We’ll begin our private exploration in Florence’s vibrant Northside, where history and architecture converge. Start at the iconic Duomo (Cathedral of Santa Maria del Fiore), renowned for its stunning dome designed by Brunelleschi.
Then the Baptistery, famous for its three intricately crafted doors, including the renowned “Gate of Paradise”. Last but not least, the famous Campanile designed by Giotto.
As we stroll down Via Calzaiuoli, we will encounter the fascinating and “peculiar” Orsanmichele Church, an architectural marvel with a unique history. Originally a grain market, now a sacred site. This church embodies Florence’s ability to blend the sacred and the profane, making it a must-see during our private tour.
We now continue to the majestic Piazza della Signoria, a square that has been the political heart of Florence for centuries and still is. Here, we will find Palazzo Vecchio, still the town hall of the city, and the Loggia dei Lanzi, an extraordinary open-air gallery of Renaissance skills in thinking, drawing and creating sculptures from a block of stone !!
Among the many statues in the square, the equestrian statue of Cosimo I de’ Medici, the first Grand Duke of Tuscany, he commissioned the building that today houses the Uffizi Gallery, one of the most important art museums in the world, with works by Botticelli, Michelangelo, Leonardo Da Vinci and many others.
Passing through the Uffizi Gallery’s courtyard, we’ll reach the picturesque Arno River, in whose waters Florence is reflected and becomes aware of its own disarming beauty.
From the Northside, cross the historic Ponte Vecchio, Florence’s oldest and most iconic bridge, lined with charming shops and offering stunning views of the Arno River. As we step onto the southern bank, we enter the Oltrarno district, a vibrant area known for its artisans and authentic Florentine atmosphere. The Florentines who live in Oltrarno are certain that they are “the real Florentines”.
Just a short walk from Ponte Vecchio, we’ll arrive at the imposing Pitti Palace. Once the grand residence of Florence’s ruling families, including the Medici, and later the King of Italy, this palace now houses several important museums. The grandeur of the palace reflects the opulence of Florence during the Renaissance.
Next, wander through the narrow, winding streets typical of Oltrarno, and we will find ourselves in Piazza Santo Spirito. This square is absolutely one of the most authentic in Florence, bustling with local life. Here stands the Church of Santo Spirito, designed by Filippo Brunelleschi, the same genius behind Florence’s Cathedral dome. The church played a significant role in the life of the young (18yo) Michelangelo, who was authorized to carry out his anatomy studies right here, for about 6 months.
Before leaving Oltrarno, cross the famous Santa Trinita Bridge to return to the north side of the Arno (from where we started). This bridge, like many others in Florence, was destroyed during World War II but was meticulously rebuilt “where it was and as it was.” The story of its reconstruction is a testament to Florence’s resilience and commitment to preserving its history.
After crossing the Santa Trinita Bridge, step into Via Tornabuoni, Florence’s most luxurious street, known for its high-end fashion boutiques featuring world-renowned brands.
This street epitomizes the elegance and refinement of Florentine culture. As we walk along Via Tornabuoni, we will see the imposing Strozzi Palace, one of the finest examples of Renaissance architecture in Florence. The palace, once home to the wealthy Strozzi family (cloth merchants), features a stunning , typical Renaissance courtyard.
It’s a perfect spot to appreciate the grandeur of Florence’s golden age. From Strozzi Palace, a short walk will take us to Piazza della Repubblica. This square, with its grand arcades, was once the heart of ancient Florence, did not exist until the second half of the 19th century. Before becoming a square, this area was a bustling market and a key part of the city’s medieval life and even before, during the period of the Roman colony of Florence, this space was the heart of the colony.
Our private walking tour concludes in the historic Santa Croce Square. This area is home to the Santa Croce Church, a gothic masterpiece and one of Florence’s most important religious sites. Known as the “Temple of the Italian Glories,” Santa Croce houses the tombs of famous Florentines such as Michelangelo, Galileo, and Machiavelli.
The church’s rich history and its role as a resting place for many of Italy’s greats make it a fitting endpoint for your journey through Florence. This comprehensive private walking tour is designed to give you an immersive experience of Florence’s most iconic sites, focusing on their exterior beauty while weaving through the city’s historic and cultural tapestry. Whether you’re fascinated by the Renaissance, captivated by Florence’s political history, or simply in love with Italian art, this tour offers something for everyone.
This Walking Tour considers seeing the sites from outside.
No, you don’t, the tour is outside, we won’t enter the sites unless you have a special request.
Of course, you can, and the rate will be recalculated. All my tours are tailor-made.
Yes, you can. Maybe you could add a visit to the Brancacci Chapel!
Sure we can, as many times as you like!
Hmmm, I would suggest walking shoes 🙂
I think that every tour can be boring or not it depends on how a tour guide is able to be “on” during the tour. Besides that, you know your kids better than I do 🙂