Bardini Gardens in Florence: A Tranquil Urban Oasis

Nestled in the heart of Florence, with a stunning view overlooking the iconic cityscape, lie the serene Bardini Gardens. Often overshadowed by the renown of Boboli Gardens, Bardini remains one of the best-kept secrets amongst Florentines, offering visitors a tranquil escape with a painterly panorama of the city. Let’s uncover the charm of this lush, historic garden that awaits just a stone’s throw away from the bustling streets of Florence.

The Rich Tapestry of Bardini Gardens’ History

The Bardini Gardens are not just a verdant retreat but also a living tapestry of Florence’s storied past. The land that hosts today’s gardens has medieval roots, initially serving as a fruit orchard for the Mozzi family, wealthy Florentine bankers, who began shaping it in the late 13th century.

From a Medieval Orchard to a Baroque Masterpiece

Over time, the property underwent several changes, reflecting different owners’ tastes and the various gardening styles of each historical period. It was during the 17th century that the garden experienced significant transformations towards a Baroque aesthetic, which included the construction of the grand staircase leading to a panoramic terrace.

Stefano Bardini: The Name Behind the Gardens

The garden acquired its name from the 19th-century antiquarian and art collector Stefano Bardini, who became its owner in 1913. Bardini was responsible for considerable enhancements and alterations to the estate. He realized the lucrative potential in renovating and selling old villas and their gardens and applied this to the Bardini Gardens. His work incorporated a mix of styles, from English to Italian, and secured the garden’s status as a notable example of Italian horticulture.

Revival of a Forgotten Jewel

After decades of neglect in the post-Bardini era, the garden fell into disrepair. It wasn’t until the latter part of the 20th century that significant restoration projects were initiated. These efforts aimed to not only preserve the historical architecture but also to reinstate various original plant species, revitalize the Baroque and English elements of the garden, and open up the space to the public.

Today, the Bardini Gardens stand as a testament to Florence’s evolving history. The diverse sections of the garden, such as the fruit orchards, the woodland area, and the baroque water staircase complete with dragons and coats of arms, all narrate a story spanning centuries. From its role as a private family retreat to a public cultural sanctuary, the Bardini Gardens continues to flourish, offering a journey through the epochs of horticultural art and Florentine legacy.

Villa Bardini: A Guide for Visitors

The Bardini Gardens are located along the steep banks of the Arno River, with entrances situated on Costa San Giorgio and Via dei Bardi. Look up “Bardini Gardens” on Google Maps for an instant guide.

How to Reach the Gardens?

Florence’s compact size makes it easy to reach Bardini Gardens from any point of interest. Walking is the most recommended mode to soak up the atmosphere of the city. If you’re near Ponte Vecchio, it’s just about a 10-minute uphill walk through the historic city center.

Located at Costa San Giorgio 2, Villa Bardini is easily accessible. For those driving, parking near Forte Belvedere is recommended, from where signs direct visitors to the villa on foot. Furthermore, a secondary entrance to the Bardini Garden can be found on Via dei Bardi 1/r, active only during garden’s regular opening hours.

By Public Transport:
Alternatively, you can take ATAFC public buses 23, C3, and D, which will bring you close to the Via dei Bardi entrance of the garden. For schedules and routes, check the official ATAF website.

Useful Information for Visitors

Entrance to the Bardini Gardens requires a nominal fee, though combination tickets are available if you plan to visit other nearby cultural sites, including the Boboli Gardens and the Palazzo Pitti.

Reservations and Contact

• Phone: +39 055 294883
• Hours: Monday to Friday, 8.30 am – 6.30 pm; Weekends, 9 am – 6 pm

Admission Prices

To enhance your visit, remember to contact the ticket office for reservations or further inquiries. Note that pets are not permitted on the premises, ensuring a comfortable experience for all visitors.

(Please note that prices may vary and it’s always best to check the latest information at the official website.)

Planning Your Visit

When planning your visit, consider that Villa Bardini and its gardens offer seasonal and exhibition-specific experiences. While the garden is accessible every day, excluding the first and last Mondays of each month, the villa itself hosts special exhibitions like the Olivo Barbieri for a limited time.

Visit in the Spring or Autumn: 
To experience Bardini Gardens at their most vibrant, aim for a visit during the spring when the flowers are in bloom, or during autumn when the leaves turn into a tapestry of warm hues.

Accessibility: 
Villa Bardini strives to be accessible to all; however, the garden’s natural terrain may pose challenges for individuals with mobility issues. Special arrangements can be made for handicap access to the villa by contacting the provided numbers in advance.

Pets are not allowed on the grounds, even if on a leash/carrier.

Why Visit Bardini Gardens?

Florances’s hidden gem, Bardini Gardens spans nearly 4 hectares and is a part of the “Polo Museale Fiorentino”. The garden offers an idyllic setting reflecting various historical periods, with its origins tracing back to the Middle Ages.

Stroll along Baroque stairways: Walk the elegant staircase that leads you to a splendid Baroque terrace, where neatly trimmed hedges frame the astonishing vista of Florence.

Awaken your senses in the Wisteria Tunnel: In spring, the Wisteria Tunnel is in full bloom with cascading purple flowers, creating a fragrant and visually striking pathway.

Orchard and agricultural terraces: Focusing on tradition, the gardens also include the restored orchard and agricultural terraces reminiscent of its medieval past. Here the connection to the earth remains tangible and pure.

Enjoy Sculptures and Fountains: The garden is decorated with statues and fountains that add a sense of magic and history, including a picturesque Baroque fountain adorned with a seashell basin.

Highlights of the Bardini Gardens

Panoramic Terrace: The undeniable highlight is the enchanting Kaffeehaus with its panoramic terrace that will sweep you off your feet with one of the most mesmerizing views overlooking Florence.

The Dragon Channel: The Baroque flight of stairs culminates with a unique water feature – The Dragon Channel, an intriguing sculpture of a dragon whose tail directs the flow of water.

Knight’s Garden: The Giardino del Cavaliere hosts a collection of roses and other blooms, offering not just a visual treat but also a fragrant sanctuary that celebrates the art of Italian gardening.

Art Exhibits and Events: Throughout the year, Bardini Gardens hosts various cultural events and art exhibits, breathing contemporary life into its centuries-old grounds.

Café at the Gardener’s House: No visit is complete without a stop at the café within the Gardener’s House, where you can enjoy a refreshing drink or a light Tuscany snack surrounded by the tranquil beauty of the gardens.

Your Questions About Bardini Gardens Answered

How long does it take to see the Bardini Gardens?

To fully appreciate the beauty and tranquility of the Bardini Gardens, visitors typically spend around 1 to 2 hours exploring the paths, terraces, and hidden nooks. However, if you are a garden enthusiast or a photographer looking to capture the perfect shot, you might want to allocate additional time.

Is the Giardino Bardini free?

No, there is an admission fee to enter the Bardini Gardens. Adult tickets are €10, while there are reduced rates for EU citizens aged 18 to 25, and free entry for children under 18 and disabled visitors with a companion.

How big is Bardini Gardens?

The Bardini Gardens covers an area of approximately 4 hectares (nearly 10 acres). It is an expansive space, beautifully designed with terraces, orchards, and various themed garden spaces.

What is the history of the Bardini Gardens?

Bardini Gardens’ history dates back to the 13th century when it was initially an orchard. Over the centuries, it was transformed into a garden with a formal Italian layout. In the 20th century, art dealer Stefano Bardini purchased the property, further developing the garden with a Baroque staircase and various antique sculptures. The garden is named after him and has since been restored to its former glory, allowing the public to bask in its historic elegance.

What are the purple flowers in Florence?

The purple flowers that create a captivating sight in the Bardini Gardens are wisterias. In full flourish during the springtime, their hanging clusters of lilac-hued blossoms form a spectacular and fragrant canopy throughout the garden’s Wisteria Tunnel.

How to get to Giardino Bardini?

Giardino Bardini can be reached on foot if you’re already exploring central Florence. From the Ponte Vecchio, it is approximately a 10-minute walk uphill. By public transport, you can take ATAFC buses 23, C3, and D to stops near the Via dei Bardi entrance.

Where is the entrance to Giardino Bardini?

There are two main entrances to the Bardini Gardens. One can be found on Costa San Giorgio, which is closer to the Boboli Gardens and Pitti Palace area, and the second is on Via dei Bardi, positioned closer to the Arno River. Both entrances will guide you into this enchanting garden where your urban retreat awaits.

Now that you’re in the know, whisk yourself away from the well-trod paths and discover the enchanting Bardini Gardens. Allow the sweeping views of Florence to cap off what is sure to be a memorable visit to this blossoming sanctuary.