Fiesole, Tuscany: See Etruscan Museum & Top Sights in Fiesole
Looking for a peaceful escape from the buzz of Florence? Just a short bus ride away, Fiesole is the perfect hidden gem located in the Tuscan hills and one of the best things to do in Florence!
With its breathtaking view of Florence, charming streets, and rich history, this little town will absolutely steal your heart. From exploring the ancient Roman Theater to wandering through the Cathedral of Fiesole, there’s so much to see in Fiesole – and it’s all soaked in sunshine and timeless charm.
History lovers will adore the archaeological area, where Etruscan and Roman ruins whisper stories of the past.
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Whether you’re craving culture, quiet, or a killer panoramic photo, Fiesole has it all. Ready to fall in love with Florence’s prettiest neighbor? Let’s go explore!
Author
Welcome!
Welcome to Florence Awaits!
My name is Allie.
Italy is one of my favorite countries to visit in Europe, especially Florence!
I love everything the city has to offer. From the architecture to the most delicious food and wine, Florence has it all. So, come with me on this beautiful journey through Florence.
Allie
Tickets & Tours:
Best tours, tickets & activities:
Tickets for the Archaeological Area & Museums:
Combined ticket (Roman Theater, Archaeological Site, Etruscan Museum, Bandini Museum): Adults: €12, reduced: €8 (students, seniors), children under 7: Free
Tickets are available on-site or online (check the official Fiesole museums site for current deals).
Adress:
Archaeological Area & Etruscan Museum
Via Portigiani 1, 50014 Fiesole FI, Italy
(Right off Piazza Mino, very central and easy to find!)
Transportation:
Bus: Take ATAF Bus Line 7 from Florence (Piazza San Marco or Via La Pira) to Piazza Mino in Fiesole. Runs every 20 minutes.
Duration: Around 20–25 minutes
Nearby:
Cathedral of Fiesole (Duomo): 1 min walk
San Francesco Monastery: 10–15 min uphill walk
Bandini Museum: 2 min walk
Etruscan Walls & Archaeological Site: 3 min walk
Villa Peyron (via a scenic walk or short drive): ~30 min on foot or 10 min by car
San Domenico (lovely walk toward Florence): ~20–25 min downhill walk
Recommended exploration time:
Half-Day Trip (3–5 hours): Enough for the Roman ruins, museums, and a lovely lunch
Full-Day Trip: Perfect if you also want to hike to San Francesco or visit Villa Peyron, enjoy dinner, or soak in sunset views
Overnight Stay: Great if you want a peaceful Tuscan evening, starry skies, and early-morning calm before the day-trippers arrive
Opening hours:
Archaeological Area & Museums:
Tuesday to Sunday: 10:00 AM – 7:00 PM
Closed on Mondays and major holidays
Last admission: 30–45 minutes before closing
What Is Fiesole? And Why Visit?
Fiesole is a small, ancient town in Tuscany that dates back to Etruscan times—yes, before the Romans! It has a long and fascinating history that you can still see in its Etruscan walls, remains of Roman baths, and beautifully preserved archaeological sites.
Because it’s located high above Florence, many people say they go to Fiesole for the view, but they end up falling in love with the entire experience.
Unlike the busier Florentine streets below, Fiesole is quiet, elegant, and peaceful. It has a real local feel, with charming houses, a relaxed pace of life, and some seriously stunning historical sites. If you’re planning to explore beyond Florence’s city center, this is the perfect place to start.
Start at Piazza Mino – The Heart of Fiesole
Everything in Fiesole kind of spins around the lovely Piazza Mino, the town’s main square. You’ll find cafes, restaurants, and even a statue of Mino da Fiesole, the famous 15th-century sculptor.
The Cathedral of Fiesole, or Duomo, sits proudly here with its Romanesque façade and peaceful cloister. Step inside for a moment of cool, quiet beauty—and don’t miss the chapel with frescoes by Bicci di Lorenzo.
This is also where you’ll find buses to and from Florence, making the center of Fiesole a super easy base for a day trip or even an overnight stay in Fiesole (trust me, sunset here is magical).
The Archaeological Area: Roman Theater & More
Just a short walk from the square is one of Fiesole’s true highlights: the archaeological area. Here, you’ll find the Roman Theater—a gorgeous stone amphitheater dating back to the 1st century BC.
It’s still used today for summer concerts and cultural events, so check the calendar if you’re visiting in warmer months!
Next to the theater are the remains of Roman baths, parts of the original Etruscan walls, and various other ruins that offer a real sense of what life looked like in ancient times.
The archaeological site is peaceful and green, with olive trees and birdsong—ideal for a slow wander and some dreamy photos.
The Etruscan Museum (Archaeological Museum)
Right next to the ruins, the Etruscan Museum (also called the Archaeological Museum) is an absolute must. It’s small but packed with treasures: pottery, coins, statues, and everyday objects from the Etruscan, Roman, and even Lombard periods.
If you’re curious about the ancient world or just love quirky little museums, you’ll adore this one. Some of the items date back to the 8th century BC! The layout is easy to follow, and the garden outside is just the cherry on top.
San Francesco Monastery & The View
After soaking in the past, get ready to climb—just a little! Follow the winding path up to the San Francesco monastery. It’s a peaceful, soul-soothing place with a small church, a cloister, and a museum dedicated to missionary life.
But the real reward? The view of Florence from up here is spectacular. You can see the red-tiled Florentine roofs, the Duomo, and the rolling Tuscan countryside beyond. On a clear day, it feels like you can see all of Tuscany from this spot.
Bandini Museum & Artistic Delights
Back near Piazza Mino, art lovers should pop into the Bandini Museum, a hidden gem filled with religious artworks, sculptures, and delicate terracotta pieces. It’s named after Canon Angelo Maria Bandini, who donated his collection to the town.
The museum has works by artists like Della Robbia, and it’s a peaceful contrast to the larger, more crowded galleries in Florence.
Gardens, Villas & Quiet Walks
If you have time, take a stroll through some of Fiesole’s scenic paths. The walk to Villa Peyron is especially lovely, passing by olive groves and elegant homes. The villa itself is set in a fairytale-like garden with fountains, statues, and (of course) more gorgeous views.
Fiesole is also a great place for a hike—the walk between Fiesole and San Domenico is one of the prettiest in the area. You’ll get that perfect mix of Fiesole and Florence in one sweeping look.
A Leonardo da Vinci Moment
Here’s a fun fact: Leonardo da Vinci used the hills around Fiesole to test his flying machines. Just imagine the genius sketching ideas while gazing out over the city.
There’s even a little plaque dedicated to him, and if you’re a dreamer, it’s the perfect place to pause and daydream too.
Where to Eat & Stay in Fiesole
For lunch or dinner, head to a cozy trattoria like La Reggia degli Etruschi—not only is the food delicious, but the terrace offers one of the best views in town. Expect Tuscan favorites like wild boar pasta, truffle dishes, and hearty soups.
Thinking about a romantic night above the city? A stay in Fiesole means cool, quiet nights and early-morning walks with barely a soul in sight. Several charming villas and boutique hotels make it easy to enjoy the peaceful pace here.
Final Thoughts
Fiesole is like a gentle whisper after the noisy brilliance of Florence. With its rich layers of history, awe-inspiring views, and tucked-away gems, it’s a town that invites you to slow down and truly savor your time.
Whether you’re drawn in by the archaeological museum, the magic of the Roman Theater, or just the joy of sitting in Piazza Mino with a cappuccino, Fiesole has a way of staying with you.
FAQ: Visiting Fiesole, Tuscany
How do I get to Fiesole from Florence?
Take ATAF bus number 7 from Florence’s city center. It runs regularly and stops at Piazza Mino, right in the heart of Fiesole.
What is the best time to visit Fiesole?
Spring and early fall are ideal—pleasant weather, fewer crowds, and lush views of the Tuscan countryside.
Can I hike from Florence to Fiesole?
Yes! Adventurous travelers can take scenic hikes from Florence, especially via San Domenico. It’s uphill but rewarding.
Is Fiesole good for a day trip?
Absolutely. A half-day gives you enough time to see the archaeological area, museum, and enjoy lunch. But a full day or an overnight stay in Fiesole is even better.
Are there cultural events in Fiesole?
Yes! Especially in summer, the amphitheater hosts concerts, theater, and other cultural events under the stars.
Is the Etruscan Museum suitable for kids?
Yes—many kids love the artifacts and ancient stories, especially when paired with a visit to the nearby ruins.
Who was Mino da Fiesole?
He was a Renaissance sculptor known for his delicate and emotional style. His statue in Piazza Mino honors his connection to the town.
What makes Fiesole different from Florence?
Fiesole offers a quieter, more relaxed atmosphere with a strong focus on nature, archaeology, and small-town charm—plus, the view of Florence is unbeatable.
Allie
Hey everyone! I’m Allie, and I love great Italian food and the relaxed atmosphere in Florence! My favorite thing to do is people watching at a local cafe while drinking a glass of vino!
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