Palazzo Vecchio: A Guide for Travelers to Florence

Discovering Palazzo Vecchio

Palazzo Vecchio, the “Old Palace,” is one of Florence’s most iconic landmarks. Sitting in Piazza della Signoria, this historic fortress-like building has served as the city’s town hall, a Medici palace, and the seat of Italian government during Florence’s time as capital. Today, it’s a museum and civic building that blends layers of political, artistic, and architectural history in one unforgettable site.

Why It Matters in Florence’s History

Construction started in 1299, under architect Arnolfo di Cambio, on the ruins of destroyed family palaces, including those of the Uberti. Originally called Palazzo della Signoria, it housed the priors of Florence’s guilds and was the centre of political life. Cosimo I de’ Medici moved in during the 16th century, turning it into the ducal palace and commissioning major renovations by Giorgio Vasari. When the Medici relocated across the river to Palazzo Pitti, the building earned the name we use today: Palazzo Vecchio. It later served as the government’s seat when Florence was briefly Italy’s capital.

A Look at the Exterior

Facing Piazza della Signoria, the building’s stonework and crenellated roofline evoke its medieval roots. The Torre di Arnolfo rises over 300 feet and is still the tallest structure in central Florence. At the main entrance, look for the replica of Michelangelo’s David and Bandinelli’s Hercules and Cacus. A marble plaque above the door reads “King of Kings and Lord of Lords,” framed by the coats of arms of the Florentine Republic.

Inside the Palazzo: Art, Power, and Design

First Courtyard

Designed by Michelozzo and later decorated for a Medici wedding, the first courtyard features columns, stucco work, and frescoes of Habsburg cities. At the center stands a fountain by Battista del Tadda.

Salone dei Cinquecento

The Hall of the Five Hundred is one of Florence’s largest and grandest rooms. Originally designed by Savonarola’s republic for the Great Council, it was later expanded by Vasari to serve Cosimo I. Monumental frescoes show military victories, while the carved ceiling celebrates Medici power. Don’t miss Michelangelo’s sculpture, The Genius of Victory, and hidden messages like “cerca trova” in Vasari’s panels.

Secret Corners: The Studiolo and More

Behind the main hall is the Studiolo of Francesco I, a private study filled with paintings and scientific objects, designed as a cabinet of curiosities. Nearby, the Camera dell’Arme is the only room surviving from the original 14th-century palace.

The Monumental Quarters

The second floor houses rooms dedicated to Medici rulers, including Cosimo the Elder and Eleonora of Toledo. Highlights include richly painted ceilings, tapestries, and Eleonora’s private chapel by Bronzino. These rooms reveal how power and art intertwined in Medici life.

Sala delle Carte Geografiche

This “Map Room” contains cabinets painted with maps of the known world in the 16th century, including a massive rotating globe. It also hides a secret doorway behind the map of Armenia.

Roman Remains Below

Beneath the palace are excavations of a Roman theatre, part of ancient Florentia. Small group tours reveal masonry corridors and historical layers that predate the Renaissance city.

Climbing the Arnolfo Tower

Visitors can climb the tower for sweeping views of Florence and the surrounding hills. The path includes a stop at the Alberghettino, the small cell where Cosimo the Elder and Savonarola were once held. Note that access is restricted in poor weather, and the climb is not suitable for everyone.

Plan Your Visit

Opening Hours:

• Museum: 9 am to 7 pm (Mon-Wed, Fri-Sun); 9 am to 2 pm (Thu)
• Tower: 9 am to 6 pm; 9 am to 2 pm (Thu)
• Closed or limited hours on major holidays

Tickets:

• Museum: around €12.50
• Tower: around €10
• Combo tickets and discounts available
• Florence residents get free entry on the first Sunday of each month

Best Time to Go:
Weekday mornings offer the quietest experience. Avoid weekends and holidays for shorter lines and more space to explore.

How Long to Spend:
Allow 2–3 hours for the museum. Add 30–45 minutes if climbing the tower. A full visit covering all floors and the excavation may take up to 4 hours.

Tours and Special Experiences

Palazzo Vecchio offers guided tours, including ones focused on secret passages, Medici history, or Dan Brown’s Inferno. Family-friendly experiences and creative workshops, like fresco painting, are also available. Booking ahead is highly recommended, especially in peak season.

What’s Nearby

Right outside is Piazza della Signoria, packed with art, from Cellini’s Perseus to a replica of David. Nearby attractions include the Uffizi Gallery, Bargello Museum, and Florence Cathedral. You can also walk to Ponte Vecchio, Palazzo Pitti, and Boboli Gardens.

Good to Know

• Photography is allowed without flash.
• Some areas are only accessible by guided tour.
• The building is wheelchair accessible, but the tower is not.
• Water fountains outside the building offer both still and sparkling water.