One-oar Surfing on the Arno River from Florence

If you’re looking for a different way to see Florence beyond the usual walking tours or classic sightseeing buses, this One-oar Surfing on the Arno River might just surprise you. While it’s not exactly surfing in the traditional sense, paddling along the river on a wide, stable board offers a peaceful and intimate perspective of the city’s most famous sights.

What we really love about this experience is how accessible it feels—you’re on a large, safe board with a professional guide leading the way, making it suitable for almost everyone. Plus, gliding past the Uffizi Gallery, Ponte Vecchio, and the Palazzo Spini Ferroni offers a sense of connection to Florence’s history that’s hard to beat from the land.

That said, it’s important to keep your expectations realistic: this isn’t an adrenaline rush or a workout, but rather a calm, scenic cruise on water. If you’re a fan of gentle, leisurely activities or want a peaceful break from the crowded streets, this tour really hits the spot.

Overall, I’d say this experience suits travelers who enjoy relaxing, scenic outings, and are open to trying something slightly unconventional. It’s particularly appealing if you appreciate art, architecture, and the idea of combining nature with cultural sights.

Key Points

• Gentle & Accessible: Suitable for everyone, even those not into sports or surfing.
• Historical & Scenic Views: Pass under Florence’s famous bridges and see landmarks from a unique water-level perspective.
• Peaceful & Relaxing: The calm of the Arno makes for a tranquil experience.
• Professional Guidance: An enthusiastic guide ensures safety and shares interesting tidbits.
• Comfortable Equipment: You paddle on a large, stable board with no real risk of falling.
• Affordable & Value-Adding: For $179, you get a two-hour scenic tour that combines art, history, and nature.

This tour is designed to be accessible and easygoing, making it perfect for those who want a relaxed adventure rather than a physically demanding activity. After meeting at Piazza Giuseppe Poggi, you’ll be introduced to your guide, who will give you brief instructions and tips for paddling. The equipment provided is a large, wide board—think of it as a floating platform—so you don’t need to worry about balancing or falling in, even if you’re new to paddleboarding.

Once underway, your guide, Tomasso in the one review, takes a friendly, enthusiastic approach, pointing out major landmarks along the river. As you glide along the Arno, you’ll pass notable sights like the Uffizi Gallery, which you’ll see from a fresh angle, and the grand palaces that line the Lungarno, the riverbank streets once home to Florence’s noble families.

One of the most memorable sights is passing under Ponte Vecchio. It’s the only bridge that wasn’t destroyed during WWII, and floating beneath it gives you a real sense of stepping back into the days of the Renaissance. Passing under Ponte di Santa Trinita, rebuilt in the 1940s, feels like touching history with your fingertips.

Throughout the tour, you’ll be able to enjoy the serenity of the river and the beauty of Florence from a vantage point that’s both intimate and unique. The water is calm, and the guide’s supervision ensures a safe environment. The experience lasts about two hours, giving you plenty of time to soak in the sights without feeling rushed.

What You’ll See Along the Way

• The Uffizi Gallery: From the water, the famous façade looks even more impressive, framed by the bridges and the river.
• Palaces of Florence’s Elite: These historic homes along the Lungarno come to life when viewed from the river, showing their grandeur and architectural details.
• Ponte Vecchio: Passing under this medieval bridge is a highlight, especially knowing it was spared during turbulent times.
• Ponte di Santa Trinita: Rebuilt in 1946, it maintains its original 16th-century charm.
• Palazzo Spini Ferroni: Home of the Ferragamo fashion house, this building adds a touch of modern elegance to the historic panorama.

Practical Details and Tips

• The meeting point is at Piazza Giuseppe Poggi, a convenient location near public transportation.
• The entire activity wraps back at the starting point, making logistics simple.
• Dress comfortably, similar to what you’d wear for jogging or casual shopping—think breathable, easy layers.
• The tour is limited to a maximum of 15 travelers, ensuring personalized attention and a relaxed atmosphere.
• Price is $179 per person, which includes safety equipment and guidance. For many, it’s a fair price considering the unique experience of seeing Florence from the river.

What the Reviewers Say

From the single review available, the feedback is glowing. The guide, Tomasso, was noted as “very enthusiastic,” and his commentary about the landmarks added a lot of value. The reviewer even mentions feeling “attended to” and enjoying the views from this unusual perspective.

This personal touch highlights how the guide’s enthusiasm and knowledge can really enhance the experience, making it more than just paddling along a river.

Who Should Consider This Tour?

This activity is ideal for travelers who enjoy low-key, scenic experiences. If you’re curious about Florence’s sights but prefer a relaxed pace, it’s a good fit. It also works well if you’re traveling with friends or a partner who might not be into more strenuous activities, but still wants a memorable outing.

However, if you’re looking for an adrenaline-filled adventure, this might not satisfy that craving. It’s also worth noting that the tour is better suited to those comfortable with water and standing on a paddleboard, even if the risk of falling is minimal.

This One-oar Surfing on the Arno River offers a charming way to see Florence from a different angle. It blends art, history, and nature into a peaceful two-hour experience, making it perfect for those seeking a break from busy sightseeing or wanting a more personal connection with the city.

The combination of safe, stable equipment, a knowledgeable guide, and iconic views creates an outing that’s both enjoyable and memorable. While it’s not a high-energy activity, the tranquil atmosphere and stunning scenery make it worth considering, especially if you’re after an authentic, relaxed Florentine experience.

If you’re after something that combines gentle adventure with cultural sights, this tour could be a highlight of your trip. Just remember to dress comfortably, bring your curiosity, and enjoy floating through Florence’s history on the calm waters of the Arno.

Is this activity suitable for beginners?
Yes, the large and stable board is designed to be accessible for everyone, including those new to paddleboarding. The guide ensures safety and provides clear instructions, making it suitable for all skill levels.

How long does the tour last?
The tour runs for approximately two hours, giving you plenty of time to enjoy the sights at a relaxed pace.

What should I wear?
Dress comfortably, similar to casual jogging or shopping attire—light layers and breathable clothing work well. No special gear is needed beyond what’s provided.

What sights will I see during the tour?
You’ll see major landmarks like the Uffizi Gallery, the palaces along the Lungarno, and pass under notable bridges such as Ponte Vecchio and Ponte di Santa Trinita. The guide will point out details and share some history.

Is the activity suitable for children or families?
While the tour is accessible to most, it’s best suited for those comfortable on water and standing on a paddleboard. No specific family-friendly notes are mentioned, so younger children should be considered based on their comfort with water activities.

Can I cancel if my plans change?
Yes, there’s free cancellation up to 24 hours in advance for a full refund. Cancellations less than 24 hours before the start are non-refundable.

If you’re looking for a peaceful, scenic, and engaging way to see Florence from the water, this paddleboarding tour might just be the right choice. It’s a relaxed activity that offers a fresh perspective—ideal for art lovers and those who enjoy gentle outdoor experiences.