Florence's Oltrarno: A Self-Guided Walking Tour

Oltrarno is where history and Florentine life meet. Unlike the historic and more touristy centre on the other side of the Arno River, Florentines still live in this vibrant district, where historical landmarks, bars, cafes, and restaurants coexist. On this self-guided audio tour, I'll guide you through this authentic district's maze of streets and squares while I share anecdotes, historical highlights and Florentine traditions. I'll take you back to the Middle Ages when Florence was divided into four districts, each with their own political, administrative and military responsibilities. The tour starts at the foot of Ponte Vecchio and loops through the district's small streets, to end around the corner from a seven-story medieval tower called Torre dei Belfredelli sec. xii. As you walk, you'll pass through several squares, including the beautiful Piazza Santo Spirito, Piazza de Pitti, and Piazza della Passera.

1. 1

   Ponte Vecchio

   Pass by

   Begin your tour at the foot of Ponte Vecchio, enjoying breathtaking views of Florence's most famous bridge. Discover the authentic Oltrarno district that unfolds just across the river, where Florentines still live amid history, bars, and cafés.

2. 2

   Stop 2

   Pass by

   Pause in this small square next to Ponte Vecchio, where you'll see the corridor overlooking the Chiesa di Santa Felicita. Learn how this passage allowed the Medici family to attend mass away from the crowds below.

3. 3

   Stop 3

   Pass by

   Look up to spot the elevated corridor connecting this church to the Medici's private route through the city. Discover how this small but significant church played a quiet role in the family's daily life.

4. 4

   Piazza De' Pitti

   Pass by

   Meet the story of a member of the Second World War Resistance, who used her flat on Piazza Pitti to protect Jews. Reflect on this quiet act of courage as you stand in the square where it took place.

5. 5

   Stop 5

   Pass by

   Discover the history of Palazzo Pitti, the palace's deep connection to the Medici family, and its secret engraved in rock. Uncover a detail hidden in plain sight on one of Florence's grandest palace facades.

6. 6

   Basilica di Santo Spirito

   Pass by

   Relax in a green cloister and seek out a little-known work by Michelangelo inside this basilica. Discover its place as one of the first religious centres in the Oltrarno district.

7. 7

   Piazza Santo Spirito

   Pass by

   Identify the plaque marking Santo Spirito with its whip insignia, one of two symbols demarcating Florence's historic four districts. Enjoy this beautiful square as you continue your walk through the neighbourhood.

8. 8

   Ponte alla Carraia

   Pass by

   Cross toward Ponte alla Carraia, originally built in wood in 1218 as the second bridge over the Arno after Ponte Vecchio. Learn how it earned its name "bridge of the carts" from the wool traffic that once rumbled across it between Florence's dye works and cloth workers.

9. 9

   Stop 9

   Pass by

   Find out why there are two street numbers on most buildings nearby, and discover the city's famous "wine windows" right outside this spot. Learn how these small openings once let Florentines buy wine directly from noble households.

10. 10

    Ponte Santa Trinita

    Pass by

    Admire Ponte Santa Trinita, the oldest elliptical arch bridge in the world, rebuilt by Bartolomeo Ammannati between 1567 and 1569. Discover how it was destroyed by retreating German forces in 1944 and later painstakingly reconstructed using original stones recovered from the riverbed.

• Service animals allowed
• Public transportation options are available nearby
• Suitable for all physical fitness levels

For a full refund, cancel at least 24 hours before the scheduled departure time.