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Villa Bardini Gardens

Since its reopening in 2005 following 50 years of neglect, the 10-acre Gardens of the Villa Bardini in the Oltrarno have become a favorite with Florentines seeking a moment's repose in the heart of the city. Highlights include a sweeping baroque stairway and an “English woods” planted with native trees (oak, cypress, butcher's broom). The 17th-century Villa Bardini itself opened to the public in 2007 with a museum of revolving exhibits from the 400-costume archive of Roman fashion designer Roberto Capucci (Museo della Fondazione Roberto Capucci; Villa Bardini, 2 Costa San Giorgio; 011-39-055-2006-6209; www.fondazionerobertocapucci.com; admission $7.35). There's also a restaurant with a separate entrance (at 6a Costa San Giorgio).