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Florence Tours

Florence is home to countless treasures: the magnificent Duomo, Michelangelo's David, and incredible...

Our tours in Florence

Best of Florence Walking Tour with David & the Duomo

Florence in a Day with David, Duomo, Uffizi & Walking Tour

Alone in the Duomo: VIP After-Hours Tour with Dome Climb & Private Terrace Access

Tuscany Day Trip from Florence with Chianti, Siena & San Gimignano

VIP David & Duomo Tour: Early Accademia Tour & Skip the Line Dome Climb with Exclusive Terrace Access

Oltrarno at Sunset: Florence Food & Wine Tour

Tastes & Traditions of Florence: Food Tour with Sant'Ambrogio Market Visit

The Chianti Experience: Small Group Half-Day Wine Tour from Florence

What to know about florence from our local guides.

Florence offers a multitude of iconic must-visit spots and hidden gems alike, guaranteeing that you’ll never be bored no matter how long you spend in this enchanting city. Here are a few of our guide team’s recommendations to get you started:

• Check Florence’s top sights off your bucket list by visiting David and the Duomo —and, if you dare, take things one step further by climbing the dome
• Delve into the countless artistic treasures housed within the Uffizi Gallery
• Explore the sprawling Pitti Palace and bask in the tranquility of the Boboli gardens
• Wander through the picturesque Oltrarno neighborhood and take part in the time-honored Italian aperitivo tradition at its lively bars
• Immerse yourself in the vibrant atmosphere of the Sant’Ambrogio Market

Florence is well-positioned within Tuscany to allow easy access to some of the most beautiful and historic corners of the region. Consider an excursion to Pisa to see the iconic Leaning Tower in person, an afternoon sipping wine in Chianti , or an all-encompassing Tuscany day trip covering some of the region's most picturesque towns.

First things first: There’s no such thing as “Italian food”—not when each of Italy’s 20 regions has its own distinct culinary traditions! And Tuscany is no different. When visiting Florence, be sure to seek out the regional delicacies that are at their best on their home turf.

If you’re visiting Italy, you probably (understandably) plan on eating all the pasta you possibly can. Here in Florence, try the local wild boar ragu served with wide, flat noodles ( pappardelle al cinghiale ) or any type of pasta graced with Tuscany’s prized local truffles.

But pasta is far from the end-all-be-all of Florentine food. Traditionally, Tuscan cuisine was characterized as cucina povera , or “food of the poor,” and many dishes that are still enjoyed today have roots in this humble gastronomic tradition. Foods like ribollita , a hearty bread and kale soup, and the famous lampredotto (tripe) sandwich were born out of efforts to reduce waste and make the most of every scrap of meat and vegetables.

Last but not least, Florence’s most famous typical food is just about as far from cucina povera as it gets: the legendary bistecca alla fiorentina , or Florentine steak. If you’re looking to splurge on an unforgettable meal while in the Tuscan capital, don’t miss it!

If you want to eat the best Florentine food at the spots real locals love, join us on one of our Florence food tours. Our Tastes & Traditions of Florence Food Tour is a fantastic daytime option featuring a visit to the Sant'Ambrogio Market. In the evening, head across the river for aperitivo and dinner on our Oltrarno at Sunset Tour . Either way, you're guaranteed a fun, relaxing, and delicious few hours.

In addition to the Accademia Gallery, home to Michelangelo’s larger-than-life David statue, and the iconic Uffizi, here are a few more can’t-miss museums in Florence:

• Palazzo Pitti, a former Medici palace-turned-cultural complex housing four museums
• Museo Nazionale del Bargello, known for its collection of Renaissance sculptures by masters including Michelangelo, Bernini, and more
• Palazzo Vecchio, the centerpiece of Piazza della Signoria, housing everything from ancient Roman ruins to Renaissance masterpieces
• The Galileo Museum, home to an unrivaled collection of scientific equipment and an excellent option for families
• Gucci Garden, a living tribute to the century-old luxury fashion house based in Florence

Florence is sure to delight no matter when you decide to visit. Each season has its benefits, and it all comes down to the kind of experience you’re looking to have.

Many international visitors flock to Italy for summer vacation, making Florence a popular draw in the warmest months of the year. While this means the city can get quite crowded (and the temperatures are no joke), there’s nothing better than enjoying an al fresco meal on a gorgeous summer evening. (And, worst case scenario, the nearest beaches are just 90 minutes away.

Spring and fall boast the best temperatures all year: pleasantly warm, but not too hot, with refreshingly crisp evenings. Winter temperatures can be quite chilly (although snow is rare)—but if you’re looking for a more budget-friendly option with fewer crowds, it’s an excellent choice.

Florence is an excellent city for families, with plenty of sights and activities that will keep even the littlest travelers entertained. A spin on the famous carousel in Piazza della Reppublica is a magical experience for all ages, and kids will love getting hands-on at the Leonardo da Vinci Interactive Museum. If you need a break from walking around (and the heat!), the Oblate Library (Biblioteca delle Oblate) offers a wonderful children’s section with kids’ books and even a small garden.

Another fantastic option for families is a kid-friendly food tour! Our Tastes & Traditions of Florence Tour is centered around the vibrant and colorful Sant’Ambrogio Market—a fun and exciting stop for little ones—and features plenty of kid-approved local tastes along the way.

Check out our popular Florence articles

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Galleria dell'Accademia di Firenze

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• The Galleria
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La galleria dell’accademia di firenze

La Galleria dell’Accademia di Firenze exhibits the largest number of Michelangelo's sculptures in the world.

Celebrates with us Michelangelo’s birthday and the anniversary of the Association of the Friends of the Galleria dell’Accademia in Florence Wednesday 6 March. Participation is reserved for members of the Association, old and new.

Valentine’s Day at the Galleria dell’Accademia di Firenze The #artinspireslove initiative continues

Pier Francesco Foschi (1502-1567) pittore fiorentino From November 28th the Galleria dell'Accademia opens the first monographic exhibition in Europe dedicated to the artist.

Restoration work begins on the façade Starting on Monday, September 4.

MICHELANGELO'S DAVID

Discover the beauty of the iconic masterpiece of the Florentine Renaissance.

Highlighted works

Odoardo Borrani

At The Galleria Dell’Accademia

1860 - 1870

Lorenzo Monaco

Annunciation and Saints

1410 - 1415

Lorenzo Bartolini

Bernardo Daddi

Painted Cross with the Virgin and St John the Evangelist

1340 - 1345

Michelangelo Buonarroti

1501 - 1504

Filippino Lippi

Descent from the Cross

1504 - 1507

Agnolo Bronzino

Deposition of Chris

1560 - 1561

Luigi Pampaloni

Young boy with dog

Giovanni dal Ponte

Coronation of the virgin with angels and four saints

Young Slave

Monument to Elisa Baciocchi

1808 - 1813

Domenico del Mela

Vertical piano, Galliano (Florence)

Giambologna

Rape of the Sabines

Portrait of Giovan Battista Niccolini

1505 - 1506

Sandro Botticelli

Virgin and Child with the Young St John the Baptist and Two Angels

Bartolomeo Cristofori

Oval spinetta

Venus and Cupid

1532 - 1533

Antonio Stradivari

Tenor viola

From Gold Ground to the Renaissance, and Mannerism to the 19th Century

Giambologna, Michelangelo, the Gipsoteca

MUSICAL INSTRUMENTS

A journey through the History of Music from the 17th to the 19th Century.

The Lorenzo Bartolini Historical Archive and the Gatti Krauss Donation

Support art

ASSOCIAZIONE DEGLI AMICI DELLA GALLERIA DELL'ACCADEMIA DI FIRENZE

For information: [email protected]

Accademia online

A choral hymn to the resilience of art

ACCADEMIA ONLINE

The David of Michelangelo

Director Cecilie Hollberg and restorer Eleonora Pucci talk about the icon of the Renaissance: the David. An evocative in-depth look at Michelangelo Buonarroti's masterpiece, between beauty and conservation.

Gipsoteca VR

A virtual tour inside the Bartolini gallery of plaster casts together with director Cecilie Hollberg. A 360 degree journey through the masterpieces of Lorenzo Bartolini and Luigi Pampaloni.

Wunderkinder - Wonder kids

The Galleria dell'Accademia di Firenze, the Stiftung Braunschweigischer Kulturbesitz foundation and the Staatsorchester Braunschweig have created an online project that aims to explore the international nature of art across the centuries.

• Exhibitions

Pier Francesco Foschi (1502-1567) pittore fiorentino

March 30, 2023

A project conceived by the Galleria dell’Accademia in Florence and the Bargello Museums in collaboration ...

October 10, 2022

After two and a half years of work, a true gem, the Gipsoteca at the ...

February 14, 2023

#ARTINSPIRESLOVE The Galleria dell'Accademia in Florence celebrates Valentine's Day with visitors with the initiative #artinspireslove

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Galleria dell'Accademia di Firenze

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Travel Home > Italy > Florence & Tuscany > Museums Tour

Florence Museums Tour: Galleria dell’Accademia & Uffizi

Officially licensed guides, private tours of italy, flexible rescheduling, museums of florence tour.

Quite simply a must for any art lover, our private guided tour of the two most famous and culturally significant museums in Florence, the Accademia Gallery and the Uffizi gallery, will introduce you to Michelangelo’s statue of David and other Renaissance Masterpieces by luminaries such as Botticelli, Leonardo Da Vinci, and Raphael amongst others.

On this four-hour tour, your private guide will discuss the legacy, importance, and magnificence of this prodigious era by exploring the works of artists such as Titian and Michelangelo, which demonstrate how Renaissance techniques changed the world of art forever. Perfect for any art lover visiting the city, this is a tour that takes in the incredible art produced by the city and its people.

You can choose to follow our private tour itinerary, or  if you have a specialist interest in any of the works or artists on display simply let us know and we can create a custom itinerary for you to focus more on the works you love.

Included In Your Florence Museums Tour:

• Visit Michelangelo’s Statue of David
• Skip the line access to the Accademia Museum
• Skip the line access to Uffizi Museum
• English speaking Art Historian & Private Guide

Private Guided Tour of The Accademia Gallery

Typically we begin our private tour experience at The Galleria dell’Accademia di Firenze, or “Gallery of the Academy of Florence”,  most famous for hosting a collection of Michelangelo’s work  including  Prisoners , which was originally intended for the tomb of Pope Julius II, and an unfinished  statue of  Saint Matthew , and of course most famous of all for being home to the world’s most celebrated statue, Michelangelo’s  David .

Visit The Statue of David

Originally located outside the Palazzo Vecchio, the original  Statue of David was moved to the Accademia Gallery in 1873  and will undoubtedly leave you in awe as you gaze upon the 5.17-meter marble statue that represents the biblical hero David.  Visiting the museum with your private guide is the ideal way to experience this true masterpiece of renaissance sculpture  in all its glory as they will be on hand to discuss the fascinating tales of Michelangelo’s life, the importance and meanings behind the statue, and of course its historical significance.

Other Works On Display To Visit With Your Private Guide

Alongside the works of Michelangelo, you may wish some time with your guide discovering some of the other collections in the Gallery of the Academy of Florence by artists such as:

• Paolo Uccello 
• Sandro Botticelli
• Andrea del Sarto
• Giambologna

Private Tour of The Uffizi Gallery

Experience some of  the most incredible works of art to be found anywhere in the world  as your private guide takes you around the installations and collections of Renaissance artwork found in the  60 halls spanning from the 12th century to the 16th  at the Uffizi Gallery.

The gallery is one of the largest and most visited in all of Italy, with just some of the priceless works on display being:

• Sandro Botticelli: Primavera, The Birth of Venus
• Michelangelo: The Holy Family (Doni Tondo)
• Leonardo da Vinci: The Annunciation, Adoration of the Magi
• Raphael: Madonna of the Goldfinch, Portrait of Leo X
• Titian: Flora, Venus of Urbino
• Caravaggio: Bacchus, Sacrifice of Isaac, Medusa
• Rembrandt: Self-portrait as a Young Man

Why Book Your Florence Museum Tour With Us?

As an official and registered private tour company, we can reserve no wait ‘ skip-the-line ’  tickets  for your visits to both museums.

Your private tour guide for this trip will be Eleonora, a Florence-born qualified art historian, and certified visual arts specialist.  Eleonora’s intricate knowledge of the arts and collections  contained in each gallery along with her passion for sharing this knowledge and enthusiasm for discussing the significance and context of the works  make her the ideal tour guide for the occasion .

A private tour of the galleries with Eleonora provides the ability for you to form a deeper understanding, connection, and appreciation for the priceless works on display. More than merely a guided tour, Eleonora will spend the time with you to construct  the world around the artworks , to reveal their  fascinating histories ,  the characters  and  legends  that surround them, and their lasting significance and impact they have had on the world.

Contact Us About The Florence Museum Tour

We have a prepared itinerary that will show you the main attractions from each gallery, however,  each of our tours is completely customizable , so if you have any questions, or have a particular interest or artist that you would like to spend more time with at the gallery on your tour  simply send us an online inquiry and we can create a complimentary custom itinerary for your tour at no extra cost .

Let us know your questions!

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Request Your Own Private Guided Florence Museums Tour

Our tours are kept to small private groups to provide the best possible experience for our clients. As such we are able to customize our itineraries to suit your interests, needs, and requirements.

To discuss this tour or any changes you would like to make simply complete the form below.

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Local Italian Tour Planners

At Italy by Luxe, our team of specialist tour planners use their intimate knowledge of local specialties, festivals, and hidden gems to customize your itinerary with exclusive events or off-the-beaten-track experiences that other providers just cannot match, alongside ensuring you enjoy Italy’s most famous and iconic monuments and attractions of course!

We love sharing our passion for Italy with our guests and can’t wait to customize any of our Italian day tours for you to ensure you enjoy an absolutely perfect vacation in Italy. Contact us using the form below and we can get started designing your complimentary itinerary today.

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Take a look at some of the example tour itineraries below for inspiration before  getting in touch with our experts to start planning your own trip!

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Uffizi Galleries

Uffizi by night.

Stories of women and power

Self-portraits on paper by 16th- and 17th-century Masters

Do you have a question?

An encounter with great Western art: an everlasting wonder

From the uffizi to the boboli gardens: a road above the city, between public and private court life: a palace for three dynasties, where nature, art, science and alchemy meet, a territory to explore, an artistic heritage to rediscover.

The greatness of the Uffizi at kid hand

Self-portraits on paper by 16th- and 17-century Masters

Divina simulacra

Wild Orchids in Boboli Gardens

On the occasion of the spring flowering, the census of wild orchids in the park of the Florentine palace goes on

Conservation

News from the Palace!

Pitti Palace furniture ready to be restored

The 16th-century bronze masterpiece depicting Silenus with Bacchus as a Child shines again

The restoration, which lasted over six months, has been the first one carried out in modern times on the statue by Jacopo del Duca, a bronze copy after an ancient marble allegedly by Lysippos

The Newsletter of the Uffizi Galleries

LEONARDO INTERACTIVE MUSEUM

Discover the unique museum in florence really interactive and with explanations in english where you can prove the wonderful machines designed by leonardo da vinci in his codes, open every day, to celebrate the museum's 20th anniversary online tickets are 50% off, don't miss the entrance 50 metres before our entrance, on the corner of via de servi and via del castellaccio, a 'da vinci museum' has been opened, which has no connection with leonardo interactive museum come to us to experience leonardo's greatest machines all in real working order, machines interactive.

Embark on a Journey to Witness the Ingenious Machines Crafted by Leonardo da Vinci

INTERACTIVE LABORATORIES

Build the Bridge, the Dome and the Polyhedrons designed by Universal Genius

STUDIES OF ANATOMY

Discover Leonardo the anatomist by admiring his drawings of the human body

“Once you have known flight, you will walk the earth looking up to the sky, for there you have been and there you will wish to return”

In addition to the museum exhibition, there are fantastic I nteractive Workshops , always active during opening hours , and in cluded in the entrance fee.

In addition, the great master’s most famous paintings are exhibited in high-resolution, backlit, life-size digital reproductions .

Finally, at the entrance to the Museum, there is a well-stocked bookshop where you can buy books on Leonardo da Vinci and the city of Florence , wooden models, interactive machines and mechanisms to assemble, souvenirs and themed gadgets.

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• Not the Official Site for Accademia - An Unofficial Guide to the Accademia Gallery

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The Accademia Gallery Museum in Florence

An unofficial guide to the galleria dell’accademia museum.

The Galleria dell’Accademia – or Accademia Gallery – in Florence, Italy , is without a doubt most famous for its sculptures by the great Renaissance artist, Michelangelo . His Prisoners (or Slaves) , his St. Matthew and, above all, the magnificent statue of David within the Tribune are what first draw most of the hundreds of thousands of visitors the museum welcomes every year.

The main halls at the Accademia also offers visitors works by great Italian artists such as Sandro Botticelli , Domenico Ghirlandaio , Pontormo, Andrea del Sarto, Allessando Allori and Orcagna , to name just a few of the painters. Many of the works of art that were commissioned by and were part of the collection of the powerful Medici family were donated to the Grand Duchy of Tuscany by the last of the Medici so that these magnificent works could be enjoyed by everyone and are part of the cultural patrimony of humankind.

The most recent section, the Museum of Musical Instruments , displays old, one-of-a-kind masterpieces by Stradivari and Bartolomeo Cristofori , inventor of the piano, also commissioned by the Medici.

Give yourself time when visiting the Accademia Gallery, a must-see while in Florence. To better plan your visit to the museum, this online informational guide offers general information on opening hours, admissions and more in the Plan Your Visit section and details on the halls, main artworks and itineraries in Explore the Museum .

If your time is limited in Florence and want to skip the long line in the busy seasons, we offer information on how and where you can buy your tickets to the Accademia as well as book a guided tour or private guide to accompany you as you discover the masterpieces of the past.

Michelangelo’s Masterpiece: the David

Without a doubt, this masterpiece of white marble sculpture is what first attracts all visitors to visit the Accademia Gallery… learn more about Michelangelo and how he created what is one of the most famous sculptures in all of the world. Read more about David »

The Bronze Effigy of Michelangelo by Daniele da Volterra

An exhibition dedicated to studying the nine bronze portraits of Michelangelo attributed to Daniele da Volterra. Until June 19th, 2022. Read more about the exhibition »

More Museums in Florence

In addition to visiting the Accademia Gallery, you will likely want to visit these other top museums in Florence!

Uffizi Gallery

Visit Florence's top museum, the Galleria degli Uffizi or Uffizi Gallery, to see some of the Renaissance's most famous masterpieces, including Sandro Botticelli's "Primavera" and...

The Medici Chapels

If you're interested in visiting Florence following a "Michelangelo" itinerary, you HAVE to visit the Medici chapels and the New Sacristy where you will find...

See all museums »

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The 6 Most Important & Absolutely Must-See Florence Museums

Sean Finelli Last Updated: December 8, 2022

Florence was the center of the Italian Renaissance and the rebirth of Europe after the fall of the Roman Empire. There is so much to do in this small village; iconic bridges, secret corridors, viewpoints, churches, Florence museums, and gardens. Not to mention one of the heartiest cuisines in Italy. This article is dedicated to the top Florence Museums.

Pro Travel Tip: Bookmark this post in your internet browser if you think you’ll want to circle back to it on your trip. Our travel blog is a virtual guidebook and saving articles can make it easier to use. Also, doing tours in Florence is the way to go. Our local guides in Florence love the city and our online reviews back that up.

Related Lists

The 6 Most Important and Influential Florence Museums

Unlike Rome, Paris or London, Florence is a small village rather than a city. That said, it is the small city that pulled Europe out of darkness; the birthplace of the Renaissance. Per capita, Florence is home to one of the greatest collections of artwork the world knows.

The artists born and trained in Florence would go on to decorate Europe at large. While this list is definitely shorter than the ones you’ll find in Paris or Rome, it is more than most could cover on their first trip to Florence.

6. Palazzo Bargello (Museo Nazionale)

I would likely recommend this museum or palazzo to someone with a longer-than-usual stay in Florence or even visiting for a second time. This is due to the collections of superior importance in Palazzo Pitti or the Uffizi Gallery. That said, if David was not in Accademia, this would rank above it. Palazzo Bargello has a wealth of artwork, mostly statues, including Donatello’s David which is without argument his masterpiece and worth the visit.

The statue is famously seen in the Medici TV Series produce by RAI , an Italian tv studio, and digested widely on Netflix. What is likely a copy of the sculpture can be seen in the courtyard of their home.

The museum was once a prison turned museum. It is a beautiful structure, as almost always in Florence, and the highlight is the inner staircase and courtyard. These works should be on your radar:

• Anghiari Battle by Giovan Francesco Rustici (sculpture of The Lost Leonardo )
• Crucifix by Michelangelo
• St. George by Donatello
• David by Donatello
• Bacchus by Michelangelo
• Bust of Coastanza Bonarelli by Gianlorenzo Bernini

Admission: 8€

Hours: 8:45 am – 13:30 pm

Address: Via del Proconsolo 4

5. Brancacci Chapel (Church of Santa Maria del Carmine)

While it is definitely not a museum, the Brancacci Chapel is one of those places you walk into and immediately understand you are somewhere important. The chapel is named after the silk merchant financially responsible for its creation, Felice Brancacci. If the chapel was located inside the Vatican Museums, it would likely see millions of visitors per year to the likes of the Sistine Chapel. It is actually referred to as the “Sistine Chapel of the Early Renaissance”. While it is not a Florence Museum it is influential, important and on the top of our list of recommendations.

While Brancacci is credited for the chapel’s existence, the artist responsible is known simply by the name Masaccio. A painter that would not be mentioned in conversation today but the likes of Michelangelo and DaVinci would have mentioned on a daily basis. Masaccio started on the chapel underneath Masolino da Panciale but eventually, the student would become the teacher, and Masaccio is credited for most of the chapel.

Why is it special? It is the first great work of art of the quattrocento (the 1400s). The chapel elaborated on a style Giotto started a hundred years prior with the Scrovegni Chapel and other works. Basically, artists started to consider the perspective of the viewer and other Earthly elements such as light coming in while painting. Something the Romans were doing as early as the 1st century AD with the Arch of Titus but was lost in time when Europe went into darkness after barbarians took over.

The Chapel shows scenes from the old testament and new testament in glorious color. Pay close attention to the faces and general energy each individual figure carries. Prior to this, figures acted as groups and in Masaccio’s work, they feel and look as individuals. You may see one figure show signs of anger next to another with signs of grief.

Admission: 4.50€

Hours: 10 am – 5 pm | Monday/Wednesday/Thursday/Friday/Saturday

Address: Piazza del Carmine 14

4. Palazzo Vecchio

Palazzo Signoria, in Piazza Signoria , is named after the government and has been the center for political gatherings for the better part of a millennia. The structure built in 1299 was ordained Palazzo Signoria prior to the name being changed to Palazzo Vecchio . Vecchio means “old” in Italian so you really can’t build a building and name it the old palace from day one.

The structure not only serves as the principal place for the civic government but is also accessible as one of Florence’s museums. Throughout the years the structure has been decorated head to two. From the frescoes in the Hall of Lilies to the Triumph of Furius Camillus. Some of the main points of interest are:

• Boy with a Fish by Verrocchio
• The Vasari Corridor by Giorgio Vasari
• Crossing the Red Sea in the Capella di Eleonora by Bronzino
• St. John in the Room of Penelope by Sandro Botticelli
• Stories of Furius Camillus by Francesco Salviati (Raphael School)
• Stanza delle Mappe Geografiche o Stanza della Guardaroba

Vasari Corridor

The Vasari Corridors are one of those areas of extreme interest. It was built by the Medici Family in 1565 to provide a safer and faster route to Palazzo Vecchio and the Uffizi (Offices at the time). This is mostly due to possible threats and scrutiny in public places. It is a really cool experience to walk through knowing the long history and the unimaginable amount of important persons that have passed through it.

Location : Piazza della Signoria

3. Pitti Palace and The Boboli Gardens

You really cannot mention Florence without mentioning the Medici. They were the most influential dynasty in Italian history and arguably the history of the World. Needless to say, they have a massive estate in Florence. The estate has been preserved and converted into one of the most iconic Florence museums.

Their estate is on the south side of the River close to but away from the action in the center. It also could be considered a strategic choice considering their power. If there were general revolt from the people of Florence they’d have a strategic advantage defending themselves. They also had their own private gate entering and leaving the walls of Florence.

The Medici did not build the estate but instead bought it from the Grand Duchy of Tuscany which is not a person but a monarchy that controlled Tuscany off and on for a few hundred years. That said, the Medici did expand and add significantly to the estate’s opulence. Today, I would describe it as a must-see attraction in Florence. This is due to its wealth of artwork and low visitor count.

The attached Boboli Gardens are also glorious and included in the admission cost to get inside the Pitti Palace.

Hours: Tuesday – Sunday 8:30 am – 6:30 pm

Admission: 16€ adults | Free for children 17 and under with passport

Address: Piazza de’ Pitti, 1

2. Michelangelo’s David in Accademia

Otherwise known as Galleria dell’Accademia di Firenze , Accademia is an art museum centered around Michelangelo and his work. Unlike the Uffizi, the gallery is centered around Michelangelo’s statue of David which is a must-see on the bucket-list for Florence.

Deservingly so, David was cut from a block of marble abandoned by more than one other sculptor whom all described it as, “Un-usable”. Michelangelo not only was able to work with it but sculpted what is arguably his masterpiece.

He famously described David as “trapped” in the marble. It is a humble way to describe sculpting. David always existed inside that block of marble and it was Michelangelo’s mission to get him out.

You can also see four unfinished statues by Michelangelo which sort of frame the corridor that leads up to David. There are also works by other artists in Accademia including Sandro Boticelli. Getting tickets can be difficult. We offer a guided tour of Florence that includes a stop into Accademia to see David and visits many of the main sites in Florence lead by a local English-speaking guide.

• Guided tours of Accademia and Michelangelo’s David
• Where is Michelangelo’s David in Florence
• Best Places to Eat Near Accademia

Admission: 8€ adult | 2€ reduced

Hours: Tuesday – Sunday 9 am – 6:45 pm

Accademia is also open from 7 pm to 10 pm Tuesday & Wednesday of October 2020

Address: Via Ricasoli, 58/60

Most Popular Florence Tours

Best-Selling Tour

Florence Walking Tour with Statue of David

Michelangelo is considered the greatest Renaissance artist and the David statue is widely known as his masterpiece. Join our English-speaking guide as you skip the line at the Accademia Gallery to see David . Then venture out to see the center of Florence including the Duomo (outside), Baptistry Doors, leather market, and Ponte Vecchio. Admissions included.

Top-Rated Tour

Skip the Line Uffizi Gallery Tour

The Uffizi Gallery is the most-visited museum in Florence for good reason. Join our licensed, English-speaking Uffizi guide for a journey through the Medician Renaissance. Learn all the stories behind the very art that brought our world out of the darkness as you look upon pieces like the Birth of Venus. All admissions included.

1. The Uffizi Gallery

The Uffizi Gallery is Florence’s premier art gallery and one of the greatest collection of Italian Renaissance artwork on Earth. The Uffizi was founded in the 16th century and formerly declared a museum open to the public in 1865. Over 4 million visitors enter the Uffizi each year which makes it the most ticketed attraction in Florence. Why?

The Renaissance by definition gave birth to a new era of art, architecture, and culture. Florence was the epicenter and it spread throughout Italy and Europe. If the Renaissance was the rebirth of an era of art and it started in Florence then there is going to be a lot of famous artwork in Florence. Much of that artwork is in the galleries of the Uffizi.

The structure was designed by Giorgio Vasari completed in 1581 for the Medici Family. The name literally means “offices” and it was used as governmental offices for some time.

Today, you can see some of the world’s greatest artworks including the Birth of Venus and la Primavera by Sandro Botticelli. This is a must-visit site for visitors to Florence and we recommend a guided tour of the Uffizi to bring the museum to life. If that is not in the budget definitely check our museum guides below

• Guided Tour Options
• Guide to Visiting the Uffizi Gallery
• Top Things to See Inside the Uffizi Gallery (Self Guided Itinerary)
• Best Places to Eat Near the Uffizi

Admission: 20€ adults | Free 17 and under with passport

Address: Piazzale degli Uffizi, 6

Where to Stay in Florence

A great hotel at a great price has become the norm in this the internet era. Our article explains what area are the best in Florence so you can get a great deal on the perfect location!

About Sean Finelli

Sean is a co-founder and owner of The Tour Guy and its subsidiary The Roman Guy. He studied finance and statistics, but that is his "Dr. Jekyll" side! His "Mr. Hyde" is in love with travel, art, history, and culture. Sean has read libraries of historical text and believes that all internet content should come from books. A practice he follows!

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• Not the Official Site for Uffizi - A Guide to the Uffizi Gallery by locals that love art!

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Guided Tour of the Uffizi Museum

The Uffizi Gallery is an incredible museum , with over 60 halls full of impressive and stunning works of art from the 12th century up to the 16th century.

During your vacation in Florence , it is natural that you’ll want to see all of its amazing treasures . There are so many in Florence so you might only have a few hours to dedicate to your visit to the Uffizi .

The solution? A guided tour of the Uffizi museum!

Let a specialized art history expert guide you through the Uffizi Gallery and to the masterpieces contained within! During your tour, the guide will accompany you from hall to hall, taking you on a journey into art and its history as he or she illustrates the most beautiful works of art in the museum. Not only will you learn about the importance of each painting, but also the context in the times when they were made!

Book a Guided Tour with Viator

Viator offers many guided tours of the Uffizi Gallery for you to choose from. You can book a guided tour of the Uffizi museum or a tour that combines a walking tour in Florence with the tour within the Uffizi Gallery or one that includes both a tour of the Uffizi and Accademia museums, to list just a few examples.

Check the full list of tours on Viator! »

Book your Guided Tour with Florence Tickets

You can visit the Uffizi with a professional tour guide organized by local tour agency Florence Tickets . This special 3.5 hour “masterclass with an art expert” allows you to enter with priority access and a small group. The tour runs every day at 3.00pm . Check your dates and book below with the form (or through this link if the form below is not working):

Disclosure: This page includes affiliate links. If you book with Florence Tickets or Viator, our website will receive a small commission – thank you!

About our site

This website is a guide written by a team of locals that love Florence and Art! Read more about us here . We are not the official site nor do we have a direct connection to the Uffizi Gallery museum. Tickets and Tours are sold through third-party travel agencies.

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The new Ghiberti Pass 'On-site' is available at the ticket offices 2024-04-03

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The treasures of the monuments of the cathedrals of Florence and Pistoia can be visited for the first time thanks to a combo online ticket 2023-07-31

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To access the monuments you will need one of our Passes: Brunelleschi , Giotto or Ghiberti . In addition, guided tours, panoramic tours and exclusive routes are available. Enjoy your visit!

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Al via la XXVII edizione della rassegna di musica sacra O flos Colende

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History and meaning of an ancient religious festivity.

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an act of conservation and valorization of a unique space

The new lightning rod of the Florence Cathedral

An impressive construction site is underway to protect the Cathedral and the Bell Tower from lightning

The Dome of Brunelleschi and the curse of lightning: a story lasting four centuries

Attracted by the Golden Ball of Verrocchio, dozens of electrical jolts rained down on the Cathedral. Many of these events ...

Opening: Tuesday through Friday will be possible to take part in free guided visits at the following times: 11.00 , 15.00 e 16.30 . Advance reservation required: + tel. 055 265311

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Florence, Biblioteca Nazionale Centrale, 8 March – 8 June 2024

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Parco Archeologico del Colosseo, December 22, 2023 - April 30, 2024

Ferrari & Lamborghini Museum Full Day Tour from Florence

Join our favorite full day tour visiting the ferrari museum and the lamborghini factory & museum.

Your first stop will be the Enzo Ferrari museum that includes Enzo’s birth house and a new futuristic building. It offers a unique and enthralling voyage of discovery, a story told through cars that have made automotive history on streets and circuits the world over.

Next will be the Ferrari museum located at the historical site of the factory . Enthusiasts and fans will discover an amazing exhibition of more than 50 cars, an F1 pit-stop reconstruction and a section entirely dedicated to the life of Mr. Enzo Ferrari.

Your last stop will be the Lamborghini factory and museum amazing guided tour along the assembly lines and the upholstery department. At the museum, fans will also discover an amazing exhibition of 20 cars between historic and newer models.

Walking along Lamborghini’s assembly lines is not included, for those interested, extra charge.

There is also an opportunity to the thrill of a semi-professional Formula 1 simulators and the exhilarating driving experience on public roads.

Ferrari Museum

In the Ferrari Museum, you will have the chance to sit into a semi-professional Formula 1 simulator and get a taste of the kind of exhilarating driving that F1 drivers experience during grand prix. After a short briefing, you get into the cockpit and begin a virtual experience. 

Lamborghini Museum 

It is so much more than a museum . Here we will find:

• The beginnings with Ferruccio and his early successes:
• 350 GT and Miura
• The key models from then to now
• Racing cars, including Formula 1
• The main stages of technological development: 4×4, aluminum, carbon fiber, hybrid
• The Lamborghini jewels: its engines
• The new Lamborghini Urus.
• Pick-up hotel or accommodations
• Italian, English, French & German language
• Add a lunch to your itinerary upon request
• This is a walking tour

FLORENCE TOUR

di Paola Migliorini

Florence, Tuscany, Italy

Tel : (+39) 347 6572611

Mail : [email protected]

P.IVA:  04904500487

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• What to See
• Museum of Opera del Duomo

The Opera del Duomo Museum

OPA has over 700 years of serving Florence’s Cathedral

The Opera del Duomo , also known as the "OPA", is the the Cathedral Workshop or "works commission" and was founded by the Republic of Florence in 1296 to oversee the construction of the new Cathedral and its bell tower .

In 1436, the Cathedral was finally finished with the completion of Brunelleschi's dome and its consecration.

Since then, the main task for the Opera del Duomo has been to conserve these monuments - including the Baptistery of San Giovanni. In 1891, the Museum was founded to house the works of art which, through the course of the centuries, had been removed from the Duomo and the Baptistery .

The museum serves as a refuge from pollution for many of the outside sculptures of the cathedral.

The numbers give us just an “inkling” of what is really behind these monuments: 6,000 sq. mt of showroom space , over a 1000 years standing in Florence, more than 750 works of art , a little more than 720 years of service by the commission, set in 25 rooms with floor plan on 3 levels. The recent restructuring of the museum was organized so that the guest could live the past and the present of the cathedral exploring how it has changed over the years.

For the very first time, a spectacular new design hosts the museum's unique masterpieces in a setting reflecting the environment for which they were originally designed, creating a museum within a museum ...*

Even just the highlights of this museum could send you in an overdose of information, however this article tries to synthesis everything so you walk through the museum like a pro.

Ground Floor

The light and space are stunning.

You are immediately greeted by one of the colossal pieces of art that once graced the interior of the Baptistery. The main altar by Girolamo Ticciati (1676-1745) which was completed in 1732: Saint John in Glory and candle-bearing angels . It was taken out of the building so that the medieval altar could be restored to its original position.

Opera Corridor

Perhaps the profound importance the Cathedral had on the people of Florence is found written on this wall, naming but a few of the 1000’s of people who contributed to its building, growth, expansion, decoration and preservation , including architects, artists, musicians, humanists, artisans and workmen. As you walk by you will years worth of names who have worked in the duomo of Florence.

Sculpture Gallery

A church that had an abundance of sculpture decorations was a sign of wealth and God’s blessings, and the Sculpture Gallery testifies to Florence’s growing importance in being able to keep pace with the other monumental churches.  Especially the cathedrals being built throughout Europe which boast a wide collection of many Gothic sculptures . In this room you can also admire the rarely seen reverse side of the Baptistery doors.

Salone del Paradiso, or Hall of Paradise

The name of this room comes from the literal recreation of the old cathedral facade and the baptistery . Coming out of the Sculpture Gallery you are faced with a life size model of the cathedrals first front face, aligning statues and artwork.

Following ancient tradition, Christians call the area between a baptistery and its related church a Paradiso (“Paradise”), evoking the joy of those who, after receiving baptism, cross that space to participate in the Eucharist for the first time.*

As you walk around the museum and the upper floors you will be able to admire from all angles the carvings and sculptures . The central courtyard also displays Ghiberti's original Gates of Paradise from the Baptistery  just recently restored and cleaned : these were the original doors facing the Duomo and can be admired in their magnificent golden splendor up close.

Sala della Maddalena, the Hall of Magdalene

This room is aptly named after the principle work of art which is in the center of the room, fully protected after its restoration by a sealed case, Donatello’s Penitent Saint Mary Magdalene , an amazing and thought-provoking wooden sculpture .

Attached to this room is the Cappella delle Reliquie which highlights (just) a portion of the churches collection of relics consisting of more than six hundred pieces of various types . These objects where an important part of the devotional life of the church, especially in the early stages of its growth and their coffers were often elaborate and ornate.

Michelangelo's Tribune

In a room of quiet isolation is Michelangelo's Pietà (begun around 1550) which once stood in the Duomo. It is widely believed that he intended it for his own tomb; the hooded figure of Nicodemus is often interpreted as a self-portrait. The damage to Christ's left leg and arm is believed to have been inflicted by Michelangelo himself in frustration at his failing skills.

Moving on to the First Floor

The expert skill of a sculptor was to carve a statue that when seen from the ground, would appear “normal”. Many times the gazer can not even distinguish the adjustments & distortions the artist made so that the hand looked proportionate to the nose and to the foot - both seen at different heights and distances. The various windows on the first and second floors allows the viewer to examine these masterpieces looking for their perfections and imperfections .

Galleria del Campanile

This room holds some of the artwork from the bell tower , once again it is evident that sculpture was the means of communication with the sixteen larger-than-life statues and fifty-four reliefs .

The reliefs are shown in their original order, beginning on west front of the Bell Tower and moving to the south, the east, and finally the north. The hexagonal scenes of professional activities are arranged beneath the diamond-shaped ones that illustrate the “systems” structuring human life.*

Galleria della Cupola

Perhaps one of the more fascinating rooms in the museum centers on the architectural masterpiece of Brunelleschi, the Cupola . This room brings together the construction with a brief film , the tools “invented” for the purpose of reaching these once dizzying heights, designs of the decorations & windows that grace the interior, even three large tree trunks that are a subtle reminder of where the wooden beams came from to build this (almost) impossible dream : The Casentino Forests.

Sala delle Cantorie

Here you will find side by side two choir lofts that once stood in the Duomo: one sculpted by Luca della Robbia (1431-38), the other by Donatello (1433-39). This is a valuable opportunity to compare two of the great artists of the Renaissance: della Robbia's infants are smooth, their movements lyrical; Donatello's convey a more immediate vigor.

Sala del Coro Bandinelliano

This room is dedicated to Baccio Bandinelli , who was commissioned by Cosimo I de’Medici for his artistic skill with marble. He started in 1547 eighty-six reliefs, together with his assistants, to be used to decorate the choir enclosure . This room puts on display 24 of these panels, as well as a selection of vestments from the 16th, 17th and 18th centuries.

Climbing to the Second Floor

There are several sets of stairs throughout the first floor which will take you to the next level, I must admit I had the faint sensation that they changed direction ( like the magical steps in Harry Potter ) and frequently led me to a dead end, but just in case you need it there is an elevator at the end of the Galleria della Cupola and another to the left of the stairs after either the Salone del Paradiso or Galleria del Campanile .

Galleria dei modelli

Why are they copies.

The originals can be seen with the Rooftop terrace tour . Where the guide revealed the secret behind this mystery.

The original statues were so large they couldn’t get them out of the Duomo without damaging them or the Duomo!

Just as the name suggests, this gallery houses the models submitted for the new façade. There are seven large wood models illustrating proposals for a Renaissance façade in place of the medieval one which was demolished in 1587 . In addition, there are two paintings for the wedding of Grand Duke Ferdinand I to the French princess Christine of Lorraine, along with copies of three of the colossal statues that adorned the Duomo on that occasion.

Belvedere della Cupola, the terrace!

One of my favorite areas include the room with a skylight facing the cupola and the outdoor terrace , once again facing the cupola. These little treats bring the dome even closer for your inspection, where you can appreciate some of the smaller details in its construction...or even just the miracle of it.

The Last of the Recent Changes

On the ground floor you will find a fully furnished book shop with many titles and ideas for adults and children to continue your education on the details, artists and designs of the Duomo. There is a small cafe, with the same luminous decor overlooking the back side of the cathedral, and its fabulous colored marble covering.

The museum organizes new events and tours constantly , highlighting new aspects, discoveries or even a classical review of what we already know. Check out guided tours that include the Duomo and Opera del Duomo museum.

Another great selling point for the Museum is that there is a single ticket for entrance into all monuments connected to the Duomo (see side bar) . The ticket allows the holder to visit all the monuments within 72 hours of visiting the first one. Each monument may be visited only once with the ticket. You can also carve out just the right amount of time, because reservations are required for the climb on the Dome and recommended for the Bell Tower and Museum. Extra nice to know, the service is free and not mandatory!

View more pictures of the Opera del Duomo Museum »

When you consider the great wealth of information stuffed into this building, it is overwhelming. It is intriguing and it is truly a valuable lesson in the spirit and history of Florence, its politics and its artists .

* Official Museum Website

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Florence's duomo, giotto's bell tower, uffizi gallery, accademia gallery, santa maria novella church, plan your visit.

Via della Canonica, 1 50122 (behind the Duomo)

NEW PASSES starting April 2022 valid for 3 days. The museum is included in all 3 passes, which vary in cost from €15-30, depending on whether you want to visit 3, 4 or all 5 monuments.

More info on all the passes on our blog post .

Opening hours

Every day 9am-7.45pm. Closed every first Tuesday of the month.

Please check the official website to double check hours and buy tickets ahead of time: https://duomo.firenze.it/

Top Tours of the Duomo of Florence

Author: Lourdes Flores

I'm from California but have called Florence my home for over a decade. I love to explore Italy; it is a lot of fun to try to see everything like I'm seeing it for the first time, keeping you, our readers, always in mind. I enjoy sharing what I know and helping others as they make their travel plans for Tuscany through our Forum . If you have itinerary-related questions, please post them there!

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Off the Menu

Lola’s Offers a Southern Spin on Filipino Cooking

Alaluna offers dry-aged fish with an Italian approach, Bon Bon serves up Swedish hot dogs and more restaurant news.

By Florence Fabricant

The chef Suzanne Cupps is honoring her lola (grandmother in Filipino) Annunciasion Rocamora Paraiso with this new restaurant that pays tribute to her courage during World War II. The menu reflects Ms. Cupp’s experiences growing up in Aiken, S.C., and working in New York with the chefs Anita Lo and Michael Anthony. Expect seasonal dishes like Southern stuffed clams, fried tilefish lettuce wraps with kohlrabi slaw, country rib skewers, and stir-fried egg noodles with early spring greens and silk chile crisp. The beverage director, Adrienne Vanni, has sought value on the wine list, with many options under $100 and several nonalcoholic choices. There is a bar up front and tables at green banquettes that follow back to the emerald tile open kitchen with a terrazzo counter where the chef will be at work. (Opens Thursday)

2 West 28th Street, 646-941-4787, lolasnyc.com .

The downtown group of Italian shopping and eating areas called Travelers Poets and Friends is now complete with the addition of this intimate spot for seafood by the executive chef and partner Riccardo Orfino. The emphasis is on dry-aged fish. Exposing fish to air, a Japanese technique that’s gaining ground, reduces moisture to the benefit of fat and succulence. Mr. Orfino takes it to Italy with a cured fish plate, aged bonito tartare and smoked yellowtail agnolotti. The restaurant is next to the all-day bistro in the space.

467 Avenue of the Americas (11th Street), 212-420-0057, travelerspoetsandfriends.com .

Mala Hot Pot

This is not the first Chinese restaurant named málà, meaning numbing and spicy, as known best in Sichuan food. The partner Kevin Chen, formerly of Tang Hotpot, and the chef Yi Bin Yang, from Sichuan, offer a raft of ingredients including prime and Wagyu beef, assorted vegetables and innards like tripe, duck blood and pork artery to simmer in broth. The setting is industrial.

35 West 36th Street, 646-582-4049, malahotpotnyc.com .

Brooklyn Art Haus in Williamsburg now has its own restaurant next door. The kitchen is run by the chefs Naama Tamir and her brother, Assaf Tamir, who own Lighthouse Restaurant nearby. The menu, which emphasizes sustainability, is mainly Middle Eastern and will expand to cover more of the Mediterranean. (Saturday)

20 Marcy Avenue (Metropolitan Avenue), Williamsburg, Brooklyn, 929-397-0000, themouthbk.com .

Dinner at Shlomo’s

This supper club, tucked inside Comodo restaurant and named for the “Law Office of Shlomo and Shlomo” found on a door in the restaurant’s cellar, will offer chef’s dinners, $150. From Thursday through Saturday the chef will be Elly Fraser, who had a restaurant, Elly’s, in Mexico City and is now cooking in New York. From April 18 to 20, the chef will be Carolina Santos-Neves of Comodo. (Thursday)

Freehand New York, 23 Lexington Avenue (23rd Street), 212-475-1924, [email protected] .

Universal Taco

Franklin Becker has changed the name and concept of what was Oliva Tapas in the food hall on Columbia University’s uptown campus. It now takes a global approach to tacos with fillings like Jamaican braised oxtail and lamb gyro along with traditional choices like al pastor. (April 9)

3229 Broadway (130th Street), manhattanvillemarket.com/universaltaco .

Grain de Sail

For nearly 15 years, a sailing fleet based in Morlaix, France, in Brittany, has been ferrying chocolate and coffee from Latin America back to France as a sustainable alternative to engine-powered shipping. It makes stopovers in New York to deliver French products. This weekend the modern cargo schooner Grain de Sail will be open to visitors at 1, 2 and 3 p.m. for tours and tastings of French wines and chocolates in an event presented by the South Street Seaport Museum. Tickets include admission to a companion program on the tall ship Wavertree docked nearby. (Saturday and Sunday)

Pier 17 North Side, seaport district, seaportmuseum.org/grain-de-sail .

Chef on the Move

Caroline schiff.

This executive pastry chef at Gage & Tollner in Downtown Brooklyn since it reopened nearly four years ago is leaving. Kathryn Irizarry is now the head pastry chef. Ms. Schiff’s own diner in partnership with Tori Ciambriello, the restaurant’s manager, is on the horizon.

Looking Ahead

The refinery at domino.

The chef James Kent of Crown Shy and Saga at 70 Pine Street in the financial district and his Saga Hospitality Group will cross the East River later this year. Destiny? The address is 300 Kent Avenue. They have leased 3,000 square feet of space from Two Trees Management on the ground floor of the former Domino Sugar refinery for a bakery and a casual all-day restaurant. The bakery is to be run by Renata Ameni, the executive pastry chef of the Saga Hospitality Group. It will also provide access to the public for ice cream and other items through a window facing Domino Park. It was not lost on Ms. Ameni that she will be turning out confections in a former sugar factory.

300 Kent Avenue (South Second Street), Williamsburg, Brooklyn.

In addition to stores in Manhattan and in Williamsburg, Brooklyn, the Swedish candy juggernaut has now opened its Brooklyn warehouse on weekends, for a fourth retail option. Hundreds of imported candy choices fill shelves and bins, and there’s a candy library. On Sundays from 11 a.m. to 5 p.m., lines form for Swedish-style hot dogs, snappy sausages fully loaded with sweet pickles, relish, mustard, crisp fried onions and a choice of creamy rémoulade or Swedish shrimp salad piled in a bun, $6.

66 Degraw Street (Van Brunt Street), Columbia Street Waterfront District, Brooklyn, bonbonnyc.com .

Levain Bakery

The 10th outlet of this chain of bakeries known for their heavy-duty cookies will be selling a version of the iconic New York black-and-white. Theirs, a nearly black dark chocolate mound of cookie riddled throughout with white and dark chocolate chunks, is almost a photographic negative of a chocolate chip cookie. It’s $5.75 and only at this new location. (Friday)

2 West 18th Street, 646-974-5901, levainbakery.com .

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Florence Fabricant is a food and wine writer. She writes the weekly Front Burner and Off the Menu columns, as well as the Pairings column, which appears alongside the monthly wine reviews. She has also written 12 cookbooks. More about Florence Fabricant

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