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Location Icon Florence

Florence Private Tour: Skip-the-Line David & City Walk

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Overview

Highlights

Sentiment Analysis

Overview

Quotes Logo Half Day Private Tour of Florence with Academy Gallery immerses visitors in the heart of the Renaissance. Florence, a city painted in orange and gold, reveals its captivating history and stunning beauty on this private tour. With skip-the-line access to Michelangelo's David, guests enjoy an intimate walking tour of Florence's historic center, accompanied by an expert guide's personalized attention.

The tour begins with a convenient hotel pick-up (in central Florence), after which the journey into Florence's pedestrianized historic center begins. Guests will discover architectural icons, including Florence's Cathedral, designed by Brunelleschi. The tour continues to the Loggia dei Lanzi, an open-air gallery that showcases some of the world's most impressive sculptures. A visit inside the Accademia Gallery is a highlight, where visitors can marvel at Michelangelo's David. The tour also includes a stop at the Ponte Vecchio, a bridge offering views of the Tuscan countryside. Before concluding the tour, visitors can rub the nose of Il Porcelino, the bronze boar, a Florence tradition promising a return visit to the city.

What to Expect: This private tour ensures a personalized experience, allowing guests to explore Florence's landmarks at their own pace. It includes skip-the-line access to the Accademia Gallery, saving valuable time. Expert guides share insights into the art, architecture, and history of Florence. Key tour stops include Ponte Vecchio, Accademia Gallery (David), Baptistery of San Giovanni (Gates of Paradise), Duomo of Santa Maria del Fiore, Piazza della Signoria, Palazzo Vecchio, Piazzale Michelangelo, Mercato Nuovo (Porcellino), and Il Porcellino (Bronze Boar). Headsets are provided for groups of six or more to ensure clear communication. The tour excludes gratuities, food, and drinks. With over 2,500 5-star reviews, this tour is part of a series dedicated to showcasing the best of Florence. Quotes Logo

Highlights

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See Michelangelo's David: Get skip-the-line access to see this amazing sculpture up close.

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Walk Through History: Explore Florence's historic center with an expert guide.

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Visit Famous Bridges: See the Ponte Vecchio, which has pretty views of Tuscany.

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Personalized Experience: Enjoy a private tour with your own group.

Sentiment Analysis

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Customers really like the tour guide, getting to see David without waiting in line, and learning about Florence's history. A few people want more time at each place. Quotes Logo

  • Positive Highlight Icon Customers loved seeing David up close and skipping the long lines.

    Positive Highlight Icon Many visitors mentioned their tour guide was very knowledgeable and friendly.

    Positive Highlight Icon People enjoyed learning the history and stories behind the art and buildings.

    Positive Highlight Icon The small group size of the private tour allowed for a personal experience.

  • Negative Highlight Icon Some visitors wished they had more time at each stop.

    Negative Highlight Icon A few people found it hard to hear the guide without headsets, even in small groups.

The Journey

1

Ponte Vecchio

Cross the Ponte Vecchio, Florence's only bridge spared from destruction during World War II. Originally home to butchers, it is now lined with jewelers and art dealers, continuing a vibrant tradition. Legend has it that a secret passageway, built for the Medici family to safely traverse between the Uffizi Gallery and the Pitti Palace, lies hidden within its structure. Experience the unique blend of commerce and history on this iconic bridge.

2

Accademia Gallery (David)

Marvel at Michelangelo's David in the Accademia Gallery, a 17-foot-tall masterpiece sculpted from a single block of flawed Carrara marble. Learn about the artistic genius and challenges Michelangelo faced in creating this iconic symbol of the Renaissance. Beyond David, explore a rich collection of Florentine paintings, primarily from the period 1300–1600, by Florentine artists, mostly from the Gothic and early Renaissance periods.

3

Baptistery of San Giovanni (Gates of Paradise)

Witness the 'Gates of Paradise,' Lorenzo Ghiberti's stunning bronze doors adorning the Baptistery of San Giovanni. These gilded panels depict scenes from the Old Testament with incredible detail and artistry. Michelangelo himself named them the 'Gates of Paradise.' Discover the history and artistry behind this masterpiece, which represents a pivotal moment in Renaissance art.

4

Duomo of Santa Maria del Fiore

Stand in awe of the Duomo of Santa Maria del Fiore, Florence's magnificent cathedral, capped by Brunelleschi's groundbreaking dome. Uncover the fascinating story behind its construction, including Brunelleschi's ingenious engineering feats and the challenges he overcame to complete this architectural marvel. Climb to the top of the dome for panoramic views of Florence.

5

Piazza della Signoria

Wander through the Piazza della Signoria, a vibrant open-air gallery showcasing masterpieces like Donatello's Judith and Holofernes and Cellini's Perseus with the Head of Medusa. This historic square has been the center of Florentine life for centuries, hosting political rallies, celebrations, and public executions. Immerse yourself in the art and history that permeates this iconic space.

6

Palazzo Vecchio

Explore the Palazzo Vecchio, a grand palace that served as the seat of the Florentine Republic and later the residence of the Medici family. Delve into its history marked by political intrigue, power struggles, and artistic patronage. Admire the opulent chambers, including the Salone dei Cinquecento, and discover the secrets hidden within its walls.

7

Piazzale Michelangelo

Ascend to Piazzale Michelangelo, a magnificent Renaissance square offering breathtaking panoramic views of Florence. Take in the stunning cityscape, dominated by the Duomo's dome and the Ponte Vecchio. Soak up the atmosphere, learn about the square's history, and capture unforgettable photos of this iconic vista.

8

Mercato Nuovo (Porcellino)

Experience the vibrant atmosphere of the Mercato Nuovo, a 16th-century market still bustling with activity today. Browse the stalls selling leather goods, souvenirs, and local crafts. Don't miss the chance to rub the nose of Il Porcellino, the bronze statue of a wild boar; legend says it will ensure your return to Florence.

9

Il Porcellino (Bronze Boar)

Visit 'Il Porcellino,' the charming bronze statue of a wild boar near the Mercato Nuovo, a beloved tourist attraction since the 17th century. Rub its snout to ensure a return trip to Florence, according to local tradition. Enjoy the whimsical charm and capture a memorable photo with this Florentine icon.

Know Before You Go

This private tour includes hotel pick-up and drop-off in central Florence. Headsets are provided for groups of 6 or more. The tour is led by an expert guide, and skip-the-line admission to the Accademia is included. Gratuities and food and drink are not included.

Hot Tip

A lot of people say the tour is better if you ask your guide lots of questions. This helps you learn even more about Florence and make the tour special for you.

From €400 Price

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