Feeling like taking a leisurely stroll? Bellosguardo is an absolute delight that’s well worth the hike. Although the hills surrounding Florence contribute to the city’s summer air congestion, they are also kind of magical, and while Fiesole may hold the top spot in the hearts of Florentines hill-fun-wise, Bellosguardo holds a special place in my heart for its lesser-known, untouristed viewpoint. It offers a completely unique perspective on Florence’s most famous buildings and monuments: the front.

Historically, Bellosguardo has been home to illustrious figures such as Galileo Galilei and Ugo Foscolo, who enjoyed the hill’s charming natural surroundings and the presence of medieval and Renaissance architecture. Notably, the Villa dell’Ombrellino and Villa Bellosguardo, once owned by Guido Cavalcanti, stand as testaments to this rich heritage.

Admittedly, Bellosguardo lacks a dedicated square or terrace for optimal viewing pleasure. Instead, you’ll have to find a suitable spot on the street. Nevertheless, I assure you that the effort is well worth it if you desire to capture photographs different from any other.