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Boat tours on a traditional barchetto

Florence, Tuscany, Italy

Bucket List Experience

Credit Shutterstock.com/Mikadun

A ride down the river Arno in a traditional wooden boat or ‘ barchetto ’ is one of the more unusual ways to see the city.

The 50-odd minute tour takes in landmarks such as the Ponte Vecchio and Santa Trinita bridges, vast Palazzo Corsini and the Uffizi gallery; it’s particularly romantic at sunset when an aperitivo is included, but early morning is another evocative time to go.

Getting there & doing it

Tours normally start from a meeting point near the river given by the tour operator who then accompanies groups to the landing stage (a 5- to 10-minute walk). Boats can seat up to 20, or you can book a private tour. See our tour recommendations below.

An aperitivo is included in the sunset cruises, but it’s always a good idea to take a bottle of water. Also take sunscreen and a hat if you are doing the tour in the summer during the day; there is no shade out on the river.

When to do it

Tours run all year round, seven days a week but they may be cancelled in the event of rain. Ideal tour times are early in the morning and early evening; the light is beautiful and (in the summer) it’s not too hot.

Who to go with: organised tours

Our selection of the best Viator tours of this attraction or activity

Florence River Cruise on a Traditional Barchetto

Rating 4.27 / 5 [300 ratings]

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Destination guides

Destination guides including or relevant to this experience

Tuscany, Italy

Destination guide

A heady mix of incomparable Renaissance art, gorgeous palazzos , Tuscan cuisine and home-grown haute couture.

The astonishingly beautiful region of Tuscany has it all: art cities and ancient hill towns, high mountains and long sandy beaches, alongside luxurious hotels and some of Italy’s best food and wine.

• SELECT CITY - Select - florence naples rome venice milan cinque terre verona lake como lake garda sorrento positano bari bergamo bologna cagliari genoa la spezia lecce livorno lucca matera palermo pisa siena siracusa turin trapani amalfi montecatini capri pompeii parma taormina polignano a mare wheelchair friendly chianti

Morning Florentine Gondola Boat Tour With Breakfast

Taking a romantic boat trip on the Arno River is a must when visiting Florence!

Cruise on the Arno River in a traditional Florentine Gondola boat called the Barchetto. The Barchetto boat has no engines so, you can be sure to enjoy the tour in all tranquility. There are only 4 original traditional Barchetto boats left in Florence and if you book this tour you get to enjoy a romantic cruise along with a nice and tasty Italian-style breakfast ! On this boat tour a professional guide will tell you all about the history and secrets of the river Arno. Wanting to keep an authentic feel, it would only make sense that the boat is conducted by a Florentine Barcaiolo. He will guide the boat as you immerse yourself in the history and enjoy the beautiful scenery . It goes without saying that you will be sailing under th e Ponte Vecchio bridge as well as the Santa Trinita bridge while the guide reveals all the mysteries of the Vasari Corridor . This boat will glide past one of the most important museums in Florence, the Uffizi Museum; home to many eternal masterpieces. You will also be passing Palazzo Corsini to enjoy its beautiful facade. It is a safe tour that will surely leave you enlightened and relaxed. So, do not hesitate to book this boat tour, perfect for couples or small families, and discover Florence's rich history on an authentic Florentine Barchetto.

Kavnit Kaur

2 months ago

Victoria Nadon-lachance

7 months ago

Charles Moscatello

5 months ago

Maria Rosa Sánchez

Hace 6 meses

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• Mini Cruise on the Arno River aboard a Florentine Gondola (approx. 50 min)
• Italian style breakfast
• English speaking fully licensed History guide
• Guided boat tour of Florence

Departure time

Meeting point.

PIAZZA MENTANA, 2 RED

In front of the BOOKING OFFICE - opposite from the Arno River

• Experience Florence from a different point of view
• Romantic get away with breakfast included
• Professional English speaking guide

Notes and advice

• Please let us know in advance of any special needs or impaired mobility of the clients and we will do our best to accommodate them

Which Italian cities are best for art lovers?

Italy is a dream come true for art lovers. Being the heart of the Renaissance movement, it the entire country is flourishing with beautiful works of art. 

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Ciao Florence Tours & Travel srl

Via Cavour, 36 R 50129 Firenze

[email protected] [email protected]

Tel. +39 055 354044

P.IVA 05823680482

Where are you going?

Florence River Cruise on a Traditional Barchetto

As the traditional barchetto gently glides along the Arno River, travelers are enveloped in the rich tapestry of Florence’s history and beauty . The experience offers a unique perspective of the city’s iconic landmarks, revealing hidden secrets and captivating narratives that unfold with each passing moment.

From the soft lapping of water against the boat to the whispers of centuries-old tales carried by the breeze, this river cruise promises an unforgettable journey through time and culture.

Get ready to learn about the enchanting allure of Florence’s waters, where every ripple tells a story waiting to be discovered.

• Glide under Ponte Vecchio on a barchetto for a unique Florence river experience.
• Enjoy informative insights on Medici history and iconic landmarks like Uffizi Gallery.
• Choose from morning or sunset tours for a relaxing and enchanting time on the Arno River.
• Experience a blend of history, beauty , and peacefulness on a traditional boat tour in Florence.

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• Cooking Class and Lunch at a Tuscan Farmhouse With Local Market Tour From Florence
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Booking Details

When booking a Florence River Cruise on a Barchetto, visitors can take advantage of a Lowest Price Guarantee and enjoy the flexibility of Free cancellation up to 24 hours before the experience starts.

Weather considerations are essential as the tour is weather-dependent, with a rain policy in place. The tour duration allows guests to glide under the iconic Ponte Vecchio bridge, typically lasting around one to two hours depending on the selected option.

Payment options include reserving now and paying later, while group discounts may be available for larger parties. It’s recommended to check availability, select the desired date and number of travelers, and confirm the booking to secure a spot on this historical and picturesque river cruise in Florence.

Tour Information

Explore the highlights of the Florence river cruise on a Barchetto, including a unique journey under the iconic Ponte Vecchio bridge. Board one of the only four traditional boats still in operation for an authentic experience.

Glide along the Arno River, passing landmarks like the Uffizi Gallery while sipping on a glass of Prosecco. Start your tour at the Towns of Italy Office in Piazza Mentana 2red FIRENZE, 15 minutes before departure.

The tour begins in central Florence, taking you through Piazza della Signoria to see the Palazzo Vecchio. Opt for the morning tour to enjoy an Italian breakfast onboard. Enjoy the historical significance of the barchetto as you cruise under the Ponte Vecchio.

Tour Highlights and Reviews

The enchanting atmosphere of the Arno River shines through in the various reviews highlighting the tour’s captivating experiences and knowledgeable guides.

• Magical atmosphere praised in customer reviews
• Positive feedback on guides’ knowledge and friendliness
• Pricing comparisons mentioned in some reviews
• Relaxing, chilled , and informative experience described by visitors

These reviews showcase a mix of appreciation for the serene setting of the Arno River, the engaging guides like Vanessa and Daniele , and the overall historical and unique aspects of the tour. While some customers note the high pricing, many are drawn to the magical ambiance and the wealth of information provided during the cruise. The blend of relaxation, education , and enchantment seems to leave a lasting impression on those who embark on this river journey.

Tour Experience and Feedback

Visitors consistently praise the engaging and knowledgeable guides on the Florence river cruise, enhancing the overall experience with their expertise and friendliness.

Sunset ambiance adds a magical touch to the tours, creating unforgettable moments for guests.

While the experience is described as pleasurable and fantastic, some customers find the tours overpriced, prompting pricing comparisons with other similar activities.

The peacefulness and enjoyable views along the Arno River receive high appreciation from participants.

Suggestions for improvement include better pricing strategies to make the tours more accessible.

Despite some feedback on pricing, the tour’s historical insights, relaxing atmosphere , and the opportunity to escape the city’s hustle and bustle make it a worthwhile and memorable experience.

Historical Significance of Arno River

Nestled along the banks of the Arno River lies a rich tapestry of history, intertwining trade , artistry , and cultural heritage within the heart of Florence.

• The Arno River has been vital for Florence’s trade and artistic inspiration .
• Iconic bridges like Ponte Vecchio and Ponte Santa Trinita showcase the city’s heritage.
• The river’s gentle flow adds a romantic touch to the evening tours.
• The Ponte alla Carraia frames the sunset in a picturesque manner.

The Arno River trade routes facilitated the prosperity of Florence, connecting the city to the Mediterranean and beyond. Artists like Leonardo da Vinci and Michelangelo found inspiration in the river’s serene beauty, shaping the Renaissance movement. Today, the Arno continues to inspire visitors with its historical significance and picturesque charm.

Booking and Cancellation Policies

For a seamless booking experience with flexible cancellation options, travelers can easily secure their spot on the Florence river cruise by selecting their preferred date and number of participants. The tour offers free cancellation up to 24 hours before the experience starts, with a full refund available if canceled within this timeframe. However, refunds are not provided if canceled less than 24 hours before the cruise. Due to weather conditions, there are options for tour cancellation in case of rain, ensuring the safety and comfort of participants. Changes made less than 24 hours before the tour are not accepted, emphasizing the importance of planning ahead. The tour’s price strategies are designed to provide transparency and value for customers, complemented by efficient embarkment procedures to kickstart the experience promptly.

Meeting Point and Tour Route

To embark on the Florence river cruise adventure, participants gather at the designated meeting point located at the Towns of Italy Office in Piazza Mentana 2red FIRENZE, where the journey through the heart of Florence begins.

• Cruise along the Arno River for breathtaking scenic views.
• Explore the local cuisine with optional Italian breakfast .
• Pass by iconic landmarks like the Uffizi Gallery and Ponte Vecchio.
• Enjoy the historical significance of the barchetto while sipping on Prosecco.

Prepare to be captivated by the beauty of Florence as you glide through the city’s waterways, indulging in both the picturesque scenery and the delicious local flavors along the way.

Guides and Gondoliers

The experienced guides and gondoliers on the Florence river cruises enrich the tour with their in-depth knowledge and friendly demeanor, creating a memorable and insightful experience for all participants. These professionals are known for their engaging storytelling and local expertise , providing informative insights on the Medici family, Ponte Vecchio, and the historical significance of the Arno River. Vanessa, Daniele , and other guides enhance the journey with their kindness and knowledge, offering a unique perspective on the city’s heritage.

Reviews highlight the positive impact of these guides, praising their friendliness and engaging narratives. Customers appreciate the personalized touch these guides bring to the tour, making it a pleasure and a fantastic experience despite some concerns about pricing.

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Common questions

Can children participate in the florence river cruise on a traditional barchetto.

Children can join the Florence river cruise on a traditional barchetto. The experience is family-friendly, with safety precautions in place. While there are no specific age restrictions mentioned, it is advisable to ensure children’s comfort and safety.

Are Life Jackets Provided for Passengers During the River Cruise?

Life jackets are provided for passenger safety during the river cruise. These essential pieces of equipment ensure a secure experience while enjoying the stunning scenery . Safety regulations prioritize passengers’ well-being throughout the picturesque tour.

Is There a Restroom Available on the Barchetto for Passengers?

Restroom availability on the barchetto ensures passenger comfort during the river cruise. Providing essential facilities adds to the overall experience, allowing guests to relax and enjoy the tour without any discomfort. Enjoy the journey!

Are Pets Allowed on the Traditional Barchetto During the Tour?

While pets are cherished companions, they are not permitted on the traditional barchetto during tours. This regulation ensures the safety and comfort of all passengers. The tour prioritizes accessibility options and adheres to strict safety precautions.

Is There a Maximum Weight Limit for Passengers on the Barchetto?

Weight restrictions ensure safety on the barchetto. Passengers must adhere to the maximum weight limit for a secure experience. Safety measures prioritize the well-being of all guests during the Florence river cruise.

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Experience the magic of Florence from a unique perspective on a traditional barchetto river cruise.

With informative guides, stunning views , and a touch of history, this tour offers a perfect blend of relaxation and discovery.

Whether you’re a history buff or just looking for a peaceful escape, the Florence River Cruise is sure to leave you enchanted.

Book your journey today and learn about the beauty of the Arno River.

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Arno River Florence: 50-Min Barchetto Cruise

Climb aboard a traditional florentine gondola for a cruise down the arno river, what is included:, what is excluded:, city cards:, what to do in florence.

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Florence Mini Cruise with Apertivo: on the Arno River with the traditional Florentine gondola

• Up to 20 Participants
• Available in : English

What you will find

Full program.

You will get on board the “barchetto”, one of the only 4 original traditional wooden boats left in Florence, conducted by a “ barcaiolo ”, a true florentine tradition holder that will guide the boat with his long-reaching pole. No noisy engines, only the charm of tradition and the voice of your expert guide to unveil the secrets of the Arno river as you stroll on its calm waters and discover its history and the beautiful Palazzos that frame its ancient riverbed.

WHAT'S INCLUDED

• Mini Cruise on the Arno River (approx. 50 min)
• Delicious breakfast or Cool Wine "aperitivo"
• English speaking fully licensed
• History guide

YOUR GUIDE / TOUR OPERATOR

Towns of Italy -   Florencetown is a certified and qualified tour operator with the City of Florence Tour Operator 'official stamp'. He has been operating in Florence since 2006 and specializes in the creation and management of tours and practical activities for small groups and regularly scheduled private individuals. Guaranteed quality!

Please let us know in advance any special need or impaired mobility of the clients and we will do our best to accomodate them

Info / Important details

CANCELLATION POLICY: free cancellation 48 hours before the tour, a penalty will be applied thereafter or no refund will be made. This tour may be canceled due to heavy rain and may require rescheduling or a full refund.

• Type: shared tour
• Conditions: from May to October. Minimum 1 and maximum 20 people.
• Accessibility: special needs (communicate in advance), children
• Duration: approx 1h
• Language: English
• Voucher: digital and / or paper

Where / Meeting point

Piazza Mentana 2 rosso - 50123 Firenze (FI)

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DESTINATION FLORENCE IS THE RIGHT CHOICE

5 good reasons to use it.

Would you like to discover more?

An enchanting Florentine cruise

• Inspiring experience led by a private licensed guide
• 50-minute cruise on the Arno River aboard a vintage Barchetto, the traditional Florentine “Gondola”
• See Florence from a different angle!
• On board typical aperitivo or breakfast

EVERY DAY at 6.00PM | From June to September: EVery day at 9:30 AM, 6PM anfd 8PM

Approx. 60 min

From MAY to OCT 15

ITALIAN, ENGLISH, GERMAN, FRENCH, SPANISH

Description

Enchanting, fascinating, overwhelmingly beautiful. Filled with gorgeous artistic masterpieces and striking architecture Florence is one of the most admired cities in the world. Walking through the historic center is fabulous, but if you’re looking for an outstanding, and unusual, viewpoint you can’t miss our special Private Boat Tour on the Arno River!

Appreciate Florence’s magnificence from an extraordinary viewpoint, the Arno river’s gently flowing waters, and enjoy the rare privilege of a private cruise and private guided tour. Meet your guide, a licensed professional dedicated exclusively to you and your party, and stroll to the Arno river banks. Ships ahoy! Board the quaint barchetto , the Florentine “gondola-like” traditional wooden dinghy, and set off on your memorable cruise.

Steered by the local "barcaiolo", sailor, with a long wooden pole, the barchetto will drift smoothly along the river, while your guide points out the sights and tells you about Florence’s history, including local stories and fascinating legends. Admire the majestic palace façades and evocative bridges cruising under the Ponte Vecchio, alongside the Uffizi Gallery, Palazzo Corsini and below the sumptuous Santa Trinita Bridge.

Crown your experience a bracing typical Italian "aperitivo", an exquisite glass of chilled wine (and a soft drink for the children). In the morning Departure, a delicious Italian breakfast will replace the wine aperitivo.

Perfect for romantic couples, discerning travelers, fun-loving groups of friends and families with children, our Private Boat Tour on the Arno River allows you to admire Florence’s marvels, and learn about its heritage, from an engaging and one-of-a-kind angle.

• Boat tour Florence Italy: mini Cruise on the Arno River (approx. 50 minutes aboard)
• Cool Wine "aperitivo" for afternoon departures /Italian Breakfast for morning departures (Coffee cappuccino and pastries)
• English speaking licensed history guide

Meeting Point

FLORENCETOWN BOOKING OFFICE - Piazza Mentana 2red - Florence - SEE ON MAP

Please let us know in advance any special need or impaired mobility of the clients and we will do our best to accomodate them.

Rain Policy

The tour departure might be cancelled due to rain.

We will do our best to proceed with the tour. However rain could prevent us from being able to offer an enjoyable and fully safe experience. In any case, clients should show up at the meeting point at the scheduled time, or contact the office in advance. In case we cancel the tour (and only in this case), guest options are:

1)      Rain check to be used the following day or at any other time, subject to availability.  The Rain check is a voucher given to client. The voucher is transferable and may be sold or given to others to use at a future date and lasts up to 1 year from date.   It has a value that can be possible used in any other tour provided by our company.

2)      100% refund for tour cancellation.

Please note that clients' safety and comfort are of utmost priority. In any case, clients should show up at the meeting point at the scheduled time, or contact the office in advance. No-shows will not be refunded.

from EUR 156 p.p. (price based on a party of 4 pax)

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Florence boat tour

Duration: approx. 1 hour and 15 minutes 

Important information

from 1 May to 30 September

Florence, Piazza della Repubblica (next to the Apple Store under the loggias, corner with via Pellicceria)

Daily 5.00 pm and 6.00 pm

Full price: €45.00

Concessions: Children up to 5 years: free Children 6 to 12 years: € 22.50

• Guided walk from the town centre to the embarking spot
• Small cruise on the Arno
• Aperitif (glass of Prosecco)
• Professional guide
• Travel book
• What is not specified under "Inclusions"

To join the tour, you must show up at the meeting point 30 minutes before the departure time indicated and submit a copy of the voucher (in electronic or paper format).

The tour includes a small part on foot: please inform us in advance of the presence of disabled participants or with other special needs. 

In case of bad weather you must still reach the meeting point at the scheduled time or contact our office in advance. If the weather were to force us to cancel the tour, you will have two options:

• accept a ‘voucher’ to participate in the tour the next day or another day of your choice, depending on availability. The ‘voucher’ is valid for 12 months, it can be used for any other regular tours provided by us and can be sold to third parties
• get a refund equal to 100% of expenses incurred

No repayment is expected: in case of NO-SHOW (no show at the start of the tour at the time and the meeting point indicated on the voucher) and / or rejection of the on-site service; if customers get lost during the tour; in case customers decide to leave the tour before the end of the service. 

The departure is guaranteed with a minimum of 2 persons.

Reservations can be made up to 48 working hours before the service.

In case of any problems at the site, you can contact the emergency number indicated on the voucher.

In exceptional cases and/or reasons of force majeure (i.e. acts of nature, strikes, exceptional closures,serious unexpected events or health problems experienced by the person in charge with the service after which it is really impossible to find a substitute) the service you booked might be cancelled. If this should happen, you will be informed as soon as possible and, according to the type of service you booked, you will have the possibility to choose between postponing the service on the first date available or receiving a total refund of the price paid, if the cancellation policy of the service itself allows a refund.

Full description

If you are looking for a tour that will enable you to discover Florence from a unique and privileged point of view , this is the option for you! Thanks to our boat tour in Florence on the Arno river you can glide silently on the river and admire the beauties of the Tuscan city escorted by a prepared local guide who will talk about the history and the curiosities of this beautiful Tuscan city.

On board a 'Barchetto' , a gracious characteristic boat, you will pass under the famous Ponte Vecchio and you will see the alternation of monuments and palaces known throughout the world. During your small Arno river cruise you can taste a good glass of prosecco and enjoy the splendour and romanticism of Florence at dusk, when the landscape is coloured of ochre, red and pink light.

Let's look at how this unmissable Florence river cruise takes place - one of the most original excursions in Florence offered by toscanainside.com.

At the planned meeting point you will meet the guide who will accompany you to the embarkation spot walking through the streets of the historic centre . During this short but pleasant walk you can admire Piazza della Signoria , since centuries the social and political centre of Florence; pass beside the Uffizi Gallery , which boasts one of the most important art collections in the world and, from the shore, admire the spectacular Ponte Vecchio which, in its upper part, is home to the Vasari Corridor , a treasure chest of precious paintings from the seventeenth and eighteenth centuries and portraits of great artists. After having reached the boarding area, you will board the 'Barchetto' ... and from this moment you will step into the heart of this fascinating boat tour of Florence!

Before proceeding with the description of the itinerary, it is worthwhile to say a few words on the boat, used because it is part of the true Florentine tradition. The 'Barchetto' is a wooden boat - the shape of which is reminiscent of the Venetian gondola - that, in ancient times, was used for the transport of material used for the construction of the city walls along the river: today there are only four original ‘Barchetti' that sail the Arno in Florence ! The boatman, an experienced local seaman, will expertly guide your boat using a long wooden oar: this ancient navigation system, called ‘ a stanga' , will enable you to gently float on the waters in a silence broken only by the lapping of the oar... in summary: a genuinely evocative guided river boat tour of Florence! Curiosities : do you know why the sailors of 'Barchetti' are called 'renaioli' ? In the past, the terms 'renaioli' or 'bucaioli' designated those involved in the collection of sands on the river bottom that were used for the construction of Florentine buildings-  mostly poor people who worked very hard. In order to resume the navigation along the Arno river, the 'renaioli' have now renovated some of their ancient boats and, helped by their inseparable wooden rod, they have become the river ferrymen of the city!

During your boat trip of Florence by 'Barchetto' , the guide will reveal the secrets of the beautiful buildings that adorn its banks and tell you about the history of Florence and how the bridges and ‘lungarni' (embankments along the Arno river) have changed over the years… passing under the renowned Ponte Vecchio, he will talk about the Vasari Corridor and other wonders enclosed in the Tuscan city. Among other things, you can admire the Ponte di Santa Trinità , esteemed as one of the most elegant bridges in Europe, that connects the homonymous square to the Piazza de' Frescobaldi. There are two important buildings at the bottom of the bridge: Palazzo Spini Feroni at the north end and Palazzo della Missione at the southern end.

Sitting comfortably on board your 'Barchetto' Arno, you'll also see Palazzo Corsini al 'Parione' , a splendid example of baroque architecture that belonged to the Corsini family from which it took its name. Inside the building there is the homonymous Gallery, the most important private collection in Florence and the only eighteenth-century collection of paintings still complete today.

And if all this weren't enough... how about a glass of cool prosecco served on board ? An opportunity to contemplate splendid palaces and picturesque views of Florence at sunset, enjoying one of the most popular white wines of Italy!

At the end of the Florence Arno boat trip you will be given a pleasant booklet to take home on the mini-cruise and on Florence... a little souvenir to remember this wonderful experience.

Rely on toscanainside.com to visit Florence: boat trips, guided tours through the historic centre, the Galleria degli Uffizi, the Accademia, the Vasari Corridor and many other destinations are waiting for you!

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VIP Small-Group SUNSET BOAT TOUR with Aperitivo on Arno River

An exclusive romantic experience on the arno river, highlights & description, inclusions & details.

• VIP semi private-group tour for a more intimate experience
• The most ROMANTIC TOUR in town!
• Mini cruise on the Arno River on board of a vintage Barchetto,
• Florence Gondola-style traditional boat (approx. 50 minutes aboard)
• Enjoy an aperitivo with chilled wine!
• Licensed English speaking guide on board

Description

Roaming the town and longing for a different outlook? Hoping there was some special tour off-the-beaten-path that could provide a unique perspective on the city? Or have you simply been gazing at the vistas from the bridge and wishing you could take a Florence boat ride? Join us for an unforgettable sunset Florence boat ride , and savor the best of this beautiful city at sunset, the most evocative and romantic time of the day!

Some elderly locals still recall the song that goes "on the silvery Arno river the stars look at themselves, reflecting as in a mirror"… and indeed there is no better way to enjoy Florence’s magical atmosphere, and become part of it, than cruising the Arno river.

Especially when the sun starts to set, enhancing the palaces, bridges and rippling water with its rosy, orange and golden hues. Our sunset Florence boat ride offers an unprecedented privilege: gazing at churches, cupolas and towers from an unusual viewpoint, and partaking in the local tradition. Yes, because the boat we use is an authentic period wooden "barchetto", Florence's version of a gondola steered with a long pole, and the route we follow is designed to enable you to capture the quintessence of Florence. During the cruise, your guide will tell you about the city’s eventful history and legends, and illustrate the features and peculiarities of the palaces and bridges you admire, including the Ponte Vecchio, Uffizi Gallery, Palazzo Corsini and the Santa Trinita Bridge.

Finally, crown your unforgettable Florence boat ride enjoying an iconic Italian "aperitivo": a glass of delicious chilled wine, served on board. Evocative, lyrical, and romantic, our semi-private sunset Florence boat ride is the most genuinely Florentine experience ever.

EVERY DAY at 8PM

Approx. 60 min

Price Notes: EUR 85 p.p. (adults) children 4-12 15% disc. / children 0-3 FREE

What's included

• Semi private tour (maximum 10 pax)
• Mini Cruise aboard a Florentine Gondola on the Arno River (approx. 50 min)
• Cool Wine aperitivo aboard
• English speaking fully licensed Art&History guide

Meeting Point

FLORENCETOWN BOOKING OFFICE  - Piazza Mentana 2red - Florence -  SEE ON MAP

Please let us know in advance any special need or impaired mobility of the clients and we will do our best to accomodate them.

Rain Policy

SUNSET BOAT TOUR

The tour departure might be cancelled due to rain.

We will do our best to proceed with the tour. However rain could prevent us from being able to offer an enjoyable and fully safe experience. In any case, clients should show up at the meeting point at the scheduled time, or contact the office in advance. In case we cancel the tour (and only in this case), guest options are:

1)      Rain check to be used the following day or at any other time, subject to availability.  The Rain check is a voucher given to client. The voucher is transferable and may be sold or given to others to use at a future date and lasts up to 1 year from date.   It has a value that can be possible used in any other tour provided by our company.

2)      100% refund for tour cancellation.

Please note that clients' safety and comfort are of utmost priority. In any case, clients should show up at the meeting point at the scheduled time, or contact the office in advance. No-shows will not be refunded.

You are viewing the page of the SHARED GROUP TOUR: this will let you enjoy this high quality experience in the friendly company of other travellers from all over the world, up to a maximum of pax in your group.

Photos of This Tour

Need Assitance?

Booking office phone     (+39) 055 281103.

© Florencetown - Via de' Lamberti 1, Florence - Italy | email: [email protected]

This service is provided by Florencetown Tour Operator - Terms & Conditions

Florentine Gondola Boat Tour

Sip wine on the arno river and cruise by ponte vecchio, uffizi, and more on a classic barchetto boat.

Want to discover Florence’s answer to the gondola? The hop aboard one of four remaining original barchetti for a gentle cruise along the Arno River, gliding under Ponte Vecchio bridge as you sip local wine and hear stories of the city from your friendly local guide.These beautiful boats have been traversing Florence’s waterways for centuries and provide a memorable way to see the Renaissance City. Join a small group and expert barcaiolo skipper for a boat ride through the heart of Florence!

• Expert local Barcaiolo skipper
• Florentine barchetto boat experience
• Cruise along Florence's Arno Rover
• Beautiful views of Florence
• Ponte Vecchio
• A relaxing way to see the city sights
• Local wine and soft drinks included

Though Florence is not a city of canals like Venice, travel by boat along the Arno River has been a way of life for many generations. You'll meet you engaging local guide by the riverbank, and along with a small group you'll enjoy a boat ride that takes in city views of the Uffizi Gallery, the Duomo, and more. You'll also pass under the famous Ponte Vecchio, along with some of Florence's other historic bridges.

With a traditional Barcaiolo skipper and knowledgeable local guide, you'll learn the history of these boats along with fascinating stories of the city.

Florence Barchetto Boat Tour

Your Arno River boat cruise includes:

Arno River Cruise on an historic wooden Barchetto boat

Views of Ponte Vecchio, the Duomo, and more

Complimentary glass of chilled wine or soft drink

Traditional Barcaiolo skipper

Engaging English-speaking local guide

Maximum group size of 20

Board Your Barchetto by the Riverbank

After meeting your guide at a convenient spot nearby and enjoying a short stroll to the river, you'll climb aboard one of only four remaining original barchetti boats. Though the barchetto is similar to the gondolas of Venice, it has its own unique history gliding down the rivers of Tuscany. Your expert barcaiolo skipper will use the traditional wooden pole to navigate the vessel for your cruise along the river, and you can just sit back and enjoy the ride!

Cruise Along Florence's Arno River

As you gently ride the Arno, you'll take in some to the famous sites of Florence on this historic boat. Enjoy views of the Uffizi Gallery, Duomo and more, with stunning photo opportunities along the way. This Arno river cruise is a great way to see a different side to this beautiful city.

Glide Under Florentine Bridges Including Ponte Vecchio

The Ponte Vecchio, along with the Duomo, is one of the two great symbols of Florence. Merchant shops have lined this famed bridge since the 13th century. Originally, the shops included fishmongers, butchers, and tanners, however these particular goods caused such a stench in the area that Ferdinand I proclaimed in 1593 that only jewelers were allowed to sell on the bridge.

You'll cruise underneath Ponte Vecchio and also see other architectural marvels, the Ponte delle Grazie and Ponte della Santa Trinita. These great bridges are often overshadowed by the Ponte Vecchio but have their own great stories and tradition.

Enjoy a Glass of Local Wine Along the Way

As you're sitting back and enjoying the city sights pass you by, your guide will bring out some chilled local wine to celebrate the journey in style. Salute !

Not a wine drinker? Not a problem. Soft drinks are available too.

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What you get with this tour

See what people are saying

5 total reviews

The guide Marta was very knowledgeable and had interesting facts . It was really great to view Florence from the Arno and with Marta’s information filled in the gaps of Florence’s history. We enjoyed very much and recommend !

show more reviews

Frequently Asked Questions

What to bring?

Please make sure you wear sunscreen during summer months at there is no shade on the boat.

Is this tour run by The Tour Guy?

No, it's run by one of our trusted and vetted partners in Florence. They're a specialist company who we know uphold our high standards.

Can I bring my kids on this tour?

Yes, kids are more than welcome on this tour, and soft drinks are available instead of wine.

Free 24-hr cancellation on group tours! Learn more

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Florence Welch Forgot About "the Scale" of Taylor Swift's Reach Until "Florida!!!" Dropped on ‘Tortured Poets Department'

Florence Welch is giving fans a brief glimpse into what recording "Florida!!!" with Taylor Swift for The Tortured Poets Department was like.

The Florence & the Machine frontwoman sat down with British Vogue to discuss what she does in her downtime between tours and recording, as well as her BBC Proms debut this summer. While chatting with the publication, the musician also opened up about working with Swift on her 11th album, which was released April 19.

When asked if she was prepared for the internet discourse that followed Tortured Poets when it was released, Welch admitted she wasn't quite ready.

"I almost didn't think of the scale of it," she told Vogue . "There's the sort of bigness of [Taylor Swift the phenomenon], and then there's the Taylor I spend time with in the studio, who is just the sweetest and most down to earth."

She revealed that Swift approached her with a "concept and a story" for the song, which is Welch's "favorite way to start songwriting," she shared. "We had such a fun time. And then when it came out I was like, ‘Oh, shit!'"

"Florida!!!" is featured on the installment of Tortured Poets (the Grammy-winning artist released an additional 15 songs at 2 a.m. ET following the release of the initial album). In a track-by-track experience of some of the songs featured on the album, Swift broke down her song with Welch.

"I think I was coming up with this idea of what happens when your life doesn't fit or the choices you've made catch up to you and you're surrounded by these harsh consequences and judgment and circumstances did not lead you to where you thought you would be? And you just want to escape from everything you've ever known. Is there a place you could go?" she explained.

She continued, noting that she watches  Dateline  and "people have these crimes that they commit; where do they immediately skip town and go to? They go to Florida. They try to reinvent themselves, have a new identity, blend in. I think when you go through a heartbreak, there's a part of you that thinks, ‘I want a new name. I want a new life. I don't want anyone to know where I've been or know me at all.' And so that was the jumping off point behind where would you go to reinvent yourself and blend in? Florida!"

Since the singer-songwriter released her newest album, she has broken several records, including the most-streamed artist in one day on Spotify, the most-streamed album in one day on the music platform and the most-streamed album in one week with 1 billion streams (in five days).

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