As the sun (mostly) shines and we embrace the hope-filled season, pack your picnic bags and set off in search of the most beautiful parks in Florence this spring.
Pratolino Medici Park
With the arrival of spring comes the reopening of the Parco Mediceo di Pratolino (via Fiorentina 276, Pratolino). This UNESCO heritage Medici garden is not only home to Giambologna’s Apennine Colossus, it also saw Buontalenti’s genius leave its mark. Two Italian gardens are immersed in the romantic setting that was formerly of the Lorraine and then the Demidoff’s. Whether you opt for a trek through the woods or simply bring a blanket to soak up some sunshine, the flora and fauna make it worth the trip alone. With free admission and no reservation required, the park is open from April 1 to October 30, 2022, on Fridays, Saturdays, Sundays and holidays from 10am to 8pm (10am to 6pm in October). It will also be open on April 18, 25, June 2 and August 15.
Iris Garden
Another special part of the season is the blossoming of the irises in the Giardino dell’Iris (piazzale Michelangelo 82). Only open from 10am to 6pm, April 25 to May 20, make the most of this annual occasion to admire the blooms in the picturesque park at piazzale Michelangelo. With no entry for dogs besides guide dogs, last entry is half an hour before closing time.
Renai Park
At 118 hectares, feel fully immersed in nature with the bright blues and greens a balm for the soul. Originally a large farm estate belonging to Alessandro and Cosimo I de’ Medici, Parco dei Renai is now a relaxing oasis that’s even WWF Italia Onlus protected. The Happy Park is a kids paradise with giant inflatables, slides, bikes, and everything else a child desires, sending the sound of laughter spilling across the park. Get your exercise in too by pedaling along the bike trail that goes from Florence to Renai, flowing from the Cascine park all the way to Signa, or take advantage of the many sports (both aquatic and on land) once you’re there.
Tulip Gardens
300 thousand tulips in 80 varieties spread out in front of you at the Castello dell’Acciaiolo park (via Pantin 63), ready for your picking pleasure. Wander and pick with each tulip costing 1 euro, open from 3-7pm on weekdays and 10am to 7pm on weekends through April. For an immediate uplift, set off to gather sweetly scented tulips and bring your treasures back to your home to celebrate spring. With more than 100 varieties and 300,000 tulips creating a colourful carpet, pick-your-own and let the flora assuage your stresses.
Pazzagli Art Park
Parco d’Arte Pazzagli (via Sant’Andrea a Rovezzano) hosts Easter fun for the whole family from 10am to 7pm on Easter Sunday, April 17 April. A day packed with activities celebrates the occasion with gardening and painting workshops, as well as a magic show to entertain little ones, with more of the same for Pasquetta on April 18. Beyond Easter, the park is a springtime favourite for strolls, picnics, guided tours, events and more, with a seasonal focus every Sunday of April and May and even a giant inflatable dinosaur. Info on entrance fees and reservation online.
There are many more green spaces to breathe in fresh air in Florence: take a look at our places to picnic.
