Florence Pools Post-Lockdown, Summer 2020

For pool scene during summer 2020, the most obvious new rule to comply with, will of course be the continuation of social distancing, in all facilities at all times. In swimming pools, guests will be asked to keep a distance of at least one meter – 3.2 ft. (except for members of the same household). A distance of at least a meter-and-a-half (5 ft.) will have to be observed by those using deckchairs, while chairs and equipment around swimming pools are to be disinfected after use by each customer.

Disinfectant gels will also be made readily available and using them will be encouraged, while thermal scanners may also be used to measure the body temperature of guests, with data recorded and stored for 14 days.

The following is a guide to Florence’s public pools post-lockdown.

Costoli

Piazza Enrico Berlinguer, 2. Open Mon: 2 to 6 pm; Tues, Wed, Thurs, Fri: 10 am to 6 pm; Sat, Sun: 10 am to 7 pm. Adult tickets: €8 (€9 on holidays). Reduced tickets: €5.50 (€6 on holidays). Afternoon tickets (from 3 pm onwards): €5. 10-entrance pass: €60. Sun bed rental: €3.

The Costoli swimming complex has reopened to the public for swimming in compliance with all safety provisions and is also accessible via public transportation by taking bus 10, stop Piscina Costoli 01 or Bus 6, stop Lungarno L’Affrico. Characterized by crystal blue water, the Costoli facility has three pools: an Olympic sized pool, one for diving and a shallow pool for children. There is open space for tanning and socially-distanced games. Outside food and drink is allowed off the pool deck. The pools are spacious and are not overly crowded even on the busiest days. Access can be gained through the free online booking and any entrances without reservation will only be possible if any places are left.  Admission is paid directly at the pool, and valid photo ID is required. A swim cap is also a must, which can also be purchased at the entrance for €2.  Personnel at the ticket office leave an hour before closing times.

Le Pavoniere

Viale della Catena, 2, Cascine Park. Open Mon-Fri: 9:30 am – 7:30 pm. Sat, Sun, holidays: 9 am – 7:30 pm. Free swimming from Mon-Fri 8:30 – 9:30 am or 7:30 – 8:30 pm. Depending on the time and hour, prices vary from €6 and 11. Children up to 3 years old and the disabled have free entry. A monthly subscription including Uisp card is €60. There is a new aqua fitness class from Mon, Wed, Fri from 1:15 – 2 pm and 7:35  – 8:35 pm for €3.

A multifaceted venue among the trees of the Cascine Park, the Le Pavoniere is open every day for the summer. A mask is mandatory in closed spaces as well as the sanitization of hands at the entrance of the facility and frequently while there.  A form must also be filled out so that Le Pavoniere can keep a list of guests for 14 days to comply with current safety regulations. A shower is required before entering the pool. It is forbidden to move the sun beds from their positions to ensure the distance is kept. The changing rooms are also not usable at this time so arrive wearing your swimsuit under your clothing. A swim cap is also mandatory. While not mandatory, online reservations are recommended and accepted up to midnight the previous day.  Book your ticket here.

Bellariva

Lungarno Aldo Moro, 6.  Open Mon-Fri: 10 am to 6 pm; Sat., Sun: 9:30 am to 7 pm. Booking is required by calling 055-626-6007. Adult tickets: €7 (€8 on Sat. & holidays). reduced tickets: €5 (€6 on Sat. & holidays), afternoon tickets (from 3 pm onwards): €4.50 (€5 on Sat & holidays), 10-entrance pass: €60. Sun bed rental: €3.

Also reachable by taking bus #14, this pool complex is off of the highway SS67 which has a sidewalk to walk on to reach the entrance. The facility comprising a big lawn and two pools; one is Olympic-sized and the other is designed for children. A shower is mandatory before swimming, so be prepared to use the open team style showers.  Bellariva is a good option for those familiar with Italian but could be a task for solo travelers. A swim cap is required for entry and you must book a place before going by calling 055-626-6007.

Piscina Poggetto-Flog

Via Michele Mercanti 24. Open Mon-Sun: 10 am to 2:30 pm. Full tickets: €8 (€10 on Sat, Sun & holidays), reduced tickets: €6 for students up to 26 years & seniors over 65, children from 3 to 12 years (€8 on Sat, Sun & holidays). Afternoon tickets (from 2:50 pm onwards): €6 (€10 on Sat & holidays). Reduced afternoon tickets: €5 (€8 on Sat, Sun & holidays). 10-entrance pass: €65 (€75 on Sat, Sun & holidays). Reduced 10-entrance pass: €50 (€60 on Sat, Sun & holidays). Weekday relax pass: €45. Children up to 3 years old have free admission. Sun bed rental: €4. Lounger: €3. Deckchair: €2. Headset €3.

Right along the #20 bus route, the street address is actually its entrance. There is a smaller pool with a single all-purpose pool with classic shallow and deep ends and has a relaxed environment. The spacing and safety measures means there is a reduced number of people allowed in the pool at the same time; 35 people is the maximum allowed at one time. Beds have fixed positions and cannot be moved by users. The beds will be sanitized from time to time and towels cannot be placed on chairs. A photo ID is not necessary but must be shown to receive a student discount.  (lauren polanski)