Florence is the perfect city to spend a romantic weekend with your beloved. The historical center is small and full of beautiful period palaces, large squares, narrow passageways waiting to be discovered as well the famous Ponte Vecchio and the streets along the river which all present a unique setting for a couple celebrating each other. Walking along the streets of Florence isn’t just romantic, it is also the best way to visit and appreciate the city itself. Since Piazza del Duomo was closed to traffic a few months ago, the heart of the city is even more enjoyable!
So where should you go on St. Valentine’s or on your special romantic weekend in Florence? First of all, let’s remember that the historical center is one of the most magical spots in the city so anywhere you go, you won’t go wrong. But Ponte Vecchio, particularly at night, is considered the most romantic spot in the city center and the softly lit sidewalks along the river make an evening stroll under the stars very romantic.
Florence was the setting for one of the most famous love stories in history, the love story between Dante and Beatrice. You can follow their story as you visit the small Church of Santa Margherita de’ Cerchi, location of their first encounter and where love at first sight struck Dante. A small tombstone marks the burial spot of Beatrice within the church. A short distance from the church are the houses of the two: Beatrice’s home, Palazzo Portinari-Salviati (also called the Palazzo Cepparello) still sits on Via del Corso and for many years has been the offices of a bank while Dante’s house has been turned into a museum where you can find reproductions, documents and more regarding the Great Poet.
Outside of the main center, we recommend two special romantic spots: Piazzale Michelangelo and Fiesole. From the large terrace of the Piazzale Michelangelo you can enjoy magnificent views of the city, particularly at sunset. A short distance way, at the top of a series of stairs, is the ancient San Miniato al Monte Church from which you can further enjoy a stupendous view of Florence. You are a bit higher up and see a different angle than from the Piazzale.
On the other side of Florence you’ll find Fiesole, a small yet precious jewel just 20-25 minutes bus ride from the center of Florence. On the weekend of February 13 and 14 the main square will host the Chocolate Festival where you’ll surely find special chocolate hearts to give to your beloved! To enjoy a beautiful view of all of Florence, take the steep road that starts in front of the cathedral up to the Convent of San Francesco where you’ll find a small garden with benches to sit and enjoy the view.
A select number of lodgings in Florence are also offering special offers for St. Valentine’s Day:
- La Casa del Garbo Bed and Breakfast , located on Piazza della Signoria with magnificent view of the square and Palazzo Vecchio, is offering a 10% discount for a stay of 2 nights in a Deluxe Room during St. Valentine’s weekend, with a free bottle of champagne and small chocolates.
- The Johanna Bed and Breakfasts are offering special offers in February and March for stays of 1 or 3 nights in the various elegant residences they have in the center of Florence.
- La Casa dei Tintori B&B near Piazza Santa Croce is located within a beautiful medieval palace and offers a special atmosphere for couples at great rates all year round.
- The romantic boutique hotel Villa Antea offers couples wishing to spend two or more nights in Florence a special offer that includes an icy wine bottle and fruit basket in your room upon arrival.
These are just a few ideas of how to spend a wonderful romantic weekend in Florence, whether on St. Valentine’s Day or another weekend. We hope you will have a lot of fun making your own very special memories.
About Cristina Romeo
Born in Florence at the end of the fabulous '70s, Cristina has always lived in the famous "cradle of the Renaissance". She's in love with her homeland, but also enjoys traveling and discovering new places. Cristina is mum to a lovely little girl, to whom she hopes to pass on all the passion and love of our precious, wonderful Tuscany.
