Private tour in Florence Catherine G

The Gardens of Florence

5.0

(3) reviews

-
Hours icon 3 hours 30 minutes
Walking
Private tour for 1-6 people
Your party size

1

Tour date
View our cancellation policiesUpgrade for total flexibility with Any Reason Cancellation
Book with a depositSecure your tour today and pay your balance later
-
Hours icon 3 hours 30 minutes
Walking
Private tour for 1-6 people
Your party size

1

View our cancellation policiesUpgrade for total flexibility with Any Reason Cancellation
Book with a depositSecure your tour today and pay your balance later

Catherine G.

5.0

Guide rating

105

Reviews

Tours delivered

4 hrs

Avg. response time

Hello there! I've been living in Florence for over 35 years. Originally from the U.K , I decided to move to Florence to study and to make it my home for a while. I loved it so much that I just couldn't leave! There was so much going on here for me and I ended up after I'd finished my studies in art history and restoration, setting up a business. Buying, restoring and selling antiques. I've always had a passion for art and history and in Florence and Tuscany, there is so much of this and more! I have a background in theatre and music. I play the cello in an amateur orchestra here in the city. I married a Florentine and I have two grown up children. I spent many years living in a farmhouse on a hilltop surrounded by olive groves and vineyards but recently we moved back into the city. I use a bicycle to get around. I trained to be a guide 11 years ago because I wanted to be able to transmit all that I'd learned to others and I want to give every visitor a marvellous and unique experience. I love what I do! I am great with children and sensitive to people's needs. Let me lead you through the streets following in the steps of some of the world's greatest artists. Listen to fascinating tales from history. Understand about Italian culture and ideals. Taste authentic Florentine dishes and wines and soak up the culture. Walk with me off the beaten path and into the trendy Oltrarno neighborhood where restorers and artisans are still at work. Shop where the locals' shop. Join me on day trips into the countryside for wine tasting and delicious food. My tours are customised and can be adapted to suit your schedule. Don't hesitate in contacting me for more information on any of my tours. Thank you! I really look forward to meeting you soon in Florence. Registered licensed tour guide Diploma in art restoration Diploma in history of art Diploma in Italian business studies. I am not a driver but I can arrange for a private car with a fluent english speaking driver.

Have a question or want to customize this tour? Message Catherine G.

Overview of your Florence tour

Discover two magnificent 16th and 19th century gardens which overlook the magnificent city of Florence. History is brought to life as you walk along architectual pathways in the footsteps of the great Medici dukes. We will begin from the Arno river and walk to the Bardini Villa and through the gardens. The views of the city are spectacular from this 19th century garden. Built on a hillside, the park boasts a wide variety of species: hydrangea, azeleas, camellia, viburnum and citrus fruits, just to mention a few. From here we'll enter the Medici fortress, Belvedere built in 1590. Designed to protect the Medici Palace, and the city, Forte Belvedere is known for its contemporary art exhibitions and breathtaking views. The 16th century Boboli gardens(our next destinaton) is connected to the fortress. Fountains, monuments, statues and shady avenues framed by box wood shrubs and artificial grottos. This garden is a typical example of High Renaissance and Baroque landscaping. We'll finish with a great gelato.

Recent Reviews

Sharon H.United States
May 2026

Catherine listened to my goals and created the perfect day. Not only was the itinerary perfect, but flexible based on my somewhat stiff, post-surgical ankle. I achieved all I'd hoped for and more. She even gave me ideas I pursued later in the week but would not have known about. The day was comfortable, relaxed, informative, and productive. Thank you, Catherine, for both your expertise and your friendly, supportive style.

Barbara W.United States
March 2025

Absolutely wonderful tour and Catherine is a great guide. My husband and I were traveling with 2 grandsons, ages 11 and 12. We could not climb the dome so Catherine climbed with the boys without us. And, she took fabulous photos of the boys during the climb, at the top, and during the walk back down. What a treat for the boys (and us). After they climbed the dome, we went to the Duomo Museum. Catherine made the pieces in the Museum come alive for all of us.

Claudia N.United States
September 2019

This was a fantastic tour away from the crowds. The gardens were amazing and provided a nice break from visiting churches and museums. Catherine was insightful and provided a lot of information and context. One member of our group had knee issues and Catherine was careful to walk slowly and let us take a coffee break in the middle of the tour.

Your Florence tour itinerary

- From the Ponte Vecchio bridge, we'll walk to the Villa Bardini, this will take approx 6 minutes. - Villa Bardini and Gardens. - Forte Belvedere (Medici Fortress), photoshoot and refreshments. - The Medici Gardens (Boboli gardens). - Pitti Palace courtyard and Square. If you have any special interests, just ask me for a quote!

Want to customize this tour?

Tell your guide which places matter to you, skip what doesn't, and tailor the experience for your group's needs. Not finding what you want? Message your guide to build something unique.

Transport details
Type: Walking

Walking

What's included
Private Guide
Equipment: Headsets for groups of 6 & more
What's not included
Public Transportation
Food Drinks Snacks
Tickets: Tickets can be purchased at the gardens
Private Transportation
Tastings
Private Transportation With Driver
Classes Workshop
Accommodation
Services
Meeting location

Florence, Tuscany, Italy

Airport: ,Cruise: ,ByGuide:

  • You can request a specific meeting location (for example, your hotel) during the checkout.
Other details
Tour categories
City Highlights
Nature Wildlife And Safaris
Tour reference number
439106
Languages
English
Italian
Activity level
Light
Accessibility
Kid Friendly
Wheelchair Accessible

Traveller reviews

5.0

FAQs

Who is this private tour in Florence best suited for?

This private tour in Florence is perfect for travellers who are interested in exploring historical gardens and learning about the rich history of the Medici family. It's also ideal for those who enjoy walking tours and want to experience breathtaking views of Florence from unique vantage points. The tour is kid-friendly and wheelchair accessible, making it suitable for families and travellers with mobility concerns.

What should I bring or wear?

Can this private tour in Florence be customized to focus on what I want to see and skip places I've already visited?

How long is the tour, and can the start time or duration be adjusted?

Where does the tour start and end?

How much walking is involved, and is it suitable for kids, seniors, or travellers with mobility concerns?

What languages is this tour offered in?

What's included in this private tour, and what should I budget for separately?

Is this a private tour? What is the maximum group size and the starting price?

AI-generated. Please confirm details with your guide

-
Hours icon 3 hours 30 minutes
Walking
Private tour for 1-6 people
Your party size

1

Tour date
View our cancellation policiesUpgrade for total flexibility with Any Reason Cancellation
Book with a depositSecure your tour today and pay your balance later
-
Hours icon 3 hours 30 minutes
Walking
Private tour for 1-6 people
Your party size

1

Tour date
View our cancellation policiesUpgrade for total flexibility with Any Reason Cancellation
Book with a depositSecure your tour today and pay your balance later
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