Visit this neighbourhood brimming with museums, historical villas and beautiful gardens, perfect for relaxing away from the busy city centre.

North of central Florence, find Rifredi, a large neighbourhood filled with fascinating attractions. Notice beautiful villas with gardens, including the UNESCO World Heritage Site, Medici Villa di Careggi. Tour museums, such as the Museo Stibbert. The neighbourhood is perfect for evenings out in various entertainment venues.

Study the collections of Frederick Stibbert, a 19th-century Englishman who dreamed about turning his house into a museum. He was successful. Today his collections of arms and armour, costumes, ceramics and more are displayed as the Museo Stibbert. See the adjoining garden, Giardino del Museo Stibbert, as well.

Walk through the fabulous gardens of Parco di Villa Fabbricotti amid the large collection of old trees, as well as a private chapel and many statues. Enter the 16th-century villa with its well-known grand staircase. Bring a picnic to Giardino Baden Powell, which has many picnic tables as well as a children’s play area.

The Medici Villa di Careggi was once headquarters for the Platonic Academy, a gathering place for Renaissance artists, writers and philosophers. Wander past its frescoed walls and admire its neatly designed garden of fruit trees and flowers. Look for many university buildings, including the Italian campus of New York University, which showcases five villas, olive groves and gardens.

While exploring the neighbourhood, stop at one of its many cafés or restaurants to enjoy a cup of coffee or some lunch. When the sun goes down, go to a show at the Teatro di Rifredi or Auditorium Flog.

Walk to most of the sights of Rifredi within 30 minutes from the neighbourhood centre. There is also a regular bus service in Florence that can bring you near most of the destinations. You can also get the train to Stazione Firenze Rifredi on the western side of the neighbourhood.

When the centre of Florence is busy, head to Rifredi and enjoy the less crowded but equally beautiful attractions.