Palazzo Vecchio (with kids)
How Kids-Friendly is Palazzo Vecchio?
What makes it 81% Kids-Friendly: Kids enter free, borrow a colorful Family Kit, join turtle hunts or fresco workshops, and marvel at huge statues; lifts ease movement, but tower is off-limits to under-6s, so plan time and energy.
Positives:
- Free Outdoor Areas: Piazza and courtyard offer space for kids to run at no cost.
- Stroller Access: Elevator access brings you from ground floor to main museum level.
Challenges:
- Tower Access: Children under 6 cannot climb the tower; skip if you have a 3 year old.
- Long Lines: Ticket lines build up quickly in high season; reserve online to save time.
What is Palazzo Vecchio?
- A 13th-century fortified palace that served as the seat of Florence’s municipal government
- Landmark civic building crowned by the Arnolfo Tower and defined by its rusticated stone façade and crenellated battlements
- Complex of grand halls and chambers adorned with Vasari frescoes, medieval sculptures and the monumental Salone dei Cinquecento
What is so special about Palazzo Vecchio for with kids?
- Free courtyard and plaza let kids move freely.
- Family Kit adds interactive maps and binoculars.
- Turtle Story engages ages 4–7 with palace art.
- Fresco workshop offers hands-on fun for older kids.
- Stroller-friendly ground floor with elevator access.
Recommended visit duration: 2-3 hours
Why 2-3 hours visit duration is ideal for with kids: Allows time for free courtyard play, a self-guided family kit tour, and a short kids’ activity without rushing.
Kids-Friendly Activities in Palazzo Vecchio
Stroll Piazza della Signoria and Loggia dei Lanzi:
Explore the open-air sculpture gallery under 14th-century arches.
Tip: Let kids spot the David replica and Neptune Fountain; go early to avoid crowds.
Enter Cortile di Michelozzi:
Step into the 15th-century courtyard designed by Michelozzo.
Tip: Ground-floor entry is stroller-friendly; pause under crenellated balconies for family photos.
Rent the Family Kit:
Pick up a child-friendly map, binoculars, and activity tools at the Info Desk.
Tip: Recommended for ages 6+; follow the trails and return the kit before museum closing.
Follow the Turtle Story:
Use the video guide to find Cosimo I’s turtle symbol on ceilings and walls.
Tip: Book this at the ticket office; ideal for children ages 4–7; increases engagement with frescoes.
Join a Fresco Painting Workshop:
Paint a mini fresco using traditional techniques.
Tip: Available for kids 8+; book your spot in advance at the Info Desk; session lasts about 45 minutes.
When is the best time to visit Palazzo Vecchio (Florence, Italy)?
From June to August, arrive before 10 AM to beat heat and crowds. In winter, check Monday closures and dress in layers for unheated halls.
Explore These Activities
Reviews of Palazzo Vecchio (Florence)
Andreas Nielsen
Palazzo Vecchio is a masterpiece of Florence’s history and architecture. This fortress-like palace is both imposing and beautiful, with stunning interiors filled with frescoes, ornate halls, and historic artifacts. Climbing the tower rewards you with breathtaking panoramic views of the city and the Duomo.
ngawang sherpa
Really cool to see the amazing art displayed on the walls inside the hall. Walking inside not knowing what I would see just to be amazed by the craftsmanship. I would recommend it for any one coming for art and history, but if your not much into art and have visited alot of museums throughout the day then it won't be worth it for you. However for my friends and I enjoyed visiting and seeing this p...
Ana Filipovic
We had an amazing and beautiful visit to palazzo Vecchio. The decoration, the rooms, the art, the statues.....everything is so wonderful and gives you the feeling of having traveled through time. We were in Tuscany and Florence in May so it was a bit crowded but it wasn't terrible, and thanks to the size of the palazzo, we didn't feel the crowd at all. We also didnt wait a long time to get in as w...
Tova Mårtensson
Went by but didn’t go inside, just looked around the free parts. The building is cool and has a lot of history, but mostly felt like a tourist spot. Worth a quick look if you’re already in the area, but nothing I’d plan around.
Clmtn Lbrd
Ma favorite place in Firenze, always! I love the Palazzo Vecchio as it’s very quiet and not so crowded compared to other famous places in Firenze or Italy. I also love the fact that there are some signs and descriptions in each room to explain the purpose of the room and the paintings and other objects inside the rooms. The staff working there is very nice and helpful too.
Typical Budget for a Family of 4 (2 Adults + 2 Kids)
| Item | Cost (Approx.) |
|---|---|
| Museum tickets (2 adults) | EUR 25 |
| Turtle Story activity (2 kids) | EUR 10 |
| Fresco Painting Workshop (1 child) | EUR 5 |
| Total Estimated | EUR 40 |
Note: All prices are indicative and may vary. Please check directly with the venue for the most accurate and up-to-date information.
Content Notice: This content combines editorial expertise with AI assistance to ensure comprehensive and up-to-date information. Our team regularly curates and reviews all content for accuracy and relevance. Help Us Improve
How to Make the Most of Your Visit to Palazzo Vecchio
- Buy Tickets Online: Reserve skip-the-line tickets on the official site to avoid queues.
- Visit at Opening: Arrive at 9 AM to explore before crowds and midday heat peak.
Map of Palazzo Vecchio
Address: P.za della Signoria, 50122 Firenze FI, Italy
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About Palazzo Vecchio
Opening Hours
Hours may vary during holidays, special events, and peak seasons. Please check the official website for the most up-to-date information.
Website
Official WebsitePhone Number
+39 055 276 8325Average price
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