Between April and May, Florence comes alive with blossoms, scents, and lush greenery. This is the perfect time to explore the city’s gardens—not just to enjoy breathtaking views and floral beauty, but also to unwind with a book or have a peaceful picnic away from the hustle and bustle. Below, we present a curated selection of gardens, each with its own charm and history.
Villa Bardini Garden: Wisteria in Bloom
One of the most iconic spring experiences in Florence is visiting the Florence Spring Gardens at Villa Bardini. Reopened to the public in 2010, this garden is especially famous for its 70-meter-long wisteria pergola, offering a picture-perfect view of the city.
Originally owned by the Mozzi family since the 13th century, the villa and surrounding buildings were later purchased by antiquarian Stefano Bardini in the early 1900s. He expanded the estate up to the Belvedere hilltop, where he lived with his family.
Opening hours: Daily from 10:00 AM to 7:00 PM (last entry at 6:00 PM).
Admission:
- Free for residents of the Florence metropolitan area, Arezzo and Grosseto provinces (with ID), and AIRE-registered Italian citizens abroad.
- Also free for children under 18, people with disabilities, accredited journalists, Italian teachers (with valid proof), and students in selected academic programs.
- General admission: €10.
Rose Garden: Art and Fragrance
Another must-see within the Florence Spring Gardens is the Rose Garden (Giardino delle Rose), located on the hillside just below Piazzale Michelangelo. Spanning one hectare, this garden is most magical during April and May, when nearly 400 varieties of roses burst into bloom.
Created in 1865 by architect Giuseppe Poggi, it was enhanced in 1998 by a serene Japanese garden donated by Kyoto and the Kōdai-ji Temple. In 2011, the space welcomed 12 whimsical sculptures by Belgian artist Jean-Michel Folon, adding an artistic touch to its natural beauty.
Opening hours: Open daily from 9:00 AM until sunset.
Admission: Free.
Villa Il Ventaglio: A Hidden Gem
Just a short distance from the historic center, near Viale Volta in the Campo di Marte area, lies Villa Il Ventaglio Park—a lesser-known part of the Florence Spring Gardens ideal for a quiet stroll or picnic. In spring, the Judas trees (Cercis siliquastrum) are in full bloom, filling the park with pink and purple hues.
Transformed in the mid-1800s into a romantic English-style garden by botanist Attilio Pucci, the park features large lawns and old trees that create a play of light and shade across its 5 hectares.
Opening hours (April–May): 8:15 AM to 6:30 PM.
Admission: Free.
Iris Garden: A Botanical Treasure
Located beside Piazzale Michelangelo, the Iris Garden (Giardino dell’Iris) is the only botanical garden in Europe entirely dedicated to irises. This part of the Florence Spring Gardens opens exclusively from April 25 to May 20 to coincide with the blooming season.
Founded in 1954 for the International “Premio Firenze” competition, the garden spans about 2.5 hectares and offers stunning views over Florence. It’s a peaceful haven ideal for photography enthusiasts and plant lovers.
Opening hours: 10:00 AM to 6:00 PM (last entry at 5:30 PM).
Admission: Free.
Note: Groups over 10 must book in advance via segreteria@irisfirenze.it
Stibbert Park and Baden Powell Garden
Moving to the Montughi area, Stibbert Park surrounds the historic Stibbert Museum and is another highlight of the Florence Spring Gardens. Designed in a romantic English style by Frederick Stibbert in the 19th century, the park features temples, grottoes, and water features, including an Egyptian-style temple and a serene pond.
Opening hours:
- April–October: 8:00 AM to 7:00 PM
- November–March: 8:00 AM to 5:00 PM
- Closed Thursdays and major holidays.
Just a few meters away is the Baden Powell Garden, perfect for families. This shaded, grassy park is equipped with tables, bins, and a playground. Though it lacks public restrooms, it’s ideal for a relaxing picnic.
Opening hours:
- April 1 – September 30: 7:00 AM to 9:00 PM
- October 1 – March 31: 7:00 AM to 7:00 PM
Villa Favard in Rovezzano: Green Retreat
Finally, if you’re looking for a quiet, spacious park with historical trees, visit the garden of Villa Favard in the Rovezzano district. Today home to the Luigi Cherubini Conservatory, this tranquil park boasts various tree species and includes a magnificent Lebanese Cedar (Cedrus libani), listed as a protected natural monument.
Location: Via Rocca Tedalda
Opening hours: Until 6:00 PM
Admission: Free
Plan Your Visit
Spring is the best time to explore Florence’s gardens. Whether you’re admiring wisteria on a terrace, enjoying a picnic among roses, or discovering a historic park off the beaten path, the Florence Spring Gardens offer the perfect way to connect with nature, art, and history.
If you’re planning your itinerary, be sure to check opening hours and access rules before visiting. Bring a blanket, a good book, and your camera—spring in Florence is a fleeting, fragrant joy.
