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
Searching for the best way to visit the Palazzo Vecchio while in Florence? On this small group tour your guide will lead you through the former residence of the Medici family, focusing on the Palazzo’s fascinating museum. Listen to intriguing tales of the powerful family as you roam through the private rooms of Grand Dukes and admire the astounding frescoes of Giorgio Vasari from Salon dei 500. After wandering through a series of lavish halls and apartments end with a visit to the terrace!
- Meeting Point in via de' Castellani
- Private Rooms of the Grand Dukes
- Salone dei 500
- Government Rooms
- Apartments of Eleonora of Toledo
- Gigli Room
- Geographical Maps room
- Terrace
- Ending Point at Palazzo Vecchio
After meeting your expert guide and small group of fellow travelers in Via de’ Castellani, make the short walk over to the entrance of the Palazzo Vecchio. While the famous palace currently serves as Florence’s town hall, it was once the lavish residence of the Medici family.
Thanks to your skip-the-line tickets, you’ll enjoy a quick entry into the historic palace, where your guide will lead you straight to the fascinating museum. Explore the most significant rooms, halls, and apartments that were once filled by Dukes and Duchesses. Admire lavish corridors, gaze at Giorgio Vasari’s astounding frescoes, and see where important government business took place. All the while, your passionate guide will share fascinating tales of the palace and its most prominent residents.
End your exquisite visit with time spent on the palace’s spectacular terrace, where you’ll be treated to an awe-inspiring view of Florence.
Palazzo Vecchio Tour Description
Your 1.5-hour tour includes:
Expert, licensed guide
Skip the line tickets to enter the Palazzo Vecchio
Radio headsets
Explore the most prominent rooms of the museum
Take in the view from the stunning terrace
Small group atmosphere of only 14 people max
Enjoy Priority Access to the Palazzo Vecchio
Your captivating tour begins in Via de’ Castellani, just down the street from the famous Palazzo Vecchio, one of the most significant and historic government buildings in Florence. Meet your passionate guide and intimate group of fellow travelers, and then make your way to the main entrance of the ornate palace. Thanks to your skip-the-line tickets, you’ll breeze past the long line of tourists and enjoy a swift entry inside the Palazzo’s fascinating museum.
Learn About the Medici Family
As you roam through the opulent museum, your knowledgeable guide will share intriguing tales about the palace, as well as the Medici family who famously resided here during the Renaissance period.
Built in the 1200s, the Palazzo Vecchio became the home of the Grand Duke Cosimo I in the 1500s, and later served as the seat of the Italian Parliament in the 1800s. Step back in time as you move through each spectacular room and corridor, listening to alluring stories of the Palazzo’s extravagant past.
Explore the Prominent Rooms of the Palazzo
Wander through the private rooms of the Grand Dukes of the Medici family, which were all impeccably renovated by Giorgio Vasari. Next, follow your guide into the majestic rooms of the Government of the Italian Republic, as well as the exquisite halls and apartments that once belonged to the Grand Duchess Eleonora of Toledo.
Most impressive of all, your guide will lead you to the Salone dei 500, an immense room which is entirely frescoed by Giorgio Vasari. Marvel at the breathtaking sight, taking in the intricate details of the artist’s incredible work.
Admire Stunning Terrace Views
As you near the end of your illuminating tour, meander through the rest of the museum’s extraordinary rooms. Stroll through the Gigli room, the Geographical Maps rooms, and finally the stunning Chancellor of the Republic room.
Before departing, your passionate guide will take you to the Palazzo’s magnificent terrace. The tour ends here, sit back and relax as you take in an unmatched view of Florence’s cityscape, imagining the Duke’s and Duchesses who once gazed upon this very view.
What you get with this tour
Frequently Asked Questions
What to bring?
Please bring comfortable walking shoes, along with a photo ID.
What to bring?
Please bring comfortable walking shoes, along with a photo ID.
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?
This tour is wheelchair accessible and should not be a problem for guests with mobility concerns. In case you have doubts about your mobility, please contact us beforehand and we will do our best to accommodate you.
What happens if it rains?
We run our Palazzo Vecchio tours rain or shine.
Is there any chance my tour might be canceled?
On the rare occasions 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.
Is there a dress code to enter the Palazzo Vecchio?
There is no dress code for the Palazzo Vecchio, though we recommend wearing comfortable walking shoes for exploring the museum.
How comprehensive is this Palazzo Vecchio tour?
As this tour focuses exclusively on the museum, it is very comprehensive. You will explore the most prominent rooms, apartments, and halls of the palace, and have the opportunity to visit its beautiful terrace.
Does the Palazzo Vecchio ever experience sudden closures?
While sudden or unexpected closures of the Palazzo Vecchio are rare, it is possible. If this happens, you will be offered a full refund or alternative tour date.
Is lunch included in the price of the tour?
No, lunch is not included in this tour. However, we’re happy to recommend one of our favorite spots for after your tour, and your guide is sure to point you in the right direction too!
Can I bring my kids and do I have to pay for them?
Kids are welcome on this tour and children 8 to 17 pay a reduced fare. Children aged 7 and under may join for free. Please choose accordingly during the booking.
Does this tour include hotel pickup?.
No hotel pickup is included on this tour. You’ll meet your guide at the designated meeting point near the Palazzo Vecchio
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
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
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
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
Florence Duomo Skip-the-Line Tour with Dome Climb
Explore the breathtaking cathedral and take in captivating views from Brunelleschi’s Cupola!
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
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
Exclusive Florence Duomo and Secret Terraces Tour
Discover Florence's Duomo with our small group, skip the line tour with hidden terrace access
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
New Tour
Florence Accademia Gallery Express Guided Tour
Skip the line, marvel at renowned masterpieces and see Michelangelo’s iconic David statue!
New Tour
Florence Duomo Skip-the-Line Tour
Explore the iconic cathedral with an expert guide and visit the fascinating Misericordia Museum
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
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 Duomo Terraces Tour with Dome Climb
Admire the Florence Cathedral, climb to the top of Brunelleschi’s Dome, and enjoy breathtaking views
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
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 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
Tuscany in a Day Tour from Florence
Visit Siena, dine at a Chianti vineyard, explore San Gimignano, and see the Leaning Tower of Pisa!
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
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
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
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
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
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
Uffizi Private Tour in Florence
Skip the line to see Birth of Venus, Medusa, Doni Tondo, and more with your own private art guide
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
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
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
Tuscany Wineland Safari from Florence
Get off the beaten track to explore vineyards, castles, food, and Chianti wine on this 4x4 day tour
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 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
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
Three-Day Chianti Estate Wine & Spa Getaway
Rejuvenate at the rustic Borgo Casa al Vento while learning the secrets of Tuscan wine and cuisine
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
Oltrarno Local Food Tour in Florence
Take a break from the crowds and eat like a local in the lively neighborhood of Oltrarno
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
