When warm summer evenings arrive in Florence, open-air cinemas become an unmissable attraction for tourists and locals alike. These unique venues offer a blend of culture, entertainment, and the opportunity to enjoy films under the starry sky. Here is an overview of the best summer cinema initiatives, perfect for those seeking an unforgettable cinematic experience.
Description of Initiatives
Florence, with its rich history and vibrant culture, comes alive during the summer with numerous open-air cinema initiatives. These events not only allow you to watch great films but also to explore some of the city’s most charming locations.
Nuovo Cinema Universale al Conventino
After the success of previous editions, “Nuovo Cinema Universale al Conventino” returns to the charming cloister of the Conventino. This festival, organized by the Associazione Città Sostenibile, celebrates the famous Cinema Universale, which opened in the 1940s and closed in 1989. The aim is to keep the memory of this iconic place alive by offering great films from the past and more recent titles. The festival is part of the “EstateSottoCasa #5” initiatives for Estate Fiorentina 2024, providing a unique opportunity to rediscover the charm of art-house cinema in a historical setting.
Cinema Chiardiluna
Located in the heart of the Oltrarno, Cinema Chiardiluna offers a summer program from June 13th to July 30th. This open-air cinema presents a wide selection of films, from Italian classics to international hits. The big news this year is the renovated, much more comfortable seating, further enhancing the viewing experience. This cinema is perfect for those looking for an evening of great cinema in one of Florence’s most charming areas.
Chiostro di Sant’Orsola
From July 1st to September 8th, Spazio Alfieri moves to the cloister of the former convent of Sant’Orsola, a historic site in the heart of Florence. With 150 seats and a large screen, this open-air cinema offers a program that includes the best auteur films of the past season, retrospectives, and special guests. This project is part of the broader plan to redevelop the convent, which will become a museum by 2026. It is an opportunity to rediscover and enhance Florence’s cultural heritage through cinema.
Cinema in Villa Bardini
From July 9th to August 29th, the Garden of Villa Bardini hosts one of Florence’s most panoramic open-air cinemas. With a breathtaking view of the city, the program offers the best of the season and the latest summer releases. On the occasion of the exhibition hosted at Villa Bardini, Mario Martone’s documentary on Mimmo Jodice will be screened for free. Every Wednesday, admission is free for families, making this event a must for both young and old. Given the high attendance in previous years, advance ticket sales are recommended on the Villa Bardini and Cinema in Villa websites.
List of Open-Air Cinemas
- Nuovo Cinema Universale al Conventino
- Location: Conventino Cloister, Florence
- Activity Period: From June 12th
- Website: Il Conventino Caffè Letterario
- Free admission until seats are filled
- Cinema Chiardiluna
- Location: San Frediano area, Oltrarno, Florence
- Activity Period: From June 13th to July 30th
- Website: Cinema Chiardiluna
- Chiostro di Sant’Orsola
- Location: Former convent of Sant’Orsola, Florence
- Activity Period: From July 1st to September 8th
- Website: Spazio Alfieri
- Cinema in Villa Bardini
- Location: Garden of Villa Bardini, Florence
- Activity Period: From July 9th to August 29th
- Website: Villa Bardini
- To book: Booking link
Immerse yourself in the magic of Florence’s summer nights with these open-air cinemas, where the charm of the big screen blends with the enchantment of the city’s history and architecture.
