Florence: Guided Tour of Medici Family Secrets and Chapels

The Medici family was once the most powerful and influential dynasty in Florence, shaping the city’s artistic and cultural landscape during the Renaissance. A guided tour of their secrets and chapels offers a captivating glimpse into this storied past. Visitors can explore iconic sites like the Medici Chapels, where Michelangelo’s masterpieces come to life, and uncover the fascinating stories that defined one of history’s most formidable families. With skip-the-line access and expert insights, this tour promises to transport guests back in time, revealing the Medici’s enduring legacy and their profound impact on the city they once ruled.

Key Points

• Explore the lavishly decorated Medici Chapels and New Sacristy, which house the family mausoleums and Michelangelo’s sculptures of Medici members.
• Explore the Medici family’s influential history and their rise to power during the 15th and 16th centuries in Florence.
• Discover the Medici family’s impact on Renaissance architecture and culture, including their patronage of renowned artists like Michelangelo.
• Enjoy skip-the-line access to the Medici Chapels and New Sacristy, as well as insights into hidden secrets in Florence’s historic streets and squares.
• Enjoy the Medici legacy through a comprehensive tour that includes visiting the Palazzo Medici Riccardi, Basilica of San Lorenzo, and Piazza del Duomo.

You can check if your dates are available here:

Tour Overview and Details

The guided tour of Medici family history in Florence offers visitors a comprehensive exploration of the influential dynasty’s impact on the Renaissance city.

It’s a 2-hour experience with skip-the-line access to the Medici Chapels and New Sacristy. Prices range from $89.55 to $80.60 per person, with up to 10% savings available.

Guests can take advantage of the free cancellation policy up to 24 hours in advance and the reserve now, pay later option.

The tour meets at the Piazza di Madonna degli Aldobrandini, near the Medici Chapels.

Throughout the itinerary, you will discover hidden secrets of Florence‘s historic streets and squares while learning about the Medici family’s influential role during the Renaissance period.

Itinerary Highlights

The guided tour takes visitors on a captivating journey through Florence’s historic sites, showcasing the Medici family’s profound influence. During the 2-hour experience, guests explore the Medici Chapel, the family’s private mausoleum, and the Palazzo Medici Riccardi, their former residence. Along the way, they also pass by the Basilica of San Lorenzo and Piazza del Duomo, gaining insights into the Medicis’ impact on Renaissance architecture and culture. The tour then leads to Piazza della Signoria, Palazzo Vecchio, and Piazzale degli Uffizi, where the guide shares fascinating stories about the family’s political power and artistic patronage.

Site	Duration
Medici Chapel	30 minutes
Palazzo Medici Riccardi	15 minutes
Basilica of San Lorenzo	15 minutes
Piazza del Duomo	15 minutes
Piazza della Signoria	15 minutes

Tour Features

What sets this guided tour apart are its impressive features.

Visitors can skip the lines to access the iconic Medici Chapels and New Sacristy, allowing them to explore these hidden gems with ease.

The tour also delves into the intriguing secrets of Florence’s historic streets and squares, shedding light on the Medici family’s profound influence on the Renaissance.

Plus, the tour incorporates locations featured in the popular "Medici: Masters of Florence" series, giving participants a deeper understanding of this influential dynasty.

These thoughtful inclusions ensure an engaging and informative experience for all who embark on this captivating exploration of Medici history.

• Skip-the-line access to Medici Chapels and New Sacristy
• Explore hidden secrets of Florence’s historic streets and squares
• Visit locations featured in "Medici: Masters of Florence"

Inclusions and Exclusions

This guided tour includes a private or small-group walking experience, an informative guide, an exterior visit of the Basilica di San Lorenzo, and pre-booked tickets to the Medici Chapels and New Sacristy.

However, transportation to the meeting point, food and drinks aren’t included.

It’s important to note that this tour isn’t suitable for individuals with mobility impairments or wheelchair users.

Luggage or large bags are also not allowed on the tour.

Plus, the tour doesn’t run on the first Sunday of the month, and late arrivals can’t join the group.

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Important Information

Luggage or large bags aren’t allowed on the tour. The tour doesn’t run on the first Sunday of the month, so visitors should plan accordingly.

Plus, it’s important to arrive 15 minutes early, as tickets expire within 5-10 minutes, and late arrivals can’t join the tour.

Some key considerations for this tour:

• Accessibility: The tour isn’t suitable for individuals with mobility impairments or wheelchair users.
• Timing: Timely arrival is crucial, as the tour can’t accommodate latecomers.
• Overall Experience: Based on 164 reviews, the tour has an impressive 4.7/5 rating, highlighting informative guides and engaging experiences.

Medici Family History

The Medici family’s influence on Florence and the Italian Renaissance is the focal point of this guided tour. As one of the wealthiest and most powerful families during the 15th and 16th centuries, the Medicis shaped the political, cultural, and artistic landscape of Florence.

Visitors will explore the family’s historic residences, including the ornate Medici Chapel and the Palazzo Medici Riccardi, and learn about their patronage of renowned artists like Michelangelo.

The tour delves into the dynasty’s complex history, uncovering the family’s hidden crypt and tracing their rise to power. Guests will also discover locations featured in the popular "Medici: Masters of Florence" television series, offering an immersive experience into the Medicis’ captivating legacy.

Medici Chapels and New Sacristy

The Medici Chapels and the New Sacristy serve as the centerpieces of this guided tour, offering visitors a glimpse into the family’s architectural and artistic patronage.

Highlights include:

• Exploring the lavishly decorated Medici Chapels, where the family’s mausoleums and sarcophagi are housed, showcasing their power and legacy.

• Discovering the New Sacristy, designed by Michelangelo, which features his renowned sculptures of the Medici family members.

• Learning about the family’s influence on the Renaissance and their contributions to Florence’s cultural and artistic renaissance.

This in-depth tour provides an unparalleled opportunity to explore the Medici family’s storied history and their lasting impact on one of Italy’s most iconic cities.

Exploring Florence’s Historic Landmarks

Beyond the Medici Chapels and New Sacristy, this guided tour takes visitors on an immersive exploration of Florence’s historic landmarks. Guests will pass by the iconic Palazzo Medici Riccardi, the Basilica of San Lorenzo, and the imposing Palazzo Vecchio. The tour culminates with guided visits to the stunning Piazza del Duomo and Piazza della Signoria, where the group will learn about the Medici family’s influence on the city’s Renaissance architecture and culture. Finally, the tour concludes at the picturesque Piazzale degli Uffizi, offering a glimpse into the family’s enduring legacy.

Landmark	Duration
Palazzo Medici Riccardi	15 minutes
Basilica of San Lorenzo	15 minutes
Palazzo Vecchio	15 minutes
Piazza del Duomo	15 minutes
Piazza della Signoria	15 minutes
Piazzale degli Uffizi	15 minutes

Frequently Asked Questions

Is the Tour Suitable for Children?

While the tour covers some adult themes, children may find the Medici history and architecture interesting. However, the tour may not be suitable for young children due to the long duration and lack of child-friendly activities.

Do We Get to See the Medici Family’s Private Art Collection?

The tour doesn’t include access to the Medici family’s private art collection. It focuses on exploring the Medici Chapels, Palazzo Medici Riccardi, and other public sites associated with the family’s history and influence in Florence.

Can We Take Photos Inside the Medici Chapels?

No, photos are not allowed inside the Medici Chapels during the guided tour. The tour focuses on the Medici family’s history and architecture, with skip-the-line access to the Chapels and New Sacristy, but photography is prohibited to preserve the sacred space.

How Do We Identify the Tour Guide at the Meeting Point?

The tour guide will be waiting in Piazza di Madonna degli Aldobrandini by the Medici Chapels. They’ll be holding a sign or wearing a name badge to identify themselves. Arrive 15 minutes early to meet the guide and begin the tour on time.

Is There an Option to Extend the Tour Duration?

The tour itinerary does not mention an option to extend the duration. However, travelers can inquire about this with the tour provider at the time of booking to see if longer tours are available.

Recap

Enjoy the captivating legacy of the Medici family on this guided tour of Florence’s iconic landmarks. Uncover the secrets and stories that shaped one of history’s most powerful dynasties, and marvel at Michelangelo’s masterpieces in the Medici Chapels. This comprehensive tour offers a unique opportunity to explore the rich cultural and architectural heritage that defined the Renaissance era in this enchanting city.

You can check if your dates are available here: