Renaissance tour, Michelangelo and Medici

Tour of Florence Starting from Santa Maria Novella

Welcome to Florence! This walking tour will take you through the heart of the city, exploring its rich history, breathtaking art, and iconic architecture.

Stop 1: Piazza Santa Maria Novella

Begin your journey at Piazza Santa Maria Novella, a lively square named after the stunning Santa Maria Novella Church, a masterpiece of Gothic and Renaissance architecture. Take in the elegant marble façade designed by Leon Battista Alberti and admire the symmetrical beauty of the square.

Stop 2: San Lorenzo Church

A short walk leads you to the San Lorenzo Church, once the parish church of the Medici family. This Renaissance gem features architecture by Brunelleschi and the stunning Medici Chapels, where the powerful family rests.

Stop 3: Palazzo Medici Riccardi

Around the corner, visit Palazzo Medici Riccardi, the original Medici residence. Designed by Michelozzo, it’s a prime example of early Renaissance architecture. Don’t miss the Chapel of the Magi inside, adorned with vibrant frescoes by Benozzo Gozzoli.

Stop 4: Piazza del Duomo

Next, head to the breathtaking Piazza del Duomo, home to Florence’s most iconic landmarks. Marvel at the Cathedral of Santa Maria del Fiore, Brunelleschi’s magnificent dome, Giotto’s bell tower, and the Baptistery of San Giovanni with its famous golden doors, the Gates of Paradise.

Stop 5: Piazza della Repubblica

Stroll to the nearby Piazza della Repubblica, a bustling square that marks the heart of Florence’s historic center. Once the site of the Roman Forum, it’s now a hub of cafés, artists, and performers.

Stop 6: Church of Orsanmichele

Continue to the Church of Orsanmichele, an architectural gem that served as both a grain market and a place of worship. Admire the exterior niches filled with statues of saints, each commissioned by Florence’s powerful guilds.

Stop 7: Piazza della Signoria

Make your way to Piazza della Signoria, Florence’s political heart. Dominated by the imposing Palazzo Vecchio, the square is also an open-air museum. Marvel at Michelangelo’s David (a replica) and other statues in the Loggia dei Lanzi, such as Perseus with the Head of Medusa by Benvenuto Cellini.

Stop 8: Uffizi Gallery

Adjacent to the piazza is the world-renowned Uffizi Gallery. While a full tour of this treasure trove of Renaissance art requires hours, be sure to glance at its stunning courtyard and appreciate the harmonious architecture.

Stop 9: Ponte Vecchio

Walk to the Ponte Vecchio, Florence’s oldest bridge, lined with charming goldsmith shops. Pause to enjoy the view of the Arno River and the bustling atmosphere of this iconic landmark.

Stop 10: Pitti Palace

Cross the river to the majestic Pitti Palace, a former Medici residence. The grand palace now houses several museums and is surrounded by the lush Boboli Gardens, offering a peaceful retreat after your tour.

End of the Tour

Conclude your journey at the Pitti Palace, where you can either relax in the gardens or enjoy one of the nearby gelato or tipical happy houer. Florence is a city to be savored, and this walking tour is just the beginning of its wonders.

We will give also some directions for the best restaurants and gelato place of Florence