i_am_kane

The last time we visited Fiesole, we took the #7 bus from Florence in the evening, which drops you off in Piazza Mina. We did not venture beyond the piazza, had a nice dinner, and left about 9:00 p.m.

I suspect there is more to this town than we saw that night. Information seems to be scant on the internet...I did see a few photos, which peaked my interest for my next trip. Can anyone tell me the layout of the town, and if it can be accessed by bus, or do you need to take a taxi?

Rutt_Butler

It's not very big. You can walk. You should plan to visit the site of the Etruscan Ruins and its excellent museum.

cmt

It is very easily accessed by bus. I don't remember which bus, but any local person can tell you. I think I remember that there was a bus stop very near the archeological site, so you really can't miss it.

i_am_kane

Rutt, I would love to visit the Etruscan ruins. This is what I remember: From Piazza Mina, we walked to our right up a slight hill. The police station was on our right, and I Polpa (restaurant) on our left. I think we walked a little further, but there was nothing of interest, just shops and apartments.

After dinner, we walked in the opposite direction, and I think I remember very steep stairs and a landing at the top with a low stone wall, and you could see the city of Florence lighted.

What direction should we take to see the ruins?

SeaUrchin

Hi Kane, I went up to Fiesole too and really saw nothing to do except go into the museum, the ampitheatre and an art gallery although they were very interesting. The way people rave about Fiesole I thought there was much more to it, but I guess not unless I missed something too.

Rutt_Butler

When you get off the bus, go to the left (away from the cafes with the view of Florence). It's only a block or two. You can walk straight up the road (instead of turning left) and catch some great views.

hansikday

Views are nice, but it seems over-rated
to me.

i_am_kane

You know, These type of responses are what makes me stay with this forum. Quick, informative replies! Can't get better than that.

Thanks.

Mischka

We loved our visit to Fiesole in April this year. We even enjoyed the bus ride, past lovely homes and nice views back towards Florence.

We went early enough to spend about an hour in the museum and roman ruins.

We also walked through the town and did a bit of window shopping. Also popped into the Coop on the main street, where we bought a few supplies, chocolates and a bottle of much needed hand lotion which is still sitting on my kitchen shelf and being sparingly used every day.. brings back lovely memories.

We then went to Blu Bar which is right on the piazza, sat outside on the patio, ordered wine and got the usual snacks and watched the sun go down over the most beautiful view of Florence. A lovely way to end a day.

The town is tiny and you will not need the bus or cabs and I am sure you will enjoy wondering around.

i_am_kane

Everyone is being very helpful. I must be dense...is the Piazza Mina considered the "center of town?" As I said before, when searching the internet, I THINK I saw a photo of a small, level town center that did not look anything like the piazza.

Maybe I was dreaming!

ira

Hi kane,

You can still tke the no. 7 bus.

I suggest that you go up in the late afternoon.

Visit the ruins, etc. Wander through the town. (It's quite pleasant.)

Have an aperitif at the terrace of the Bar Bleu and watch the sun go down.

Have dinner at one of the restaurants on the square. (Consider the restaurant of the Villa Aurora - outdoor garden)

Take the bus back.

Pedant Alert: That's piqued not peaked.

LoveItaly

Fiesole, I am really feeling dense!!!!

Know I have been there, yes indeed.

What do I remember? Nothing!

That is embarrasing.

i_am_kane

To LoveItaly...Gotta love it!

WillTravel

Would Fiesole be worth visiting in January?

Eloise

I've never been in Florence in January, so I cannot answer your question directly.

But given a choice between Fiesole and the church of San Miniato al Monte at the top of a hill on the other side of the Arno, I would choose San Miniato every time. The church itself is a jewel, in addition to being the second-oldest church in Florence after the Battistero, and the views are lovely as well.

Statia

We liked Fiesole specifically BECAUSE there wasn't a lot there. It was a nice change of pace from busy Florence for an afternoon.

I agree that it's not large. The main piazza, some cafes and a small market. The Etruscan Ruins and museum, etc. Be sure to take via San Francisco up to the viewpoint for a fabulous view over Florence....day or night.

Statia

I forgot to add that I haven't been there in January, but I couldn't imagine not going up to at least enjoy the view for a short time, and enjoy the peace and quiet.

i_am_kane

Statia, That is exactly the reason we first visited Fiesole, and it will be the same reason for our next trip. We like to get out of the (city) fray for a nice dinner, walk around and enjoy the fabulous views.

Exactly where is this museum, and the Etruscan ruins? Rutt said to walk left away from the bus stop. I've tried to picture this in my mind, but I draw a complete blank.

Statia

kane, we took a cab up, but when you get off the bus there is a row of restaurants on the main piazza. Just to the left of the restaurants is a street that goes toward the ruins. It's as if the ruins and museum are exactly one block behind the cafes and restaurants on the main piazza, if memory serves me correctly.

I'm sure you could ask just about anyone and they can direct you. The ruins and museum were only about a block from the bus stop, as I remember, so it's not far at all. I believe there was also a church with a bell tower on the street leading to the ruins.

Also, be sure to go up the steep road, "via San Francisco," to see the view over Florence, day or night. That's the real highlight of Fiesole, IMO. There is a small park with benches where you can sit and enjoy a gelato.

The street toward the viewpoint is also located about a block away from the main piazza. If you are facing away from the cafes and restaurants (your back to them), the street will be about a block or so to your right. It's very steep, so you can't miss it.

Enjoy your trip!

ira

Hi kane,

Go to http://www.ataf.net.
This gives you bus routes and schedules in Florence.

Click on Maps.

Click on sector no 29.