens, breathtaking city vistas, and a charming picnic in some of Florence’s most secluded outdoor spots. It’s a delightful way to blend nature, local history, and moments of quiet reflection amid Florence’s bustling streets.

What we especially appreciate about this tour is how it combines authentic Florentine gardens with spectacular views of the city’s skyline. The inclusion of a picnic with fresh fruit juices and traditional sweets or ice cream adds a touch of local flavor that’s both relaxing and enjoyable. On the flip side, it’s a fairly short experience—perfect if you’re on a tight schedule or want a gentle, scenic break. This tour suits travelers who love nature, art, and panoramic views but still want a manageable outing that doesn’t demand a full day of sightseeing.

Key Points

• Authentic gardens and hidden parks away from the usual tourist crowds
• Spectacular views of Florence from Orti del Parnaso that beautifully frame the city
• An enjoyable picnic featuring local sweets, fruit juices, or ice cream
• Historically intriguing sites like Villa Fabbricotti and the Egyptian temple
• Accessible gardens that appeal to families and nature lovers alike
• A private guided experience led by multilingual guides in a small group setting

You can check availability for your dates here:

Exploring Florence’s Hidden Gardens: What to Expect

This tour is a refreshing change from the typical Florence itinerary, taking you off the beaten path into a series of serene, less-visited parks. We found that the way the experience is structured allows for a relaxed pace, so you can truly appreciate each garden’s unique features and the views they offer.

Starting Point: Stibbert Garden

Your journey begins at the Stibbert Garden, which dates back to the 19th century and was restored by Frederick Stibbert, a collector with a penchant for elegant landscapes. This park stands out for its Victorian-style design, with well-kept lawns, cypresses, and a small neoclassical temple. It’s a lovely spot for photos and to feel the peaceful atmosphere that’s quite different from the busy city.

A notable feature here is the lake with an Egyptian-style temple—a quirky blend of influences that reflects Stibbert’s eclectic tastes. Visitors often comment on how the garden feels like a quiet oasis, away from the city’s hustle.

Villa Fabbricotti Park

Next, the tour moves to Villa Fabbricotti Park, a favorite among locals and families. The gardens here are lush with ancient trees and cypress-lined avenues. This spot is historically significant as it was the villa where Napoleon’s sister, Paolina Buonaparte, died in 1825. Today, it’s a lively green space surrounded by whispering trees and open lawns—ideal for a picnic and a bit of running around.

Many reviews emphasize the park’s family-friendly atmosphere—”great for kids to play and enjoy nature,” as one visitor put it. It’s a contrast to the more structured, formal gardens many travelers associate with Florence.

Orti del Parnaso: The Viewpoint

The highlight for many is the stop at Orti del Parnaso. From here, you’ll enjoy a breathtaking panoramic view of Florence, with the Duomo, Palazzo Vecchio, and the city’s towers all in sight. It’s a vantage point that makes you realize how compact and beautiful this Renaissance city really is.

On the staircase leading up to the viewpoint, you’ll notice a fountain in the shape of a dragon, adding a whimsical touch to an already picturesque setting. Many travelers find this spot perfect for photos and quiet contemplation.

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Parco dell’Orticoltura: A Garden of Scientific and Artistic Flair

The final stop is Parco dell’Orticoltura, home to the Società Toscana di Horticoltura, established in 1854 to promote landscape architecture in Tuscany. The park features an Art Nouveau-style tepidarium, made of glass and cast iron, where delicate plants are housed—an intriguing contrast to the natural surroundings of the other parks.

Here, the Loggetta Bondi adds a neo-Renaissance charm, decorated with glazed terracotta. Visitors often comment on how this garden feels like a hidden gem—less crowded, yet full of interesting architecture and plant displays.

The Picnic Experience

A real treat during this tour is the picnic break. Sitting on a park bench or a quiet lawn, you’ll be served fresh fruit juices and traditional sweets or ice cream. This is a simple yet effective way to relax, chat with your guide, and soak in the peaceful environment. Many reviews highlight how this small touch makes the experience feel authentic and personal—”a perfect pause in nature,” one guest said.

The inclusion of local snacks adds a layer of authenticity that many travelers appreciate, making this more than just a walk—it’s a chance to savor local flavors in a scenic setting.

Practical Details and Tips

This tour lasts approximately 2 hours, making it suitable for most travelers, whether you’re on a full sightseeing schedule or seeking a gentle escape. The tour is private, led by guides speaking Italian, English, German, Spanish, and French, ensuring clear communication.

Starting point is in front of the Stibbert park entrance, and the experience concludes back at the same spot, so no transportation is needed afterward. The small group size means plenty of personalized attention and space for questions.

Since the walk involves some uneven terrain and garden paths, comfortable shoes are a must. Don’t forget your camera, sunscreen, water, and snacks if you want to extend your picnic moment.

Note: Entrance to the Stibbert Museum itself is not included, so if you’re interested in exploring the museum, you’ll need to purchase tickets separately.

Price and Value

Considering the inclusion of multiple parks, a guided tour in several languages, and a picnic, the cost offers good value for a personalized, authentic experience. It’s especially appealing if you’re seeking a peaceful, scenic activity that complements Florence’s more popular attractions.

The tour’s emphasis on hidden gardens and local scenery guarantees a different perspective of Florence—less crowded, more relaxed, and richly picturesque.

Who Will Love This Tour?

This experience is ideal for nature enthusiasts, photographers, and anyone craving a peaceful respite from the busy city. It’s perfect for families, small groups, or travelers who enjoy botanical beauty, panoramic views, and local flavor. If you’re looking for a quiet, scenic walk with the bonus of a picnic, this tour hits the spot.

The Florence: Hidden Parks Guided Walking Tour with Picnic offers a charming, laid-back way to explore Florence’s lesser-known green spaces. It’s a wonderful choice for travelers who value authentic outdoor experiences combined with spectacular city views and a taste of local life. The gardens themselves are well-chosen, each with its own character—from the Victorian elegance of Stibbert to the panoramic viewpoint at Orti del Parnaso—and the picnic adds a warm, personal touch.

While it’s not an exhaustive tour of Florence’s main landmarks, it provides a peaceful counterbalance—an opportunity to breathe in nature, enjoy great views, and savor some tasty treats. It’s particularly suited for those who appreciate quiet beauty and authentic experiences over crowded museums or busier tours.

This experience offers solid value, combining scenic beauty, cultural insights, and a relaxed pace. Whether you’re visiting Florence for the first time or returning for a different perspective, it’s a memorable way to connect with the city’s natural charm.

Is this a walking tour?
Yes, the experience involves walking through several gardens and parks, with some uneven paths and outdoor terrain.

How long does the tour last?
It lasts approximately 2 hours, including time for the picnic and sightseeing at each stop.

What languages are guides available in?
Guides speak Italian, English, German, Spanish, and French, so you can choose your preferred language.

Is the picnic included?
Yes, the picnic with fruit juices and traditional sweets or ice cream is included in the tour price.

Can I visit the museums or other attractions after the tour?
The tour ends at the final park, and entrance to the Stibbert Museum itself is not part of this experience.

Is the tour suitable for children?
Yes, many parks are family-friendly and open spaces for kids to run and play.

What should I bring?
Comfortable shoes, a camera, water, sunscreen, and snacks if desired. Littering and touching plants are not allowed.

Are there any accessibility limitations?
The tour is not suitable for wheelchair users due to uneven terrain and garden paths.

Can I cancel or reschedule?
Yes, cancellations are free if made at least 24 hours in advance. You can reserve now and pay later.

If you’re seeking a peaceful, scenic, and genuinely Italian experience of Florence’s green spaces, this tour makes for a memorable, authentic day out.

You can check availability for your dates here: