Jewish traditions in Florence: private walking tour

Florence , Italy

Jewish traditions in Florence: private walking tour

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About this experience

Come and discover the Florentine Jewish world!
The origin of the Jewish community in Florence, which today numbers almost a thousand people, began even before the period of regency of the Medici family, with the trade of fabrics, fine textiles and money movements of the first Florentine banks.
The prosperity of the business continued for many centuries, until the creation of the Jewish ghetto in 1500s and then the construction of the splendid Synagogue in the late 1800s.
To know the history and the events that bind Florence and the Jewish people, join our tour, in an itinerary that touches all the places where there are traces of the flourishing Jewish society: the Ponte Vecchio, Borgo San Jacopo, Repubblic square (where once the Jewish ghetto was found), Duomo square, today’s Jewish Quarter, the Museum of Jewish Traditions and the Synagogue, wonderful Moorish-style structure, with its unmistakable copper-green dome.
We will discover together the traces of Jewish history in Florence!

Available options

Jewish traditions in Florence: private walking tour

What's included

Entry tickets to the Jewish museum and Synagogue

Expert local guide

Detailed itinerary

Stop 1

The Ponte Vecchio, symbol of Florence, the only bridge that survived the Second World War, with the typical goldsmith shops known all over the world

Borgo San Jacopo, a street of the Oltrarno district in Florence where we will find some memories of the life of the Jews in the Middle Ages

Stop 3

Piazza della Repubblica, the elegant nineteenth-century square built over the ghetto now decayed and completely dismantled. We will read together the traces of the era of the ghetto in this bright square of lights and colors

Stop 4

in this square we will stop to explain the fantastic Gates of Paradise, made of gilded bronze by Lorenzo Ghiberti in the Renaissance period. We will read the panels together with the stories of Genesis.

Stop 5

The main synagogue of Florence is located in the historic center of Florence, in Via Farini. Its copper green dome is a famous point of the city panorama

Available languages

Guide guide

DE RU PT EN IT FR ES

Reviews breakdown

Viator 3.3

3 reviews

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Important information

Wheelchair accessible

Infants and small children can ride in a pram or stroller

Public transportation options are available nearby

Infants are required to sit on an adult’s lap

Transportation options are wheelchair accessible

All areas and surfaces are wheelchair accessible

Suitable for all physical fitness levels

Please wear comfortable shoes

Meeting point

Ponte Vecchio, Statua di Benvenuto Cellini

Important notes

To respect the place, you need decent clothing. It’s required that men and women have shoulder and leg covers (up to the knee). Free toiletries and shawls are available for visitors. Men are required to wear any headgear in the Synagogue

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