from

$94

Florence

Florentine Gondola River Cruise Experience

Free CancellationFamily Friendly

Sip wine on the Arno River and cruise by Ponte Vecchio, Uffizi, and more on a classic Barchetto boat

Free CancellationFamily Friendly

42 min


Max 20 Guests

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There are only four original barchetti left in Florence, and most people will never set foot on one. Don’t be one of them. Step aboard this rare and historic vessel—Florence’s answer to the gondola—for a serene cruise along the Arno River. Glide effortlessly beneath the iconic Ponte Vecchio, savoring a glass of local wine while your friendly guide shares the untold stories of the Renaissance City. Join an expert barcaiolo skipper for a journey that transforms sightseeing into a unique experience

What's included

Passionate English-speaking guide

Arno River Cruise

Glass of chilled wine or soft drink

Barcaiolo skipper

Ponte Vecchio, the Duomo, and more

Maximum group size of 20

Food

Hotel pick up and drop off

Guide gratuities

Itinerary

Meeting point in Piazza Mentana

Aftering finding your local guide in a charming piazza, enjoy a lovely stroll along the riverbanks with your fellow group members

Barcaiolo driver

Your traditional Barcaiolo skipper will use a classic wooden pole to expertly navigate your barchetti boat down the Arno River

Arno River

Sit back and relax as you cruise down the stunning Arno River, passing by some of Florence’s most historic sites along the way

Florence

Take in the view from the water while spotting Florence’s most iconic landmarks, including the Uffizi Gallery, Duomo, and more!

Ponte Vecchio

Cruise under one of Florence’s most iconic landmarks– a stunning, historic bridge which dates back to the 13th century!

Glass of wine

Raise a glass of chilled local wine as you toast with your group members to an unforgettable sightseeing adventure!

Return back to the meeting point

Once you’re back on dry land, say goodbye to your friendly guide and driver and then continue exploring Florence’s landmarks on your own

For Reference Only. Itineraries are subject to change

Select participants and date

Start times are in the product’s local time

Free cancellation up to 24 hours in advance!

Sun, 27 Sep 2026

Meeting and drop-off point

You'll meet your guide at a convenient spot in Piazza Mentana. The exact address and instructions will be sent with your voucher upon booking.

Important Details

Though Florence is not a city of canals like Venice, travel by boat along the Arno River has been a way of life for many generations. You'll meet you engaging local guide by the riverbank, and along with a small group you'll enjoy a boat ride that takes in city views of the Uffizi Gallery, the Duomo, and more. You'll also pass under the famous Ponte Vecchio, along with some of Florence's other historic bridges.

With a traditional Barcaiolo skipper and knowledgeable local guide, you'll learn the history of these boats along with fascinating stories of the city.

Florence Barchetto Boat Tour

Your 45-minutes Arno River boat cruise includes:

  • Arno River Cruise on an historic wooden Barchetto boat

  • Views of Ponte Vecchio, the Duomo, and more

  • Complimentary glass of chilled wine or soft drink

  • Traditional Barcaiolo skipper

  • Engaging English-speaking local guide

  • Maximum group size of 20

Board Your Barchetto by the Riverbank

After meeting your guide near Piazza Mentana and enjoying a short stroll to the river, you'll climb aboard one of only four remaining original barchetti boats. Though the barchetto is similar to the gondolas of Venice, it has its own unique history gliding down the rivers of Tuscany. Your expert barcaiolo skipper will use the traditional wooden pole to navigate the vessel for your cruise along the river, and you can just sit back and enjoy the ride!

Cruise Along Florence's Arno River

As you gently ride the Arno, you'll take in some to the famous sites of Florence on this historic boat. Enjoy views of the Uffizi Gallery, Duomo and more, with stunning photo opportunities along the way. This Arno river cruise is a great way to see a different side to this beautiful city.

Glide Under Florentine Bridges Including Ponte Vecchio

The Ponte Vecchio, along with the Duomo, is one of the two great symbols of Florence. Merchant shops have lined this famed bridge since the 13th century. Originally, the shops included fishmongers, butchers, and tanners, however these particular goods caused such a stench in the area that Ferdinand I proclaimed in 1593 that only jewelers were allowed to sell on the bridge.

You'll cruise underneath Ponte Vecchio and also see other architectural marvels, the Ponte delle Grazie and Ponte della Santa Trinita. These great bridges are often overshadowed by the Ponte Vecchio but have their own great stories and tradition.

Enjoy a Glass of Local Wine Along the Way

As you're sitting back and enjoying the city sights pass you by, your guide will bring out some chilled local wine to celebrate the journey in style. Salute!

Not a wine drinker? Not a problem. Soft drinks are available too.

See what people are saying

4.88

112 Ratings

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102

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River Peace

Daisy K.

Verified Review

January 31, 2026

This boat ride felt calm from the moment we stepped in. The river was quiet and Florence looked beautiful from the water. It was a relaxing way to rest and enjoy the city without crowds or noise.

Lovers Water Walk

Holger F.

Verified Review

January 30, 2026

We love of ride! It was romantic and gentle and well paced. The water reflections were beautiful and calming. Listening made it better. Davide shared stories with warmth and a friendly tone.

Quiet Florence

August W.

Verified Review

January 29, 2026

Seeing Florence from the water was very calming. The boat moved gently and the river felt peaceful. It was nice to enjoy the city without busy streets and without feeling tired.

City On Current

Akshara R.

Verified Review

January 28, 2026

This experience felt slow and soothing. The river view was lovely. We enjoyed the calm atmosphere. Roberto added friendly explanations during the ride.

Soft Views

Beatrix S.

Verified Review

January 27, 2026

The river gave us a lovely and calm view of Florence. The boat ride was smooth and relaxing. We enjoyed sitting quietly and watching the buildings pass slowly while feeling completely at ease.

Calm Ride

Hendrik O.

Verified Review

January 26, 2026

This experience felt peaceful and easy from start to end. The water was calm and the city looked beautiful. It was a perfect way to slow down and enjoy the moment quietly.

Florence Gentle Flow

Charles B.

Verified Review

January 25, 2026

Seeing Florence from the river was a highlight. Everything felt relaxed and smooth. The stories added depth. Tommaso explained things naturally and never rushed the group.

Gentle Moments

Krish J.

Verified Review

January 24, 2026

The ride was slow and comfortable the whole time. Watching Florence from the river felt peaceful and different. It helped us relax after a long day of walking and enjoy the views without feeling rushed.

Stillness On Water

Florence S.

Verified Review

January 23, 2026

This tour felt special and calm. The boat moved smoothly and the city looked beautiful. We enjoyed every moment without rushing. It is a perfect choice for anyone wanting a relaxed Florence experience.

Water Escape

Sören W.

Verified Review

January 22, 2026

The boat ride was a nice escape from crowded streets. The pace was slow and the views were calming. It helped us relax and enjoy Florence in a gentle and quiet way.

Braxton R.

Verified Review

January 22, 2026

Peaceful Drift

Hugo H.

Verified Review

January 21, 2026

Floating on the river felt soothing and unhurried. Florence looked gentle from the water. The calm movement of the boat made us feel relaxed and refreshed during our trip.

Still Water Stories

Abhimanyu C.

Verified Review

January 20, 2026

This ride helped us slow down and enjoy the city. The boat felt safe and calm. Stories were interesting and short. Emanuele spoke clearly and answered questions nicely.

Easy Floating

Penelope P.

Verified Review

January 19, 2026

The boat moved smoothly along the river and everything felt calm. The views were pleasant and peaceful. It was an enjoyable way to see Florence without walking or feeling tired.

Florence Slow Motion

Anke W.

Verified Review

January 18, 2026

Floating through Florence gave us a new view of the city. The quiet water and gentle movement felt peaceful. The stories helped us understand what we were seeing in a very simple way.

Silent Views

Louis S.

Verified Review

January 17, 2026

The quiet river made the whole experience feel special. The city looked beautiful and calm from the water. It was a relaxing break that helped us slow down and enjoy Florence.

Effortless City Ride

Vedant W.

Verified Review

January 16, 2026

The ride was smooth and comfortable. It gave us a new view of the city. Stories were simple and engaging. Federico made everyone feel welcome during the tour.

Water Calm

Daphne D.

Verified Review

January 15, 2026

This tour felt slow and peaceful. Watching Florence from the river was lovely and relaxing. It gave us time to sit back and enjoy the scenery without any stress.

Twilight River Calm

Ralf M.

Verified Review

January 14, 2026

The evening breeze and calm water made this tour wonderful. It felt slow and peaceful. Small stories added meaning. Gabriele shared details in a friendly and relaxed way.

Rest And Drift

Arthur B.

Verified Review

January 12, 2026

This was a lovely way to slow down. The river views were beautiful and calming. The ride felt smooth and safe. It allowed us to rest while still enjoying Florence.

Soft Journey

Yuvan G.

Verified Review

January 10, 2026

The ride was gentle and smooth from beginning to end. The river views were peaceful and relaxing. It felt nice to enjoy Florence from a different angle while resting comfortably.

Vivaan R.

Verified Review

January 09, 2026

Waterway Stillness

Adeline D.

Verified Review

January 08, 2026

A very relaxing way to explore Florence. The boat glided quietly on the water. We learned small facts. Simone shared them naturally without sounding scripted.

Calm Pause

Gisela H.

Verified Review

January 05, 2026

This boat ride felt like a calm pause in the middle of the day. The water was quiet and the city looked beautiful from the river. It helped us relax and breathe.

City Seen Softly

Rhett G.

Verified Review

January 02, 2026

Floating through Florence felt special and peaceful. The reflections on the water were beautiful. We enjoyed listening and relaxing. Riccardo made the stories fun and easy to follow.

FAQs

Where to meet?

You'll meet your guide at a convenient spot in Piazza Mentana. The exact address and instructions will be sent with your voucher upon booking.

Is this tour run by The Tour Guy?

No, it's run by one of our trusted and vetted partners in Florence. They're a specialist company who we know uphold our high standards.

Can I bring my kids on this tour?

Yes, kids are more than welcome on this tour, and soft drinks are available instead of wine.

What to bring?

Please make sure you wear sunscreen during summer months at there is no shade on the boat.

Does this tour include a guide?

Yes, the experience includes a licensed, English-speaking guide.

How many glasses of wine will I get?

You will get at least one glass of wine during the tour.