With its monuments, art and architectural masterpieces, the city of Florence is filled with infinite beauty at pretty much every corner. Exploring the city in depth is definitely something that should be done at least once in a lifetime and this is why we want to talk to you about one of the best neighborhoods in the city: the Oltrarno District.
Let’s find out something more about this suggestive neighborhood and why it’s worth a visit!
WHERE IS THE OLTRARNO NEIGHBORHOOD?
The Oltrarno Neighborhood gets its name from being located beyond (“oltre” in Italian) the Arno River and it’s considered to be a very fancy neighborhood divided into three quarters: the San Niccolò, San Frediano and Santo Spirito.
You can get to this district by crossing the infamous Ponte Vecchio, also known in English as the Old Bridge. This bridge is a fundamental part of the city of Florence and one of the most beloved tourist attractions today.
WHAT TO SEE IN THE OLTRARNO DISTRICT
The Oltrarno district is not short on things to see and this is why we’re here with a list of things we suggest you see in Florence’s Oltrarno district so that you don’t miss anything important:
- SAN FREDIANO QUARTER:
As previously mentioned, the Oltrarno district is divided into three quarters, one of which is the San Frediano. If you want to get to know more about this district, taking a walk through San Frediano will definitely offer a great experience. The main attractions in this quarter are the ancient gate at the entrance and its Borgo.
- THE BRANCACCI CHAPEL
Located in the Santa Maria del Carmine Church, the Brancacci Chapel is one of the most suggestive parts of this neighborhood because of its frescoes. Painted by Masaccio and Filippino Lippi, this Chapel is sometimes referred to as the Early Renaissance Sistine Chapel.
- THE PITTI PALACE:
If you’re in the Oltrarno district, you can’t miss out on visiting the Pitti Palace. Considered to be one of the most important architectural masterpieces in the city of Florence, the Pitti Palace belonged to the Pitti Family before being bought by Eleanor de’ Medici.
WHERE TO EAT
If you want to fully dive into the tradition and culture of the city of Florence and, more specifically, of the Oltrarno district, you must try its culinary specialties. If you want to eat like a local, here’s a list of some restaurants we suggest you try when you’re in Oltrarno:
- ALL’ANTICO RISTORO DI CAMBI: The best place to eat some great steaks, such as the infamous Bistecca alla Fiorentina;
- ALLA VECCHIA BETTOLA: We suggest you try its famous cantucci, accompanied by a vin santo;
- ENOTECA PITTI GOLA E CANTINA: With its great wine selection, this is the perfect place for a romantic dinner!
CONCLUSION:
Visiting the Oltrarno neighborhood is a great way to get to know more about the beauty and history of the city of Florence. If you wish to fully immerse yourself in this magical place, we strongly recommend you book a private tour with us!