Fiesole, Italy Travel Guide

Fiesole is a small town situated atop a hill overlooking the enchanting city of Florence. The wealthy Florence suburb is known for its gardens, historic villas, captivating views, and hiking trails. Read on to discover your Fiesole, Italy travel guide.

Fiesole is actually older than Florence, dating back to the 8th century BCE and established by the Etruscan settlement, Florence was established in 59 BCE by the Romans. So while exploring the hilltop village, keep in mind the history, for me it is always jarring to think about.

In this Fiesole, Italy travel guide we will go over the best hotels in Fiesole, the best places to eat in Fiesole, and what to do in Fiesole.

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Map of Fiesole

Best Hotels In Fiesole

🛎️Luxury Fiesole Hotel - Il Salviatino

🛎️Middle Range Fiesole Hotel - FH55 Hotel

🛎️Budget Fiesole Hotel - B&B Le Cannelle

What To Do In Fiesole

Go On a Hike

Fiesole is home to some lovely hikes. As an avid hiker, I always try to find out if there are any good hiking spots in and around any city I visit, and for Florence, that is Fiesole. I found that there were not many other people on the trails, the trails were clean, and peaceful!

The best hikes to take in and around Fiesole include - Fiesole to Florence, The Ring of Fiesole, Monte Ceceri Trail, Fiesole to Maiano and Settignano.

People Watch In Piazza Mino

Piazza Mino is the main square in Fiesole. With cafes, restaurants, and shops lining the historic square, you will find that Piazza Mino is the perfect place to sit back with an espresso and people watch.

Piazza Mino has ancient and medieval origins and dates back to the 8th century BCE. In the center of the square you will find the statue of Vittorio Emanuele II (which was built in the 19th century).

Explore The Roman Amphitheater

Located just a few steps from Piazza Mino, The Roman Amphitheater and Archaeological area dates back to the 1st - century BCE. Maybe it is just because I am from the states, but it is so fascinating to me that structures from that long ago still stand!

Anyway, The Roman Amphitheater in Fiesole is absolutely stunning - not only is the history of it amazing, but the views of Tuscany from the theatre are incredible.

The tickets were about 13 euro for me, but could change.

Visit The Cathedral of San Romolo

Also just a few steps from Piazza Mino, The Cathedral of San Romolo is stunning cathedral that must be explored while in Fiesole. The free to enter, Cathedral dates back to the 11th century and is a perfect example of Romanesque architecture.

Explore The Convent of San Francesco

The Convent of San Francesco has got to be one of the most peaceful places I have ever been. The small monastery is situated on the highest point of Fiesole, and around it hiking trails (besides the one cobblestone street that leads up to it).

This 14th century Convent was once home to monks and, more notably Saint James of Marches, Tommaso Parentucelli (also known as Pope Nicholas V), Saint Bernardine, and Fra Giovanni da Fiesole.

Visit Villa Medici

Villa Medici was once a retreat for the Medici Family. Located a short walk from the Piazza Mino, Villa Medici was built in the 15th century. The stunning villa was designed by Michelozzo and is a great example of Symmetrical Renaissance architectural design. Villa Medici is home to captivating gardens & incredible views that are a must while in Fiesole!

Stop By The Convent of San Domenico

Once home to famous Renaissance painter, Fra Angelico, The Convent of San Domenico sits in the southern part of Fiesole (near Florence). This stunning Convent was built in 1400s an is home to some of Angelico's early works and offers a quiet place to explore religion in the Renaissance time.

I loved the Convent of San Domenico because of just that - it was quiet and stunning, truly a great place to learn more without the crowds of Florence.

Where To Dine In Fiesole

Best Restaurants In Fiesole

🍴Bistrot 5 (cozy setting, traditional tuscan, locally sourced)

🍴La Loggia di Villa San Michele (fine dining, traditional Tuscan, incredible views)

🍴Pizzeria Buca delle Fate (affordable, amazing pizza, right in town)

Best Coffee Shops In Fiesole

☕Alcedo (located in the heart of Fiesole, serves lovely pastries and coffee)

☕Pasticceria Gelateria Marino (located in town centre, coffee & pastries galore)

When To Visit Fiesole

Fiesole and Tuscany are year round destinations. While the most pleasant time (weather wise) to visit is in the fall and spring, there isn't a time where you absolutely shouldn't go.

I visited Fiesole in March and had a wonderful time. It was a bit chilly and rainy, but still enjoyable. If you don't do well in heat, it may be best to avoid summer as central Italy can get extremely hot.

Fiesole, Italy FAQs:

How long to spend in Fiesole?

To see all of the main sights in Fiesole you only really need a couple of hours. But staying a few days in Fiesole is so relaxing and is a great spot if you are looking for a lowkey place to stay that is near Florence, but not in Florence.

Is Fiesole, Italy worth visiting?

Yes, Fiesole is definitely worth visiting. Fiesole was one of my favorite parts of my Tuscany trip.

Why is Fiesole famous?

Because if its beauty and history!

What is the best view of Fiesole?

There are amazing views all around Fiesole, but, in my opinion, the best is the top of the hill San Francesco.

How much is a taxi from Florence to Fiesole?

From the Florence historic center to Fiesole a taxi would be around 30 euro. I would take the bus, it's super cheap and easy.