As far as art and culture go, Florence is undoubtedly the richest city in Europe.

It was here, in the early 14th century, that the Renaissance was born. Over the next three centuries, this movement not only transformed the city, but it also changed the political, cultural, artistic, and economic mindset of a continent.

Today, Florence’s Renaissance influence remains just as present and equally compelling as it did centuries ago.

On these carefully curated walking tours through Florence, you’ll discover the city’s origins, grow with it through the Renaissance era, and explore the artistic legacy it has left behind.

 

 

 

The guided walking tour of Renaissance Florence takes you on a journey through the city’s development from its founding by Julius Ceasar in 59 BC to its wealth and importance as the seat of the Medici family from the 15th century, and its leadership in artistic evolution to the present day. To do this, there’s no better place to begin the tour than at the city’s political heart, the Piazza della Signoria, home to the impressive Palazzo Vecchio and the Florentine government. As you learn about the Mannerism artistic movement, the downsides to life in Renaissance Florence, and the origins of tennis, you’ll reach the astounding Uffizi Gallery Courtyard. After heading inside to discover the world’s greatest collection of Renaissance art or simply admiring its stunning architecture, the tour continues across the Ponte Vecchio to the city’s most famous landmarks, the mesmerising Florence Cathedral, Baptistry of Saint John, and Giotto’s Bell Tower.

 

 

Finally, taking a stroll down medieval Florence along the street Via dello Studio to the Church of St. Martin and the Chestnut Tower, this tour will give you a unique glimpse into the city pre-Renaissance. Once you have seen the most famous sights on our Renaissance Florence tour, you’ll be ready to get to know the city on a more personal level. Delve deep into the wealth and importance of Florence through the lens of its most influential residents on the Trail of the Medici Family Tour. From the Basilica di San Lorenzo to Boboli Gardens, Michelozzo’s Courtyard, and the Ricardi Medici Palace, this tour takes you to the places that follow the rise and fall of this powerful family and its impact on the geography and politics of Europe. Meanwhile, our San Giovanni, Santa Croce, Santa Maria Novella, and Santo Spirito district tours take you off the tourist trail and into the lesser-known city streets. Expect to discover everything from palaces and chapels to narrow streets and hidden squares.

 

 

After discovering Florence’s palaces, cathedrals, and museums with your guide, use the free Vox City app (included in your ticket) to discover more exciting walking routes in and around the city.

How to get the VOX CITY GUIDE App