Private Tour of Florence and Academy Gallery

Florence , Italy

Private Tour of Florence and Academy Gallery

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For a full refund, cancel at least 24 hours before the scheduled departure time.

Manual confirmation

Mobile or paper ticket accepted

About this experience

The Academy Gallery is Florence’s most visited museum right after the Uffizi Gallery. It's the house of Michelangelo’s David and his Prisoners and many works from the 16th-18th century. It adjoins the Accademia di Belle Arti or academy of fine arts of Florence, but despite the name has no other connection with it. Let discover it without stress and waiting in long lines. After it we will enjoy a quick walking tour around the most important monuments and squares of Florence, to have a better idea of its history, traditions and culture. If it's your first time to Florence or you will have few hours to spend there do not miss this unique experience!

Available options

Group price

Duration: 2 hours

What's included

Local guide

private tour

Detailed itinerary

Stop 1

This tour will allow you to discover the Accademia Gallery, home to Michelangelo's David, the most famous statue in the world! Here you will also admire some unfinished works by Michelangelo, the "Prisoners", which will allow you to see how he carved the massive blocks of Carrara marble. The guide explanation includes a detailed introduction to Michelangelo's life and his extraordinary period.

Ever the crowd pleaser, David was created by Michelangelo when he was just in his twenties, fresh from the glory of carving La Pietà. Sculpted entirely from local Carrara marble, the statue of the nude biblical hero is incredible to behold with life-like veins and muscles carved to precision as had never been done before. Standing at a lofty height of 17 feet (5.17 meters), the statue of David became a symbole the defense of civil liberties embodied in the Republic of Florence, an independent city-state threatened on all sides by more powerful rival states and by the hegemony of the Medici family.

After admiring David, visit other rooms with your guide to learn about other Middle Ages and Renaissance artists such as Giotto, Botticelli, Perugino and Lippi. The Accademia Gallery is also home to the Museum of Musical Instruments and plasters of academic students.

Stop 2 Pass by

One of the most important square of Florence, it is famous thanks to its big and ancient monument as the Baptistery with its Gate of Paradise, Giotto's Bell Tower and the Cathedral with its glorious dome.

Stop 3 Pass by

This private tour will start in the morning, when you will have the opportunity to taste an authentic Italian espresso in a luxury and typical bar in the centre of Florence: it's the only one way to start our day and our tour together. It's an unique experience to discover our traditions and a lot of curiosity about our customs.

Stop 4 Pass by

One of the most famous bridges of Europe, hard to miss once in town. Let discover together it's history.

Stop 5

Piazza della Signoria is the civil and political square of Florence, known for its Palazzo Vecchio and gorgeous statues.

What's not included

Private transportation

Academy Tickets

Available languages

Guide guide

EN IT FR

Important information

Wheelchair accessible

Infants and small children can ride in a pram or stroller

Public transportation options are available nearby

Transportation options are wheelchair accessible

All areas and surfaces are wheelchair accessible

Suitable for all physical fitness levels

Dress code is formal

Comfortable walking shoes are recommended

Big bottle of water are not allowed in the museum

Meeting point

Piazza della repubblica, next to the column and carousel

Important notes

• Dress code is formal
• Comfortable walking shoes are recommended
• If you will not be arriving at your destination within the specified reconfirmation period, please reconfirm with the local service provider prior to travel, or upon arrival at your destination. Please note that departure times and locations may vary slightly.

About Florence

Florence, the capital of Italy's Tuscany region, is a treasure trove of art, architecture, and history. Known as the birthplace of the Renaissance, it's home to iconic masterpieces, stunning cathedrals, and a rich cultural heritage that continues to captivate visitors from around the world.

Top Attractions

Duomo

The Florence Cathedral, known as the Duomo, is a masterpiece of Renaissance architecture. Its iconic dome, designed by Brunelleschi, offers panoramic views of the city.

Architecture/Religious 2-3 hours Free to enter the cathedral, €18 for the climb to the dome

Uffizi Gallery

One of the world's most famous art museums, the Uffizi Gallery houses works by Botticelli, Michelangelo, and Leonardo da Vinci.

Museum/Art 2-3 hours €20

Ponte Vecchio

A medieval stone bridge famous for its jewelry shops. It's one of the most iconic landmarks in Florence.

Architecture 30 minutes to 1 hour Free

Piazzale Michelangelo

A panoramic terrace offering breathtaking views of Florence. It's a perfect spot for sunset and photography.

Scenic Viewpoint 1-2 hours Free

Accademia Gallery

Home to Michelangelo's famous statue of David, the Accademia Gallery is a must-visit for art lovers.

Museum/Art 1-2 hours €16

Must-Try Local Dishes

Bistecca alla Fiorentina

A thick-cut, grilled T-bone steak, seasoned simply with salt and pepper. It's a must-try for meat lovers.

Dinner Contains beef, not suitable for vegetarians or vegans

Ribollita

A hearty vegetable and bread soup, traditionally made with leftover bread and vegetables. It's a classic Florentine dish.

Lunch/Dinner Vegetarian, can be made vegan

Lampredotto

A Florentine street food made from the fourth and final stomach of a cow. It's typically served in a sandwich.

Lunch Contains beef, not suitable for vegetarians or vegans

Cantucci

Almond biscotti traditionally served with Vin Santo, a sweet Tuscan wine. They are crunchy and perfect for dipping.

Dessert Contains almonds, can be made gluten-free

Popular Activities

Hiking in the Tuscan countryside Cycling tours Hot air balloon rides Wine tasting tours Spa day at a luxury hotel Strolling through the gardens of Villa medici Visiting museums and art galleries Attending opera or concerts

Best Time to Visit

April to June, September to October

These months offer pleasant weather and fewer crowds compared to the summer peak. Ideal for sightseeing and outdoor activities.

15-28°C 59-82°F

Practical Information

Language

Official: Italian
Widely spoken: English, French, Spanish
English: Moderately spoken

Currency

Euro (EUR)

Time Zone

GMT+1 (CET), GMT+2 (CEST during daylight saving time)

Electricity

230VV, 50HzHz

Safety Information

Overall Safety Rating: Generally safe

Florence is generally safe for tourists, but pickpocketing and petty theft can occur, especially in crowded areas. Be aware of your surroundings and take precautions to protect your belongings.

Important Precautions:

• Keep valuables secure and out of sight
• Be cautious of your surroundings, especially in crowded areas
• Use licensed taxis or ride-sharing apps

Getting there

By air

Florence Airport • 5 km from city center
Pisa International Airport • 85 km from city center

By train

Santa Maria Novella Station

By bus

Villa Costanza Bus Station, Florence Airport Bus Terminal

Getting around

Public transport

The bus network covers the entire city and is the primary mode of public transport. Buses are frequent and reliable.

Taxis

Available • Apps: MyTaxi, FreeNow

Rentals

Car, Bike, Scooter

Neighborhoods

Santa Maria Novella Oltrarno San Lorenzo Santa Croce

Day trips

Siena

70 km from Florence • Half day to full day

A medieval city known for its stunning Piazza del Campo and the Palio, a traditional horse race held twice a year.

Pisa

85 km from Florence • Half day

Home to the iconic Leaning Tower of Pisa, this city offers a mix of historic sites and scenic views.

Chianti Wine Region

30-50 km from Florence • Full day

A picturesque wine region known for its rolling hills, vineyards, and charming villages.

Festivals

Festa di San Giovanni • June 24 Calcio Storico Fiorentino • June (dates vary) Firenze dei Fiori • April to June

Pro tips

Visit major attractions early in the morning or late in the afternoon to avoid crowds
Book tickets for popular attractions in advance to save time and avoid long queues
Explore the city's hidden gems, such as the Oltrarno neighborhood and the secret passages of the Palazzo Vecchio
Try local specialties like Bistecca alla Fiorentina, Ribollita, and Lampredotto
Learn a few basic Italian phrases to enhance your experience and connect with locals