Every city in Italy feels like an open-air museum, and Florence in particular has much to offer in the way of breathtaking buildings and atmospheric plazas. But the concentration of wealth here during the Renaissance means that there are several museums with outstanding collections of art—some of the most famous masterpieces in the world, to be exact.
The Uffizi Gallery and the Accademia Gallery are certainly the two best-known museums in Florence, and for good reason. Both have amazing collections of art you simply can’t see anywhere else in the world. If you’re visiting “the City of Lilies” you’ll definitely want to consider stopping in to marvel at what happens when money and artistic genius meet.
The Uffizi Gallery
The Uffizi Gallery in the center of Florence is world-famous for its rich collection of Renaissance masterpieces. The collection originated with the Medici family, who gave the artwork to the state of Tuscany to “adorn the State, be of utility to the Public and attract the curiosity of Foreigners.” You can look forward to works by da Vinci, Michelangelo, Botticelli, Raffaello and many more.
You’ll want to plan your visit in advance because along with the Uffizi Gallery’s big reputation come big lines. This is one of the most-visited museums in Italy, second only to Rome’s Vatican Museums. But fear not, you can book tickets in advance, and guided tours are also available if you’re feeling overwhelmed by the sheer magnitude of the collection.
Hours: Open daily 8:15 am to 6:50 pm. Closed on Mondays.
Address: Piazzale degli Uffizi, 6
The Accademia Gallery
The Accademia Gallery is just as famous as the Uffizi, if only because it houses the breathtaking statue of David by Michelangelo. But not only are there several other impressive sculptures by Michelangelo here, there are also incredible frescoes, paintings, musical instruments by Stradivari, and more.
Like the artwork at the Uffizi, the collection here was all donated or commissioned by the Medici, and just like the Uffizi, at the Accademia you’re best off buying a ticket in advance and skipping the lines. An original piano by the instrument’s inventor, Bartolomeo Cristofori, is just one astonishing piece that once adorned the home of Italy’s famous family and which you can now admire here.
Hours: Open daily 8:15 am to 6:50 pm. Closed on Mondays.
Address: Via Ricasoli, 58/60
If you’re thinking about a holiday in Florence, (or the Amalfi Coast, Milan, Rome or Venice) we’d love to help you plan a visit filled with amazing art, fantastic food and lovely scenery. Just get in touch!
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Stephan Delbos is an internationally published writer and editor. Born in the US, he has lived, worked and traveled in Europe for a decade. He’s fond of oysters and arid martinis.