Salone dei Cinquecento

Museums & exhibitions

Palazzo Vecchio is the heart of Florence. Built in 1299 to house the leaders of the medieval city it is the symbol of the city’s history. The golden age of Palazzo Vecchio began when the Medici family decided to turn it into a real palace, making it the family residence. During your visit, you’ll be able to admire the architecture of the palazzo, and its sculptures and paintings, and learn about its rich and complex history over the centuries. Your visit to the Palazzo Vecchio will be enhanced with a multimedia guide in the form of a 7-inch tablet that provides fascinating audio-video narration with images in high definition and spectacular 3D re-creations. Upgrade your experience to include Arnolfo's Tower, and enjoy the fantastic views from the tower's summit. Visit the tower first, then head to the museum 1 hour later.

This tour allows visits to a suite of off-the-beaten-path locations in Palazzo Vecchio Museum. Among them is the mysterious stairway built in the thick walls by the will of Gualtieri di Brienee. Skip the line and head off on a 75-minute guided tour. Discover the small study of Francesco I de’ Medici, a very elegant treasure "of rare and precious things," and the desk of his father Cosimo I, more widely known as Tesoretto. To round off the experience, hear about the huge trussed structure built by the great architect Giorgio Vasari, which supports the paneled ceiling of the Salone del Cinquecento, the main room of the palace.

Palazzo Vecchio is the heart of Florence, a symbol of the city since medieval times to the modern days. Made in 1299 in which it acted as a seat for the governing of citizens, the building started its golden age the moment when the Medici family moved into the Palazzo, transforming it into the beautiful palace of extraordinary richness that it is today. The guided visit pulls you into the imense wealth, extraordinary decorations, masterpieces and even an access to a secret passage through the beautiful camerino of Bianca Cappello, second wife of the Granduke Francesco I de’Medici.

Discover Florence’s historic center on a walking tour including the imposing Duomo, elegant Uffizi Square, the renowned leather market, and the Accademia Gallery with Michelangelo’s David. Stroll along the streets lined with the architecture of the Middle Ages and the Renaissance, admire the city in its continued glory, and discover its hidden gems. Begin with a walking tour and learn about the fascinating history of Florence as you visit the heart of the Renaissance Civic and Political Center, famous for its ancient statues and glorious fountains. With your guide leading the way, visit all of Florence's top sights, including the iconic sculptures at Piazza Signoria, Palazzo Vecchio, and the Uffizi Courtyard. Walk towards the astounding Florence Cathedral of Santa Maria del Fiore, from where Brunelleschi’s dome dominates the skyline of Florence and never ceases to impress. Gaze at the Baptistry Doors by Ghiberti, coined the “Gates of Paradise” by Michelangelo, and get an up-close view of the Duomo, where your guide will tell you interesting facts about the building. Benefit from skip-the-line access to the Accademia Gallery where you will have the unique opportunity to see Michelangelo’s statue of the Slaves and his magnificent 17-foot marble masterpiece, the David.

If you’re interested in the culture of Florence and the beauty of its architecture, join this 2-hour guided walking tour that takes in the most important monuments of this UNESCO World Heritage Site. The walking tour begins at the Piazza San Firenze; home of the Bargello and the Tribunale Fiorentino. Walk first to the Church of Santa Croce, home to many well-known masterpieces and burial place of some of Italy's most important personages. Next come to Piazza Signoria known for Neptune's Fountain, the Palazzo Vecchio, and the lovely Piazzale degli Uffizi. Cross the Ponte Vecchio; the medieval stone bridge famous for its gold jewelry shops, and arrive at the spectacular Pitti palace; former residence of the Medici family. Head back toward the Arno and the historic center along Via Maggio and Ponta Santa Trinita, passing along Via Tornabuoni where you will see some of Florence's top fashion boutiques. Stop at the Strozzi Palace; prototype of Renaissance architecture and then finish with the impressive Piazza Republica and the magnificent Florence Cathedral.

Breeze past the long lines with skip-the-line access to the Palazzo Vecchio in Florence. Walk past a replica of Michelangelo's David before entering the its imposing Renaissance facade. Be immediately struck by the grandeur of the interior courtyard, designed by Michelozzo. Step into the Hall of the Five Hundred (Salone dei Cinquecento) which is adorned with stunning frescoes by Giorgio Vasari, depicting scenes from Florentine history. Marvel at how it was built in only seven months by Simone del Pollaiolo by will of Girolamo Savonarola. Look up to see paintings hat celebrate the life of Cosimo I. Throughout the Palazzo Vecchio, encounter an impressive collection of art and sculptures, including works by renowned artists such as Donatello and Verrocchio. Take in statues that represent the “Labours of Hercules” abd Vasari frescoes that represent the successes of Cosmo. Gain a deeper appreciation of Florence's rich history and the city's role as a cultural and political center during the Renaissance.

Experience the beauty of Florence, the capital city of Tuscany and the birthplace of the Renaissance, in less than two hours by high-speed train from Rome. We will pick you up from your hotel and accompany you to Roma Termini railway station, where our travel assistant will check you in and board the train with you. Upon arrival in Florence, our local guide will meet you in Piazza del Duomo and take you on a walking tour of the city, including the Cattedrale di Santa Maria del Fiore, the Ponte Vecchio, and Piazza Signoria. Then, enjoy access to the famous Galleria degli Uffizi and admire the masterpieces of Botticelli, Michelangelo, Raphael, and more, as our local guide unveils the secrets and stories behind these priceless works of art. After the tour, you will have plenty of free time to explore the city at your leisure and enjoy lunch or a snack (not included in the price) at a nice restaurant or bar. Finally, we will meet at a designated time, head to the train station, and travel back to Rome in the late afternoon. Don't miss this opportunity to immerse yourself in the rich history and art of Florence with us.

Explore the town hall of Florence on a 2-hour tour of the Palazzo Vecchio Museum. Visit the private apartments of the Medici family and enjoy the atmosphere.  Admire the impressive murals that decorate the walls of the Salone dei Cinquecento — the Hall of the Five Hundred — and discover classic art from medieval masters to those of the Renaissance.

Take a 2-hour tour with a private guide to discover the must-see Palazzo Vecchio. The famous medieval castle is filled with history and houses an incredible collection of Renaissance artworks. Meet your guide outside the palace to start your magnificent tour. Admire the high decorated ceilings and the stunning frescoes in the Hall of the Five Hundred. See impressive Renaissance statues by Donatello and Michelangelo, visit a hall filled with ancient maps, and discover private rooms as you learn about the Medici family’s power. Wander through the extensive apartments and halls with a knowledgeable guide, as you learn about the palace’s history and everyday life there. Listen to stories and myths from the Renaissance period, told by your expert guide.

Explore a captivating one-mile walk through a Uneso World Heritage area, guided by a local expert. Discover the fascinating history of the Medici dynasty, a powerful family that shaped the Renaissance era. Hear stories of intrigue, power struggles, and foresight, as you visit landmarks such as Palazzo Medici Riccardi and the Medici Chapels. Walk in the footsteps of the Medici family through narrow streets, touching the stones of their residences. Marvel at the Cathedral, Palazzo Vecchio, and follow the path of the Vasari Corridor, a secret passage connecting Palazzo Pitti to Palazzo Vecchio. Conclude your journey at the majestic Pitti Palace and Boboli Gardens, the final residence of the Medici, immersing yourself in the art and history of this unique city. Discover the wonders of Pitti Palace or Boboli Gardens with our skip-the-line ticket! Visit the Palatine Gallery, Gallery of Modern Art, Museum of Fashion and Costume, Treasure of the Grand Dukes, and the enchanting Palace Gardens. Your ticket is your passport to a self-guided adventure in this cultural haven!