An easy walk from the center, Piazzale Michelangelo and the Basilica are less crowded than many other sites but just as worth a traveler's time. There are views of the city from the hillside. The Basilica is a large structure and I enjoyed it more than the other religious sites in Florence, with the exception of Santa Croce. Outside is... more

We walked over from the Porta Romana at the bottom of the Boboli Gardens (molto luongo - was the advice that the guard at the gardens gave us), but what was probably a 4km walk was pleasant and saved us the hike up from below. It blew us away - majestic, quiet - although we timed it to hear the... more

Even in the middle of August, when tourists swarm around the duomo, piazza della signoria, and piazzale michelangelo, San Miniato remains under (or perhaps over, given its altitude) most people's radar. Just a short walk up from Piazzale Michelangelo, San Miniato affords a much better view than the Piazzale, and the church itself is as beautiful as any in Florence.... more

Despite the long hike up the hill in 80 degree summer weather, San Miniato was a church different from the others and one that i will not soon forget. If you have a love for the arts this is a must-see, with beautiful architecture, mosaic floors, and captivating statues, the church itself is a standing representation of the rich culture... more

I adored san miniato al Monte. Yes, it was a long and hot hike uphill (I did not take the bus), but the views of the city were indeed amazing. Inside the church it was quiet and cool and felt much more like a restful place of worship than the Duomo. Nobody asked me for money (although I donated $10... more

The church is absolutely beautiful! Gorgeous views. Be sure to walk around the fascinating cemetery. The monks sing Mass in Latin, acappella, every day at 5:30 (4:30 in winter). more

Cross the Arno and walk up to San Minuato! The walk is lovely and the church is beautiful. Mosaic decoration, della Robbia works and fabulous views of Florence. Be sure to walk through the cemetery associated with the church. Some of the crypts are huge; much of the statuary is poignant. Many family members visit the graveyard, placing flowers and... more

This is one of the most exquisite churches I visited. Just the sheer age of the site is inspiring - and what a lovely setting! It is not magnificent or ornate, like Santa Croce or others, but so peaceful and different (granted I was there off season). I recommend walking from the city, up the hill, to the Church. The... more

Beautiful, beautiful church. I walked all the way up the hill from central Florence to see it and it was worth the long slog. The inside of the Duomo in Florence disappointed me--so plain compared to the outside. But not San Miniato! The inside is adorned with multicolored marble, including mosaic floors, painting, sculpture, and decorated beamed ceilings. Every square... more