Florence, the capital of Tuscany, is one of Italy’s most romantic cities. Brimming with art, culture and distinguished architecture, it is often referred to as the birthplace of the Renaissance period. The city is home to several architectural marvels, like Palazzo Pitti, also known as the Pitti Palace. This palace dates back to the 15th Century and was once the magnificent home of several royal families. Now a popular tourist spot, the palace comprises eight large museums with attached galleries and the beautiful Boboli Gardens. These museums are famous for their displays of the wealth and artistic grandeur of Italian nobility, and collections of artwork by famed artists like Rubens, Raphael and Caravaggio.
Planning to buy Palazzo Pitti tickets? Our handy guide will take you through everything you need to know.
Palazzo Pitti - In a Nutshell
Opening Hours
From 8.15am to 6.30pm everyday (Closed on all Mondays, 1st of January and 25th December).
Know before you go
Best time to visit: March - May
Book tickets here at Palazzo Pitti Tickets.
Suggested duration: Ideally, you will take 3 hours to cover the attractions inside.
Location: Florence
Address
Piazza de' Pitti, 1, 50125 Firenze FI, Italy.
Get there
Palazzo Pitti Tickets
Skip the lines and save time on entry to the magnificent Palazzo Pitti and Palatine Gallery. Explore this extravagant residence of the former grand dukes and monarchs of Florence, and feast your eyes on the lavish art and architecture contained here.
Visitors under 18, persons with disabilities, students, tour guides and journalists can enter for free.
- Get entry into the Pitti Palace and the Palatine Gallery, Florence's most sought-after attractions.
- Stroll through the Royal Apartments of the Palace and get a glimpse into the opulent lifestyles of Florence’s rulers.
- Explore the stunning Modern Art exhibition and the many galleries of artistic and historical exhibits at the Palatine Gallery.
Why Visit Palazzo Pitti?
Palazzo Pitti has been built and rebuilt by several aristocrats over a period of two hundred years, beginning somewhere in the 15th Century. Glimpse the rich history and lavish lifestyles of the Medici, Lorraine and Savoy royal families at this Palace. Walk through rooms at the Royal Apartments where curators have recreated the living quarters of these Italian nobles.
Those who love art and history must pay a visit to the Palatine Gallery and the Gallery of Modern Art; both house art and sculpture masterpieces spanning two centuries. The collection of Renaissance art at Palazzo Pitti is rivaled by only a few museums in Italy.
A visit to the Pitti Palace in Florence also offers a more material experience of aristocracy with exhibits like the Porcelain Museum, Treasury of the Grand Dukes and the Museum of Costume and Fashion for an in-depth look into the possessions and daily indulgences of the ruling class.
Outside the palace lie the lovely Boboli Gardens, adorned with Roman and late-Renaissance statues. Whether it is Baroque architecture, Renaissance Art or a general sense of history, the Palazzo Pitti compels any visitor with its grandeur and old-world charm.
Top 7 Highlights of the Palazzo Pitti
1The Royal Apartments
The Royal and Imperial Apartments are spread over fourteen rooms in the South Wing of the palace. The stamps of the shifting rulers are clearly visible in this museum, which has opened up the daily lives of the aristocracy to modern-day spectators. Art and decor enthusiasts must not miss this exhibit, where curators have carefully recreated the intimate living spaces of those who once resided in Pitti Palace. Each room is adorned with an assortment of sumptuous furnishings, ivory carvings, tapestries and other works of art. Make sure to visit The Blue Room, the Throne Room and the Queen’s Bedroom for a sensory experience of history.
2The Palatine Gallery
The Palatine Gallery and the Royal Apartments together occupy 28 rooms in the left wing of Pitti Palace. This space is full to the brim with an enviable collection of Renaissance and early Baroque paintings. The royal family’s collection was opened up to the public by the House of Lorraine. Visitors can witness some masterpieces of the early Renaissance period in their original frames. Among the works that should not be missed are The Portraits of Agnolo and Maddalena Doni by Raphael, which bears the influence of his teacher Leonardo da Vinci, and The Three Ages by Giorgione, in which a trio of men appear to represent the passage of time. Other notable works include Vision of Ezekiel by Raphael, The Concert by Titian and The Consequences of War by Peter Paul Reubens.
3The Treasury of the Grand Dukes
At the Treasury of the Grand Dukes, visitors can see the grandiose and lavish belongings of 17th Century Tuscan royalty. The treasury displays a variety of objects, from antique crystal vases and ivory carvings to gemstones and precious jewellery. The current exhibit at the Treasury of the Grand Dukes is titled Forged in Fire: Sculpture in Florence under the last Medici. It presents an opportunity for visitors to appreciate the art of bronze sculpture during the Renaissance, specifically focusing on the 17th and 18th Century. Bronze sculptures at the time were frequently commissioned as gifts of diplomacy and trade. The setting of the treasury is fundamental to this experience, providing an apt atmosphere in which to view these bronze sculptures. Don’t miss Giambologna’s Bathing Venus, a stunning piece that has been showcased publicly for the very first time. The religious culture of the time is also showcased in some spectacular pieces, such as a rendering of the crucifix by Pietro Tacca. The exhibit is completed by an assortment of drawings by Soldani Benzi.
5The Museum of Costume and Fashion
The Museum of Costume and Fashion (the first state-sponsored fashion museum in Italy) boasts a massive collection of costumes from the 18th to the 20th Century. From 16 December onwards, a fascinating exhibition will be presented at this museum. Returning to Grecian times, the exhibit on show is titled At The Feet of The Gods, and will display a variety of footwear spanning the classical and modern ages. This exhibit takes the reader through the physical evidence of art and sculpture in order to reconstruct the history of footwear from the 4th Century onwards.
Note: The museum will be temporarily closed from 30th September to 15th December 2019.
6Gallery of Modern Art
The modern era, spanning from the 18th Century to the early 20th Century, is well-represented in this gallery. This collection of sculptures and paintings demonstrate the height of Neoclassicism and Romanticism in art, providing a capacious definition of the phrase ‘modern art’. Works by Bartolini, De Tivoli and Fattori adorn the museum walls.
7The Boboli gardens
After all is said and done, no trip to Pitti Palace is complete without a visit to the Boboli gardens, a modern-day garden of Eden that is sprinkled with magnificent statues and complete with fountains, grottos and other architectural features. The Boboli amphitheater dates back to the 15th Century and has been the setting of numerous festivals and theatrical performances over the years. The Boboli Gardens are also home to two beautiful fountains: the Fountain of Neptune and the Fountain of the Ocean, and a variety of flowering plant species.
History behind the Palazzo Pitti
Over the centuries, numerous royal families and aristocrats have left their mark on Pitti Palace, slowly assembling the masterpiece that can be witnessed today. While exact dates are still under debate, it is known that the original Palazzo Pitti was commissioned in the 15th Century by Luca Pitti, a wealthy banker. Pitti was a prominent figure at the time and held a close connection to the Grand Duke Cosimo de’ Medici of the royal family.
Over the course of a century, the house changed hands with the Medici family and became their official residence. Several additions and renovations were made to the palace during their stay, including the addition of the famous treasury. Pitti Palace was then passed down to the Austrian House of Lorraine in 1737, following which it became the property of the House of Savoy. Palazzo Pitti was finally donated to the state in 1919.
The Palazzo Pitti currently comprises eight museums, rolling gardens and several galleries.
Palazzo Pitti Map
Plan your Palazzo Pitti visit
Timings
The Pitti Palace in Florence is open from 08:15 AM to 06:50 PM from Tuesday to Sunday. It is closed on all Mondays, 1 January and 25 December.
Getting to the Palazzo Pitti
Visitors can arrive at Palazzo Pitti by car, tram or bus.
By bus:
The closest bus station is Romana, and can be reached via Bus 11 and Bus 36.
By tram:
The nearest tram station is Unita (tram T2).
By car:
There is little to no parking available at the destination. Visitors may park in a garage nearby, such as Garage Fosi, Garage Lungarno and Garage Ponte Vecchio.
Address
Accessibility
There is a special ramp at the entrance from Pitti Square that is set at a 20% incline and elevator access is provided to all floors. A tactile tour of the Modern Art Gallery is also available for the visually impaired.
Other services
Audio guides are available at the ticket office. Palazzo Pitti also offers a bookshop, a cafeteria and a free cloakroom.
Best recommended tours to Palazzo Pitti
When visiting a new city, it can be tough to decide what to see and do. If you're a lover of history or an admirer of gardens, your itinerary is sure to be different. That's why it's so important to plan ahead and book the best experience.
Whether you choose to book one of Headout's pre-planned tours or book your individual, you'll be able to skip the lines and make the most of your time. Take your pick from the tickets below and enjoy a hassle-free experience.
- Skip the lines at the opulent Pitti Palace, the last of the residences of the renowned Medici Dynasty.
- Visit the grand Royal Apartments and the Palatina Gallery, two of the Pitti Palace highlights.
- Explore masterpieces by Caravaggio, Botticelli, Van Dyck, and Rubens.
- Delve into the rich heritage and history of Florence with an expert local guide by your side.
- At the second-floor Gallery of Modern Art, browse through collections by Italian artists from the late 18th and early 20th centuries.
- Save up to 5% and visit three top Florence tourist destinations with one combo ticket.
- Save time in queuing up and skip the lines for entry into the Pitti Palace and the Palatine Gallery.
- Stroll through the Royal Apartments of the Palace and get a glimpse into the opulent lifestyles of Florence’s rulers.
- Explore the stunning Modern Art exhibition and the many galleries of artistic and historical exhibits at the Palatine Gallery.
- Gain skip-the-line access to the 111-acre Boboli Gardens, and stroll through this beautifully arranged park.
- Enjoy access to the Porcelain Museum and the Bardini Garden.
- See the many attractions in and around the park, such as the 6-meter high obelisk from the time of Ramses II, the stunning grottoes, and the regal Fountain of Neptune.
- Explore the highlights of Florence’ UNESCO World Heritage Site city center
- With a passionate local guide by your side, get a great deal of insight into the city’s rich history and culture
- Walk along the Vasari Corridor, one of the most famous passageways connecting the two banks of the river Arno
- Relish a visit to the renowned Boboli Gardens, an 11-acre open-air museum, and garden located in the heart of Florence
- Enjoy priority admission to 3 attractions, the Bardini Gardens, Porcelain Museum, and the Boboli Gardens
- Skip the lines at the opulent Pitti Palace, the last of the residences of the renowned Medici Dynasty.
- Visit the grand Royal Apartments and the Palatina Gallery, two of the Pitti Palace highlights.
- Explore masterpieces by Caravaggio, Botticelli, Van Dyck, and Rubens.
- Delve into the rich heritage and history of Florence with an expert local guide by your side.
- At the second-floor Gallery of Modern Art, browse through collections by Italian artists from the late 18th and early 20th centuries.
- Save up to 5% and visit three top Florence tourist destinations with one combo ticket.
- Save time in queuing up and skip the lines for entry into the Pitti Palace and the Palatine Gallery.
- Stroll through the Royal Apartments of the Palace and get a glimpse into the opulent lifestyles of Florence’s rulers.
- Explore the stunning Modern Art exhibition and the many galleries of artistic and historical exhibits at the Palatine Gallery.
- Gain skip-the-line access to the 111-acre Boboli Gardens, and stroll through this beautifully arranged park.
- Enjoy access to the Porcelain Museum and the Bardini Garden.
- See the many attractions in and around the park, such as the 6-meter high obelisk from the time of Ramses II, the stunning grottoes, and the regal Fountain of Neptune.
- Explore the highlights of Florence’ UNESCO World Heritage Site city center
- With a passionate local guide by your side, get a great deal of insight into the city’s rich history and culture
- Walk along the Vasari Corridor, one of the most famous passageways connecting the two banks of the river Arno
- Relish a visit to the renowned Boboli Gardens, an 11-acre open-air museum, and garden located in the heart of Florence
- Enjoy priority admission to 3 attractions, the Bardini Gardens, Porcelain Museum, and the Boboli Gardens
Best time to visit Palazzo Pitti
The best time to visit Palazzo Pitti would be from March to May, the spring season, and then from September to November, the autumn season since it is off-season and would be able to stroll around in peace.
Ultimately, there is no wrong time to visit the palace in Florence – it just depends on what other destinations you have included in your itinerary.
Top 4 Palazzo Pitti Guided Tours
Restaurants near Palazzo Pitti
Here are the top three places to curb your hunger after the stroll in the Palace.
Located in an old-school nook, the restaurant is easy-to-find and offers sandwiches, snacks, and pizza by the slice. All of the food is prepared with natural ingredients and toasted to perfection. In addition, the drinks are reasonably priced. Whether you're looking for a quick bite to eat or a place to grab a slice of pizza to go, Amici di Ponte Vecchio is the ideal spot.
Offering central Italian and Tuscan cuisine, they offer everything from bistecca alla fiorentina to truffle buratta, and have something for everyone. The steakhouse does not fail its customers with its reasonably priced selection of wine, great ambience, and beautiful interiors with a lovely courtyard backside. Plus, the restaurant is wheelchair accessible and dog friendly.
Do not be discouraged by their small exterior and cheap prices, the Pitti Express serves an excellent selection of sandwiches, lasagna, and local wine which is sure to impress you, without emptying your pockets. And if you need an extra boost of energy, their great cappuccino is worth a shot. They offer both vegetarian and vegan options too.
Places to visit around Palazzo Pitti
The Ponte Vecchio is one of the most iconic bridges in the world. Located in Florence, Italy, it spans the Arno River and is lined with shops and stalls selling a variety of goods. The bridge has a long and storied history, dating back to the 13th century. Whether you're admiring the views from atop the bridge or browsing the shops below, the Ponte Vecchio is an essential stop on any trip to Florence.
The Loggia dei Lanzi is a popular tourist destination for good reason - it's simply gorgeous. The loggia, or arched open-air porch, was built in the 14th century and overlooks the Piazza della Signoria. Today, the Loggia dei Lanzi is home to a number of important statues, including works by Donatello, Michelangelo, and Cellini. Whether you're an art lover or just looking for a beautiful spot to relax, the Loggia dei Lanzi is definitely worth a visit.
If you are looking for a break from all the art museums, we highly recommend checking out the Museo di Storia Naturale - La Specola. Founded in 1775, it is one of the oldest natural history museums in the world. The museum is home to an extensive collection of fossils, minerals, and animals, as well as a wide range of scientific instruments.
Piazza Santo Spirito is one of the most beautiful squares in Florence, Italy. It is located in the Oltrarno district, just south of the River Arno. The square is named after the church of Santo Spirito, which dominates one side of the piazza. The church was founded in the 12th century and rebuilt in the 15th century. The other three sides of the piazza are lined with cafes, restaurants, and boutiques.
Insider Tips
- Visitors who purchase a ticket before 8:59 AM and enter inside during the first time slots (8:30 to 9:25 AM) are eligible for a 50% discount on the ticket price.
- Make sure to wear comfortable shoes, as plenty of walking will be involved.
- Check the official website for free admission days to Pitti Palace and Boboli Gardens. These tend to come up four to five times a year.
- Visitors are expected to keep their voices low and dress as per the formal setting of the museums. Museum rules mention that bathing costumes and skimpy clothing are not permitted.
- Flash photography, professional photographic equipment and selfie sticks are prohibited.
- Mobile phones must be turned off or put in silent mode.
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Other top Experiences in Florence
The Palazzo Pitti gives you a sneak peak into the fascinating Florentine history and culture, and fortunately, Italy has tons of places to fit your match. Here are some other attractions that are now open to the public that cannot be missed!
Check out more things to do in Florence here.
