At the end of the 13th century, Florence’s prominence as a city was rising rapidly; a palace was needed to reflect this and thus this most important landmark came to be – as a palace of the people. Its most striking feature is the 94 metre bell tower, which would ring to announce imminent dangers to the people. Almost fortress like in looks, the Palace hasn’t changed much in appearance since it was built in the 14th century.

Its main highlights are:

• The marvellous and grand frescoes in the interior by Giorgio Vasari.
• A fountain sculpture by Verrocchio of a putti and dolphin.
• The magnificent Salone dei Cinquecento (Hall of the Five Hundred) that was worked upon by Leonardo da Vinci and Michelangelo and later redecorated by Giorgio Vasari. The murals depict Vasari’s patron’s (Duke Cosimo) victories in battles with Pisa and Sienna.
• Sala dei Gigli (Lily room) on the second floor with frescoes depicting Roman dignitaries and flowers.
• The many important rooms, all of which have their own important histories, such as the Apartments of the Elements, Terrace of Saturn, The Hercules Room, The Lion House, Chapel of the Signoria, Hall of Geographical Maps, Sala dell'Udienza, and the Room of the Sabines.
• The Mezzanine rooms that contain incredibly important Renaissance and Medieval objects and art, courtesy of Charles Loeser, an American collector.
• Under the palace, there are Roman ruins. Reservations are required to visit these.

You can climb the bell tower for a fee. It has the best panoramic view of Florence possible.

Today, the Florentine government still functions out of the palace. Visit Italy in 10 Days Itinerary for an unforgettable Italy travel experience

• It’s best to take one of the multiple guided tours.
• Kids under 6 not allowed up the tower.

• Free for under 18 years.
• EU citizens between 18 and 25, and teachers qualify for reduced prices at half rate.
• EUR 10 for the tower and battlements.
• Museum + Tower: € 14 / € 12 for reduced categories.

MUSEUM

• May 1, June 2 and 24, August 15: 9am - 2pm

April-September:

• Friday – Wednesday: 9am – 12am
• Thursdays: 9am - 2pm.
• April 20-21, April 30 (Notte Bianca)

October-December:

• Friday – Wednesday: 9am - 7pm
• Thursday: 9am-2pm

MEZZANINE – LOESER COLLECTION

• Friday – Wednesday: 9am-7pm.
• Thursday and weekday public holidays: 9am-2pm

TOWER:

April 1 – Sept. 30:

• Friday – Wednesday: 9am-9pm (no admission after 8:30pm).
• Thursdays, 9-2pm (no admission after 1:30pm).

Oct. 1 – March 31:

• Friday – Wednesday: 10am-5pm (no admission after 4:30pm).
• Thursdays: 10am-2pm (no admission after 1:30pm).

• Bus C2; stop-Condotta
• Buses C1 and C2; stop-Ghibellina - Baiana Viaggi

• Cafe Italiano
• Gustavino
• BucaPoldo
• Il Bargello

Love this? Explore the entire list of things to do in Florence before you plan your trip.

Fancy a good night's sleep after a tiring day? Check out where to stay in Florence and book an accommodation of your choice.