Pitti Palace (Palazzo Pitti)

The basics

This massive stone palace was once home to the ruling Medici family, then to the Austrian House of Lorraine, and finally to the House of Savoy—until Victor Emmanuel III donated the palazzo and its contents to the nation of Italy in 1919. Nearly 150 rooms housing an impressive collection of paintings and sculpture are open to the public. The Palatine Gallery, which showcases Renaissance masterpieces by artists including Raphael, Titian, and Rubens, is the most famous. Visitors can also tour the sumptuous Royal Apartments, Silver Museum, Porcelain Museum, Carriage Museum, and Costume Gallery. The palazzo even houses a Modern Art Gallery, highlighting Italian painters from the 18th to early-20th centuries.

An array of private and group tours are available. Consider joining a walking tour of Florence that visits a number of Renaissance monuments built during the reign of the Medici family.

Things to know before you go

• Pitti Palace is one of Florence’s most important attractions, home to centuries of art and history. Booking a guided tour including skip-the-line tickets is strongly recommended.

• Due to the sheer scope of the museum and its collections, guided Pitti Palace tours are by far the best way to see and learn about the highlights.

• Large backpacks, bags, and umbrellas are not allowed inside; there is a free cloakroom at the entrance.

• The palazzo is completely wheelchair accessible.

How to get there

Pitti Palace is on the southern bank of the Arno River in the Oltrarno neighborhood, reached via the Ponte Vecchio bridge near the Uffizi Galleries (Gallerie degli Uffizi). Take the number 11 bus to Piazza San Felice or the C3 or D buses to the Pitti stop.

When to get there

The palazzo can be very crowded between May and October, and at midday. Consider an early-morning or late-afternoon tour to avoid the peak visiting hours. The museums are closed on Mondays and holidays.

Visiting the Pitti Palace and Boboli Gardens

After visiting Pitti Palace, take a stroll around the adjacent Boboli Gardens (Giardino di Boboli), dotted with Renaissance statues, fountains, and grottoes. On a sunny day, lay out a picnic blanket for a leisurely lunch on the panoramic lawns, or enjoy the shaded stone walkways lined with elegant sculptures.

Ways to explore

You could easily spend a half day touring the Pitti Palace’s permanent exhibits, which also include the Museum of Costume and Fashion and the Gallery of Modern Art. Make the most of your visit by reserving a combined ticket for the Pitti Palace and Boboli Gardens—the Medici’s sweeping backyard behind the palace.

Guided Pitti Palace tours often include skip-the-line entry, with a special focus on the famous Palatine Gallery. If you’re a Renaissance history buff, consider joining a Medici-themed walking tour that passes by the palace along with attractions such as the Medici Chapels and Medici Riccardi Palace.

Accessibility

The entrance to the Pitti Palace is smooth but steep, so it’s best for visitors in wheelchairs to come with a companion—free of charge. The upper floors are accessible via elevator.

Age limits

None

What to pack

Only bring a small bottle of water and essentials you can carry, as you’ll have to leave any large items in the cloakroom.

What to wear

Comfortable shoes—you’ll do lots of walking through the Pitti Palace’s dozens of exhibition rooms.

Not allowed

Outside food and drink (besides water), luggage and bulky bags, tripods and selfie sticks

Amenities

Restrooms, cafeteria, bookshop, cloakroom

Address

The Pitti Palace is on the southern bank of the Arno River in Florence’s Oltrarno neighborhood. You can get there on foot by crossing the Ponte Vecchio bridge near the Uffizi Galleries, or take a bus or cab.

Driving

The Pitti Palace falls within Florence’s historic center, which is only open to drivers with a special permit. Fortunately, local taxis are widely available to take you to the museum.

Public transportation

Take the number 11 bus to Piazza San Felice or the C3 or C4 buses to Pitti—both stops are just a few steps away from the museum.

Best times to visit

The Pitti Palace is quietest in the mornings, so go shortly after opening to have its art-filled apartments and galleries to yourself.

Best days to visit

Save money by visiting the Pitti Palace on free-admission days (the first Sunday of the month), and note that it’s closed on Mondays.

Best months to visit

The indoor museum is a year-round attraction, but the adjoining Boboli Gardens are particularly nice in April and May when its rose varieties are in bloom.