Florence Accademia Gallery Express Guided Tour
Skip the line, marvel at renowned masterpieces and see Michelangelo’s iconic David statue!
If you want to tour the Accademia Gallery and save time while admiring some of the city’s other treasures, this tour is ideal for you. On this small group experience, a professional art historian will spend the morning leading you through the world-renowned museum’s most breathtaking masterpieces. Get up close to Michelangelo’s iconic David statue, see the artist’s most famous unfinished works, and marvel at historic paintings and sculptures by some of the world’s most prominent artists.
- Meeting point
- Skip-the-Line
- Michelangelo’s David statue
- Professional art historian
- 1-hour guided experience
- Origin of Michelangelo’s David
- Extend your artistic journey
- Ending point
Kick off your morning at the Accademia Gallery ticket office with fast-track entry and an expert guide leading the way. Skip the long lines and join a small group for an unforgettable art experience. Stand in awe before Michelangelo’s David as your guide reveals its secrets and powerful symbolism. Then, dive deeper into the genius of Michelangelo, alongside masterpieces by Botticelli, Uccello, and more. Once the guided tour ends, take your time—wander freely, revisit your favorite pieces, and soak in the beauty at your own pace.
Florence Accademia Gallery Guided Tour Description
Your 1-hour tour includes:
Professional, art-historian guide
Skip-the-line tickets
See Michelangelo’s David and other unfinished sculptures
View paintings and sculptures by other iconic artists
Free time to explore the museum following the tour
Small group of only 20 people max
Meet Your Expert Guide
Start your morning outside the Accademia Gallery, where your professional art historian guide will welcome you and a small group of no more than 20 guests. With skip-the-line tickets, you’ll breeze past the crowds and dive straight into a tour filled with fascinating stories and insights about each masterpiece you encounter.
Marvel at Michelangelo’s David Statue and Other Masters
The Accademia Gallery is most renowned for hosting Michelangelo’s iconic David statue, so it makes sense that this is where your expert guide will begin the tour! As you marvel at the world’s most famous statue, your knowledgeable guide will explain the origin story of Michelangelo’s breathtaking masterpiece.
The artist sculpted David from a single block of Carrara marble, with the intention to depict the biblical David. After being displayed in 1504, the legendary statue became a significant symbol for the Florentine Republic.
Admire Michelangelo’s Other Masterpieces
Your tour begins with Michelangelo’s iconic David, as your guide reveals the story behind this stunning marble statue and its symbolic importance to the Florentine Republic. Then, explore more of Michelangelo’s works—including his unfinished sculptures Prigioni and San Matteo—alongside masterpieces by Botticelli, Paolo Uccello, and Andrea del Sarto, spanning from the Middle Ages to the Renaissance.
Free Time to Explore
After your 1-hour express tour, take your time to wander the gallery at your leisure. Revisit David, discover hidden corners, or soak in more breathtaking works, enjoying the Accademia’s treasures at your own pace. Spend as much time as you'd like admiring the works of historic artists, or perhaps you'd prefer to revisit one of your favorite pieces from the tour. The choice is yours!
What you get with this tour
See what people are saying
45 total reviews
Leave a reviewVery informative
Mark Richman
The guide described in an organized manner the development of Renaissance art (eg, from Byzantine to Renaissance, and representative pieces), and how the David was made (where it was quarried, how long it took to carve, etc.). It was interesting to see several of Michelangelo's unfinished sculptures he had to abort after the patron (usually the Pope) no longer paid for his work on them.
Mr Joseph DeMita
Joseph DeMita
We arrived at 9:45 for our 10am tour and could not find anyone at our meeting place. After walking for 20 minutes asking multiple people we were told it is Italy Pass and across street from our location. We finally found guy at 10:20 and were told we would depart at 10:30. We left at 11:05, were put in another line until 11:30 when we entered venue. Since we had to meet our next tour with your company at 11:45 for our noon tour our tour guide told us to just quickly go see Statue of David and head to next tour. We received absolutely no value for our charge and will be disputing entire charge with our credit card company. My tel is 617-538-6199.
Great tour guide that provided a wealth of information
Curtis Marquardt
Our tour guide was fantastic. We learned so much about Michelangelo and some of the more interesting aspects of his work. It was just the right amount of time to experience the statue of David!
Frequently Asked Questions
What to bring?
We suggest wearing comfortable shoes and clothes.
What to bring?
We suggest wearing comfortable shoes and clothes.
Is this tour run by The Tour Guy?
This tour is operated by one of our trusted and vetted partners in Florence.
What if I have concerns about my mobility on this tour?
If you have any concern about your mobility, please let us know beforehand, and we’ll do our best to accommodate you. This tour is wheelchair accessible and should not be a problem for those with mobility concerns.
What happens if it rains?
We run our Accademia gallery tour rain or shine!
Is there any chance this tour will be canceled?
On the rare occasion the tour is canceled, we'll inform you as soon as possible. We will work with you to reschedule your tour when possible or provide a full refund.
How comprehensive is this tour?
During this tour, you will have 1-1.5 hours with an expert art historian, walking you through the most prominent works of Michelangelo and other notable artists, with a special focus on the David. While there won’t be time to tour the entire museum with your guide, you will learn a lot about the more impressive and significant works of art and be free to explore the Accademia Gallery at your leisure, after the guided tour.
Is lunch included in the price of the tour?
No, but your guide will be happy to recommend one of our favorite spots for after the tour.
Can I bring my kids and do I have to pay for them?
Kids are welcome on this tour, and infants aged 3 and younger may join for free. Children aged 4-12 pay a reduced fee. Please, choose accordingly during the booking.
Does this tour include hotel pickup?
Hotel pickup is not included on this tour. You’ll meet your guide at the designated meeting point outside of the museum.
Where does this tour end?
This tour ends at the museum, however you free to stay as long as you’d like and continue exploring at your leisure.
You may also like
Guided Tour
Florence Evening Food Tour with Florentine Steak and Tuscan Wine
Indulge in 14 authentic tastings across 5 local restaurants for the ultimate Florentine food journey
Day Trip
Florence Day Trip to Tuscany: Siena, San Gimignano & Winery Lunch
Relax on this Tuscan day trip with a 3-course lunch and 6 wine tastings
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
Accademia's David and Uffizi Half-Day Skip the Line Tour
Explore Florence's must-see masterpieces including the Duomo in a small group
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
Skip the Line
Florence Walking Tour with Statue of David
Uncover the best of Florence at the Duomo and Ponte Vecchio, and skip the line at Accademia
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
New Tour
Semi-Private Cinque Terre Day Trip with Boat Ride from Florence
Discover the best of Cinque Terre with seafood lunch, wine tasting, and transportation included
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
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
Complete Florence Duomo Tour with Dome Climb and Secret Terraces
View this charming city from the hidden terraces of Brunelleschi’s dome after touring the cathedral
New Tour
Pizza and Gelato Making Cooking Class with Unlimited Wine in Florence
Create the authentic food of Italy with an expert pizzaiolo chef, homemade lunch, and wine
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
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
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
Chianti Vineyards 3-Course Dinner with Transportation from Florence
Escape to Tuscany for an evening of wine tastings, savoring 4 exquisite wines and local cuisine
New Tour
Florence: Chianti Wineries Tour with Food and Wine Tasting
See two luxurious wine estates, taste local wine, and sample delicious produce on this half day tour
New Tour
Florence Duomo Skip-the-Line Tour
Explore the iconic cathedral with an expert guide and visit the fascinating Misericordia Museum
Skip the Line
Skip the Line Uffizi Gallery Tour
See Botticelli, Caravaggio, and Michelangelo's masterpieces in Florence's famous Uffizi Gallery
New Tour
Cinque Terre Hiking Tour from La Spezia Train Station
Walk clifftop trails to discover vineyards, epic views, and famous villages on Italy's magical coast
New Tour
Pasta Cooking Class and Gourmet Wine Pairing in Florence
Create authentic pasta with a Michelin-star chef and savor Tuscan wines guided by a master sommelier
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 River Cruise Experience
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
Explore vineyards, castles, and Chianti wine and cheese off the beaten track on this 4x4 experience
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
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
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!
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
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
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!
Private Accademia and Uffizi Express Tour
See Michelangelo’s David and Renaissance masterpieces with your personal guide
Bike Tour Through Florence and Tuscan Countryside
Ride along Tuscany’s majestic rolling hills, visit a medieval village, and sample local delicacies!
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
Sunset Boat Tour of the Cinque Terre from Monterosso
Explore Vernazza, Manarola, and Riomaggiore on a 2.5-hour small group cruise with onboard aperitivo
Private Tour
Private Florence in a Day Tour with David & Uffizi
Admire the Florence Duomo, cross Ponte Vecchio, and more with your personal guide
Hands-On Pasta Class: 3 Recipes, Endless Wine
Master traditional pasta and tiramisu in a private, historic Florentine palace
Florence Electric Golf Cart Sightseeing Tour for Small Groups
Explore Florence by Golf Cart and See the Duomo, Ponte Vecchio and hidden gems
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
Florence Bike Tour at Night with Aperitivo Picnic
Pedal through Duomo and Ponte Vecchio, in a small group with 1 glass of wine and a riverside picnic
Cinque Terre Boat Tour with Swimming Stop from Monterosso
Admire cliffside villages of Corniglia, Vernazza, Manarola and Riomaggiore on a small group cruise
3-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
Skip-the-Line Uffizi Gallery & Vasari Corridor Small Group Tour
Be among the first to walk Florence’s secret passageway after nearly a decade
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!
Private Uffizi Gallery and Historic Vasari Corridor Tour
Immerse yourself in artistic treasures and uncover the Medici family’s secret legacy
Sant’Ambrogio Market Tour and Cooking Class with a Local Chef in Florence
Discover Tuscan street food, prepare a 3-course meal with tagliatelle and tiramisù and try 2 wines
New Tour
Vintage FIAT 500 Self-Drive Tuscany Tour from Florence
Get behind the wheel of an iconic Italian car, enjoy a typical lunch and drink Tuscan wine
3-Day Tuscany Retreat: Wine, Cooking & Relaxation near La Spezia
Immerse in Tuscany’s natural pools, soak in a starlit hot tub, and taste farm-fresh delicacies
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!
new tour
Chianti Vespa Tour from San Gimignano with Wine Tasting and Lunch
Ride through the hills of Tuscany on a vintage scooter, visit a local estate and enjoy a local meal
