Florentine Gondola River Cruise Experience
Sip wine on the Arno River and cruise by Ponte Vecchio, Uffizi, and more on a classic Barchetto boat
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
- Meeting point in Piazza Mentana
- Barcaiolo driver
- Arno River
- Florence
- Ponte Vecchio
- Glass of wine
- Return back to the meeting point
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.
What you get with this tour
See what people are saying
5 total reviews
Leave a reviewChris Grace
Ann Brewer
Barch
Marianne Fraser
The guide Marta was very knowledgeable and had interesting facts . It was really great to view Florence from the Arno and with Marta’s information filled in the gaps of Florence’s history. We enjoyed very much and recommend !
Frequently Asked Questions
What to bring?
Please make sure you wear sunscreen during summer months at there is no shade on the boat.
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.
You may also like
Guided Tour
Florence Evening Food Tour with Florentine Steak and Tuscan Wine
Indulge in 14 authentic tastings across 5 local restaurants for the ultimate Florentine food journey
Day Trip
Florence Day Trip to Tuscany: Siena, San Gimignano & Winery Lunch
Relax on this Tuscan day trip with a 3-course lunch and 6 wine tastings
Skip the Line
Florence in a Day Combo Tour with David and Uffizi
Explore Accademia Gallery, Ponte Vecchio, Florence Duomo, Uffizi Gallery, and so much more
Accademia's David and Uffizi Half-Day Skip the Line Tour
Explore Florence's must-see masterpieces including the Duomo in a small group
Skip the Line
Statue of David Evening Tour
Skip the line to see Michelangelo's David on a later tour of the Accademia Gallery with fewer crowds
Skip the Line
Florence Walking Tour with Statue of David
Uncover the best of Florence at the Duomo and Ponte Vecchio, and skip the line at Accademia
Private Tour
Private Wine Day in the Chianti Hills from Florence
Enjoy an intimate day trip tasting wine and organic food from local farms and vineyards in Tuscany
New Tour
Semi-Private Cinque Terre Day Trip with Boat Ride from Florence
Discover the best of Cinque Terre with seafood lunch, wine tasting, and transportation included
Skip the Line
Florence Private Walking Tour with Michelangelo's David
Explore the famous sites of Florence, with Ponte Vecchio, Duomo, and skip-the-line Accademia entry
New Tour
Tuscany in a Day Tour from Florence
Visit Siena, dine at a Chianti vineyard, explore San Gimignano, and see the Leaning Tower of Pisa!
Skip the Line
Complete Florence Duomo Tour with Dome Climb and Secret Terraces
View this charming city from the hidden terraces of Brunelleschi’s dome after touring the cathedral
New Tour
Pizza and Gelato Making Cooking Class with Unlimited Wine in Florence
Create the authentic food of Italy with an expert pizzaiolo chef, homemade lunch, and wine
New tour
Pisa and the Leaning Tower Half Day Tour from Florence
Explore the City famous for its Piazza dei Miracoli and enjoy skip-the-line access with this tour
New Tour
Tuscany Wine Tour by Vespa from Florence
Taste the food and wine of Chianti as you ride through the Tuscan countryside on a vintage scooter
New Tour
Cinque Terre Day Trip from Florence with Boat Ride
Visit these iconic fishing villages the easy way on this tour to the beautiful Italian Riviera
New Tour
Florence Accademia Gallery Express Guided Tour
Skip the line, marvel at renowned masterpieces and see Michelangelo’s iconic David statue!
Chianti Vineyards 3-Course Dinner with Transportation from Florence
Escape to Tuscany for an evening of wine tastings, savoring 4 exquisite wines and local cuisine
New Tour
Florence: Chianti Wineries Tour with Food and Wine Tasting
See two luxurious wine estates, taste local wine, and sample delicious produce on this half day tour
New Tour
Florence Duomo Skip-the-Line Tour
Explore the iconic cathedral with an expert guide and visit the fascinating Misericordia Museum
Skip the Line
Skip the Line Uffizi Gallery Tour
See Botticelli, Caravaggio, and Michelangelo's masterpieces in Florence's famous Uffizi Gallery
New Tour
Cinque Terre Hiking Tour from La Spezia Train Station
Walk clifftop trails to discover vineyards, epic views, and famous villages on Italy's magical coast
New Tour
Pasta Cooking Class and Gourmet Wine Pairing in Florence
Create authentic pasta with a Michelin-star chef and savor Tuscan wines guided by a master sommelier
New Tour
Authentic Tuscan Cooking Class in Florence with San Lorenzo Market
Create delicious pasta, tiramisu, and more with market-fresh ingredients and an expert local chef
New Tour
Pisa and Lucca Day Trip from Florence
Book a stress-free trip to see the Leaning Tower of Pisa and Lucca's medieval walls in a day
New Tour
Tuscany Wineland Safari from Florence
Explore vineyards, castles, and Chianti wine and cheese off the beaten track on this 4x4 experience
New Tour
Florence in a Half Day by Bike Tour
Take a ride through the city's hidden gems from Ponte Vecchio to the Oltrarno neighborhood
Skip the Line
Kid-Friendly Private Florence Walking Tour: David & Gelato
Bring the fun to Florence on this family walking tour that includes a merry-go-round and papermaking
Private Tour
Private Pisa Day Trip from Florence with Lunch in Vinci
Discover Tuscany on this VIP private tour, with Leaning Tower of Pisa, Da Vinci Museum, and more!
Skip the Line
Uffizi Private Tour in Florence
Skip the line to see Birth of Venus, Medusa, Doni Tondo, and more with your own private art guide
Private Tour
Orvieto, Civita di Bagnoregio & Winery Private Day Trip from Rome
Escape the city on a memorable journey through Umbria’s historic towns to taste fine local wines
Private Tour
Livorno Shore Excursion: Florence & Pisa
Maximize your day ashore on this jam-packed private tour with Leaning Tower, David, and more!
Private Tour
Tuscany Shore Excursion: Chianti Wine Country and San Gimignano
A Chianti Wine Tasting Excursion
Skip the Line
Private Siena Walking Tour
Explore this charming Tuscan city with an engaging local guide to see the Duomo, San Domenico & more
Brunello di Montalcino Helicopter Tour from Rome or Florence
Soar above Tuscany on an exclusive VIP tour, complete with private wine tastings and a gourmet lunch
Pisa & Cinque Terre Day Trip From Florence
Explore the charming towns of Monterosso and Manarola, embark on a coastal hike, and tour Pisa
New tour
4-Course Meal at a Local’s Home in Florence
Watch your host’s cooking demo from her own kitchen, then enjoy a family lunch or dinner together!
Private Accademia and Uffizi Express Tour
See Michelangelo’s David and Renaissance masterpieces with your personal guide
Bike Tour Through Florence and Tuscan Countryside
Ride along Tuscany’s majestic rolling hills, visit a medieval village, and sample local delicacies!
Val d’Orcia Day Trip with Two Wine Tastings from Florence
Sip on Brunello in Montalcino, wander through Pienza, and savor pecorino cheese in Montelpuciano
Sunset Boat Tour of the Cinque Terre from Monterosso
Explore Vernazza, Manarola, and Riomaggiore on a 2.5-hour small group cruise with onboard aperitivo
Private Tour
Private Florence in a Day Tour with David & Uffizi
Admire the Florence Duomo, cross Ponte Vecchio, and more with your personal guide
1.5-Hours Small Group Golf Cart Tour of Florence
See Florence Duomo, Ponte Vecchio, and hidden gems without the walking
Palazzo Vecchio Small Group Skip the Line Guided Tour
Roam through the lavish apartments and halls that were home to the iconic Medici family in Florence
Florence Bike Tour at Night with Aperitivo Picnic
Pedal through Duomo and Ponte Vecchio, in a small group with 1 glass of wine and a riverside picnic
Cinque Terre Boat Tour with Swimming Stop from Monterosso
Admire cliffside villages of Corniglia, Vernazza, Manarola and Riomaggiore on a small group cruise
New Tour
Skip the Line Duomo Terraces Tour with Dome Climb
Admire the Florence Cathedral, climb to the top of Brunelleschi’s Dome, and enjoy breathtaking views
3-Day Chianti Vineyard Wine & Spa Getaway
Rejuvenate at the rustic Borgo Casa al Vento while learning the secrets of Tuscan wine and cuisine
New Tour
Early Morning Duomo Tour with Exclusive Entry and Brunelleschi's Dome
Be among the first of the day to enter Florence cathedral on this VIP experience
New tour
Skip-the-Line Uffizi Gallery & Vasari Corridor Small Group Tour
Be among the first to walk Florence’s secret passageway after nearly a decade
New Tour
Pizza and Gelato Cooking Class in a Tuscany Farmhouse in Florence
Pick fresh ingredients and learn to make authentic, Italian cuisine on an unforgettable day trip!
Private Uffizi Gallery and Historic Vasari Corridor Tour
Immerse yourself in artistic treasures and uncover the Medici family’s secret legacy
Sant’Ambrogio Market Tour and Cooking Class with a Local Chef in Florence
Discover Tuscan street food, prepare a 3-course meal with tagliatelle and tiramisù and try 2 wines
New Tour
Vintage FIAT 500 Self-Drive Tuscany Tour from Florence
Get behind the wheel of an iconic Italian car, enjoy a typical lunch and drink Tuscan wine
3-Day Tuscany Retreat: Wine, Cooking & Relaxation near La Spezia
Immerse in Tuscany’s natural pools, soak in a starlit hot tub, and taste farm-fresh delicacies
Pesto Cooking Class in Riomaggiore
Small Group Pesto Cooking Class in Riomaggiore
Sip wine and learn the secrets of making pesto in a local’s picturesque home in Cinque Terre
New Tour
Tuscany Day Trip from Rome with Vineyard Lunch and Wine Tasting
Wander through the medieval towns of Montepulciano and Pienza and enjoy a 3-course meal!
new tour
Chianti Vespa Tour from San Gimignano with Wine Tasting and Lunch
Ride through the hills of Tuscany on a vintage scooter, visit a local estate and enjoy a local meal
