Piazza Santo Spirito, Florence: Your Oltrarno Neighborhood Guide
Tucked away in Florence’s artsy Oltrarno district, Piazza Santo Spirito is one of the city’s most charming and picturesque squares—and a true local favorite.
With its laid-back vibe, buzzing cafés, and the stunning Basilica di Santo Spirito watching over it all, this little piazza is a delightful mix of history, creativity, and good food. Whether you’re into Renaissance art, Sunday markets, or just sipping a cocktail on a sun-drenched patio, Santo Spirito has something for every kind of traveler.
It’s less touristy than other parts of Florence, yet full of soul, and totally worth exploring. Keep reading to discover why visiting Piazza Santo Spirito is one of the best things to do in Florence!
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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:
Ticket Information:
Piazza Santo Spirito itself is a public square and free to visit at any time.
Entry to the Basilica di Santo Spirito is also generally free, but:
Access to the sacristy (where the wooden crucifix by Michelangelo is displayed) costs €2–€3.
Adress:
Piazza Santo Spirito, 50125 Florence, Italy
Located in the heart of the Oltrarno district, just south of the Arno River.
Transportation:
From Florence Santa Maria Novella Train Station (main station): Walking: 15 min.
Nearby:
Duomo Florence: 15 minute walk.
Piazza della Signoria: 12-13 Minute walk
Boboli Gardens: 5-6 min
Uffizi Gallery – 12-minute walk.
Palazzo Pitti: 4 minute walk.
Recommended exploration time:
Quick Visit (30–45 minutes): See the basilica, admire the square, grab a quick coffee.
Leisurely Visit (1.5–2.5 hours): Enjoy the basilica interior, explore the artisan shops nearby, relax on a patio with a drink or meal.
Sunday Market Visit: Give yourself 2–3 hours to enjoy the antique or organic market and soak up the local vibe.
Opening hours:
Piazza Santo Spirito is open 24/7 as it’s a public space. However, the Basilica di Santo Spirito has specific hours:
Monday to Saturday: 9:30 AM – 12:30 PM and 4:00 PM – 6:00 PM
Sunday: Only open for Mass in the morning (typically around 10:30 AM – confirm locally)
Note: The Michelangelo crucifix is usually available during morning hours. Closed during religious services.
The Soul of the Oltrarno: What is Piazza Santo Spirito?
Located in the artisan-heavy southern side of the city, the Oltrarno district is known for its authenticity and charm, and Piazza Santo Spirito is its beating heart. This wide-open square is framed by pastel-toned buildings, cobbled streets, and the famous Basilica di Santo Spirito—a church dedicated to the Holy Spirit and designed by Brunelleschi in the 1400s.
Unlike the tourist-packed squares near the Duomo or Piazza della Signoria, Santo Spirito feels wonderfully lived-in. Artists sketch on benches, students sip espressos, and chefs shop at the morning market. The energy here is vibrant, relaxed, and oh-so-Tuscan.
Basilica di Santo Spirito: A Renaissance Masterpiece
At the center of the square stands the Basilica di Santo Spirito, a stunning example of Renaissance architecture. The facade may be minimalist, but don’t be fooled—the treasures inside are jaw-dropping.
This church was designed by Filippo Brunelleschi, the same genius behind the Duomo’s dome. The interior glows with soft light and features a beautiful chapel layout, complete with fresco cycles, altarpieces, and graceful symmetry.
One of the most famous pieces here is the wooden crucifix by Michelangelo. He carved it as a thank-you for being allowed to study anatomy at the church’s hospital—a little gory, perhaps, but totally brilliant. The lifelike expression on Christ’s face is haunting, intimate, and unforgettable.
Palazzo Guadagni & the Loggia
On the corner of the square stands the elegant Palazzo Guadagni, dating back to the early 1500s. Its graceful loggia (a covered gallery with open arches) makes it one of the few buildings in Florence with such architecture, and it adds a sophisticated Renaissance flair to the square.
Over the years, the palazzo has served many purposes—from a noble residence to a public library—and today, it’s a beautiful reminder of the square’s layered history. I once sat on the steps beneath the loggia with a gelato in hand, just watching the world go by. It was the kind of perfect moment you want to bottle up and take home with you.
Markets, Artisans & That Famous Sunday Vibe
One of the best times to visit is on the second Sunday of the month, when the square hosts an amazing antiques market. Picture tables full of vintage books, handmade jewelry, Tuscan pottery, and old postcards—it’s a collector’s dream.
Every other day, you’ll still find a smaller daily market where local artisans and farmers sell produce, bread, and other Florentine goodies. If you want to bring home a gift that isn’t mass-produced, this is the place.
Pasta, Patios, and Aperitivo: Good Food in Santo Spirito
Let’s talk about food—because good food is basically a religion in this neighborhood. From casual bites to candlelit dinners, Piazza Santo Spirito has something for every craving.
Start your day at a cozy cafe on the square—many have charming patios perfect for people-watching with a cappuccino. Later, try homemade pasta at one of the local trattorias (I still dream about the pici cacio e pepe I had last spring).
And of course, aperitivo hour is where the magic happens. Order a cocktail (Negroni, anyone?) and enjoy a spread of snacks that’ll tide you over until dinner. At night, the nightlife here is buzzing but relaxed—expect candlelit tables, street musicians, and that irresistible hum of Italian conversation.
Art and Culture Nearby
Just a short walk from the piazza, you’ll find several lesser-known yet beautiful cultural spots. Santa Maria d’Ognissanti, another beautiful church dedicated to all saints, features stunning works by Filippino Lippi and more hidden art gems.
In the surrounding streets, tucked behind heavy doors and ivy-covered walls, you’ll discover small artist studios, boutique galleries, and leather workshops—many run by families who’ve been perfecting their craft for generations.
Why You’ll Fall in Love with Piazza Santo Spirito
There’s something about this square that captures the soul of Florence, without the crowds or the chaos. Maybe it’s the fountain burbling quietly in the corner. Maybe it’s the golden light in the late afternoon, or the sound of someone playing guitar under the arches of Palazzo Guadagni.
For me, it’s the feeling of belonging. Of sitting down with a spritz in hand, chatting with friends, and thinking, “Yes. This is exactly where I want to be.”
FAQs about Piazza Santo Spirito, Florence
What’s the best time to visit Piazza Santo Spirito?
Early evening is magical—perfect for aperitivo, people-watching, and soaking up the laid-back vibe. Sundays are also special thanks to the markets.
Can you visit the Basilica di Santo Spirito for free?
Yes, general entry is free, but some special areas like the sacristy (where the wooden crucifix by Michelangelo is displayed) may charge a small fee.
Is Piazza Santo Spirito family-friendly?
Absolutely! It’s a relaxed, open space where kids can run around safely, and many restaurants welcome families.
Are there good places to eat nearby?
Yes! From traditional pasta dishes to wood-fired pizzas, the square is packed with delicious, authentic options. Try the trattorias that spill out onto the square for a true Tuscan experience.
How do I get to Piazza Santo Spirito?
From the Duomo, walk across the Ponte Santa Trinita and head into the Oltrarno. It’s about a 10–15 minute walk and a beautiful one at that.
Is there art to see besides the Michelangelo crucifix?
Definitely. Inside the basilica, you’ll find works by Filippino Lippi and other Renaissance artists, plus gorgeous frescoes and side chapels worth exploring.
What’s nearby if I want to explore more of the area?
You’re close to Palazzo Pitti, the Boboli Gardens, and lots of small galleries and studios—perfect for a day of wandering through Florence’s more artistic side.
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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