Fiesole — The Hill Town Above Florence
Fiesole is only 8 km northeast of Florence on a hill overlooking the city — yet it feels like a different world. The Etruscan foundation (7th century BC) is older than Florence itself and was once the more powerful city. Today, Fiesole is a retreat of tranquility: a village square with a Romanesque cathedral, a Roman amphitheater, and a panoramic view that stretches to the Apuan Alps on clear days.
Sights
- Teatro Romano: The Roman amphitheater (1st century BC) is remarkably well-preserved and used in summer for concerts and theater (Estate Fiesolana, June–August). The acoustics are fantastic. In the adjacent archaeological park: Etruscan temples, Roman baths, and a small museum. Admission: 7€.
- Cathedral of Fiesole: The Romanesque Cattedrale di San Romolo (1028) with its distinctive bell tower dominates the main square. Simple and atmospheric.
- Monastery of San Francesco: At the top of the hill, above the square — a Franciscan monastery from the 14th century with a tiny cloister and the best viewpoint over Florence. The ascent through the forest is meditative and wonderfully cool in summer.
Getting There & Tips
Bus 7 from Piazza San Marco in Florence — 20 minutes, every 15–20 minutes, 1.50€. The ride through the villa-lined hills is an experience in itself. Plan: Go in the morning, visit the amphitheater, have lunch on Piazza Mino (Trattoria la Reggia degli Etruschi has a balcony with panoramic views), stroll to the Monastery of San Francesco in the afternoon, return to Florence for an aperitivo.
💡 Tipp
Fiesole is the perfect half-day trip and the ideal escape from the summer heat — on the hill, it is always 3–5°C cooler than in Florence. In summer: Attend a concert at the Roman amphitheater (Estate Fiesolana) — magical atmosphere.
