€10 credit on 2+ art prints in my shop
My 5 Favourite Hidden Gems in Florence Beyond the Crowds
Florence offers more than just the Ponte Vecchio and the Duomo
As an artist, I never tire of Florence – but there are times when the tourist crowds can become a little overwhelming, and you find yourself searching for tucked-away corners that still hold that unmistakable Florentine je ne sais quoi.
Luckily, Florence has plenty of hidden gems to offer, from quiet churches and secluded gardens to lesser-known museums that capture the hearts of art lovers instantly. While they may not be on every visitor’s itinerary, these places still have plenty of charm, character, and beauty to offer – and are well worth your time.
In this post, I’ve collected my 5 must-see hidden gems in Florence, offering a well-rounded and unique experience for exploring the city off the beaten track.
1. Hidden Gem in Florence: Ospedale degli Innocenti
The Ospedale degli Innocenti impresses with its distinctive Renaissance loggia and courtyard, designed by Filippo Brunelleschi, the architect behind Florence’s iconic dome.
Originally built as an orphanage, or, as the Italian architect Giovanni Michelucci once beautifully described it, “a palace for children”, it's a truly unique place. Unlike many grand civic buildings of its time, it was inspired not by wealth or power, but by a sense of social responsibility, compassion, and care for the most vulnerable.
Today, the building houses the Museo degli Innocenti, which hosts unique temporary art exhibitions, as well as the Istituto degli Innocenti, an organisation dedicated to supporting children in need and protecting their rights. Both the building’s remarkable architecture and its art exhibitions can be visited.
2. Hidden Gem in Florence: Basilica of San Miniato al Monte
Perched on the highest point of Florence, the Basilica of San Miniato al Monte captures hearts not only with its stunning exterior, but also with its incredible views stretching across the city’s rooftops.
This lesser-known church was built in the early 11th century as part of a monastery complex, featuring a remarkable Tuscan Romanesque façade with rich geometric marble patterns, as well as a cemetery home to numerous lavishly decorated tombs.
Inside the church, there's find a quiet, atmospheric crypt – the oldest part of the basilica – alongside the elaborately decorated Cappella del Crocefisso (Chapel of the Crucifix), which has been the church’s centrepiece since the mid-15th century.
San Miniato al Monte is free to visit and remains a true haven for the soul.
Join the mailing list and be the first to discover the following highlights:
1. My latest inspiring travel stories
2. New Mediterranean art for your home
3. Limited editions & travel journals
3. Hidden Gem in Florence: Historic Perfumeries
When I think of Florence, not only do images of breathtaking cathedrals and churches come to mind, but also the alluring scents of roses, herbs, and exotic botanicals. As one strolls through the historic centre, a variety of unique fragrances drift through the streets, originating from Florence’s historic perfumeries, many of which are reminiscent of ancient apothecaries.
Artisanal perfumeries are deeply rooted in Florence’s culture, with a tradition that stretches back to the cultivation of medicinal herbs in Tuscan cloisters during the 13th century. Monks later used this knowledge to create handcrafted fragrances, remedies, and botanical preparations.
Stopping by a few of these tucked-away shops and discovering their unique fragrances is an experience not to be missed.
4. Hidden Gem in Florence: Bardini Garden
This Baroque garden, nestled on a steep hill on the southern bank of the Arno in the Oltrarno district, is the perfect spot for an idyllic walk through winding paths and pergolas, accompanied by sweeping views over Santa Maria del Fiore and Palazzo Vecchio.
What makes it truly special is the way it combines influences from various cultures, featuring a terraced Italian Baroque garden, an English woodland with Chinese-inspired fountains, and an agricultural park. The latter is also home to beautiful wisteria pergolas, covered in cascades of purple flowers in May.
I especially enjoyed the Dragon Canal in the English garden section, but there are plenty of other statues, sculptures, and decorative details to discover throughout the garden.
5. Hidden Gem in Florence: Basilica of Santo Spirito
The Basilica of Santo Spirito is located in the Oltrarno district, just like the Bardini Garden, and stands out for its understated Renaissance architecture and the charming local atmosphere of Piazza Santo Spirito.
The church was designed in the 15th century by Filippo Brunelleschi — the architect behind Florence’s iconic dome and the Ospedale degli Innocenti mentioned earlier — and reflects the harmonious proportions typical of his work.
Inside, the church, together with its former Augustinian monastery and peaceful cloister, offers a glimpse into Florence’s quieter side, while also housing Michelangelo’s wooden crucifix. However, Santo Spirito is also simply a beautiful place to soak in the atmosphere while passing through the Oltrarno neighbourhood.
Of Hidden Churches, Gardens, and Museums ...
Florence is the perfect setting for exploring sights off the beaten path, as it's so rich in art and beauty that even its lesser-known places possess incredible character, depth, and charm. They offer a quieter and slower way of discovering the city.
As an artist, I was particularly inspired by Florence’s hidden gems, as they allowed me to connect with the Tuscan capital beyond mere visual impressions. I was able to feel, hear, and even smell Florence, allowing these intangible sensations to influence my work.
Visit one of these unique places on a relaxed afternoon stroll through the city, or turn them into a full-day route for discovering Florence off the beaten path.
Unique Experience in Florence – Paint Hidden Florence With Me
If you’re planning to stay in Florence and love art, architecture, and hidden gems, I have a special invitation for you.
Join me for a unique outdoor painting experience during your stay, capturing the unforgettable beauty of Florence’s tucked-away churches, squares, and gardens. In a scenic location of your choice, I’ll help you connect with the city through watercolours, flowing with the rhythm of Tuscany’s light and atmosphere.
Painting helps us sharpen our perception, understand ourselves, and connect more deeply with the world around us. It's less about creating masterpieces and more about creating a truly memorable travel moment.
If this sounds like something for you, feel free to reach out via the contact form, and we can find the perfect time and place together. You can also have a look at my Italy travel Pinterest board for further impressions and inspiration.
All texts and images on this website are protected by copyright and may only be used, published, or used commercially with the consent of the artist. The content is provided for informational purposes only, with no guarantee of accuracy or completeness. Independent verification is recommended.