SUP at Ponte Vecchio with a Floating Drink – Florence Paddleboarding

Discover Florence from the Water with Paddleboarding and a Floating Drink

A stand-up paddleboarding adventure in Florence offers a fresh perspective on this iconic city. For $139.33 per person, this 2-hour tour guides you along the calm waters of the Arno River, providing a unique way to see landmarks like the Ponte Vecchio, Uffizi Gallery, and Palazzo Corsini. The tour is suitable for all skill levels, with no prior paddleboarding experience required, making it especially appealing for families or groups seeking a relaxed outdoor activity. The guides are professional and friendly, ensuring a safe and enjoyable experience even for first-timers.

What makes this tour stand out is the combination of leisurely paddling, beautiful city views, and the opportunity to enjoy a floating glass of Chianti wine. It’s also flexible, with options to paddle during daytime, sunset, or at night under the stars—the latter available by request during June and July. The tour starts from Piazza Giuseppe Poggi and includes a mobile ticket for convenience. With a perfect rating of 5.0 from 32 reviews, this activity clearly resonates as a fun, scenic, and memorable way to experience Florence away from the crowds.

Key Points

• Price: $139.33 per person for a 2-hour paddleboarding tour
• Location: Starts at Piazza Giuseppe Poggi in Florence, Italy
• No experience needed: Suitable for beginners, family-friendly
• Highlights: Glide beneath Ponte Vecchio, pass the Uffizi, and enjoy city views from the river
• Special feature: Float a glass of Chianti wine while paddling
• Timing: Options for daytime, sunset, or starry night tours (June and July)

Florence’s Historic Landmarks from the Water

This paddleboarding tour provides an entirely new way to see Florence’s most famous sights. As you cruise along the Arno River, the guide leads you beneath historic medieval bridges such as the Ponte Vecchio and Ponte Santa Trinita, offering stunning perspectives that are hard to get from land. Along the way, you pass by key sites like the Uffizi Gallery, the Vasari Corridor, and the Palazzo Corsini, all visible from the calm river waters.

The tour emphasizes a leisurely pace, giving ample time to take in the city’s beauty while gentle paddling keeps the activity accessible for everyone. The expert guides explain the history and significance of each landmark, enriching the experience beyond mere sightseeing. The calm Arno waters make for an easy paddle—no advanced skills needed—so even complete beginners can enjoy this relaxing trip.

Learning Basic Paddling and Steering Techniques

Prior to setting out on the river, guides teach the fundamentals of paddling and steering. These quick lessons ensure that even those new to stand-up paddleboarding feel confident on the water. The professional staff are known for their friendly approach, making sure everyone is comfortable before heading out.

Throughout the activity, the guides stay close, offering assistance and tips to improve technique. This focus on safety and fun creates a relaxed environment, where participants can concentrate on enjoying the beautiful scenery instead of worrying about their balance or direction. The group size is limited to 12 travelers, which helps maintain a personal and attentive atmosphere.

The Floating Drink and Sunset Views

One of the most memorable parts of this tour is the floating glass of Chianti wine. During the paddle, a break is provided where you can sip this local wine by the riverside, soaking in the peaceful ambiance of Florence at sunset. This special touch adds a romantic and leisurely element to the experience.

In the evening, the city lights begin to glow, reflecting off the water as you continue paddling beneath illuminated bridges and landmarks. The quietness of the river combined with the soft light creates a magical atmosphere, perfect for unwinding or capturing stunning photos. For those interested in a more immersive experience, night tours under the stars are available upon request during the summer months, offering a truly unforgettable paddling experience.

From Daylight to Night: Different Paddling Atmospheres

The tour offers flexible timing options. During the day, you enjoy bright city views and the hustle of Florence’s streets far away from the river. The sunset paddle allows you to witness the city’s skyline as the sun dips below the horizon, while a nighttime paddle under the city lights offers a serene and luminous experience.

The day trips are perfect for those who want to combine sightseeing with outdoor activity, while the evening or night options suit those seeking a more tranquil, illuminated perspective of Florence. Each version maintains a moderate physical pace suitable for all fitness levels, though participants should have a moderate physical fitness level.

Logistics and Meeting Point Details

The activity begins at TOSCANASUP – PADDLEBOARDING IN TUSCANY, located at Piazza Giuseppe Poggi. This central Florence spot has been operating since 2012, ensuring experienced staff and reliable service. The meeting time is at 12:00 am, and the activity concludes back at the same spot, making logistics simple.

The tour includes a professional guide who leads the group, but snacks and drinks are not included, so participants might want to bring some water or small snacks. Confirmations are received within 48 hours, and the tour is subject to weather conditions—poor weather can lead to cancellations or rescheduling with full refunds. The tour is suitable for those with moderate physical fitness, and groups are capped at 12 travelers to keep the experience intimate.

Value and Customer Satisfaction

This paddleboarding tour receives a perfect rating of 5.0 from 32 reviews, with all reviews praising its fun and relaxing nature. Many highlight the knowledgeable guides, the stunning views, and excellent value for money.

Reviewers appreciate how Tommasso, the guide, makes the experience enjoyable and ensures safety, even for beginners. The combination of paddling, sightseeing, and wine is frequently mentioned as a highlight. The activity’s family-friendly approach means that participants of all ages can enjoy exploring Florence from the river in a safe, enjoyable manner.

Who Will Love This Florence Paddleboarding Tour?

This activity is perfect for outdoor lovers who want a different view of Florence. It suits those who enjoy leisurely activities and are comfortable with moderate physical exertion. Families, couples, or small groups seeking a fun, social experience will find this tour especially appealing.

Those interested in viewing Florence at sunset or under the stars will particularly enjoy the night paddling option. Since no prior paddleboarding experience is necessary, it’s accessible to most, with guides providing all needed instruction.

The Sum Up: A Unique Florence Experience on the Water

The Florence paddleboarding tour offers a relaxed, scenic, and memorable way to see the city’s most famous sights. The two-hour journey combines leisurely paddling, cultural landmarks, and the pleasure of local Chianti—all on the calm waters of the Arno River.

While it’s not a traditional sightseeing tour on foot, this activity provides stunning views, personalized guidance, and the chance to escape the crowds. It’s especially recommended for those who enjoy outdoor activities and want a peaceful yet engaging way to experience Florence from a new angle.

Frequently Asked Questions

Is paddleboarding suitable for beginners?
Yes, no prior experience is necessary. The guides teach the basics of paddling and steering before heading onto the river.

What should I bring for the tour?
Participants should bring moderate physical fitness and may want to bring water or small snacks, as these are not included.

Can I do this tour at night?
Yes, night tours under the stars are available upon request during June and July, offering a magical paddling experience.

How long does the tour last?
The tour lasts approximately 2 hours, including instruction, paddling, and breaks.

Where does the tour start and end?
It begins and ends at Piazza Giuseppe Poggi in Florence, Italy.

Is this activity family-friendly?
Absolutely, it is family-friendly, with a relaxed pace suitable for all ages and skill levels.

What is included in the price?
The tour includes a professional guide and all necessary equipment. Snacks and drinks are not included.

What happens in case of bad weather?
The activity is subject to weather conditions. If canceled due to poor weather, a full refund or alternative date is offered.

How many people are in each group?
Groups are limited to 12 travelers for a more personalized experience.

Is the experience accessible for those with limited mobility?
While the tour is suitable for most, participants should have a moderate physical fitness level.