Bardini Villa, Florence
Gardens and Museum in Florence
Villa Bardini, also known historically as Villa Belvedere, is one of the best places to visit in Florence for travellers seeking breathtaking panoramas, lush gardens, and cultural depth. Overlooking the city from a tranquil hillside, this 17th-century villa was originally built as Villa Manadora by architect Gherardo Silvani and soon earned the name “Belvedere” thanks to its extraordinary views. With its Baroque staircases, English-style greenery, and quiet terraces, it offers an atmosphere that feels worlds away from the busy streets below. It is also a great place to visit on a walking tour of Florence, especially when paired with the neighbouring Boboli Gardens.
Through the centuries, the villa passed between noble and wealthy families, each leaving their mark on its architecture and landscape. In 1913 it was purchased by Stefano Bardini, the influential art dealer who transformed the villa into an exhibition space. Today, Villa Bardini combines artistic legacy with natural beauty, making it one of the top attractions in Florence for visitors seeking a serene and inspiring escape.
History and Significance of Villa Bardini
Villa Bardini's origins lie in the early 17th century, when it was constructed in the style of “Casini di Delizia”-elegant pleasure houses built for aristocratic leisure. Its hillside location and sweeping views over Florence made it a coveted residence among noble families, contributing to its evolving architectural richness.
The villa underwent numerous changes as it changed hands, but its most significant transformation occurred in 1913 when Stefano Bardini acquired the property. Known as the “prince of antiquarians,” Bardini restored and redesigned the villa as a refined exhibition centre showcasing his collection and aesthetic vision. His influence is still felt in the harmonious blend of art, architecture, and curated landscape.
Today, Villa Bardini forms part of the larger network of Florentine gardens linked to the Boboli Gardens. Its artistic legacy continues through the Annigoni Museum housed within the villa, dedicated to the work of 20th-century painter Pietro Annigoni.
Things to See and Do in Villa Bardini
The villa’s 4-hectare garden is divided into three distinctive areas: the central Baroque staircase, the English garden to the west, and the agricultural terraces to the east. The grand Baroque staircase is the highlight, guiding visitors through terraced levels adorned with statues, fountains, and carefully manicured greenery. Reaching the top reveals one of Florence’s most stunning panoramic viewpoints.
In spring, the wisteria tunnel becomes an unmissable spectacle, drawing visitors for its dramatic cascades of purple blossoms. Iris flowers, roses, and seasonal blooms add colour throughout the year, making each visit unique.
Inside the villa, the Annigoni Museum celebrates the life and career of Pietro Annigoni, one of Italy’s most distinguished 20th-century painters. The museum displays self-portraits, family portraits, lithographs, drawings, medals, and personal objects found in the artist’s studio. These works reveal Annigoni’s evolving style, emotional depth, and mastery across diverse artistic mediums.
How to Get to Villa Bardini
Florence Airport, Peretola, connects to the city centre by tram or taxi. For the best deals and a seamless booking experience, check out these flights to Florence on Booking.com.
Most travellers arrive via Santa Maria Novella train station, from which Villa Bardini is a 25-30 minute walk across the Arno and up into the Oltrarno hills, or accessible by local bus or taxi. Use Omnio to easily compare schedules, book train tickets, and find the best prices all in one place for a hassle-free journey across Italy.
Driving is possible but not recommended due to narrow streets and ZTL restrictions; parking outside the restricted zone allows access to the villa on foot or by taxi. If you are looking to rent a car in Italy I recommend having a look at Discover Cars, first, as they compare prices and review multiple car rental agencies for you.
Practical Tips on Visiting Villa Bardini
- Suggested tips: Visit in spring to see the famous wisteria tunnel in full bloom.
- Best time to visit: Late afternoon for golden-hour views over Florence.
- Entrance fee in Euros: Approximately €10-€15; combined tickets with Boboli Gardens available.
- Opening hours: Generally open daily with seasonal variations.
- Official website: Villa Bardini official site.
- How long to spend: 1-2 hours depending on garden exploration and museum visit.
- Accessibility: The hillside layout includes steep paths and stairs; limited accessibility in some areas.
- Facilities: Restrooms, café, shaded seating, and terraces.
- Photography tip: Capture the panoramic overlook with Florence’s Duomo rising above the cityscape.
- Guided tours: Available for both the gardens and the Annigoni Museum.
- Nearby food options: Restaurants and wine bars populate the nearby Costa San Giorgio and Oltrarno district.
Where to Stay close to Villa Bardini
For a luxurious retreat near the gardens, consider Villa Cora, offering refined surroundings and tranquil parkland. A stylish boutique choice is SoprArno Suites, known for its artistic flair and welcoming atmosphere. Another nearby option is Hotel Lungarno, providing elegant river views and easy access to the Oltrarno.
Is Villa Bardini Worth Visiting?
Absolutely. Villa Bardini offers one of Florence’s most enchanting combinations of gardens, art, and breathtaking views. Whether you come for the wisteria, the Baroque stairway, the Annigoni Museum, or simply the tranquillity of its terraces, the villa delivers a beautifully balanced experience of culture and nature.
What Other Travellers Say...
Villa Bardini, at Costa S. Giorgio 2 in Florence, is a 17th-century villa set within terraced gardens that cascade down a hillside and offer sweeping views over the city; visitors mention a wisteria-covered pergola, carefully tended paths and plantings, classical statuary, and a café where you can relax. Reviewers praise the peaceful atmosphere compared with busier central Florence and recommend visiting for the panorama—especially at golden hour—and for evening events such as open-air cinema, though some find navigation and garden signage confusing and question the value of the entrance fee when little is in bloom. The villa also houses works by painter Pietro Annigoni.
FAQs for Visiting Villa Bardini
Nearby Attractions to Villa Bardini
- Boboli Gardens - Renaissance landscape gardens directly connected to the villa.
- Palazzo Pitti - Grand palace of the Medici and Lorraine families.
- Bardini Gardens Cafe - A charming terrace café overlooking Florence.
- Basilica di Santo Spirito - Brunelleschi’s masterpiece in the Oltrarno.
- Forte Belvedere - Historic fortress offering panoramic views over Florence.
The Bardini Villa appears in our Complete Guide to Visiting Florence!
Moira & Andy
Hey! We're Moira & Andy. From hiking the Camino to trips around Europe in Bert our campervan — we've been traveling together since retirement in 2020!
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Planning Your Visit
Nearby Attractions
- Forte Belvedere (0.3) km
Castle - Galileo Museum (0.4) km
Museum - Uffizi Gallery (0.4) km
Gallery and Historic Building - Ponte Vecchio (0.5) km
Bridge - Loggia della Signoria (0.6) km
Historic Building and Museum - Palazzo Vecchio (0.6) km
Palace - Palazzo Pitti (0.6) km
Gallery and Palace - Complex of San Firenze (0.6) km
Historic Building and Museum - Piazza della Signoria (0.6) km
Square - Piazzale Michelangelo (0.6) km
Park and Viewing Point
