With the arrival of September and October, the hills surrounding Florence take on the warm colours of the season, while the fascinating Guided Visits to the Gardens of the Fiesole Villas begin again, offering a special opportunity to discover enchanting places that are often normally closed to the public.
Strolling through Renaissance gardens, terraces overlooking the Tuscan landscape, olive groves and tree-lined avenues is a wonderful way to experience Fiesole from a different perspective, at a slower pace and surrounded by the beauty of nature and architecture. In September and October, milder temperatures and the soft light of early autumn make these visits even more enjoyable.
The villas and their gardens are an invaluable part of Fiesole’s historical and landscape heritage. Each residence has a story to tell, preserving traditions and traces of the past while revealing hidden corners that, over the centuries, have fascinated and inspired artists, scholars and travellers from all over the world.
Taking part in these visits means venturing beyond the best-known routes and immersing yourself in the authentic atmosphere of the Fiesole hills, surrounded by art, nature and panoramic views stretching towards Florence.
Let’s take a look at the full schedule of visits planned for September and October.
Program of visits to the Villas of Fiesole
The visits take place every Thursday at 4:00 p.m., with a rich and varied calendar that allows you to admire some of the most important historic residences in the area. Only in one case, for Villa I Tatti, the appointment is scheduled on a Wednesday.
SEPTEMBER
- Thursday, 3 September – 4:00 pm – Villa Medici
One of Fiesole’s most celebrated Renaissance villas, featuring elegant terraced gardens and a privileged panoramic position overlooking the surrounding hills and Florence. - Thursday, 10 September – 4:00 pm – Villa Sparta
Also known as Villa Bobolina, this elegant Fiesole residence is surrounded by a charming garden and was closely associated with the Greek royal family during the 20th century. - Thursday, 17 September – 4:00 pm – Villa Il Roseto
An intimate and fascinating place, renowned for its garden and its connection with architect and landscape designer Pietro Porcinai, one of the leading figures in 20th-century Italian landscape architecture. - Thursday, 24 September – 4:00 pm – Villa San Michele
A former Franciscan monastery that was transformed over time into a prestigious residence, it overlooks Florence from the hills of Fiesole and is surrounded by gardens and panoramic terraces.
OCTOBER
- Thursday, 1 October – 4:00 pm – Villa Schifanoia
A historic villa surrounded by the greenery of Fiesole, featuring an extensive park and a secluded atmosphere that reflects the tradition of Florence’s grand country residences. - Thursday, 8 October – 4:00 pm – Villa di Maiano
One of the most impressive historic residences in the Florentine hills, surrounded by an extensive park with gardens, woodland and beautiful views over Florence. - Wednesday, 14 October – 4:00 pm – Villa I Tatti
The historic residence of collector and scholar Bernard Berenson, today home to Harvard University’s Center for Italian Renaissance Studies. Its formal garden is one of the estate’s most fascinating features. - Thursday, 22 October – 4:00 pm – Villa Il Salviatino
An elegant historic villa nestled in the green hills of Fiesole, surrounded by a centuries-old park and terraced gardens offering beautiful views across the Florentine landscape.
Costs and reservations for visits to the Villas of Fiesole
The visits to the gardens of the Villas of Fiesole are an accessible opportunity for everyone, with affordable costs and the chance to enjoy a cultural experience of great value.
Reservations: mandatory, to be made on the Monday before the visit (from 9:00 a.m. to 8:00 p.m.) by calling 055 055, Call Center of the Metropolitan City.
Tickets: full €5 – reduced €3 (youth aged 7–18) – free for children under 6 years.
The number of places is limited to ensure a more intimate and in-depth experience, so early booking is recommended.
A slow experience between nature and culture in Fiesole
The Villas of Fiesole are not simply historic residences, but true treasures of art and nature. Walking through their gardens means reliving the atmospheres of the Renaissance, understanding the bond between architecture and landscape, and discovering a land that has enchanted artists, writers, and travelers for centuries.
September and October are the best months to visit them: the still mild days, the golden autumn light, and the colors of the landscape create unique scenarios, perfect also for photography lovers.
Where to stay: FH55 Hotel Villa Fiesole
To make the most of this experience, the FH55 Hotel Villa Fiesole is the ideal point of reference. Housed in a 19th-century villa surrounded by greenery, it offers elegant rooms, a panoramic swimming pool, and a restaurant with breathtaking views of Florence.
Its privileged location allows easy access to the Villas on the program, while ensuring relaxation and comfort in an intimate and welcoming atmosphere.
After a day spent among gardens, art, and nature, it will be a pleasure to retreat to a refined environment that combines Tuscan hospitality with international charm.