Florence: The Best of Renaissance Private Walking Tour

Highlights

• Private Guided Tour
• Architectural Masterpieces
• Florentine Icons

What's included

Itinerary

1. 1

   Duomo

   10min

   The entire center of the city is a Unesco World Heritage Site and this eco-friendly tour departs from Piazza Santissima Annunziata, home of the National Archaeological Museum and Spedale degli Innocenti. Continue through aristocratic streets and stop at the Synagogue and the historic Flea Market. Pause for a photo in front of Santa Croce Church, a symbol of Florence, known for its stunning 14th-century frescoes. Leaving the Santa Croce district, you will pass the home of Michelangelo and cross over the Arno River via the famous Ponte Vecchio. Visit Porta San Niccolò, Pitti Palace, and the Santo Spirito Church, containing a crucifix carved by Michelangelo, before cycling back over the Arno to Piazza Signoria. Stop to catch your breath and snap a photo at the Neptune Fountain and the magnificent Medici Palazzo Vecchio. No trip to Florence is complete without seeing Piazza Repubblica and the extraordinary Duomo.

2. 2

   Palazzo Medici Riccardi

   10min

   Palazzo Medici Riccardi is one of the most important Renaissance buildings in Florence, commissioned by Cosimo de' Medici in the 15th century and designed by Michelozzo. It was the first residence of the Medici family before they moved to Palazzo Vecchio and later Palazzo Pitti. The palace is known for its elegant rusticated façade and its stunning courtyard, but its true gem is the Chapel of the Magi, adorned with magnificent frescoes by Benozzo Gozzoli, depicting the Procession of the Magi. Over time, it was expanded by the Riccardi family, who enriched it with Baroque elements. Today, Palazzo Medici Riccardi houses a museum and is a must-visit for those interested in Renaissance art, Medici history, and Florentine architecture.

3. 3

   Piazza Della Santissima Annunziata

   10min

   Piazza della Santissima Annunziata is one of the most harmonious and elegant squares in Florence, known for its perfect Renaissance symmetry. It is dominated by the Basilica della Santissima Annunziata, an important religious site with stunning frescoes and the revered miraculous Annunciation painting. The square is framed by porticoed buildings, including Brunelleschi’s Ospedale degli Innocenti, one of the first examples of Renaissance architecture, originally built as an orphanage. At its center stands the equestrian statue of Ferdinand I de' Medici, flanked by two ornate bronze fountains. A place rich in history and artistic beauty, Piazza della Santissima Annunziata offers a unique glimpse into Florence’s architectural elegance and cultural heritage.

4. 4

   Basilica di San Lorenzo

   10min

   The Basilica of San Lorenzo is one of the oldest and most significant churches in Florence, closely tied to the Medici family. Originally consecrated in 393 AD, it was later redesigned by Filippo Brunelleschi in the 15th century, making it a masterpiece of Renaissance architecture. Inside, the basilica features an elegant Latin cross plan, with harmonious proportions and artworks by masters like Donatello. The complex also includes the Medici Chapels, the grand mausoleum of the Medici family, and the stunning Laurentian Library, designed by Michelangelo. Located in the heart of the San Lorenzo district, near the lively Central Market, the basilica is a must-visit for those interested in art, history, and Medici heritage.

5. 5

   Palazzo Pitti

   10min

   Piazza Pitti is a spacious and majestic square in Florence, dominated by the impressive Palazzo Pitti, once the residence of the Medici, Lorraine, and Savoy families. Located in the Oltrarno district, it serves as the gateway to the Boboli Gardens, one of the most beautiful Italian-style gardens. The square, with its grand open space, contrasts with the elaborate architecture of the palace, creating a striking visual effect. It is a lively area where visitors can admire the Renaissance grandeur of Palazzo Pitti, explore its world-class museums, or relax in one of the nearby cafés. A symbol of Florentine elegance and history, Piazza Pitti is a must-visit for those looking to experience the city's aristocratic past and artistic beauty.

6. 6

   Santo Spirito

   10min

   Santo Spirito is one of the most authentic and vibrant neighborhoods in Florence, located in the Oltrarno district. At its heart lies the Basilica of Santo Spirito, a Renaissance masterpiece designed by Filippo Brunelleschi. Though its façade remains simple, the interior is an architectural gem, featuring harmonious proportions, stunning chapels, and artworks by masters like Michelangelo. The Piazza Santo Spirito is a lively meeting place, known for its local markets, artisan shops, trendy bars, and traditional trattorias. It retains a bohemian atmosphere, making it a favorite spot for both locals and visitors seeking an authentic Florentine experience. With its blend of art, history, and local culture, Santo Spirito is a must-visit for those who want to explore a more intimate and artistic side of Florence.

7. 7

   Ponte Vecchio

   10min

   Ponte Vecchio is one of the most iconic landmarks of Florence and one of the most famous bridges in the world. Built in the 14th century, it is the oldest bridge in the city and the only one that survived World War II bombings. Known for its historic goldsmith shops, Ponte Vecchio has been home to jewelers and artisans since the 16th century, when the Medici family ordered the replacement of butcher shops with more refined businesses. Above the bridge runs the Vasari Corridor, a secret passageway built in 1565 to connect Palazzo Vecchio to Palazzo Pitti, allowing the Medici rulers to move discreetly through the city. With its unique architecture and breathtaking views of the Arno River, Ponte Vecchio remains one of the most romantic and picturesque spots in Florence.

Before you go

Location