The city of Florence in central Italy was the center of trade in finance in medieval Europe. It is now a busy tourist site showcasing Florence’s art architecture and history. Often getting foreshadowed by the other cities of Italy like Rome, Naples and Milan, Florence has its fair share of tourist attractions that you shouldn’t miss. So start selecting the best neighborhoods to stay in Florence as we list some of the best tourist attractions you have to visit.
Galleria dell’Accademia
The Galleria dell’Accademia is one of the famous art museums in Florence, located in the San Marco neighborhood. It is known to contain “David”, one of the masterpieces of Renaissance sculpture, created by famous Italian artist Michaelangelo. It is 17 feet in height and was moved into the art museum in 1873. The art museum also houses several Florentine Gothic paintings and works by famous artists Andrea del Sarto, Sandro Botticelli and Paolo Uccello just to name a few.
Galleria Degli Uffizi
The Galleria Degli Uffizi is one of Florence’s most prominent art museums located in Duomo, Florence. It holds the record for being one of the most visited Italian museums and holds Italian Renaissance-era art. The museum previously had a previously huge collection, which has been transferred to other Florence-based museums. It has a total floor area of 139,000 sq ft and is divided into 3 major chronological sections: The archaeological section, the Medieval section and the Renaissance art section.
Museo Nazionale del Bargello
The Museo Nazionale del Bargello is an art museum that was formerly a barracks and prison. Construction for it began originally in 1255 to house the first Capitano del Popolo or “Captain of the People”. The art museum's extensive collection features masterpieces by Michael Angelo including Pitti Tondo, Brutus and David-Apollo and Bacchus. It also features works from other famous artists such as St George Tabernacle by Donatello, Mercury by Giambologna and Pescatore by Vincenzo Gemito.
Cappelle Medicee
Cappelle Medicee or “ The Medici Chapels” are two historical structures situated in the San Marco area of Florence. The structures date back to the 16th and 17th centuries. It currently houses frescoes by famous painter Benozzo Gozzoli in 1459. Visiting the place can give you a clear idea of the history of the city. It stands today as a state museum that includes the New Sacristy by Michael Angelo.
Palazzo Vecchio
The Palazzo Vecchio is an art museum that was previously the seat of government in Florence. It features a courtyard filled with a series of frescoes and stuccoes and also a replica of Michael Angelo’s David. The museum also houses one of the most artistically important rooms of Florence, originally decorated by Leonardo and Michel Angelo. You will also find Donatello’s Judith on the second floor of the museum.
Palazzo Pitti
The Palazzo Pitti, once the home of the Medici family, was built in 1457. It’s now a museum housing several important galleries as well as more than 500 Renaissance paintings. The site has a back property known as Boboli Gardens. The other tourist attractions in the museum include a silver museum, royal apartments and some modern art.
Florence is home to many museums that can provide you a glimpse into the country’s rich past and heritage. You can find many accommodation options if you search online.
