Travel bucket list idea:

Boat tours on a traditional barchetto

Florence, Tuscany, Italy

Credit Shutterstock.com/Mikadun

Last updated: 27 March, 2024

A ride down the river Arno in a traditional wooden boat or ‘barchetto’ is one of the more unusual ways to see the city.

The 50-odd minute tour takes in landmarks such as the Ponte Vecchio and Santa Trinita bridges, vast Palazzo Corsini and the Uffizi gallery; it’s particularly romantic at sunset when an aperitivo is included, but early morning is another evocative time to go.

Logistics

Price from: £45

Minimum age: 0

Age suitable: 4+

When: All year around

Duration: 1 hour

Getting there & doing it

Tours normally start from a meeting point near the river given by the tour operator who then accompanies groups to the landing stage (a 5- to 10-minute walk). Boats can seat up to 20, or you can book a private tour. See our tour recommendations below.

An aperitivo is included in the sunset cruises, but it’s always a good idea to take a bottle of water. Also take sunscreen and a hat if you are doing the tour in the summer during the day; there is no shade out on the river.

When to do it

Tours run all year round, seven days a week but they may be cancelled in the event of rain. Ideal tour times are early in the morning and early evening; the light is beautiful and (in the summer) it’s not too hot.

Who to go with: organised tours

Our selection of the best Viator tours of this attraction or activity

Florence River Cruise on a Traditional Barchetto

Florence

Viator

Cruise along the Arno River and under the incredible Ponte Vecchio, Florence’s famous bridge, on a barchetto, a small traditional boat! Florence’s answer to the Venetian gondola, your barchetto is one of only 4 originals still operating in Florence. Savor this unique experience with a glass of chilled Tuscan rosé or white wine, while passing beautiful Florence attractions like the Corsini Palace and the Santa Trinita Bridge. On the morning tour, a tasty Italian breakfast is offered by us.

Price €59

Min age 0

Rating 4.24 / 5 [330 ratings]

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