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Fiesole, the Etruscan town on a hill just north of Florence, is well worth a visit, and not only because of the fantastic views over its more famous sister down in the valley.
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When you get off bus 7 (starts at Piazza San Marco in Florence) after a beautiful and meandering trip uphill, you will see the Romanesque Cattedrale di San Romolo which was consecrated in 1028. If it’s open, do go in. It is lovely and resembles my favourite San Miniato al Monte in layout with an elevated presbytery and a crypt underneath.
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Then start the climb up Via San Francesco. It is steep and you will huff and puff, but it will be worth the effort. Two thirds up there is a lovely park, perfect for a breather. Or why not a picnic. You will see half of Tuscany from up there. And all of Florence:
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When you get tired of the 180 degree breathtaking view, brace yourself for the last path up to the San Francesco monastery. It is even more steep, but at least short.
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You will be greatly rewarded. Not only the views but the whole place is lovely. The Franciscan convent dates from 1399, has a little Gothic church with a museum, and it’s all free to visit.
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A peak in to the cloister.
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Don’t miss taking the path downhill through the woods behind the convent. I found it quite magical and enchanting, maybe because of the fact that I was all alone and the weather was damp and grey.
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Back in the main piazza you might want to visit the archaeological museum and see the well preserved Roman amphitheatre, baths and the remains of the Etruscan wall.
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There are several cafés and restaurants, so you won’t have to go hungry if you decide to explore more of Fiesole. There is for instance the earlier cathedral, the Badia. The 14th century town hall. Or why not take the Compiobbi bus (47) to Montebeni and have a gorgeous walk downhill through olive groves and farm houses to Settignano?
Fiesole won’t disappoint. It is worth a day or at least a half-day of your Florence stay.
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FLORENSICS 