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Medici Family History Tour with Walks in Europe in Florence - Florence

Medici Family History Tour with Walks in Europe in Florence

Florenceeasy

Difficulty

easy

Duration

3–4 hours

Fitness Level

Suitable for people with good basic mobility; involves mostly walking at a gentle pace with occasional stairs.

Overview

Step into the world of Renaissance Florence with Walks in Europe’s Medici Family Secrets Tour. Skip lines and uncover hidden crypts while visiting iconic sites like Palazzo Vecchio and the Medici Chapel.

Guided Tour
History Tour
Firenze, Toscana

Florence: Medici Family Secrets, Chapels and History Tour

Discover the history of the Medici family, one of the most powerful families in Renaissance Florence

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Adventure Photos

Florence: Medici Family Secrets, Chapels and History Tour photo 1

About This Adventure

Embark on an exclusive guided tour through Florence, uncovering the captivating legacy of the Medici family. Enjoy skip-the-line access to the stunning Medici Chapel, explore hidden crypts, and visit iconic sites like Palazzo Vecchio and Piazza della Signoria. Discover the intertwining tales of art, power, and rivalry that shaped the Renaissance.

Florence: Guided Tour of Medici Family Secrets, Chapels and History

Join a private or small group guided tour in Florence to explore one of the most captivating eras in the city’s rich history, where the renowned Medici family took center stage. Benefit from skip-the-line access to the Medici Chapel.

Follow your guide to the highlight of this tour, featuring the stunning octagonal Medici Chapel adorned with inlaid marble, and the extraordinary burials decorated by Michelangelo in the New Sacristy, where members of the Medici family rest today. Admire the Chapel of the Princes, adorned with marble and sparkling, semi-precious stones.

Learn about Michelangelo’s Secret Room, where the artist hid for many weeks in 1530, all from an external viewpoint. Discover the family’s hidden crypt unknown to many tourists. This vaulted chamber remained undiscovered until 2004 when researchers lifted a stone slab behind the chapels’ main altar.

Visit the locations featured in “Medici: Masters of Florence” and learn about the lives of key family members like Lorenzo the Magnificent, Cosimo the Elder, and Piero the Unfortunate. Delve into their intense rivalries with other prominent families, such as the Strozzis and the Pazzis.

Next, See the exterior of Palazzo Medici Riccardi while exploring the rich history of the Medici family with your guide. Uncover the delicate relationship between art and power as your expert guide enlightens you about the Medici’s influence on Florence. Admire the intricate decorations of the courtyard from the outside.

Venture into the charming streets of the San Lorenzo neighborhood to explore this historic district. Learn about the family’s founders and the rapid success of their bank, which became one of the most successful in Europe. Marvel at the exceptional design and architecture of the Basilica di San Lorenzo from the square.

Stroll across Piazza del Duomo, then make your way to Piazza della Signoria, the political heart of Florence since the 14th century. Discover how the medieval government building was transformed into a Medici Palace in 1540. Visit the Palazzo Vecchio from an exclusive vantage point.

Conclude your tour at the Piazzale degli Uffizi, reflecting on the art, power, and hidden secrets that shaped one of the most powerful families in Renaissance history. At the end of the tour, your knowledgeable guide will be delighted to offer valuable suggestions to enhance the rest of your unforgettable Florence experience.

Adventure Tips

Book Early to Secure Spot

This popular tour has limited availability, especially in peak seasons—reserve your place well in advance.

Wear Comfortable Shoes

The walking route covers uneven cobblestone streets and historic buildings; sturdy footwear is a must.

Bring a Light Layer

Indoor sites can be cool due to stone construction—carry a lightweight jacket or scarf.

Carry a Small Backpack

Hands-free bags make it easier to navigate the city's narrow streets and enter historical venues.

Local Insights

Wildlife

  • Pigeons commonly gather in Piazza della Signoria.
  • Sparrows and small songbirds frequent city gardens and courtyards.

History

The Medici family controlled Florence from the 15th to 18th century, shaping the cultural and political landscape of Europe through patronage of the arts and banking power.

Conservation

Florence places high importance on protecting its historic monuments and frescoes through controlled visitor numbers and sustainable tourism practices, helping preserve these treasures for future generations.

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Adventure Hotspots in Florence

Frequently Asked Questions

Recommended Gear

Comfortable walking shoes

Essential

Required for navigating cobblestone streets and historic interior floors with ease.

Lightweight jacket or scarf

Essential

Keeps you warm in cool chapels and shaded piazzas during transitional seasons.

spring|fall|winter specific

Sunscreen

Essential

Protects skin from strong midday sun while walking through open outdoor areas.

summer specific

Small daypack or crossbody bag

Essential

Keeps essentials secure and leaves hands free for photos and map handling.