Florence’s iconic Forte Belvedere will reopen to the public on June 24, the city’s patron saint day, and remain accessible through October 15, 2025. Nestled on the southern hills of the city, with commanding views of the Arno River and the historic center, the fortress offers one of the most panoramic vantage points in Florence — a blend of architectural grandeur and natural beauty.
Built at the end of the 16th century during the rule of Grand Duke Ferdinando I de’ Medici, Forte di Belvedere was conceived as both a military outpost and a safe retreat for the ruling family in case of uprisings or attacks. It was strategically positioned to protect the Pitti Palace and the Oltrarno district, and it is connected to the famous Vasari Corridor. Today, it stands as a historic landmark and cultural venue, known for hosting exhibitions and public events.
The fortress will be open Tuesday through Sunday, from 10 AM to 8 PM, with tickets priced at €5 for adults and €3 for reduced entry. Admission is free only for residents of the Florence Metropolitan City, as well as on special local occasions.
Alongside the reopening, the summer calendar includes a new series of guided “heritage walks” led by MUS.E cultural mediators, aimed at discovering some of Florence’s lesser-known urban landscapes. These free walks require advance reservation and are scheduled on weekends in June and September, with itineraries such as:
Verso San Miniato Lungo le mura (Along the city walls) Intorno a San Gallo Incantesimo di fuoco (Enchantment of Fire)
In addition, several of the city’s historic towers and gates will open to visitors during the summer months. These include:
Porta San Frediano: June 24–30 and throughout July (5 PM–8 PM, tours every 30 minutes) Torre San Niccolò: All of August (5 PM–8 PM, tours every 45 minutes) Porta Romana: Throughout September (4 PM–7 PM, tours every 30 minutes) Baluardo San Giorgio: First Fridays of July, August, and September (tours on the hour in the late afternoon)
All activities are part of the city’s broader cultural enhancement program, coordinated by Fondazione MUS.E, which manages educational and public engagement efforts across Florence’s civic heritage.
All visits, activities, and walks require advance reservation. Bookings open on June 3 and can be made by contacting: info@musefirenze.it; +39 055 0541450.
From breathtaking sunsets at Forte Belvedere to immersive walks through Florence’s ancient topography, this summer invites residents and international visitors alike to experience the city in new, enriching ways — one historic step at a time