Add dates

Salone dei Cinquecento

Salone dei Cinquecento: Our most recommended tours and activities

Florence: Palazzo Vecchio Entrance Ticket & Videoguide

1. Florence: Palazzo Vecchio Entrance Ticket & Videoguide

Palazzo Vecchio is the heart of Florence. Built in 1299 to house the leaders of the medieval city it is the symbol of the city’s history. The golden age of Palazzo Vecchio began when the Medici family decided to turn it into a real palace, making it the family residence. During your visit, you’ll be able to admire the architecture of the palazzo, and its sculptures and paintings, and learn about its rich and complex history over the centuries. Your visit to the Palazzo Vecchio will be enhanced with a multimedia guide in the form of a 7-inch tablet that provides fascinating audio-video narration with images in high definition and spectacular 3D re-creations. Upgrade your experience to include Arnolfo's Tower, and enjoy the fantastic views from the tower's summit. Visit the tower first, then head to the museum 1 hour later.

Palazzo Vecchio: Skip-the-Line Entry and Secret Passage Tour

2. Palazzo Vecchio: Skip-the-Line Entry and Secret Passage Tour

This tour allows visits to a suite of off-the-beaten-path locations in Palazzo Vecchio Museum. Among them is the mysterious stairway built in the thick walls by the will of Gualtieri di Brienee. Skip the line and head off on a one hour and 45-minute guided tour. Discover the small study of Francesco I de’ Medici, a very elegant treasure "of rare and precious things," and the desk of his father Cosimo I, more widely known as Tesoretto. To round off the experience, hear about the huge trussed structure built by the great architect Giorgio Vasari, which supports the paneled ceiling of the Salone del Cinquecento, the main room of the palace.

Florence: Palazzo Vecchio Guided Tour

3. Florence: Palazzo Vecchio Guided Tour

Palazzo Vecchio is the heart of Florence, a symbol of the city since medieval times to the modern days. Made in 1299 in which it acted as a seat for the governing of citizens, the building started its golden age the moment when the Medici family moved into the Palazzo, transforming it into the beautiful palace of extraordinary richness that it is today. The guided visit pulls you into the imense wealth, extraordinary decorations, masterpieces and even an access to a secret passage through the beautiful camerino of Bianca Cappello, second wife of the Granduke Francesco I de’Medici.

Florence: Palazzo Vecchio Museum

4. Florence: Palazzo Vecchio Museum

Explore the town hall of Florence on a 2-hour tour of the Palazzo Vecchio Museum. Visit the private apartments of the Medici family and enjoy the atmosphere.  Admire the impressive murals that decorate the walls of the Salone dei Cinquecento — the Hall of the Five Hundred — and discover classic art from medieval masters to those of the Renaissance.

Inferno Florence Private 3-Hour Tour

5. Inferno Florence Private 3-Hour Tour

Florence is the birthplace of the Great Poet DANTE, a city that  is full of mysteries and secrets and you will discover it in so unusual way. We will follow the clues of the main character of the book, Robert Langdon, deeper and deeper in the Hell... One symbol after another, one place after another until the discovery of the last secret. You'll move among old palaces, squares, buildings, galleries and works already known worlwide, such as in open-air museum. Exploring this mysterious past will help you understand what is hidden behind "Inferno", the world-famous book by American writer Dan Brown. You will visit the inside of the Palazzo della Signoria, the Baptistry and Cathedral of Florence  Science, literature and art are here mixed together. You will see a unique Florence and learn a completely new Dante as you immerse yourself in the Florence of the Middle Ages. Search and find the truth!

Florence: Walking Tour with Skip-the-Line Accademia Gallery

6. Florence: Walking Tour with Skip-the-Line Accademia Gallery

Discover Florence’s historic center on a walking tour including the imposing Duomo, elegant Uffizi Square, the renowned leather market, and the Accademia Gallery with Michelangelo’s David. Stroll along the streets lined with the architecture of the Middle Ages and the Renaissance, admire the city in its continued glory, and discover its hidden gems. Begin with a walking tour and learn about the fascinating history of Florence as you visit the heart of the Renaissance Civic and Political Center, famous for its ancient statues and glorious fountains. With your guide leading the way, visit all of Florence's top sights, including the iconic sculptures at Piazza Signoria, Palazzo Vecchio, and the Uffizi Courtyard. Walk towards the astounding Florence Cathedral of Santa Maria del Fiore, from where Brunelleschi’s dome dominates the skyline of Florence and never ceases to impress. Gaze at the Baptistry Doors by Ghiberti, coined the “Gates of Paradise” by Michelangelo, and get an up-close view of the Duomo, where your guide will tell you interesting facts about the building. Benefit from skip-the-line access to the Accademia Gallery where you will have the unique opportunity to see Michelangelo’s statue of the Slaves and his magnificent 17-foot marble masterpiece, the David.

Experience Florence by Foot - Guided Tour

7. Experience Florence by Foot - Guided Tour

Florence is a city of delights, and walking its streets is the best way to get a sense of its pleasures. Of course our guides will take you to the most important sites around town, but they'll also share with you the intrigue, gossip and historical anectodes this city has lurking under its surface! Florentines have a long history of greatness. From Michelangelo to Da Vinci, these streets have played home to some of the most influential thinkers and creators of the modern world. We will explore the historical and architectural evolutions from Roman times through the medieval centuries and into the Renaissance, when Florence really blossomed into what it is today. People often consider this the very birthplace of the Renaissance, and we feel that you'll soon understand why. The romance and intrigue of its streets are enough to make any person jump up and grab a paint brush! As we walk through the center of this UNESCO Heritage Cities, we will stop for a surprise "tasting" to learn about the culinary and wine aspects of Florence's rich culinary traditions. We will also see the Piazza della Signoria, with the town hall Palazzo Vecchio, with its massive, Romanesque, crenellated fortress-palace. It is among the most impressive town halls of Tuscany! We stop by the famed Duomo, the Baptistry and "Gates of Paradise", as well as the picture postcard perfect Pontevecchio. This icon of our city will amaze you with its grandeur and beauty! Make sure to stop and have a gelato at one of the incredible shops lining the streets! There are plenty of other treasures to explore along our way, and our guides will make sure to point out each one and explain its importance and history to you. Finally, we will arrive at the famous shopping streets of the Oltrarno, which is a part of the historic center of Florence, and is known for its exquisite hand-made crafts. We depart ways here, and hope that you've discovered what makes our city something really special. Ciao!

Palazzo Vecchio: Private Guided Museum Tour & Tower Tickets

8. Palazzo Vecchio: Private Guided Museum Tour & Tower Tickets

Discover the history and art of the Palazzo Vecchio on this private tour. Meet your guide outside the palace, skip the lines and learn about the many roles of this emblematic building throughout Florence's history. Visit the incredible collection of Renaissance artwork, marvel at the exquisite ceilings in the Hall of the Five Hundred, and explore a hall filled with ancient maps. Travel through time to the end of the 13th century when the palace was built, and then follow its path to becoming the seat of the Florentine Republic, and later the residence of Grand Duke Cosimo I de Medici. Tour the Government Halls and the Granducale family's private rooms, renovated by Giorgio Vasari, and explore the apartments of the Grand Duchess Eleonora of Toledo. Climb Arnolfo's Tower for panoramic views of Florence.

Palazzo Vecchio: Magnificent Private Tour

9. Palazzo Vecchio: Magnificent Private Tour

Take a 2-hour tour with a private guide to discover the must-see Palazzo Vecchio. The famous medieval castle is filled with history and houses an incredible collection of Renaissance artworks. Meet your guide outside the palace to start your magnificent tour. Admire the high decorated ceilings and the stunning frescoes in the Hall of the Five Hundred. See impressive Renaissance statues by Donatello and Michelangelo, visit a hall filled with ancient maps, and discover private rooms as you learn about the Medici family’s power. Wander through the extensive apartments and halls with a knowledgeable guide, as you learn about the palace’s history and everyday life there. Listen to stories and myths from the Renaissance period, told by your expert guide.

Best of Italy: 5-Day Escorted Tour from Rome

10. Best of Italy: 5-Day Escorted Tour from Rome

Over the course of five days, visit the most enchanting locations of Italy, soaking up art, culture, cuisine and the famous Italian romance. Led by a friendly guide, depart from Rome and visit Assisi, Siena, Florence, Pisa, Bologna, Padova, Venice and Montepulciano. See masterpieces from the likes of Michelangelo, Giotto, and Cimabue. Roam ancient cobbled streets, marvel at magnificent cathedrals, and taste delightful wines. This tour aims to inform and entertain you at the same time. Staying in comfy accommodation and traveling by deluxe bus, touring Italy couldn’t be easier. With 4 meals provided for you, plus an excellent itinerary and knowledgeable guides, sit back, relax and "get Italian". Day 1 Depart from Rome at 7:15 AM heading towards Assisi. Explore this tiny town dating back to the Middle Ages. Visit the Basilica of St. Francis and see works by Giotto and Cimabue. Afterwards drive towards Siena, whose highlight is Piazza del Campo. Continue to Florence where you will check in at your hotel before enjoying dinner (included) and a well-deserved night of rest. Day 2: Florence After breakfast, spend the day exploring Florence, the cradle of the Renaissance. Visit the Duomo, the Campanile Tower, Palazzo Vecchio and the Basilica of Santa Croce. Lunch (for free) in a typical Tuscan restaurant in Piazza Santa Croce. In the afternoon, wander the cobbled streets or take a short, optional trip to Pisa where you could enjoy a tour of the Square of Miracles, the Leaning Tower and the Duomo. Dinner is at your leisure. Back in Florence rest in your hotel and recharge your batteries for the next day. Day 3 Depart for Bologna after breakfast in Florence. Wander through the city’s 38 kilometers' worth of elegant arcades, for which it is famous. From Piazza Malpighi, walk to Piazza del Nettuno and Piazza Maggiore in the heart of the city. In the afternoon, continue towards Padova, with its original Sant’Antonio Basilica. Later, you will arrive in Venice, famous for its quaint gondola boats and intricate architecture. Check in at your hotel and enjoy your first Venetian dinner (included until 23/03/2024 ) and overnight stay. Day 4: Venice Hit the water and board a private waterbus to enjoy a cruise through the canals of Venice. Stop off at Murano to learn about the ancient art of glass blowing. Continue on to St. Mark’s Square for an exterior visit of the splendid cathedral. See the Doge Palace and the Bridge of Sighs. Enjoy a spritz or Prosecco (until 23/03/2024. From 25/03/2024 a light lunch will be included) with your guide to cap off a day of discovery. Spend the afternoon roaming along Venice’s canals at your leisure and then return to the hotel and overnight. Day 5 After breakfast, departure from Piazzale Roma heading to Tuscany, world-known for its landscapes, its churches, castles and its delicious wines. Proceed to Val di Chiana with a stop in Montepulciano, a medieval town rich in history and art. Known for its “Noble” wine, on purchase in local wine houses, Montepulciano also hosts an annual jazz and wine festival every July. Lunch in a typical restaurant included! Spend the afternoon discovering Montepulciano at your own pace, enjoying free wine tastings in many wine shops and free time for shopping. In the evening, you will arrive in Rome, where the tour ends.

Available activities

21 activities found
Sort by:
Page 1 of 2

Other Sightseeing Options in Salone dei Cinquecento

Want to discover all there is to do in Salone dei Cinquecento? Click here for a full list.

What people are saying about Salone dei Cinquecento

Overall rating

4.5 / 5

based on 5,353 reviews

I would highly recommend this tour to everyone. It was amazing to be able to visit the rooms and stairways that the Medicis themselves used. Our guide, Elisa, was so friendly, engaging and knowledgeable. She made the tour interesting and was happy to answer questions. For me this tour lent a little bit of excitement and intrigue to my visit to this beautiful palazzo. After your secret tour your guide will leave you to explore the other parts of the palazzo and you can easily spend a few more hours there if you wish.

We did both the Palazzo Vecchio palace and climbed the Arnolfo Tower. If you’re tight on time and have already climbed the Duomo and/or Giotto’s bell tower, I think you can skip the tower and just tour the Palazzo Vecchio. The palace was beautiful, especially the main room and all the frescoes. Having the video guide was also nice as it gave you flexibility to choose what you wanted to listen to at your own pace.

The collection of tickets from the info point was fuss free. The view of Florence from the Alforno Tower is breathtaking after the climb of 200 plus steps. Audio guide for the Palazzo Vecchio museum is good to understand the different rooms and sculptures inside.

This was one the most fun tours I’ve had in a museum. We went where others don’t get to go, we saw a side of the occupants and it’s history that was fascinating. You get the regular museum plus secret passages! What could be better?

A very interesting tour with access to wonderful spaces not normally available to tourists. Our guide, Andrea was very personable and interesting.I would highly recommend this tour