Museums of Florence
Florence is itself a small artists’ gem: the cathedral, the Ponte Vecchio, its melancholy streets, the rosary of Gothic and Renaissance churches… Some of its palatial buildings hold museums capable of intoxicating the senses with fantastic masterpieces in the history of art.
Of all the museums of Florence, there’s just two which are really unavoidable: the Galleria degli Uffizi and la Galleria dell’Accademia. But if you have a bit more time, there’s also many museums which hide interesting treasures worth dedicating a few hours to.
The best museums in Florence
Galleria degli Uffizi – This is the most important museum in Florence. It opened its doors in 1591, and is considered to be the oldest museum in the world. It contains a fantastic display of paintings and sculptures which go from the 13th to the 18th century. The collection was initiated by the famous Médici family, which later donated it to the city. Currently, it contains more than 1500 paintings. The most famous works are “The Birth of Venus” by Botticelli and “The Annunciation” by Leonardo da Vinci. Where: Piazzale degli Uffizi. When: from Tuesdays to Sundays from 8.15 am to 6.50 pm. How much: standard € 6.50, concessions € 3.25.
Galleria dell’Accademia – An interesting collection in which, above all, the marmoreal of David by Michelangelo stands out. This has for centuries been a universal icon of the peak of masculine beauty, and a symbol of Florence. But the Galleria dell’Accademia also contains other works which you shouldn’t miss out on, such as famous artists like Botticelli, Pontormo, Giambologna and Lippi. Where: Via Ricasoli, 60. When: from Tuesday to Sunday, from 8.15 am to 6.50 pm. How much: standard entrance € 6.50, concessions € 3.25.
Other museums of Florence which are worth visiting
National Museum “Il Bargello” – Situated in one of the oldest buildings in Florence. Contains valuable Renaissance sculptures and a good collection of ivories, jewels, ceramics and arms. Where: Via del Proconsolo, 4. When: from Tuesday to Saturday, from 8.15 am to 1.50 pm. Also open the 2nd and 4th Sunday of the month and the 1st and 3rd Monday. How much: standard entry € 4, reduced € 2.
Museo dell’Opera del Duomo – In the Museum of Florence Cathedral, some of the original pieces of the cathedral are conserved: altars, sculptures and reliefs, among which the Ghiberti’s bronze panels for the baptistery, Michelangelo’s “La Pietà” and Donatello’s “Mary Magdalene” are particularly impressive. Where: Piazza del Duomo, 9. When: from Monday to Saturday from 9 am to 7.30 pm. Sundays from 9 am to 1.45 pm. How much: € 6.
Museo di Palazzo Vecchio – This interesting visit allows you to discover the atmosphere of the ancient Italian palaces. Vasari’s decorations in the Salone dei Cinquecento are unmissable. Where: Piazza della Signoria. When: from Monday to Saturday from 9 am to 7 pm. Thursdays from 9 am to 2 pm. How much: normal Entrance € 6, concessions € 4.50.
Galileo Museum – Houses an interesting collection, which allows you to take a stroll through the history of science from the middle ages to the 19th century, and includes the original instruments used by Galileo Galilei. Where: Pizza dei Giudici, 1. When: every day from 9.30 am to 6 pm- Tuesdays from 9.30 am to 1 pm. How much: normal entrance € 9, concessions € 5.50.
If you’ve thought of visiting various museums in Florence, it might be of inerest to buy the Firenze Card. Costs € 50, is valid for 72 hours and allows you to queue-free entrance to the most important museums, villas and historical gardens of the city, as well as free public transport.
Laura – Marketing Team
