Florence needs no introduction; it’s an open-air museum, the cradle of the Renaissance, a city with a thousand secrets revealed around every corner. But there’s even more to this magnificent city than its art, sculptures and frescoed palaces. Florence is also alive with notes, improvisations and groove.
And every year, at the beginning of September, the Firenze Jazz Festival, a grand event held across multiple venues and now in its ninth year, shows how in the heart of Tuscany there’s room for a vibrant, innovative and engaging music scene.
Dates, locations, tickets: the key info
The 2026 edition of the festival will be taking place from 5 to 13 September at the Anfiteatro delle Cascine, surrounded by the greenery of the city’s most popular park. Over these days, international artists and jazz legends will take to the stage.
‘Early bird’ Main Stage festival passes are available online at €24 (instead of €40 if purchased later), and include priority entry as well as, for a final toast, a complimentary glass of wine or soft drink courtesy of the Consorzio Chianti Rufina. The daily playlist and single tickets are available from the festival’s official website (under “buy now”).
A kaleidoscope of music and vibes
Firenze Jazz Festival is not just about the Main Stage: it’s a musical journey across the city’s iconic spots, an experience merging the past and the present. Some of the most attractive locations are:
- Villa Strozzi: Built in the 16th century, this villa has an imposing Renaissance-style façade and overlooks a large garden. Over the years, Villa Strozzi has been used for various purposes, including as a stately home, a convent and the headquarters of cultural institutions. Today, Villa Strozzi hosts exhibitions, events and cultural activities, making a valuable contribution to the city’s vibrant artistic and cultural scene.
- Villa Bardini: dating back to the first half of the 17th century, it blends in gracefully with the green of its gardens, adorned with sculptures. This charming location, with its hilltop position offering wonderful views of the city, not only hosts some of the festival’s activities but has in the past hosted major fashion events, including shows by prestigious houses such as Prada and Gucci.
- Forte Belvedere: As well as being one of the best viewpoints in the city, this fort is an exceptional piece of architecture created at the end of the 16th century by Bernardo Buontalenti at the request of Ferdinand I de’ Medici. It forms the last section of the Vasari Corridor, created to link the Palazzo Vecchio to the Palazzo Pitti and the Boboli Gardens through a series of passageways, bridges and gardens.
- There are also some great events taking place outside of the city’s historical centre, such as concerts in the Parco Mediceo di Pratolino, in Empoli, and even concerts at the hu Firenze Certosa camping in town campsite. A combination of great names, original acts, the fusion of artistic influences: from klezmer to funk, from electronica to Salento folk, to avant-garde jazz.
Highlights of the 2026 edition
The festival brings together professional jazz artists, as well as those venturing into this language for the first time: events for enthusiasts and for newcomers offer authentic experiences that are never ordinary.
Florence: the complete cultural destination
By bringing music into the parks, historical villas and less familiar locations, the festival demonstrates how Florence is not just about visual art and ancient architecture; it’s a living, breathing city, bursting with culture in all its forms. As artistic director Francesco Astore says, the people of Florence play an active and enthusiastic role: the Firenze Jazz Festival has harnessed a widespread sentiment that over the years has turned into a unified group project involving over 20 partners, through which the community actively participates, with a passion. Florence loves culture; it’s in its DNA, and this aspect is also an essential ingredient of the FJF.
Useful info: how to get to the festival
- From the airport or train station: Florence is well connected. From Amerigo Vespucci Airport (Peretola), there are buses and trams that will take you to the centre in around 20 minutes; from there, all the venues are easily walkable or a short taxi or bus ride away.
- By car: there is parking on the outskirts (e.g. Cascine, Forte Belvedere), and it’s best to book in advance at weekends during the festival.
- Sustainable mobility: you can cycle to many locations (Villa Strozzi, Cascine) or take the bus: an enjoyable and eco-friendly option.
Tickets and passes
- Early bird Main Stage Pass: €24 (entry for the 3 days + complimentary wine/soft drink).
- Single tickets: available from the official website; prices vary according to the location and evening.
- Free events: you don’t need a ticket for the final evenings (13‑15 September); just turn up and enjoy the music.
Why Volotea loves Florence around these dates
Volotea brings to Florence visitors who love art, history and… playlists never heard before. The Firenze Jazz Festival is the perfect occasion not only to return to the “cradle of the Renaissance”, but to explore its more modern and surprising side. Imagine a long weekend, visiting the Cathedral, the Uffizi, Boboli and a jazz performance in the Lemon House or surrounded by greenery, sipping on a glass of Chianti. A multi-sensory, cultural and musical experience, to be enjoyed with friends or alone: dipping into the past, with your eyes and ears on the future.
Some handy tips
- Book your Main Stage Pass soon: the early bird price is a real bargain and guarantees the most exclusive entry, including a complimentary drink.
- Map out the notes: combine concerts with cultural visits (e.g. Museo Bardini + acoustic concert, Belvedere + jazz at sunset).
- Head towards the free events in Piazza del Carmine: magical moments accessible to all, including the evening of electronica with Coca Puma, Bassolino and Planet Funk.
- Go for the camping option for an immersive experience with live music and convenient shuttle buses during the Main Stage dates.
The Firenze Jazz Festival 2026 is not only one of Italy’s main jazz festivals – it’s an invitation to enjoy Florence through music, with a fusion of artistic influences, wonderful nights and beautiful venues. The perfect backdrop against which Volotea passengers can experience unforgettable moments, of art, history and, of course, amazing vibes.
Visit the festival’s official website, choose your flight and… be surprised by the less familiar side of Florence, the one that sounds different, modern and vibrant. See you next time; we’re leaving you on a high note!
Have a great trip and… enjoy the music!
