Located within the historic Visarno Hippodrome — Florence’s main horse-racing circuit since the early 20th century — the arena blends sport, music and culture in a unique open-air setting.
If you’re planning a trip to Florence and want to experience the city through a cultural lens, begin with the Visarno Arena. Positioned on the western edge of the city, this venue combines scale with atmosphere in a way few others can. Whether attending a headline concert or an open-air festival, Visarno Arena delivers a striking setting. Staying nearby allows visitors to spend less time travelling and more time immersed in the occasion.
History and significance of the venue
The Florence Visarno Arena sits within the Visarno exhibition grounds, a collection of open-air spaces established after the Second World War. Originally built for public gatherings, it has evolved into one of Italy’s most respected outdoor event locations.
With an expansive layout and modern infrastructure, the Visarno Arena capacity accommodates 18,000 spectators (11,000 standing and 7,000 seated), making it a premier choice for large-scale performances.
Over time, it has become a fixture in Florence’s cultural life, attracting both residents and visitors seeking high-profile entertainment.
Its importance lies not only in its size but also in its versatility. While other venues can feel constrained as crowds grow, Visarno Arena remains organised and efficient, with clear access routes, distinct viewing sectors and generous amenities. Its reputation for smooth logistics has earned it a prominent place on the city’s cultural map and made it a compelling destination in its own right.
The Visarno Hippodrome was inaugurated in the early 1900s as a premier horse-racing track, becoming a social and sporting hub for Florentines. Its wide grounds and viewing stands later made it an ideal base for large cultural gatherings and live performances.
Most notable events and concerts
Although best known today for music, the Visarno Hippodrome continues to host select equestrian events and exhibitions, maintaining a link to its sporting past.
A defining part of the arena’s identity is the Firenze Rocks festival, one of Europe’s most acclaimed music events. Since its debut in 2017, it has drawn global rock icons including The Rolling Stones, Elton John, Muse, and Green Day, attracting thousands of visitors from across the world.
Outside festival season, the arena hosts a varied schedule that ranges from global pop tours to orchestral evenings. Its adaptable structure allows for multiple configurations, so events of different scales and styles feel at home here.
The Visarno Arena capacity ensures that the atmosphere remains vibrant, while hospitality areas and reserved seating provide comfort for guests seeking a more refined experience.
This balance between spectacle and sophistication has made Visarno Arena a cornerstone of Florence’s modern cultural scene.
How to get there and available services
Located beside the historic Hippodrome and just two kilometres from Florence’s Santa Maria Novella station, Visarno Arena is well connected by tram, bus, car, and bicycle.
Cycling from the station takes around fifteen minutes, following the pleasant route from Piazza Goldoni along Lungarno Vespucci before entering the park.
For public transport, Tram Line 2 runs directly from the station to San Donato (Università), while Line 1 stops at Cascine (Carlo Monni) — both within a short five-minute walk of the venue.
Alternatively, ATAF bus line 17 towards Le Cascine reaches the arena in about fifteen minutes from the city centre.
Standard tram and bus tickets cost €1.50 and can be purchased at ticket machines or authorised vendors.
Services:
Upon arrival, visitors will find the arena’s services well structured and efficient. Entrances are clearly signposted, with separate access points for VIP and general admission. Food stalls, beverage outlets, and rest facilities are available throughout the grounds.
The venue complies with modern accessibility standards, offering ramps, designated viewing areas, and adapted toilets for guests with mobility needs. Security procedures are streamlined, and arriving early helps ensure a smooth start to your event experience.
Things to do near the arena
Although the main attraction is the event itself, the surrounding area offers an appealing mix of recreation and relaxation. Visarno Arena sits within the Parco delle Cascine, Florence’s largest green space. The park’s tree-lined paths and riverside walkways provide a pleasant contrast to the intensity of a concert setting, ideal for a morning jog or a quiet stroll before the show.
Beyond the park, the nearby Novoli district introduces visitors to a more contemporary side of Florence. It’s an area known for cafés, bars, and informal trattorias where locals gather after work.
Staying close to the venue also means you remain within easy reach of the city’s main attractions. The Duomo, Uffizi Gallery and Ponte Vecchio are a short tram ride away, making it simple to blend cultural exploration with entertainment.
This connection between the modern and the historic gives the area a rhythm of its own — energetic during events, yet relaxed once the lights go down.
Tips for making the most of your visit
Preparation enhances the experience at Visarno Arena. Tickets for large events often sell quickly, so booking in advance is essential. Check official event pages for details about entry times, security restrictions, and on-site dining options.
When choosing accommodation, prioritise locations with reliable public transport links or access to tram routes serving the venue. On event days, set out early to avoid congestion, especially if travelling from the city centre.
Comfort is key at open-air venues. Dress for the weather and consider light layers for evening performances. Small details like these make a noticeable difference, allowing you to focus on the performance itself rather than logistics.
Experience Visarno Arena
Visarno Arena represents a side of Florence that extends beyond its galleries and churches. Here, contemporary culture thrives in an open-air setting that reflects the city’s ongoing creativity. For visitors, it’s an opportunity to witness Florence at its most alive.
Making the most of this experience means more than securing tickets — it means finding accommodation that places you at the heart of the action. For those planning a stay, Dimora Italia offers distinguished accommodation throughout central Florence. Choose from historic residences with period detailing or modern apartments close to transport routes. Each property combines comfort with authenticity, ensuring your visit feels seamless from start to finish.
After all, your experience of Visarno Arena deserves a base that matches its calibre.
