Bardini Garden (with kids)
How Kids-Friendly is Bardini Garden?
What makes it 74% Kids-Friendly: Kids up to 12 enter free under six and can hunt fountains, picnic on grass, and ride the shuttle. Parents must watch closely on steep steps and gravel; there is no playground or smooth scooter path.
![🇮🇹VILLA BARDINI, FLORENCE, Italy☀️ Walking Tour of the Wonderful Villa Bardini Garden [4K HDR 60fps]](https://i.ytimg.com/vi/EpCK7uWUesU/hqdefault.jpg)
This place may be temporarily closed. Please check official sources before visiting.
Positives:
- Easy Transport: The free electric shuttle lets kids skip uphill paths and saves energy for play.
- Interactive Fun: The fountain treasure hunt keeps children engaged and curious about garden art.
- Free Water: Historic fountains provide cool, drinkable water—great for thirsty youngsters.
Challenges:
- Uneven Paths: Gravel and stone steps can slow strollers. Consider a baby carrier for toddlers.
- Limited Shade: Some paths lack cover. Bring sun protection and schedule breaks under pergolas.
- Cafe Hours: La Loggetta closes off-season (Nov–Feb). Pack extra snacks if visiting then.
What is Bardini Garden?
- An Italian Renaissance garden set on the Oltrarno hillside around the 17th-century Villa Bardini
- Spread across three terraces developed from the Renaissance through the 19th century, blending formal parterres, English-style woodland and agricultural parkland
- Anchored by a grand Baroque staircase adorned with historic sculptures, fountains and panoramic vistas of Florence
What is so special about Bardini Garden for with kids?
- A kid-friendly fountain treasure hunt
- Picnic under the wisteria pergola
- Free shuttle to skip steep climbs
- On-site café with a children’s menu
- Seasonal blooms and cooler fall colors
Recommended visit duration: 2-3 hours
Why 2-3 hours visit duration is ideal for with kids: Allows time for a fountain hunt, picnic break, shuttle ride and casual stroll without rushing.
Kids-Friendly Activities in Bardini Garden
Three Fountain Challenge:
Turn garden landmarks into a treasure hunt by finding the dragon spout, the lion-face fountain and the echoing ‘singing’ fountain.
Tip: Give each child a simple map or checklist to mark off each find and offer a small prize at the end.
Picnic by the Wisteria Tunnel:
Use the grass lawn near the wisteria pergola for a family picnic.
Tip: Bring a blanket and pack snacks in reusable containers. Arrive by midday for soft light and fewer visitors.
Free Electric Shuttle Ride:
Catch the shuttle from the lower entrance to skip steep climbs.
Tip: Board on weekends and holidays (Apr–Sep) for priority seating. Call staff on arrival if you have tired kids.
La Loggetta Kids Menu:
Enjoy mini panini, organic fruit pouches and soft drinks at the mid-garden café-bar.
Tip: Order adults’ coffee (€3 each) and kids’ plates (€4 each) to keep everyone fueled before more exploring.
Temporary Art Exhibition:
Visit the current show to mix garden fun with art. Children under 17 enter free.
Tip: Check dates online. Aim for a weekday morning to avoid lines at the exhibition entrance.
How to Make the Most of Your Visit to Bardini Garden
- Start Lower: Enter from the bottom gate and do the fountain challenge first to build excitement.
- Use Shuttle Strategically: Take the shuttle back up after picnic time to avoid tired little legs.
- Download Map: Grab the free garden map at the ticket office to plan stops and restroom breaks.
Reviews of Bardini Garden
Biren Patel
Not worth the $10 entry fee specially in Sept (with nothing blooming really). The map annotations do not have corresponding markings in the garden. Hard to navigate.
Patrick Villacorta
May 2025. (This is a review for Giardino Bardini. For some reason it's Google maps entry is gone.) Unfortunately we missed the Wisteria bloom by a couple of weeks. It's still a nice place to visit though with great views of the Florence skyline.
Explore with Kathy
I didn’t visit the villa but only the garden. It offers good views of Florence from the terrace, and not overly too crowded. It has a cafe you can sit down to have light refreshments or drinks while appreciating the view.
Dhanu Gunawardane
Nestled on the south bank of the Arno River, Villa Bardini Gardens is a hidden gem that offers one of the most spectacular experiences in Florence. During my recent visit, I was completely enchanted by this magnificent estate that combines Italian garden design, breathtaking panoramic views, and tranquil ambiance away from the tourist crowds. The gardens cascade down a hillside offering multiple ...
Tia Hockensmith
A beautiful place to spend the morning. Nice long walk. Winding paths uphill, but not too challenging. Incredible views from several locations. Lovely cafe with stunning view at the top!
When is the best time to visit Bardini Garden (Florence, Italy)?
In spring (Apr–May) see the wisteria bloom. Use the free shuttle service Apr–Sep. In summer bring hats and refill water at drinking fountains. In autumn enjoy fall foliage and cooler temperatures.
Explore These Activities
Typical Budget for a Family of 4 (2 Adults + 2 Kids)
| Item | Cost (Approx.) |
|---|---|
| Adult garden tickets (2×€10) | EUR 20 |
| Child ticket (age 6–17) | EUR 2 |
| La Loggetta snacks and drinks | EUR 18 |
| Souvenir or small snack | EUR 10 |
| Total Estimated | EUR 50 |
Note: All prices are indicative and may vary. Please check directly with the venue for the most accurate and up-to-date information.
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Map of Bardini Garden
Address: Costa S. Giorgio, 2, 50125 Firenze FI, Italy
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