Half Day Private Tour of Florence with Academy Gallery
Active
4h
All sales are final. No refund is available for cancellations.
Instant confirmation
Mobile or paper ticket accepted
About this experience
Florence is a Renaissance city of orange and gold, blossoming above the golden landscape of Tuscany. Join this Florence private tour and discover its dramatic history, alongside all its beauty. Get skip-the-line access to Michelangelo’s David and enjoy a walking tour of historic Florence with your expert guide’s undivided attention.
Meet your guide at your hotel before you embark on a walking tour of Florence’s pedestrianized historic center. Discover the icons of its architecture, including Florence’s Cathedral; designed by goldsmith Brunelleschi after a design competition. Go on to the Loggia dei Lanzi – one of the world’s first open air galleries.
Enter the Accademia to see Michelangelo’s David – all 17ft of him – in the flesh. Then, head to the Ponte Vecchio; the most stunning bridge, which perfectly frames the Tuscan countryside beyond. Before you leave, make sure to rub the nose of the boar, Il Porcelino – legend has it that, if you do, you’ll return to Florence!
Available options
Half Day Private Tour of Florence with Academy Gallery
What's included
Hotel pick-up and return (in central Florence)
Headsets for groups of 6 or more
Full tour from an expert guide
Skip-the-line admission
Detailed itinerary
1
Stop 1
This beautiful bridge, adorned with jewelers, hides a secret passageway built for Florentine aristocracy during the Renaissance.
2
Stop 2
See Michelangelo’s masterpiece David – all 17ft of him – on this tour of the Academy Gallery. Learn the history of the masterwork made from imperfect marble.
3
Stop 3
See Lorenzo Ghiberti’s amazing bronze doors with Old Testament scenes, and discover the fascinating history behind this glimmering, intricate masterpiece.
4
Stop 4
Learn the strange tale behind the Duomo of Santa Maria del Fiore, and the tortured genius of the maverick goldsmith/architect behind it: Brunelleschi.
5
Stop 5
Visit one of the world’s best open-air galleries. Enjoy masterpieces like Donatello’s Judith and Holofernes and Cellini’s Perseus and Medusa in the open-air.
6
Stop 6
This grand palace was the home of the Florentine Republic and its usurpers, the Medici. Discover its blood-stained history.
7
Stop 7
Stand in the magnificent Renaissance square, learn the history and enjoy the atmosphere.
8
New by name but not by nature; this 16th-century market is very much alive today.
9
Make sure you rub the nose of this wild boar, a popular tourist attraction since the 17th century – if you do, you’ll return to Florence.
What's not included
Gratuities (optional)
Food and drink
Available languages
Guide guide
DE
EN
IT
FR
ES
Important information
Public transportation options are available nearby
Not recommended for travelers with poor cardiovascular health
Travelers should have at least a moderate level of physical fitness
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
From $25
per person
Price varies by option
Secure booking
Free cancellation available
Instant confirmation
