Florence isn’t just about stunning architecture and Renaissance art—it’s also a city that lends itself beautifully to boat tours and cruises. The Arno River slices through the city, offering unique perspectives on famous sights like the Ponte Vecchio, Uffizi Gallery, and Palazzo Corsini. Whether you’re after a romantic sunset cruise, a lively musical experience, or a scenic kayak adventure, Florence’s waterways provide an authentic way to see the city from a different angle. We especially love the Florence: Arno River Cruise with a Live Concert[] for its combination of breathtaking views and live music—an unforgettable, atmospheric way to enjoy the evening.
If you prefer a laid-back tasting experience, the Panoramic Florence by Boat with Wine[] offers a private, relaxed cruise with excellent vino, while the Florence: Guided Gondola Boat Tour with a Glass of Wine[] captures the romance of Venice-style gondola riding—just right for couples. For those who want a more active adventure, kayaking or rafting cruises provide a different vantage point and some fun physical activity.
Quick Overview
Our list covers a wide range of boat tours and cruises in Florence, from electric river cruises with live concerts or aperitivos to traditional gondola rides and even rafting adventures. Whether you’re looking for a romantic evening, a family-friendly outing, or an adrenaline-filled experience, you’ll find something that matches your style and budget here.
1. Florence: Arno River Cruise with a Live Concert
Rating: 4.8/5 (2227 reviews)
Duration: 50 minutes – Check availability for starting times
Price: [See website for details]
Location: Tuscany, Italy
Set sail on the Arno River in a sleek electric boat and enjoy an activity that feels like stepping into a movie scene. The highlight here is the live concert—a violinist or singer providing a soundtrack as you glide under Florence’s iconic bridges. What makes this cruise stand out is the quality of the ambiance, with passengers praising the “beautiful atmosphere” and “smooth ride” that makes the city look even more magical from the water. The boat’s slow pace allows for plenty of time to soak in sights like the Ponte Vecchio and Uffizi, all while listening to live music that heightens the romantic vibe.
Reviewers note the professional crew and the fact that it’s a short ride—perfect if you want a taste of Florence’s waters without it taking up your whole afternoon. Many say they found it “one of the nicest parts of their trip”, describing it as an “unforgettable experience.” This tour is ideal for lovers of music, romance, or those simply looking to see Florence from a fresh perspective.
Bottom Line: A lively, romantic, and culturally rich way to enjoy Florence’s skyline, especially at sunset or twilight.
2. Florence: Arno River Cruise with Aperitivo
Rating: 4.3/5 (1130 reviews)
Duration: 50 minutes – Check availability for starting times
Price: [See website for details]
Location: Tuscany, Italy
This cruise combines scenic water views with a taste of Tuscany’s culinary delights. As you navigate under Florence’s most beautiful bridges, you’ll enjoy an aperitivo of local Tuscan products paired with white wine. The silent electric boat ensures a peaceful ride, allowing you to relax and take in sights like the Palazzo Corsini and the Uffizi, all while nibbling on delicious snacks.
Guests rave about the “tasty appetizers” and the “interesting commentary” in multiple languages, making it educational as well as enjoyable. Many reviewers describe it as “a fun way to see the city from the water”, with one calling it “peaceful and relaxing.” The tour’s intimate setting and tasty offerings make it a great option for couples or small groups interested in pairing sightseeing with wine and snacks.
Bottom Line: Perfect for those wanting a laid-back, food-and-wine-infused view of Florence from the water.
3. Florence River Cruise on a Traditional Barchetto
Rating: 4.5/5 (340 reviews)
Price: $68.50 per person
Duration: 1 hour (approx.)
Location: Florence, Italy
Imagine gliding under the Ponte Vecchio on a traditional Barchetto—one of only four still operating in Florence. This small, charming boat offers an authentic, slow-paced experience, with your guide sharing terrific insights about sights like the Uffizi and Palazzo Corsini. The tour includes live commentary and the chance to toast with Tuscan rosé or white wine while the city gently slips by.
Many reviewers mention how peaceful and “beautiful” the cruise feels, with one describing the “great views from the water” and the guide as “informative.” The intimacy of this tour makes it ideal for couples or small groups looking for a romantic or cultural outing. The only potential challenge is finding the meeting point, but once on board, it offers a memorable connection to Florence’s waterways.
Bottom Line: An authentic, relaxed experience that combines history, scenery, and local wine without the crowds.
4. Florence: Arno River Sightseeing Cruise with Commentary
Rating: 4/5 (996 reviews)
Duration: 50 minutes – Check availability for starting times
Price: [See website for details]
Location: Tuscany, Italy
This electric boat tour offers a relaxed way to see Florence’s most famous sights, including unexplored corners along the river. The commentary provides context about the bridges, Uffizi, and more, helping you understand what makes Florence special from a water-level perspective. The quiet electric boat means you can listen easily, and many reviewers appreciate the “informative” narration.
Some mention the commentary could be better, but overall, it’s regarded as a “peaceful and scenic” ride. It’s perfect if you want a short, informative overview of Florence without the noise or fuss. It’s especially suited for first-time visitors or families wanting a low-key activity.
Bottom Line: An accessible, scenic, and informative cruise for those wanting a gentle introduction to Florence’s riverside.
5. Florence: Guided Gondola Boat Tour with a Glass of Wine
Rating: 4.5/5 (152 reviews)
Duration: 1 hour – Check availability for starting times
Price: $67.19 per person
This tour captures Venice-style romance on the Arno River, riding in a vintage Gondola-style boat. Your live guide will point out sights like the Uffizi and Ponte Santa Trinita, all while you sip chilled wine—a perfect way to unwind at sunset. The small group ensures an intimate, cozy atmosphere, and many travelers highlight how “relaxing” and “beautiful” the experience is.
Guests remember it as a “once-in-a-lifetime event,” especially romantic for couples. While it’s shorter and more intimate than larger cruises, it offers genuine charm and authentic gondola vibes. The only potential downside is availability—these tours tend to fill early.
Bottom Line: Ideal for couples seeking a romantic, wine-infused water journey with a touch of Venice in Florence.
6. Pontevecchio Bridge and City Sights Rafting Cruise
Rating: 4.6/5 (110 reviews)
Duration: 2 hours – Check availability for starting times
Price: $44.41 per person
For the adventurous, this rafting cruise combines adrenaline with sightseeing. You’ll slide down the San Niccolò slide and paddle beneath Florence’s most famous bridge, Ponte Vecchio. This is not your typical water tour—it’s active, thrilling, and offers a different perspective on Florence’s historic sites.
Reviewers talk about how “fun” and “exciting” it is, with some saying it’s a “great activity off the beaten path.” It’s best suited for those who want a physical challenge or family groups with older kids. Keep in mind the safety briefings and the need for some physical participation.
Bottom Line: A lively, active choice for travelers seeking a mix of fun and sightseeing on the Arno.
7. Pisa and Florence: Shore Excursion from La Spezia Cruise Port
Rating: 5.0/5 (32 reviews)
Duration: 9 hours (approx.)
Price: $1,173.87 per group (up to 8)
This full-day private tour is perfect for cruise travelers wanting to combine Pisa and Florence without the hassle of planning. Your private driver takes you from La Spezia to Pisa, where you can see the Leaning Tower, then on to Florence for a few hours of independent exploration. Highlights include a photo stop at Piazzale Michelangelo and a visit to Piazza Santa Croce.
Travelers love the personalized service and flexibility, with many praising the knowledgeable driver and smooth logistics. This is a great way to maximize a cruise stop, especially if you prefer private transport and tailored time in each city.
Bottom Line: An efficient, flexible option for cruise passengers eager to see Pisa’s tower and Florence’s highlights in one day.
8. Florence: Ponte Vecchio and City Sights Guided Kayak Cruise
Rating: 4.8/5 (51 reviews)
Duration: 2 hours – Check availability for starting times
Price: $55.80 per person
Explore Florence from the water in a guided kayak cruise. Paddle beneath the Ponte Vecchio and admire the Uffizi from a new angle. Many kayakers mention the “easy” and “fun” experience, with some noting it’s a refreshing alternative to walking or buses. The informative guide shares insights about the city’s landmarks, making it both active and educational.
It’s suitable for those comfortable with paddling, or willing to try. Reviewers say it’s a “great way to see Florence” without the crowds and offers a peaceful, scenic experience.
Bottom Line: Perfect for active travelers who want a hands-on, scenic adventure on Florence’s waters.
9. Panoramic Florence by Boat with Wine
Rating: 5.0/5 (6 reviews)
Duration: 1 hour (approx.)
Price: $112.93 per person
This private boat tour offers a luxurious way to sip wine while enjoying panoramic views of Florence. The tour features a vintage wooden vessel and includes stops to admire sights like the Ponte Vecchio, Uffizi, and Palazzo Corsini. Many travelers describe it as “relaxing” and the perfect “blend of scenery and indulgence.” The tour’s small group and private setting make it ideal for special occasions or intimate outings.
The experience stands out for its personalized atmosphere and scenic views, making it a great way to unwind after a busy day of sightseeing.
Bottom Line: A refined, intimate water experience with wine and stunning Florence views.
10. Livorno Private Departure Transfer: Central Florence to Cruise Port
Rating: 5.0/5 (3 reviews)
Duration: 1 hour 20 minutes to 1 hour 50 minutes (approx.)
Price: $169.98 per person
While not a tour of Florence itself, this private transfer is ideal for travelers ending their stay. It guarantees a stress-free ride directly from your Florence hotel to Livorno cruise port, with on-time service and assistance. It’s perfect for those who want comfort and peace of mind, especially if traveling with luggage or a large group.
Reviewers appreciate the timeliness and professionalism of the driver, making this a reliable choice for seamless travel.
Bottom Line: Excellent if you need a smooth, private ride from Florence to the cruise terminal.
11. Wine on Water in Florence: A Private Boat Tour with Aperitif
Rating: 5.0/5 (2 reviews)
Duration: 1 hour (approx.)
Price: $196.29 per person
This exclusive experience combines culinary delights with a scenic boat ride. You’ll glide along the Arno in a traditional rowing boat, enjoying wine, fresh tomatoes, and truffles while passing landmarks like Ponte Vecchio and Palazzo Corsini. The tour emphasizes gourmet treats and beautiful views, making it perfect for food lovers and those celebrating special occasions.
Reviewers mention it as an “excellent experience” and “highly recommended” for its unique combination of gastronomy and scenery.
Bottom Line: A luxurious, private dining experience on the water that’s perfect for special celebrations.
12. Florence Sunset Boat Cruise with Aperitivo
Rating: 4.5/5 (7 reviews)
Duration: 1 hour 15 minutes (approx.)
Price: $265.05 per person
Finish your day with this sunset cruise that combines a scenic walk through Florence’s old town with a gondola ride on the Arno. Your guide shares stories of Florence’s past as you stroll, then you board the traditional gondola for a peaceful cruise, sipping Prosecco as the city’s lights flicker on.
Reviewers highlight the “beautiful views” and the “informative stories,” making it a great choice for travelers wanting a relaxing yet culturally rich ending to their day. The intimate setting and the combination of walking and boat riding make this a special experience.
Bottom Line: Ideal for those seeking a serene, scenic, and romantic way to end their visit.
How to Choose Your Perfect Florence Water Experience
Choosing between these water-based tours depends on your interests, budget, and energy level. For romance and scenic beauty, the gondola and private boat tours are unbeatable, especially the guided gondola for its intimacy. If you prefer lively, musical settings, the Arno River Cruise with a Live Concert offers a vibrant atmosphere. For active travelers, the rafting or kayak cruises provide fun ways to see the city from a different angle with some physical activity.
Consider your budget: private tours like the Wine on Water are more expensive but offer exclusivity, while shared group cruises tend to be more affordable. Weather also matters—summer evenings and sunset cruises enhance the experience, especially with this sunset boat.
Booking early is wise, especially for popular options like the gondola or private wine tours, which fill quickly during peak seasons.
Final Thoughts
Florence’s waterways offer a wealth of memorable experiences, from lively river cruises to intimate boat rides with wine and music. The best choice depends on what kind of experience you’re after—romantic, active, cultural, or culinary. For a lively, music-filled evening, the Florence: Arno River Cruise with a Live Concert is hard to beat. If you want romance on the water, the Guided Gondola Tour or the Panoramic Florence by Boat with Wine are excellent options.
Remember to book early, especially during high season, to secure your spot on these popular tours. With so many options, you’re sure to find a water adventure that makes your Florence visit even more special.