By this point in our trip in Italy, we had seen a lot of beautiful things. Cathedral after cathedral, amazing landscape views and countless charming streets and alleyways. In our second to last location of Florence, we were at the point that we were almost getting desensitized to it all. Almost. That is, until we went to a location that to me is not only the most beautiful place I’ve seen in Italy, but the most beautiful place I have ever been in my life. That location was the Piazzale Michelangelo. A beautiful plaza atop a hill that houses a copy of Michelangelo’s David and overlooks the entire city of Florence and beyond. It was created as part of major city renovations that happened in the 19th century and was built as a monument to Michelangelo and his works. Everything about the experience of being up there was breathtaking. The wind whipped at my hair, pleasantly cooling me after the climb. The environment was lovely, full of people and a couple street musicians. The city was absolutely gorgeous. This is *the* spot to be if you want Instagram-worthy photos with the Florence skyline. But it wasn’t just the view from the top I found wonderful, but the entire experience of making our way to the top. The scenery was absolutely beautiful. Flowers everywhere. Vines crawling up stone walls. A beautiful flower garden where people were laying in the sun, which is also a great photo spot. A fountain with real lily pads and koi fish. There was even a little cafe which offered snacks, gelato, and even slushies. I enjoyed a strawberry slushie which was very refreshing. After the Piazza, you can also visit the nearby church of San Miniato, which is also on the hill. The views and the environment here were gorgeous as well, so I would recommend it. If you’re choosing between Brunelleschi’s dome or the Piazzale to see the city, I think the Piazzale is better. Climbing the dome was cool because we got to experience the Brunelleschi’s architecture firsthand as well as see the dome fresco up close. But in comparison, the climb up to Piazza Michelangelo was much less physically difficult, had a beautiful environment all the way up, refreshments, and the ability to stay as long as you want. Plus, from here you can see the entire city including the cathedral, and from here you really get a sense of how massive the cathedral is, which you don’t as much when you’re standing on top of it. Obviously if you can, do both, but if you have to pick one, I’d definitely go with Piazzale Michelangelo. I know I will remember my experience there extremely fondly.
