Boat trips with the Renaioli

See Florence from a different point of view, try the unique experience of a boat trip with the Renaioli! The Arno River, which crosses the city of Florence, is not navigable as a whole due to the presence of fishing grounds and artificial differences in depth that make it difficult. However, the traditional “barchetti” (small flat-bottomed boats) can easily cruise on a portion of the river, in the city center, which is also extremely fascinating. Once upon a time, the river and its banks were buzzing with activity, the “barchetti” were used for fishing and transportation, especially to supply sand and gravel for building purposes.

How to try this experience? Just contact the Renaioli Association of Florence! They organize exclusive boat trips from May to September by reservation.

Participants will enjoy the main city attractions: starting from Piazza Mentana, passing under the Ponte Vecchio and the impressive Ponte Santa Trinita, up to Ponte alla Carraia, they will admire lots of beautiful churches and Florentine historic palaces.

The Renaiolo does not only guide the boat with the steering pole, he also tells anecdotes and stories of the past, when men worked on the river and it was a hard life.

It is an unforgettable experience! On the river, the noise of the city fades away, a pleasant breeze blows even on hot days and you can see herons and other water birds. The boat ride takes about 45 minutes.

For more information about prices and reservations, please contact the Associazione Renaioli.