Audio Guide: Arno South Bank Walking Tour (Self Guided), Florence

The area south of the Arno River-known as Oltrarno, or “Beyond the Arno”-offers a quieter, more intimate side of Florence, but one that’s no less captivating. It’s here that you’ll find the grand Pitti Palace, home to a painting collection rivaled only by the Uffizi Gallery, and the expansive Boboli Gardens, once the private domain of the Medici and later, the royal family. As one of the earliest and most influential examples of Italian garden design, Boboli went on to inspire courtly landscapes all across Europe.

Oltrarno is steeped in tradition, known for its artisans, age-old trades, and vibrant markets. The best way to experience it? On foot. Wander its cobbled streets and you’ll uncover workshops, tucked-away trattorias, graceful piazzas, and churches that are true masterpieces in their own right.

This part of the city is steeped in old-world tradition, known for its skilled artisans and age-old trade. It’s best explored slowly-on foot-so you can appreciate the local craftsmanship, bustling markets, and family-run trattorias, as well as the intimate charm of hidden squares, quiet corners, and a wealth of sacred spaces.

Right from the get-go, the main attraction of Santa Felicita’s Church is Pontormo’s stunning “Deposition from the Cross”, recently restored to vivid glory. Above the entrance, look for the enclosed balcony of the Vasari Corridor-built for the Medici to move unseen between palace and government.

A short walk away, the Basilica of the Holy Spirit invites you inside to admire Michelangelo’s rare wooden sculpture of a nude Christ on the Cross. Don’t miss the serene 17th-century cloister and its tranquil garden, framed by elegant arcades.

Toward the end of your walk, pause at the Church of Our Lady of Mount Carmel, where frescoes by Masolino and Masaccio mark a turning point in Renaissance art. Then, step into the Church of Saint Fridianus, a standout example of late Baroque in Florence, where Roman grandeur meets Tuscan restraint. It’s also a lovely backdrop for a photo or a quiet moment.

This self-guided tour leads you through all these treasures and more, winding past cobbled lanes, historic palaces, and artisan workshops. Take your time, wear comfortable shoes, and let the Oltrarno unfold at your own rhythm.