Fiesole, Italy, less than 10 kilometers from Florence, has centuries of preserved history. While it’s unknown to many, it has a wealth of secrets you won’t want to miss.
From Etruscan walls to Romance baths, there’s so much to see in Fiesole. Since you’ll be close to Florence, there will also be plenty to do. In the summer months, enjoy the various events that occur in the Roman amphitheater. It allows you a location to have peace and quiet away from the big city while exploring plenty of history.
If you’re ready to learn about this historic and centrally located town, you won’t want to miss then read on!
Fiesole – How To Get There From Florence
Fiesole is only about 10 kilometers from Florence. It’s about 295 meters above Florence, giving you a panorama of the city.
By car: It’s about 24 minutes by car. Expect moderate traffic. Head southwest on Via dei Neri toward Via del Castello d’Altafronte.
Buses are available and take about 22 minutes. It’s only a few euros to take a bus. Walking will take over an hour.
By bus: In about seven miles, you’ll take the bus from Florence to Fiesole. Autolinee Toscane operates itne – Urbano Area Metropolitana Fiorentina and Busitalia. Bus times will vary, so checking the schedule in advance is essential.
Is Fiesole Worth Visiting?
Yes! It’s a secretive city with a history dating back to the Etruscans. Before Florence was on the map, this city was flourishing and vibrant, with plenty of history and art to enjoy.
You’ll be close to Florence but still have more peace and quiet. Since you’ll be close and above, you’ll enjoy a beautiful view of the city.
There are gardens and villas, museums, parks, trails, churches, and historic structures. Food in Fiesole, Italy, is delicious. There are pizzerias, restaurants, and cafes.
What To Do And See In Fiesole, Florence
This historic town will keep you busy even if you never venture to Florence. From Etruscan Walls to Roman baths, there’s so much to see.
Don’t forget to end your busy day with some local food! Since you’ll be close to Florence and the other cities, boredom will never be in your dictionary. Take lots of pictures, and don’t forget to check out the panorama of Florence and the historic structures of the Etruscans and Romans.
1. Archaeological Museum
Explore the history of Fiesole in the Archaeological Museum. You’ll find preserved history from the Lombards back to the Etruscans.
Include the Roman Theatre on this trip since it’s close by. In addition, this museum acts as a place of origin for various artifacts from the area. There’s an underground passage, galleries, and the ground floor.
2. Convent of San Domenico
Situated between Florence and Fiesole, Italy, you have the Convent of San Domenico. It dates back to the 1400s and hosts a Language Center.
Fra Angelico, a friar at the convent, painted several works of art. You can also find Pietro Perugino’s artwork at the Uffizi Gallery in Florence.
3. Convent of San Francesco
Head to the San Francesco area for a view of Florence and the Tuscan hillside. After the viewpoint, you’ll see the Convent of San Francesco.
4. Roman Theater
Seeing the Roman Theater should be at the top of the list. The ruins here are still vibrant and undiscovered by many tourists.
The area dates back to the 4th century BC when an Etruscan temple was built. The Romans took over in the 1st century BC and built the theater and spa. Getting in is also incredibly affordable; you’ll only pay a few euros.
5. Bandini Museum
In Fiesole, you’ll find the Bandini Museum. Its name comes from the erudite canon, Angiolo Maria Bandini.
He was an influential person during his time. He’d collect art, trade antiques, and would keep them inside his small church, Sant’Ansano.
Today, this church has Renaissance and Tuscan medieval art. In the early 1900s, they built a museum for his items after he died. Work from Fiesole is downstairs, and sculptures and paintings are upstairs.
6. Etruscan Walls
While you’re in Fiesole, Italy, check out the centuries-old Etruscan Walls that represent a part of history. While the Romans conquered the location after the Etruscans, the area’s history remains.
7. The local food
Besides the history, you’ll want to check out the various pizzerias and cafes in the area. You can also head to the local markets for fresh ingredients from the area. Local delicacies, cheese and meats, and more can be found here.
Some famous local dishes include Bruschetta (known here as Fettunta), Tuscan pasta, Cacciucco di ceci (swiss chard and chickpea soup), Florentine Steak, and Zuccotto, a special Tuscan dessert from Florence. Complete the meal with a Florentine Chianti wine. Some of the local house rentals will be on wineries, but even if yours isn’t, many restaurants will have fresh wine from the area.
The Best Hotels In Fiesole, Italy
While small, there are still plenty of beautiful options in Fiesole. Save your money by staying in this small but historic and beautiful city instead of Florence.
Stunning Views with a Relaxing Pool
The Hotel Villa Dei Bosoni is surrounded by the Tuscan countryside. Enjoy a terrace, a hydro-massage corner, and a swimming pool to relax after a day of exploring.
A Historic and Highly-Ranked Hotel
Look above as you walk underneath wooden beams and walk on terracotta flooring. Use handmade soap made from the villa’s own olive oil. Before a day of adventure, fuel up on their buffet breakfast.
Gorgeous Views and Fresh Olive Oil
Head to Agriturismo Montereggi for a sustainable travel property. Located in the beautiful Tuscan hills with a large swimming pool, you’ll relax in luxury. The train station isn’t too far, allowing easy transport to local cities and towns.
Modern Accommodations
This hotel has modern conveniences such as an AC, flat-screen TV, and more. A bus stop isn’t too far either. Gorgeous views of the Tuscan countryside can be enjoyed as well.
A Sustainable Apartment in the City’s Center
San Bartolo Rent Apartments due Passi da Firenze allows you to be part of nature sustainably. There are beautiful gardens and terrace views to enjoy as well.
Best Restaurants In Fiesole
Restaurant La Reggia Degli Etruschi
This restaurant is located on one of the most panoramic terraces of Fiesole. Enjoy delicious food while taking in beautiful monuments and views of Florence.
Terrazza 45
Only a few meters from Fiesole, Florence amphitheater, is the Terrazza 45. Pair seafood pasta with local Tuscan wine or other delicious dishes.
Coquinarius Fiesole
Enjoy some of the best views of Florence in the world here! Don’t forget to try their hand-rolled pasta dishes and complete the dish with Tuscan wine.
Read more: Tuscan Food – A Wealth of Pasta Sauces, Soups, and Sweets!
What To Visit Nearby Fiesole
Don’t forget to visit the art and architecture of Florence. You can get there by bus or driving for an easy trip.
You won’t want to miss San Gimignano, a small medieval town nearby. It’s located in the province of Siena.
In the city of Florence, head to the Greve in Chianti. Check out the fast-flower river running through the beautiful town.
Don’t miss out on the wine in this area, which it’s known for. Stop by the other Chianti towns as well. Some options include Castellina in Chianti, Montefioralle, Gaiole in Chianti, and more.
In the province of Arezzo, there’s Poppi. It’s about 40 kilometers east of Florence. The town is linked to the family of the Counts Guidi, who built castles in various regions. Head to the historic scene of the Battle of Campaldino.
FAQs About Travelers Who Visited Fiesole, Florence
What Is Fiesole Italy Famous For?
It’s famous for Etruscan history, and the walls still survive to this day. Since it’s a secret location, the Roman theater is still well-maintained. There are also Roman baths, and you’ll have a beautiful panorama of Florence from this city.
How Long To Spend In Fiesole?
Since it’s smaller, you can see most of it in half a day. Since Florence is nearby, as well as plenty of other towns and cities, it’s worth it to stay here. You’ll be close to Florence without the busy traffic of that area.
How Much Is A Taxi From Florence To Fiesole?
A taxi is about 13-16 euros. Taking the bus is a more affordable option.
How To Take The Bus From Florence To Fiesole?
Head to the Stazione Piazza Adua to Fiesole Piazza Mino. Check the schedule in advance since it could change.
Where To Buy Bus Tickets To Fiesole?
You can buy bus tickets through at-bus.it. Plan your trip in advance for more options.
