Florence is not just art and architecture masterpieces; it also has many green spaces to explore and a variety of outdoor spaces perfect for exercise. If you want to stay active while enjoying the beauty of Florence, make sure you try out these spots, all completely for free! From vast parks to wonderful villas, Florence can offer beautiful backgrounds for your workouts. Whether you’re a runner, a fitness enthusiast, or you’re more into competitive sports, here are some of the best places in Florence where you can exercise outdoors while the weather is still warm!
Parco delle Cascine
A green lung of the city located just steps away from the center, it is the largest public park in Florence, spanning over 130 hectares along the Arno River. Characterized by lush vegetation, vast lawns, and a network of avenues and paths, it is the ideal place to walk, jog, cycle or skate, while enjoying nature and the tranquility of the area. Every Tuesday morning from 8 AM to 2 PM “Le Cascine” also hosts the largest and most affordable outdoor market in Florence. Its unique aspect is that you can find anything there, from food to clothing (both new and used), to household items and everyday essentials, just to name a few.
Parco Albereta-Anconella
The Albereta-Anconella Park is located along the left bank of the Arno River. The park, with grassy areas and tree-lined spaces, is divided into two sections: Albereta, a long strip of land running along the Arno River bordering the Anconella Aqueduct, and a larger part that extends toward the Varlungo Bridge, known as Anconella. Within the park, you’ll find two small lakes, a free-use soccer field, a skating rink, an area for street basketball, a free-climbing structure, an amphitheater for events, a picnic area with tables, a children’s carousel, and two fountains.
Giardino di Villa Favard
Located in eastern Florence, the park surrounds a historic villa, currently home to the Luigi Cherubini music school. Here, you can make free use of a basketball field, or equipped facilities to work out independently. Don’t miss the opportunity to have a pleasant break in the shade of its majestic trees!
Habana 500
Habana 500 is an authentic Cuban venue located in the heart of Florence, open all summer until the end of September. Located along the river Arno, just a 10 minutes’ walk away from Santa Croce, it features a beach volley field. It is also known for their Latin and Cuban dance lessons which take place every week!
Parco del Galluzzo
Parco del Galluzzo is a green area perfect for walking and running, and offers the opportunity to explore a less busy area of Florence. The park features various facilities such as outdoor gym equipment, a skating rink, a tennis field, a basketball field, a soccer field, and a beach volley field.
Lungarni
All the beauty of Florence can be admired by following the course of its river – along the Arno (that’s what “Lungarno” means!) there is a cycling and pedestrian path, perfect for runners and cyclists. We recommend starting at Parco delle Cascine, and then continuing toward the city center.
