Palazzo Vecchio
A fortified medieval palace in Florence, now a museum, showcasing lavish chambers, ornate courtyards, and breathtaking tower views.
Highlights
Must-see attractions
Social
From TikTok & Reddit
Best Time
Fewer crowds, more relaxed visit
Palazzo Vecchio
Best Time
Fewer crowds, more relaxed visit
Highlights
Must-see attractions
A fortified medieval palace in Florence, now a museum, showcasing lavish chambers, ornate courtyards, and breathtaking tower views.
"Really cool to see the amazing art displayed on the walls inside the hall. Walking inside not knowing what I would see just to be amazed by the craftsmanship."
Book tickets in advance
:admission_tickets: Avoid long lines by booking online, especially for popular tours like Secret Passages.
Climb the Arnolfo Tower
:athletic_shoe: Worth the climb for incredible city views! Wear comfy shoes.
Highlights
Discover the most iconic attractions and experiences
Arnolfo Tower Views
Palazzo Vecchio
Climb 95 meters for breathtaking panoramic views of Florence, including the Duomo.
Hall of the Five Hundred
Palazzo Vecchio
Marvel at the immense scale and stunning frescoes adorning this grand hall, a masterpiece of Renaissance art.
Michelangelo's Graffiti
Palazzo Vecchio
Discover a curious historical detail: a face etched into the wall, rumored to be by a young Michelangelo.
Cloister of Palazzo Vecchio
Palazzo Vecchio
Experience a serene symphony of arches, frescoes, and light in this beautiful, often overlooked, courtyard.
Planning Your Visit
Book Palazzo Vecchio Tickets Ahead
Consider the Secret Passages Tour
Best Times
Insider Tips
from TikTok, Instagram & Reddit
Book tickets in advance
:admission_tickets: Avoid long lines by booking online, especially for popular tours like Secret Passages.
Climb the Arnolfo Tower
:athletic_shoe: Worth the climb for incredible city views! Wear comfy shoes.
Explore hidden gems
:camerawithflash: Look for 'Michelangelo's graffiti' for a unique historical detail.
Don't miss the cloister
:camerawithflash: A peaceful spot with beautiful architecture, perfect for photos.
Tips
from all over the internet
Book tickets in advance
:admission_tickets: Avoid long lines by booking online, especially for popular tours like Secret Passages.
Climb the Arnolfo Tower
:athletic_shoe: Worth the climb for incredible city views! Wear comfy shoes.
Explore hidden gems
:camerawithflash: Look for 'Michelangelo's graffiti' for a unique historical detail.
Don't miss the cloister
:camerawithflash: A peaceful spot with beautiful architecture, perfect for photos.
Secret Passages Tour
:key: An unmissable experience for history buffs, book via the official site.
What Travellers Say
Reviews Summary
Visitors praise Palazzo Vecchio for its stunning art, impressive architecture, and rich history, particularly highlighting the Hall of the Five Hundred and the Arnolfo Tower views. The Secret Passages tour is a standout experience for many. Some find it less engaging if they're not deeply into art or have already visited many museums, and a quick exterior look might suffice for those on a tight schedule or budget.
"Really cool to see the amazing art displayed on the walls inside the hall. Walking inside not knowing what I would see just to be amazed by the craftsmanship. I would recommend it for any one coming for art and history, but if your not much into art and have visited alot of museums throughout the day then it won't be worth it for you. However for my friends and I enjoyed visiting and seeing this place."
ngawang sherpa
"Went by but didn’t go inside, just looked around the free parts. The building is cool and has a lot of history, but mostly felt like a tourist spot. Worth a quick look if you’re already in the area, but nothing I’d plan around."
Tova Mårtensson
"This plaza is home to the copy of David, who is featured in the academia Museum. It’s also right outside the Ufizzi gallery. Lots of shops and restaurants very nice area to spend some time in."
Sami Peterson
What People Like
What People Dislike
Frequently Asked Questions
🚇 🗺️ Getting There
Palazzo Vecchio is centrally located in Piazza della Signoria, Florence. It's easily accessible on foot from most major attractions. If arriving by public transport, look for bus stops near Piazza della Signoria.
Yes, Palazzo Vecchio is right next to the Uffizi Gallery and close to Ponte Vecchio, making it easy to combine visits.
Yes, it's about a 15-20 minute walk from Florence Santa Maria Novella (SMN) train station to Palazzo Vecchio.
Parking in the historic center of Florence is challenging. It's best to use public transport or walk. If driving, look for paid parking garages like Garage Europa or Parcheggio Sant'Ambrogio.
Approaching from Piazza della Signoria offers a grand first impression of the palace's imposing facade.
🎫 🎫 Tickets & Entry
It is highly recommended to book your tickets for Palazzo Vecchio in advance, especially during peak tourist seasons, to avoid long queues.
Palazzo Vecchio typically opens around 9:00 AM and closes between 7:00 PM and 11:00 PM, depending on the season and day. Always check the official website for the most current Palazzo Vecchio hours.
Ticket prices vary, but a standard admission ticket for Palazzo Vecchio is around €12.50. The Secret Passages tour has a separate fee. Check the Palazzo Vecchio official website for current Palazzo Vecchio price details.
While the main palace requires a ticket, you can explore Piazza della Signoria and see the exterior of Palazzo Vecchio, including the copy of David, for free.
Yes, besides standard admission, you can book tickets for specific tours like the Secret Passages tour or combined tickets that might include other attractions.
🎫 🏛️ Onsite Experience
The Salone dei Cinquecento (Hall of the Five Hundred) is the largest room in Palazzo Vecchio, famous for its massive Vasari frescoes and Medici family history.
Absolutely! The climb up the Torre di Arnolfo offers spectacular panoramic views of Florence, making it a highlight for many visitors.
It's a curious face etched into a wall, believed by local legend to have been created by a young Michelangelo.
This guided tour takes you through hidden corridors and secret rooms within Palazzo Vecchio, offering a unique historical perspective.
Yes, Palazzo Vecchio is a treasure trove of Renaissance art, with stunning frescoes, sculptures, and decorated chambers.
🍽️ 🛍️ Shopping & Dining
Yes, Piazza della Signoria and the surrounding streets are filled with restaurants, cafes, and gelato shops.
There is a gift shop within Palazzo Vecchio where you can purchase souvenirs related to the palace and Florence.
Many highly-rated gelato shops are located within a short walk of Palazzo Vecchio. Look for places with natural colors and artisanal flavors.
Yes, several rooftop bars in Florence offer stunning views of the city skyline, including Palazzo Vecchio.
You'll find traditional Tuscan cuisine, including pasta dishes, Florentine steak, and local wines.
📸 📸 Photography
The Arnolfo Tower for city views, the Hall of the Five Hundred for its grandeur, and the cloister for its architectural beauty are prime photo locations. 
Photography is generally allowed inside Palazzo Vecchio, but flash photography is usually prohibited to protect the artwork. Always check for signage.
Golden hour (early morning or late afternoon) offers beautiful light for exterior shots of Palazzo Vecchio and Piazza della Signoria.
The 'Michelangelo's graffiti' and the intricate details within the Secret Passages tour offer unique and less common photo opportunities.
The view from the Arnolfo Tower is breathtaking, offering a 360-degree panorama of Florence, including the Duomo and the Arno River.
For Different Travelers
Tailored advice for your travel style
👨👩👧 Families with Kids
Consider booking the Secret Passages tour if your children are old enough to appreciate a bit of mystery and history; it's often described as a memorable experience. Look for the 'Michelangelo's graffiti' as a fun 'treasure hunt' element during your visit. While the extensive art collections might be less engaging for very young children, the sheer size and history of the palace itself can be impressive.
💰 Budget Travelers
If you decide to go inside, look for potential discounts or consider visiting during off-peak hours to potentially find slightly lower prices or fewer crowds. Packing your own snacks and water can also help save money, as dining options immediately surrounding the piazza can be pricier.
💖 Couples & History Buffs
For history buffs, spending time in the Hall of the Five Hundred and exploring the various decorated rooms provides deep insight into the political and artistic life of Renaissance Florence. Don't miss seeking out unique details like 'Michelangelo's graffiti' for a deeper connection to the past.
Deep Dives
In-depth insights and expert knowledge
The History and Significance of Palazzo Vecchio
The palace is a testament to Florentine Renaissance architecture and art. Its walls are adorned with masterpieces by renowned artists like Giorgio Vasari, Leonardo da Vinci, and Michelangelo. The Hall of the Five Hundred (Salone dei Cinquecento), in particular, is a breathtaking space, originally designed for the Grand Council of the Republic of Florence. Its vast ceiling and wall frescoes depict Florentine military victories and historical events, showcasing the power and ambition of the city-state.
Beyond its public-facing grandeur, Palazzo Vecchio also holds secrets. The Secret Passages tour offers a unique opportunity to explore hidden corridors, private chambers, and even a 'jewel box' shaped room, providing a more intimate understanding of the palace's past inhabitants and their lives. This blend of public monument and hidden history makes Palazzo Vecchio a compelling destination for any visitor interested in art, history, and Florentine culture.
Climbing the Arnolfo Tower: A Panoramic Adventure
Upon reaching the top, you are greeted with unparalleled 360-degree views of Florence. From this vantage point, you can clearly see the red-tiled roofs of the city, the majestic dome of the Florence Cathedral (Duomo), the Ponte Vecchio spanning the Arno River, and the rolling Tuscan hills in the distance. It's a perspective that truly allows you to appreciate the layout and beauty of Florence.
Many visitors find the climb to be a highlight of their Palazzo Vecchio visit. The Arnolfo Tower provides a different, more expansive view compared to climbing the Duomo or Giotto's Campanile, offering a unique photographic opportunity and a memorable experience of the city's skyline.
Art and Hidden Details within Palazzo Vecchio
Beyond the grand halls, keep an eye out for smaller, intriguing details. One such discovery is 'Michelangelo's graffiti', a face etched into a wall, which local legend attributes to the young artist. These hidden gems add a layer of personal history and mystery to the visit, making the exploration more engaging.
The cloister of Palazzo Vecchio is another area that showcases artistic beauty, with its harmonious arches and frescoes creating a tranquil atmosphere. It's a perfect spot for quiet contemplation and appreciating the architectural artistry.
The museum's descriptions in each room also help visitors understand the context and significance of the art and objects on display. 
Social
from TikTok, Instagram & Reddit