Florence Walking Tour with Statue of David
Uncover the best of Florence at the Duomo and Ponte Vecchio, and skip the line at Accademia
Want to see the heart of Florence and Michelangelo's David in just a few hours? This walking tour is the perfect introduction to Italy’s Renaissance city! With an engaging local guide to show you Florence’s most important areas and landmarks, learn the city’s rich history as you stroll past iconic sites such as the Duomo, Ponte Vecchio, and Piazza della Signoria. To top things off, you’ll have skip-the-line tickets to the incredible Accademia Gallery, home to the famous statue of David!
- Meet your guide at Piazza Santissima Annunziata
- Accademia Gallery
- Florence Duomo (exterior)
- House of Dante (exterior)
- Bronze Boar
- Piazza della Signoria
- Palazzo Vecchio
- Uffizi Gallery (exterior)
- Dante's District
- End at Ponte Vecchio
After meeting your local guide in Piazza Santissima Annunziata in central Florence, you'll enjoy a short stroll to the popular Accademia Gallery. The main admission line here can be incredibly long at times, but your skip-the-line ticket lets you get inside much more quickly. Your guide will lead you through the gallery, telling stories of its history and the famous artwork housed here—the most famous being Michelangelo's David! Afterwards, you'll begin your walking tour through the city.
After the Accademia, your guide will then lead you through Florence, taking in iconic sites including the Florence Duomo, Piazza della Signoria, and Ponte Vecchio. Along the way, learn the fascinating history of Florence and gain local insights that'll help you make the most of your time in this beautiful city.
Florence and Accademia Walking Tour Description
Your 3-hour tour includes:
Skip-the-line Accademia tickets with statue of David
A walking tour of Florence's highlights
An engaging, English-speaking guide
A maximum group size of 18
The Accademia Gallery
Your tour begins with skip-the-line entry to the Galleria dell'Accademia. Aside from the Uffizi Gallery, the Accademia Gallery is the most-visited museum in Florence. This means that long lines to get inside are common. Luckily, we reserve your Accademia tickets ahead of time, meaning that the only line you'll stand in is the much shorter security line.
Your guide is an expert in bringing the gallery's masterpieces and exhibits to life with entertaining stories about their history and meaning, and they'll help you connect more closely with the stunning artwork you'll see inside, including the most famous piece of all: David.
Michelangelo's David
When you enter the gallery in which the iconic statue of David stands, you'll immediately notice his height, smooth surface, and famously determined expression which reflects the moments before David went into battle with Goliath in the famous biblical tale.
Your guide will explain how Michelangelo heroically carved this masterpiece out of a block of carrara marble that no other artist wanted to touch. Make sure you take a good look at Michelangelo's hands and feet! They're out of proportion because David was supposed to be placed on top of the Florence Duomo.
The Duomo of Florence - Exterior
This iconic Duomo is Florence's most recognized landmark, located in the heart of Florence's historical center. Florence's cathedral towers over the city and is topped by a magnificent Renaissance dome designed by Filippo Brunelleschi. Your guide will take you around the outside of this incredible structure, and you'll learn the amazing story of its construction, which began over 800 years ago. You'll also get a closer look at the famed bronze Baptistry Doors.
Piazza della Signoria and the Medici Family
Filled with statues, fountains and beautiful architecture, Piazza della Signoria is the historical and emotional heart of Florence. The most prominent feature of the piazza is Florence’s town hall, the Palazzo Vecchio—once home to the powerful Medici family. Admire the Loggia dei Lanzi and the beautiful exterior corridors of the Uffizi Museum as you learn about the Medici family’s deep impact on the history of Florence, Italy, and the Renaissance movement.
Hidden Gems of Florence
Your walking tour isn't only about world-famous galleries and landmarks. Your guide will also show you some of the city's lesser-known gems, including the beautiful Orsanmichele Church, the ancient leather market, and the popular Bronze Boar fountain. Get to know more of Florence with the insights of your local guide!
Dante's District and Church
Your tour continues past the original house where Dante grew up, now converted into a museum. Plus, see the little church of Santa Margherita. It's said that this is where Dante and Beatrice fell in love. Dante writes about Beatrice in his most famous work, The Divine Comedy.
The Jewelers on Ponte Vecchio Bridge
Ponte Vecchio means “old bridge” in Italian, and it's appropriately named. Merchant shops have lined this famed bridge since the 13th century. Originally, the shops included fishmongers, butchers, and tanners, however these particular goods caused such a stench in the area that Ferdinand I proclaimed in 1593 that only jewelers were allowed to sell on the bridge. You'll feel as if you've stepped back in time as you stroll around this historic part of Florence.
What you get with this tour
See what people are saying
548 total reviews
Leave a reviewFlorence walking tour with David
Robert Ziegler
This was a terrific tour, especially with Erin as tour guide. She was knowledgeable and enthusiastic about the Academy and the city of Florence.
Juliana Paez
Yvonne Subiono
Frequently Asked Questions
What to bring?
Bring a little cash with you to try some gelato. Since this is a walking tour, you'll need comfortable shoes. Avoid bringing large bags, as the Accademia requires you to check them.
Do we get to go inside the Duomo?
This tour includes a visit to the outside of the Cathedral and a chance to see the Baptistry Doors. It does not go inside. We want to make sure we cover as many sights as possible in a day and consider the Duomo to be far more magnificent from the outside. If you wish to climb the dome, choose from one of our <a href="https://thetourguy.com/tours/florence-dome-climb" target="blank">Florence Duomo Tours</a> that include Dome Climb tickets.
What to bring?
Bring a little cash with you to try some gelato. Since this is a walking tour, you'll need comfortable shoes. Avoid bringing large bags, as the Accademia requires you to check them.
What if I'm concerned about my mobility?
This small group tour does involve a fair amount of walking, and some streets may be uneven. If you're concerned about your mobility, consider our <a href="https://thetourguy.com/tours/florence/florence-private-walking-tour-with-david" target="blank">Florence Private Walking Tour with Michelangelo's David</a> which can be more easily tailored to your needs.
Does this tour include the Uffizi Gallery?
While you'll see the Uffizi from the outside, this tour doesn't include entry to the gallery itself. If you'd like to include this as part of your tour, check out our <a href="https://thetourguy.com/tours/florence/florence-day-tour-david-statue-duomo-uffizi-ponte-vecchio" target="blank">Florence in a Day Combo Tour with David and Uffizi</a>
You may also like
Skip the Line
Florence in a Day Combo Tour with David and Uffizi
Explore Accademia Gallery, Ponte Vecchio, Florence Duomo, Uffizi Gallery, and so much more
Skip the Line
Complete Florence Duomo Tour with Dome Climb
View this charming city from the terraces of Brunelleschi’s famous dome after touring the cathedral
Day Trip
Tuscany Wine Tour from Florence to Siena & Chianti
Enjoy a luxury Tuscany day trip to visit Siena and San Gimignano then taste food and wine in Chianti
Skip the Line
Skip the Line Uffizi Gallery Tour
See Botticelli, Caravaggio, and Michelangelo's masterpieces in Florence's famous Uffizi Gallery
New Tour
Tuscany Wine Tour by Vespa from Florence
Taste the food and wine of Chianti as you ride through the Tuscan countryside on a vintage scooter
Guided Tour
Florence Local Food Tour in Santo Spirito
Get an authentic taste of Florence’s exquisite food and wine in a lively local neighborhood
New Tour
Tuscany Day Trip from Rome with Vineyard Lunch and Wine Tasting
Wander through the medieval towns of Montepulciano and Pienza and enjoy a 3-course meal!
Skip the Line
Statue of David Evening Tour
Skip the line to see Michelangelo's David on a later tour of the Accademia Gallery with fewer crowds
New Tour
Tuscany in a Day Tour from Florence
Visit Siena, dine at a Chianti vineyard, explore San Gimignano, and see the Leaning Tower of Pisa!
Skip the Line
Uffizi Private Tour in Florence
Skip the line to see Birth of Venus, Medusa, Doni Tondo, and more with your own private art guide
Florence Duomo Skip-the-Line Tour with Dome Climb
Explore the breathtaking cathedral and take in captivating views from Brunelleschi’s Cupola!
New tour
Authentic 4-Course Meal at a Local’s Home in Florence
Watch your host’s cooking demo from her own kitchen, then enjoy a family lunch or dinner together!
New tour
Pisa and The Leaning Tower Half Day Tour from Florence
Explore the City famous for its Piazza dei Miracoli and enjoy skip-the-line access with this tour
New Tour
Florence Duomo Skip-the-Line Tour
Explore the iconic cathedral with an expert guide and visit the fascinating Misericordia Museum
New Tour
Florence Accademia Gallery Express Guided Tour
Skip the line, marvel at renowned masterpieces and see Michelangelo’s iconic David statue!
New Tour
Cinque Terre Tour with Locally Produced Limoncino Tasting from La Spezia
Explore the Beaches and Picturesque Peaks in a Small Group
New Tour
Pizza and Gelato Making Cooking Class in Florence
Create the authentic food of Italy with an expert pizzaiolo chef, homemade lunch, and wine
New Tour
Cinque Terre Hiking Tour from La Spezia
Walk clifftop trails to discover vineyards, epic views, and famous villages on Italy's magical coast
New Tour
Tuscany Wine Making Experience and Gourmet Dinner from Florence
Dine like Tuscan royalty and create your own Chianti wine blend on this small group VIP evening tour
New Tour
Semi-Private Cinque Terre Day Trip & Vineyard Tour from Florence
Discover the best of Cinque Terre with seafood lunch, wine tasting, and transportation included
New Tour
Authentic Tuscan Cooking Class in Florence with San Lorenzo Market
Create delicious pasta, tiramisu, and more with market-fresh ingredients and an expert local chef
New Tour
Pisa and Lucca Day Trip from Florence
Book a stress-free trip to see the Leaning Tower of Pisa and Lucca's medieval walls in a day
New Tour
Florentine Gondola Boat Tour
Sip wine on the Arno River and cruise by Ponte Vecchio, Uffizi, and more on a classic Barchetto boat
New Tour
Tuscany Wineland Safari from Florence
Get off the beaten track to explore vineyards, castles, food, and Chianti wine on this 4x4 day tour
New Tour
Florence in a Half Day by Bike Tour
Take a ride through the city's hidden gems from Ponte Vecchio to the Oltrarno neighborhood
New Tour
Cinque Terre Day Trip from Florence with Boat Ride
Visit these iconic fishing villages the easy way on this tour to the beautiful Italian Riviera
Skip the Line
Kid-Friendly Private Florence Walking Tour: David & Gelato
Bring the fun to Florence on this family walking tour that includes a merry-go-round and papermaking
Skip the Line
Florence Private Walking Tour with Michelangelo's David
Explore the famous sites of Florence, with Ponte Vecchio, Duomo, and skip-the-line Accademia entry
Private Tour
Private Wine Day in the Chianti Hills from Florence
Enjoy an intimate day trip tasting wine and organic food from local farms and vineyards in Tuscany
Private Tour
Private Pisa Day Trip from Florence with Lunch in Vinci
Discover Tuscany on this VIP private tour, with Leaning Tower of Pisa, Da Vinci Museum, and more!
Private Tour
Orvieto, Civita di Bagnoregio & Winery Private Day Trip from Rome
Escape the city on a memorable journey through Umbria’s historic towns to taste fine local wines
Private Tour
Livorno Shore Excursion: Florence & Pisa
Maximize your day ashore on this jam-packed private tour with Leaning Tower, David, and more!
Private Tour
Tuscany Shore Excursion: Chianti Wine Country and San Gimignano
A Chianti Wine Tasting Excursion
Skip the Line
Private Siena Walking Tour
Explore this charming Tuscan city with an engaging local guide to see the Duomo, San Domenico & more
Brunello di Montalcino Helicopter Tour from Rome or Florence
Soar above Tuscany on an exclusive VIP tour, complete with private wine tastings and a gourmet lunch
Pisa & Cinque Terre Day Trip From Florence
Explore the charming towns of Monterosso and Manarola, embark on a coastal hike, and tour Pisa
New Tour
Tuscan Countryside Vespa Tour from Florence
Cruise to the rolling hills of Tuscany and taste local food and wine!
E-Bike Tour Through Florence and Tuscan Countryside
Ride along Tuscany’s majestic rolling hills, visit a medieval village, and sample local delicacies!
New Tour
Tuscany Winery Tour and Gourmet Bites in Montalcino
Pair irresistible wine with delicious gourmet bites after strolling through picturesque vineyards
Val d’Orcia Day Trip with Two Wine Tastings from Florence
Sip on Brunello in Montalcino, wander through Pienza, and savor pecorino cheese in Montelpuciano
New Tour
Brunello di Montalcino Winery Tour & Tasting
Sip wine and stroll through vineyards alongside an expert guide in the hills of Montalcino
New Tour
Exclusive Florence Duomo and Secret Terraces Tour
Discover Florence's Duomo with our small group, skip the line tour with hidden terrace access
500 tour from Florence
Private Vintage FIAT 500 Chianti Tour with Driver from Florence
Cruise through the hills of Tuscany in style and dine at a Tuscan villa on this exclusive experience
Palazzo Vecchio Small Group Skip the Line Guided Tour
Roam through the lavish apartments and halls that were home to the iconic Medici family in Florence
New Tour
Skip the Line Duomo Terraces Tour with Dome Climb
Admire the Florence Cathedral, climb to the top of Brunelleschi’s Dome, and enjoy breathtaking views
Three-Day Chianti Vineyard Wine & Spa Getaway
Rejuvenate at the rustic Borgo Casa al Vento while learning the secrets of Tuscan wine and cuisine
New Tour
Early Morning Duomo Tour with Exclusive Entry and Brunelleschi's Dome
Be among the first of the day to enter Florence cathedral on this VIP experience
New Tour
San Lorenzo Market Tour and Wine Tasting in Florence
Eat your way through Florence’s historic market, enjoy a wine tasting, and try real Italian gelato!
New Tour
Pizza and Gelato Cooking Class in a Tuscany Farmhouse in Florence
Pick fresh ingredients and learn to make authentic, Italian cuisine on an unforgettable day trip!
New Tour
Oltrarno Local Food Tour in Florence
Take a break from the crowds and eat like a local in the lively neighborhood of Oltrarno
New Tour
Chianti Vineyards Tour and Wine Tastings from Florence
See two luxurious wine estates, taste local wine, and sample delicious produce on this half day tour
Vintage FIAT 500 Tour from Florence
Vintage FIAT 500 Self-Drive Tuscany Tour from Florence
Get behind the wheel of an iconic Italian car, cruising to the Tuscan countryside
