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Explore the vast world of art and culture through the lens of various viewpoints in programs ranging from gallery tours to storytelling sessions and interactive experiences with works of art.

MetTours connects you with works of art, with curators, conservators, educators, and artists alike guiding you through the collection and exhibitions. Program times, audiences, and topics vary.

Conversations with ...

Join curators, conservators, and educators for lively, 30-minute dialogues on works of art.

Met Expert Talks

Hear new insights and untold stories from Met insiders, including curators, conservators, scientists, and scholars, and take a closer look at the works of art in the galleries. You’ll also have the opportunity to ask questions.

Gallery Talks

Engage directly with works of art in the galleries through talks led by curators, conservators, educators, and invited specialists. Talks focus on specific aspects of the collection or on exhibitions.

Gallery Talks at The Met Cloisters

The Met Cloisters offers gallery talks for adults at 12 and 2 pm every Saturday and on the first Sunday of each month, year-round.

Guided Tours

Explore highlights of the collection through a variety of tours with Museum-trained volunteers. Engaging, hour-long tours are given in English, French, German, Italian, Japanese, Korean, Mandarin, Portuguese, Russian, and Spanish.

Guided Tours at The Met Cloisters

Explore the building and grounds at The Met Cloisters in tours led by Museum lecturers.

With Met experts, participate in timely and candid conversations that explore shifting perspectives on works from The Met collection.

How Did They Do That?

Peek at technique and learn how works of art were created through handling tools and materials. Stop by for hands-on demonstrations and conversations with educators, conservators, artists, and more!

Artists on Artworks

See The Met collection through artists' eyes. Each artist discusses works of art in the collection that hold personal meaning or relevance to his or her artistic process.

Art Explore (Ages 12–14)

Discover works of art from around the world and make art inspired by your ideas and The Met collection. Attend one or all of the monthly sessions.

Families with children ages 18 months–6 years are invited to look, listen, sing, and have fun with picture books.

Start with Art at The Met/Start with Art and Music

Families with children ages 3–6 are invited to share ideas and enjoy stories, sketching, singing, and other gallery activities that bring works of art to life.

Families with children ages 7–11 are invited to travel through time and around the world on a Museum adventure.

La Experiencia Medieval: Talleres Bilingües y Educativos para Familias

Niños de 4 a 12 años de edad y sus familias están invitados a participar en visitas guiadas y proyectos de arte en Los Claustros.

MetTours for Visitors with Disabilities

Join gallery tours and interactive experiences with works of art during these programs specifically designed for people with disabilities together with family and friends.

Family Tours at The Met Cloisters

Children ages 4 through 12 and their families are invited for an hour-long workshop at The Met Cloisters.

Upcoming MetTours Events

Storytime at the met cloisters, met expert talks—hidden faces: covered portraits of the renaissance, met expert talks—the harlem renaissance and transatlantic modernism, met expert talks at the met cloisters—rebirth and renewal.

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National Gallery of Art Tour: A Guided Crash Course

• Tour National Gallery of Art with an art historian
• Discuss art history, material culture, and object conservation

“We loved [our guide’s] approach to the material, bringing in history and culture to give added depth to the artwork. We especially enjoyed her comparative visual approach to viewing Fra Angelico’s [Adoration of the Magi]!”

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The epicenter of modern Russia, Moscow booms with shiny new skyscrapers, the bulbous onion domes of the tsars and politically-rich Red Square. Explore the metropolis with a tourHQ guide.

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The sprawling, mind-boggling metropolis of Russian Moscow has long been one of the theatrical stages on which the great dramas of Europe and Asia have been played out in grand style. Burned by Napoleon in 1812, immortalised by Tolstoy, utilised by the Bolsheviks and championed as a bastion of heroic defiance by the post-war communists, it’s almost hard to believe just how defining the historical events that found their home on Moscow’s streets have been. Moscow tour guides will easily be able to mark the major must-see landmarks on the map, from the onion-domed orthodox Saint Basil's Cathedral, to the political powerhouse of Red Square just next door, while others will be quick to recommend a ride on Moscow’s famous subterranean metro system, or a visit to the UNESCO-attested Novodevichy Convent on the city’s southern side. But Moscow is a city also in the throes of a cultural wrangling between the old and the new. Creative energies abound here: Boho bars and pumping super clubs now occupy the iconic mega structures of the old USSR; high-fashion outlets, trendy shopping malls and luxurious residential districts stand as testimony to a city that’s now the undisputed playground of the world’s super-rich, while sprawling modern art museums dominate the cultural offering of the downtown districts north of the Moskva River.  

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• Not the Official Site for Accademia - An Unofficial Guide to the Accademia Gallery

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Visit the Accademia with a Personal Tour Guide

Have you ever wondered what makes Michelangelo’s David so famous? What the story is that inspired the sculpture, what it represents, why Michelangelo is considered a genius ?

A visit to the Accademia with a guide will not only cover Michelangelo , his life, torment and creative genius and his sculptures which include the David , his unfinished Slaves and St. Matthew , but also works of art by great such as Botticelli , Ghirlandaio , Pontormo and other greats from the 13th to 16th centuries.

Visiting the Accademia with a personal, licensed tour guide will be the best way to discover all of the stories behind the works of art as well as learn about the artists and the times in which many of the masterpieces were created. You’ll be able to tap into the minds of art historians trained in the art of storytelling itself, weaving a great amount of details into a story that can be envisioned as you admire the results directly.

Book your Guided Tour with Florence Tickets

You can visit the Accademia with a professional tour guide organized by local tour agency Florence Tickets . During the high season, the groups are a maximum of 25 people; during the low season, you might be in a very small group of less than 10. The tour is conducted in English and lasts 1 hour and 30 minutes and is offered every Wednesday and Sunday at 12.30pm . Check your dates and book below:

Book a Guided Tour with Viator

Viator offers many more tours for you to choose from. You can book a guided tour of the Accademia, a tour that combines a walking tour in Florence with a tour of the Accademia or a combo tour of the Accademia and Uffizi, to list just a few examples.

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Disclosure: This page includes affiliate links to our booking partners. You choose who to book with; if you book with Florence Tickets or Viator, our website will receive a small commission – thank you for buying through our links!

About Accademia.org

Accademia.org is an informational guide written by a team of locals that love Florence and art! We are NOT the official site nor do we have a direct connection to the Accademia Gallery museum. This website does not sell tickets or tours, but offers visitors the opportunity to book through affiliate links on third party websites.

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The 5 Best Uffizi Gallery Tours [2024 Reviews]

The Uffizi in Florence is a timeless museum and gallery that you have to visit if you’re in the area. Considering its location, it only makes sense that it’s a hub for 14th-century and Renaissance period masterpieces.

Highlights include statues from the Medici family, as well as work from artists like Filippo Lippi, Pero della Francesca, Giotto, and many more.

To maximize your experience, we highly recommend taking one of the top Uffizi Gallery guided tours – the ones we have listed here offer the best bang for your buck! Let’s get started!

Be sure to see our reviews of Full Day Tuscany Day Trips, Florence Wine Tours and Cinque Terre Tours.

Best Uffizi Guided Tours

Quick answer: the 5 best skip-the-line uffizi gallery tours.

• Uffizi + David & Accademia Tour Exclusive
• Uffizi Gallery Private Tour
• Florence: Skip the Line Guided Uffizi Tour
• Uffizi tour for Kids!
• Florence: Uffizi Gallery Guided Tour

Uffizi Reviews

1. uffizi + david & accademia tour exclusive.

• Duration:  3 hours
• Departure:  Via dei Castellani, 14, 50122 Firenze FI
• Departure Time: 12:00 PM, 2:00 PM
• Includes:  Earphones for groups of more than 6 people, Priority entry for both art galleries, Entrance ticket, Booking fee, Authorized guide

It’s hard to know where to start with art in Florence, considering it’s the heart of the Italian Renaissance. If you want to experience some of the most famous works from that important era in history, check out the Uffizi + David & Accademia Tour Exclusive .

If you’re interested at all in learning about artwork and history, you have to sign up for this tour. As one of the most visited museums in the world, there are plenty of educated guides that work on-site.

However, this tour is known for having some of the most entertaining and knowledgeable, so be prepared to learn and see a lot! Even better, you don’t have to spend half your time waiting in massive lines that seem to never disappear – instead head through the priority entrance in both galleries!

Immerse yourself in the Italian Renaissance, where your guide will guide you through with expertise. You’ll see legendary masterpieces by some of the most famous Renaissance artists such as Michelangelo, Giotto, Caravaggio, Leonardo da Vinci, and other notable figures.

You’ll not only see them though, as your guide will teach you about each piece and answer any questions you may have.

Michelangelo’s David is simply breathtaking, and makes it hard to believe that a human being is capable of creating something like this out of marble. Another highlight is the museum of musical instruments, even if you’re not particularly into music.

You’ll get time on your own as well, so you can explore at your leisure and see the pieces that interest you the most.

More Information & Tour Booking

100% refund for cancellations within 24 hours of tour experience, other experiences you may enjoy:, 2. uffizi gallery private tour.

• Duration:  1 hour 40 minutes
• Departure:  Piazzale degli Uffizi, 6, 50122 Firenze FI
• Departure Time: Between 10:00 AM – 4:30 PM
• Includes:  All taxes, fees and handling charges, Licensed guide, Headsets to hear your guide clearly, Private tour, Bottled water, Coffee and/or Tea

If you want to learn more about Italian history or culture but have a packed schedule, there’s no need to worry. The Uffizi Gallery Private Tour may last just an hour and 40 minutes, but you’re going to have a brain full of new information in that relatively short period of time.

This expansive gallery is simply magnificent, and with a local guide to teach you all about it, you’ll be a Renaissance pro, too.

Meet up with your guide at the Uffizi gallery at the time you agree upon beforehand. You may see a long line has already formed, but not to worry – you get to skip all that and head straight into the beautiful gallery!

As soon as you meet up, you’ll start learning the history of the building itself, as well as the state of Florence and beliefs that were popular during this important era.

Many tour guides are artists and historians themselves, so you can expect expert guidance here. Trust us when we say you get the general history and the cool, hidden-gem history lessons that you’d never learn in school!

Not only that, but they cater to your specific interests, making it a truly personalized tour for everyone who participates.

Learn about the development of art from the middle ages past the Renaissance, while seeing masterpieces from this time period’s artistic heroes: da Vinci, Michelangelo, Botticelli, Sanzio, and many more.

You also get all the time you want after your tour to cruise around the gallery as you wish, in case there were any exhibits you wanted to explore further.

3. Florence: Skip the Line Guided Uffizi Tour

• Duration:  1 hour 30 minutes
• Departure Time: 10:00 AM, 11:30 AM, 3:00 PM
• Includes:  Skip the Line Tickets to the Uffizi Gallery, Licensed guide, Radios and headsets

Traveling and exploring new places should focus on the experience and learning, rather than standing in lines, right? I mean, who has time to spend hours queuing when there’s a whole world out there to see?

Maximize your time and see all the cool stuff with the Florence: Skip the Line Guided Uffizi Tour . If you’re bringing the entire family along, you have to check out this budget-friendly option.

The guides are so great at incorporating smaller children, ensuring they won’t get bored or want to run off to play with the statue of David.

We also really appreciated how well our guide accommodated the personal interests of the people in our group, and was easily able to answer every question asked.

Expect to see all of the main tourist pieces, as well as some other notable points of interest highlighted by fascinating anecdotes and historical stories. This definitely isn’t some run-of-the-mill audio tour – the personal touch is so valuable.

From the Late Gothic through the Renaissance and Mannerist periods, you’re going to see first-hand and learn about the most iconic art from these times.

It’s not just paintings either (though those are mind-blowing, too) – you’ll see sculptures, bas-relieves, altarpieces, drawings, and so much more. However, some of the most interesting stories are those of the building and area, itself and how important it was in local culture.

No matter your age or interests, though, you’re sure to fall in love with these “offices” of timeless treasures just as much as we have.

4. Uffizi Tour for Kids!

• Duration: 2 hours
• Departure:  Plza della Signoria, 50122 Firenze FI
• Departure Time: Check with tour operator
• Includes:  Expert and official tour guide, Player notebook for children

When traveling with children, you may feel like you have to skip the museum or gallery visits to avoid them becoming bored. But that doesn’t mean that younger ones aren’t interested in the art or history – it’s all about how it’s presented to them.

With the Uffizi Tour for Kids! , the guides cut out all the fluff and make sure every turn is packed with curiosity and excitement!

One massively important aspect to having a smooth museum visit with kids is cutting down time standing in line for the entrance. They do you one better, by cutting out the line completely, letting you skip straight to the good part.

You also have quite a variety of different start times to choose from, so you can easily make it work with the rest of your schedule.  You’re not just going to “see” the museum – you’re going to go treasure hunting in the Uffizi Gallery!

That’s right – your certified art historian guide is going to the whole family on a wild ride filled with activities, questions, learning, and fun! No matter the age, these talented guides manage to keep everyone entertained with age-relevant engagement.

You’re not just going to be cutting out queuing, but you’re eliminating the boring parts of the tour, too. Kids receive a notebook to help them with their “masterpiece hunt”, which is admittedly been a blast for us all.

We love how patient and accommodating they are, too, making sure everyone is having a great time venturing around the labyrinth that is Uffizi!

5. Florence: Uffizi Gallery Guided Tour

• Duration:  1 hour and 30 minutes
• Departure: Piazzale degli Uffizi, 6, 50122 Firenze FI
• Departure Time: Between 10:00 AM – 3:30 PM
• Includes:  Skip the line tickets to the Uffizi Gallery, Licensed guide, Radios and headsets

Constructed in the 1500s and designed by Giorgio Vasari, the Uffizi is one of the most notable museums in the world. Many of the artifacts and art pieces inside are much older than that, however.

With the 1.5-hour Florence: Uffizi Gallery Guided Tour you’ll learn all about the history behind these masterpieces, the artists who made them, and the Renaissance that they helped make.

As is typical with Florence, in general, the Uffizi Gallery can be hard to know where to start. Your small group tour of no more than 14 people simplifies this, though, with a professional guide who knows this museum like the back of their hand.

Skip the line and head right into the fun, where you’ll be able to see pieces by Botticelli, da Vinci, Michelangelo, Caravaggio, and many more.

The massive quantity of masterpieces in the gallery can be intimidating, but your guide will be sure to curate the tour just for you. You’ll of course see and learn all about the most notorious pieces, but will be shown those that suit your specific interests, as well.

Thanks to the smaller group size, you won’t just be another head in the crowd. To ensure you don’t miss a word in the more crowded corridors, you’ll get a headset to hear your guide, as well.

90 minutes turned out to be just the ideal length of time in a tour setting, as you get all the time you want after to continue exploring at your own pace. If you’re looking for an insider’s guide to Uffizi, this one is hard to beat.

Uffizi Tour Guide

It may currently hold some of the most famous works by Leonardo da Vinci, but did you know the Uffizi in Florence was housing masterpieces since the time of da Vinci?

This place was an art gallery even in the throes of the Italian Renaissance. Pretty crazy, right?

Commissioned by Cosimo l de’Medici, first Grand Duke of Tuscany, the Uffizi, or “offices”, were originally meant for just that purpose – to house the administrative and legal offices of Florence back in the 1560s.

Designed by Renaissance master, Giorgio Vasari, himself, the Uffizi is adorned with countless thoughtful details with an edifice featuring a Doric column portico that exudes both sophistication and opulence. The Gallery’s ceilings were adorned with “grotesque”, a-la-Emperor Nero motifs that draws similarities to his underground Domus Aurea.

The bold, dramatic effect in itself draws in visitors with a large, central arch. The interior wings are perfect for displaying ancient artwork and Medici family treasures. Today, it’s known as one of the most well-curated, complete museums of the Renaissance time period.

Most Important Works

While the “most important” title will vary depending on the person, there are some indisputably “most famous” works in the Uffizi you’ll likely want to check out.

‘The Birth of Venus’ by Sandro Botticelli | 1485 – 1486

This is by far the gallery’s most famous work. If you’ve seen the Mona Lisa in person, you may perhaps feel it was much smaller than what you were imagining. You’re not likely to feel the same about this painting, which measures 10 feet across.

This symbol of love and beauty in both the spiritual and physical brings humanity closer to the divine. It represents purity, simplicity, and nobility of the soul. However, as Venus is portrayed nude in the painting, it was very controversial in the middle ages.

‘Coronation of the Virgin’ by Fra Angelico | 1432

It’s easy to say that this is one of the most impressive altar-pieces ever made, offering each saint their own special character. While you’re sure to be awestruck by the painting alone, the intricate engravings in the gilt elevates it to a whole new level.

‘Laocoön and his Sons’ by Baccio Bandinelli | 1525

No Italian Renaissance-era gallery is complete without sculptures. Based on a Hellenistic sculpture uncovered in 1506, this version became a modern recreation for Pope Leo X to gift King Francis I.

‘Madonna with the Long Neck’ by Parmigianino | 1535

And a long neck she does indeed have! The proportions are a bit bizarre, yet definitely draw attention. It’s meant to be radical, but somehow evokes a kind of grace that makes it one of the most famous pieces.

‘Portrait of Pope Leo X with Two Cardinals’ by Raphael | 1518

We’re back on the subject of Pope Leo X again, and this title basically says it all. This style was quite unique for its time, offering a very realistic insight into the figure’s life. With countless references to important events of that time, it’s one of those pieces that you can look at over and over and still spot new details.

‘Annunciation’ by Leonardo da Vinci and Andrea del Verrocchio  

Who doesn’t know who da Vinci is? Just about everyone, right? Did you know that only a small percentage of people have actually seen one of his works in real life? The Annunciation offers fantastic insight into his earlier work, which was created alongside his master, Verrocchio.

Hours of Operation

The Uffizi is open Tuesday – Sunday from 8:15 am to 6:30 pm every day.

Tour Guides

The Uffizi + David & Accademia Tour Exclusive is our Editors Choice for the best Uffizi Gallery tour.

Krysha Thayer

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Official National Gallery Highlights Guided Tour

• Vox Headset
• Entry to the gallery
• Blue Badge Guide
• Entry/Admission - National Gallery
• Private transportation
• Entrance to the semi permanent exhibitions
• The National Gallery, Trafalgar Square, London WC2N 5DN, UK The meeting point for this tour is the Getty Entrance Walk through the Getty entrance, up the stairs and pass through the security barriers, you will enter Annenberg Court and the tour will start by the desk on the right.
• The National Gallery, Trafalgar Square, London WC2N 5DN, UK The tour ends at the Getty Exit by the shop and café on the other side of the building.
• Wheelchair accessible
• Stroller accessible
• Service animals allowed
• Near public transportation
• Transportation is wheelchair accessible
• Surfaces are wheelchair accessible
• Confirmation will be received at time of booking
• Most travelers can participate
• This experience requires a minimum number of travelers. If it’s canceled because the minimum isn’t met, you’ll be offered a different date/experience or a full refund
• This tour/activity will have a maximum of 25 travelers
• For a full refund, cancel at least 24 hours in advance of the start date of the experience.
• National Gallery

Similar experiences

• You'll start at The National Gallery Trafalgar Square, London WC2N 5DN, UK The meeting point for this tour is the Getty Entrance Walk through the Getty entrance, up the stairs and pass through the security barriers, you will enter Annenberg Court and the tour will start by the desk on the right. See address & details
• 1 National Gallery Stop: 60 minutes - Admission included Join us for an intimate expert-led tour of our world-renowned collection at the National Gallery and explore over 700 years of wall-to-wall masterpieces. Highlights of the tour include the below: • Led by a gallery approved, accredited Blue Badge Guide • Visit one of the greatest collections of Western European paintings in the world from the 13th to the 19th centuries. • Tours take place in a grade I listed heritage building in the heart of London. • Surround yourself with some of the world’s greatest paintings by artists such as Leonardo, Monet and Van Gogh • Includes VOX headset Read more
• You'll end at The National Gallery Trafalgar Square, London WC2N 5DN, UK The tour ends at the Getty Exit by the shop and café on the other side of the building. See address & details

• laraschu 0 contributions 5.0 of 5 bubbles Worth a visit! Museum with free entry, perfect activity to hide out from the rain. So many beautiful artworks and architecture, worth taking a look even if you are not an art fanatic. The line to get in moved fairly quickly considering it is a free attraction. Read more Written April 19, 2024
• Herbie-Green 0 contributions 4.0 of 5 bubbles A lovely national asset A lovely national asset - probably more impressed with the architecture than the content. Though I did enjoy the Pissarros, Turners and Monets, and impressed with the detail of the Stubbs and of course Canalettos, but much of the rest seem samey, naive verging on bad and didn't really grab me. Read more Written April 18, 2024
• staceygH2118AG 0 contributions 4.0 of 5 bubbles Too Classical For Me I liked the museum, but after so many of the same scenes, the paintings just blended into one another. It wasn’t what I was expecting. I guess I’m not really into that kind of art. On the flip side, I was in awe while looking at one of the original Van Gogh’s Sunflowers and Monet’s Water Lillies. I enjoyed the more modern art and while there were only a few of these pieces compared to the classical art, these paintings made the trip worth it. The museum is beautiful and Trafalgar Square is a great place to watch people. Read more Written April 17, 2024
• Eyekaytoo 0 contributions 5.0 of 5 bubbles What a wonderful collection of beautiful artwork I have been coming to London for very many decades but never took the time to come and explore the National Gallery. Finally, I had a spare Sunday , so took the chance to correct this sad omission on my part. The Sunday in question was the one when the Chinese New Year was being celebrated in early February. I was a bit put of by the longish queue waiting to get in to this marvelous building. But I didn't need to worry. The queue moved quickly and, having passed airport style security, I was in! And then it hit me. What a place! Where to start? I decided to simply wander around hoping to see works from Leonardo Da Vinci, Titian, Van Gogh to name but just a few. I wasn't to be disappointed. This place is huge and swallowed up all the people visiting it. I had no problems in simply sitting in front of some of my favourites and contemplating on the artistic marvels of talented people gone many centuries ago. I could have stayed longer - possibly enjoying a cup of tea and cakes in the cafeteria but I had to move on and out. But I'll be back later in the year - hopefully with a better plan on what to see. Read more Written April 16, 2024
• ShropshireLass69 0 contributions 4.0 of 5 bubbles You May Need This Workaround To Visit The National Gallery Their website doesn't make it clear, but I'm afraid the National Gallery no longer has lockers that will take even a small case and their cloakroom won't accept one, either. When we visited, there were many people with cabin sized luggage getting turned away. I'm guessing they'd either just arrived in London, or were about to leave and wanted to kill a few hours, by taking in some great art. Anyway, they were all refused entry. They were told by staff on the doors that some nearby stations have coin operated lockers. Unfortunately, that is complete nonsense - they don't! DON'T GIVE UP, THERE IS A WORKAROUND. Charring Cross station is a 3 minute walk from the National Gallery - go there, enter the station using the entrance on the far right and almost immediately you will come to the 'Left Luggage' department on your right. Enter and tell them you want to leave your case with them and they will charge you £7.50 to leave it for a few hours. They will give you a ticket and put your case through a security scanner, so you know it's all legit. Worked well for us visiting the National Gallery, but would also work for anyone visiting London, who doesn't want to drag a case around with them the whole time. Other than that hiccup, it's fabulous to have so much brilliant art under one roof, free to enter and so accessible, in the middle of London. The lighting is a bit poor, so go on a sunny day, if you can and the descriptive plaques by the sides of the paintings are too small, but that's a common complaint in art galleries and museums. It's not rocket science that loads of people will gather round small plaques, desperately trying to read the tiny text, but galleries and museums seem to be oblivious to what Basil Fawlty would call 'the bleedin' obvious'. Make the plaques bigger! Better still, put an electronic screen beside major works, with clearly legible information covering the main areas of interest. Read more Written April 15, 2024
• busymum4216 0 contributions 5.0 of 5 bubbles Impressive A wide range of paintings of different styles. The Impressionist section contained some amazing art works that are world famous. I'm sure the other sections were equally impressive, but we were limited on time and only had a few hours. Use the guide leaflet to pick your area of interest, as it has several different areas. The cafe food was great and the loo was very quiet. Read more Written April 11, 2024
• Departure15725644142 0 contributions 4.0 of 5 bubbles Optical illusion of the floor via mobile camera Nice gallery with large collection of the masters of painting. The mobile camera discover a nice optical illusion if you face it to the floor. Read more Written April 8, 2024
• nigel567 0 contributions 5.0 of 5 bubbles Eye opener Great establishment with all the art you could hope for and more lots of rooms including John constable and Vincent van Gogh Read more Written April 7, 2024
• MrHanns 0 contributions 5.0 of 5 bubbles Wonderful collection of Arts I did not finish touring the whole gallery. So many collection valuable collection. Even the interior building itself is masterpiece, to me. Got to go back and finish the whole exhibits one day. Read more Written April 3, 2024
• Michael D 0 contributions 5.0 of 5 bubbles Pretty neat and a once in a lifetime experience. I’m not a museum-goer, so this review is from the point of view of someone who got outvoted on what to do. Turns out, this place was actually pretty cool. Seeing some of these 10 million dollar-plus paintings in person was incredible. Read more Written March 31, 2024
• U281BLlees 0 contributions 4.0 of 5 bubbles A flying visit We only visited briefly this time as we didn’t have long and I just wanted to see specific Turners. I checked the website in advance to see which room the pictures would be in and discovered that it was room 34. Upon arrival at the gallery, it was actually quite difficult to navigate our way to this specific room. The rooms are not clearly marked as you pass through them. Sometimes the sign is on the wall other times it is above the door. There were not many members of staff around to ask either. Eventually, I found the paintings that I wanted, which was great to see them in real life as this was the purpose of my visit. It was very confusing, finding the toilets, which were downstairs. we definitely needed more time to explore the gallery, but due to our restrictions this was not possible. I did get to see what I wanted though. Read more Written March 22, 2024
• LibbyCincinnati 0 contributions 5.0 of 5 bubbles Incredible Collection...a must see This is a must if you enjoy art! We need to return to London to spend more time here. They have such an incredible collection of masterpieces. We just didn’t have enough time to see all that we wanted to. Read more Written March 19, 2024
• 469SusanS 0 contributions 5.0 of 5 bubbles Trip to the National Gallery in London Love the National Gallery, spent time in the main restaurant then looked at all the key exhibits. Mainly the rennaisance artists. Always a great visit and well worth a visit. Staff are very friendly and helpful too. Read more Written March 17, 2024
• DanKimSouthampton 0 contributions 5.0 of 5 bubbles Complete philistine blown away ! Having a few hours to kill before catching a train, we visited the National Gallery, and how seriously impressed we were. The scale of the collection is vast, requiring many more hours than we had available. We saw enough to be wowed by some of the all-time great artists and their work. The artists who's work is on show reads like a collection of the most prominent people from history. I never appreciated the brilliance of artists like Rembrandt or da Vinci until stood a few feet away from their pure genius. A massively impressive, eye opening visit for someone with very little art knowledge. Read more Written March 15, 2024
• 294allisonj 0 contributions 4.0 of 5 bubbles Busy! But completely expected with this many masterpieces in one place Plan your visit in advance - otherwise you risk getting lost, which is not necessarily a bad thing, unless you've got somewhere to be. I knew which rooms I was looking for and even so had a difficult time finding what I was looking for. Note that the National Gallery is free to enter, which is excellent. Read more Written March 5, 2024

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The Best Uffizi Gallery Tours to Take in 2024 and Why

Lily Lopez Last Updated: September 29, 2023

Are you dreaming of a visit to Florence? Then the Uffizi Gallery, with its treasure trove of significant art, surely beckons. With a collection that spans centuries and houses works of art from monumental figures such as Leonardo da Vinci, Michelangelo, and Caravaggio, determining which tours to choose can be a challenge. In this guide, we lay out the absolute best Uffizi Gallery tours to take.

Pro Tip:  Planning what to do on your trip to Florence? Bookmark this post in your browser so you can easily find it when you need it. Check out our  guide to Florence  for more planning resources and our  best Florence tours  for a memorable trip.

Should You Take a Tour of the Uffizi Gallery?

Exploring the Uffizi Gallery is a richer experience with a guided tour. Knowledgeable art historian guides bring the vibrant history of Renaissance art to life, providing insights into the masterpieces by legendary artists like Leonardo da Vinci and Michelangelo. Their storytelling bridges the gap between the past and present, making the art relatable and more engaging.

Navigating through the vast collection of the Uffizi can be overwhelming due to its extensive array of halls and artworks. A guided tour offers a structured exploration, highlighting crucial pieces that encapsulate the essence of the Renaissance, and saving you time. The guide’s expertise ensures a seamless journey through various artistic styles and historical eras, enhancing your appreciation of the art.

Moreover, a guided tour alleviates logistical hassles such as securing a ticket, which can be competitive especially during peak seasons. With priority access to certain areas and avoidance of long lines, the guided tour allows you to immerse fully in the art, making your visit to the Uffizi Gallery a hassle-free and enlightening experience.

Not ready to book a tour? Check out our Florence guide !

The Most Popular Uffizi Gallery Tours To Take

Explore the wonders of the Uffizi Gallery, home to famous paintings like “The Birth of Venus.”

Great news! The gallery is ready for visitors with lots of interesting tours to choose from. Here are the best Uffizi Gallery tours for an unforgettable art adventure!

• Skip The Line Uffizi Gallery Tour
• Florence in a Day Combo with David and Uffizi
• Uffizi Private Tour in Florence
• Livorno Shore Excursion: Florence & Pisa

1. Skip-the-Line Uffizi Gallery Tour

Looking for the prime way to explore the splendid Uffizi Gallery in Florence? This small-group guided tour allows you to bypass the long lines and dive into the genius of Italy’s renowned artists, all with the guidance of a highly knowledgeable art historian guide. Uncover the captivating narratives behind the masterpieces that epitomized the Renaissance, grasp the influence of the influential Medici family, and unravel the historical tapestry of this iconic gallery. You’ll depart with the essence of an art connoisseur!

Boasting over a million visitors annually, the waiting times during bustling months can stretch for hours, but don’t worry! Our skip-the-line tickets grant you swift entry to the gallery! Once within, your guide will unveil a treasure trove of knowledge and tales that animate the artworks, as you marvel at the creations of Renaissance virtuosos like Michelangelo, Leonardo, Caravaggio, and Botticelli.

Highlights:

• Skip the Line at the Uffizi Gallery
• The works of Leonardo Da Vinci and Michelangelo
• Friendly, English-speaking at historian tour guide
• See Botticelli’s Birth of Venus
• Views of the Florence Duomo and Ponte Vecchio
• Small Group Size

See tour itinerary, price, and description

Not ready to book a tour? Check out the Top Things to See at the Uffizi Gallery .

2. Florence in a Day Combo Tour with David and Uffizi

The Florence in a Day Tour is a great choice if you’re looking to explore the Uffizi Gallery and other famous sights in Florence in one go. Your day starts with a visit to the Accademia Gallery to see Michelangelo’s ‘David’ statue, then you head to the beautiful Florence Cathedral (Duomo). These morning visits set the stage for the artistic wonders you’ll experience later at the Uffizi Gallery.

In the afternoon, the tour takes you to the Uffizi Gallery where you’ll see amazing artworks by Renaissance masters like Leonardo da Vinci and Botticelli. Your guide will share interesting stories behind the art, making the experience more engaging. The tour ends at the charming Ponte Vecchio, a lovely old bridge with shops and great views over the river. This tour is a fantastic way to see the best of Florence and learn about its rich art and history in a single day.

• Skip the Line tour and entry at the Uffizi Gallery
• Guided walking tour of Florence
• Friendly, English-speaking art historian tour guide
• Skip the line entry and tour of Accademia Gallery
• See Michelangelo’s David
• Small Group Size – Max 16

Looking for more to do in Florence? Check out the Top Florence Tours

3. Uffizi Private Tour in Florence

For visitors who prefer a more personalized and leisurely exploration of the Uffizi Gallery, our Uffizi Gallery Private Tour is the perfect choice. This tour provides an exclusive guide dedicated to your group, ensuring a tailored experience that progresses at your own pace.

With the undivided attention of a knowledgeable guide, you’ll delve deeper into the stories behind the Renaissance masterpieces, gaining a richer understanding of the art and the era. The skip-the-line access is an added perk, allowing you more time to immerse in the awe-inspiring collection. This private tour truly elevates the experience of visiting the Uffizi, making it a memorable and enriching adventure through the annals of art history.

• Skip the line Uffizi Gallery tickets
• Tailored private tour of the masterpieces and hidden gems inside the Uffizi
• See masterpieces by Botticelli, Michelangelo, Da Vinci and more!
• Friendly, english-speaking art-historian private guide

Not ready to book a tour? Check out our guide on the Top 12 Things to See at the Uffizi Gallery

4. For Cruisers: Livorno Shore Excursion: Florence & Pisa

For cruisers docking at Livorno, this tour is a great choice that includes a skip-the-line entry to Uffizi Gallery. This tour is engineered for a seamless and enriching exploration of Tuscany’s iconic landmarks within the cruising schedule. The skip-the-line access to the Uffizi Gallery is a prime feature, ensuring you bypass the long queues and dive straight into the Renaissance splendor showcased through the works of art maestros like Michelangelo and Leonardo da Vinci.

The excursion doesn’t stop at the Uffizi; it extends to the architectural wonders of Florence and the iconic Leaning Tower of Pisa, making the most of your shore time. With a knowledgeable guide leading the way, the historical narratives of these remarkable sites come to life, providing a well-rounded Tuscan cultural experience. This tour is an exceptional blend of convenience, enriched exploration, and a taste of the region’s rich artistry and architectural grandeur, fitting perfectly for those arriving on a cruise and eager to experience the best of Tuscany in a day.

• Luxury private transportation
• Local, English-speaking art-historian guide
• The David at Accademia Gallery
• Historic Pisa
• Drive through Tuscany

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Love Art? Teach and Learn as a Volunteer Tour Guide

Canton Museum of Art is accepting applications for outgoing, art-loving volunteers to train as tour guides (docents). Share your passion for arts education with students and adults in this interesting, vital role.

Join Us Today

As a Museum Tour Guide you will…

• Lead conversation-based tours and inspire creative thinking.
• Empower visitors to consider their own lived experiences and draw personal meaning from original works of art.
• Meet the diverse needs and interests of our community, and have a profound impact on the museum experience.
• Learn about and see amazing works of art, meet artists, curators, and other experts in the field through interactive gallery experiences, hands-on studio art activities, field trips, and social gatherings too!  

We are currently seeking applicants particularly interested in working with youth audiences in the galleries . Regarding schedules, please note that the majority of Guided School Tours occur Tuesday through Friday, 10:00 am – 12:30 pm . 

Canton Museum of Art seeks Tour Guides who are:

• Comfortable speaking in front of groups.
• Enthusiastic about working with youth and adults.
• Eager to dedicate time to tours, research, and training related to exhibitions and in-gallery activities.
• Willing to contribute at least 2 hours of gallery tours per month (typically 2-4 tours).
• Available to attend trainings and meetings 10 am to 12 pm.
• Available to lead tours during museum hours.

Along with the satisfaction of inspiring visitors, learning is a big perk for Tour Guides… 

Museum educators, curators, and scholars help tour guides learn methods for engaging visitors in robust conversation and interactive activities in the galleries. New Tour Guides will take a training course to prepare. Tour guides participate in ongoing trainings related to exhibitions and best practices in arts education.

Interested?

Please complete a quick Volunteer Tour Guide application . It takes less than 2 minutes! Questions can be emailed to Erica Emerson, [email protected] or call 330.453.7666 ext 108.

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Visit the Uffizi Gallery with your own Private Guide

What to see at the Uffizi? A tour guide can help you find the Masterpieces of the Renaissance

If you're planning to visit the most visited museum in all of Italy while in Florence, our first recommendation is to always book a ticket ahead of time to avoid the long line at the entrance. If your time is limited and you want to visit the museum knowing exactly where to go, making the best use of your time while learning something of the works you see, then the very best way to do so is with a guided tour - which will also include your entrance ticket to the Uffizi!

We did the following tour of the Uffizi Gallery ourselves to better understand what the tour offers, identifying what we best liked about it and who it is perfect for. These experiences helps us be able to recommend such services, particularly when there are so many options to choose from.

This page contains affiliate links . More details »

The Visit to the Uffizi

Uffizi guided tour at-a-glance.

• Duration: about 1.5-2 hours
• Pros: priority access with qualified, licensed local guide, stay inside as long as you want after the tour ends

When: every Tuesday, Thursday and Saturday at 12:30pm

Language: English, French

• Wheelchair accessible

Book your tour »

A visit to the Uffizi always starts with overcoming the obstacle of getting in the shortest time possible. When you book a guided tour, your guide meets you outside the museum with your tickets in hand. You start your tour right away, while you're waiting in the reserved entrance line to go through security. As we waited to get in, our guide Lia started by telling us the history of the area where the Uffizi palazzo is. The Uffizi, which means the "Offices" in Italian, was built to house the offices of the government of Florence by the Medici family. It was the perfect point to also go into more detail about the Medici in general, considering that the majority of artistic masterpieces in Florence and in the Uffizi itself are due to the direct patronage of the Medici of the arts and artists of past centuries, as well as their collecting.

Right after entering, Lia showed us the portrait of Anna Maria Luisa de' Medici , the last surviving member of the Medici responsible for donating all of the family's collections to the city. She made an iron-clad will with a special stipulation: none of the art collections the Medici had amassed over the centuries could leave the city. She defined these as State property to be left to the enjoyment of the public, including foreign visitors to the city. We can thank Anna Maria for all of the precious artworks we can see in Florence today, which surely contribute to it being considered a top travel destination in the world.

Did you know?

The area in which the Uffizi building is located used to be a harbor back in Roman times. And up until the time that the palazzo was built, the area was considered one of the most disreputable neighborhoods in Florence. The many buildings here were taken down and thus the area was "re-qualified" or modernized when Vasari started building the Uffizi building in 1560 on commission of Cosimo I de' Medici.

As we climbed the grand staircase to the top floor, where the museum collections begin, our guide explained both the architecture of what we saw and what we were seeing. For example, the atrium at the top floor has many marble busts and portraits of both the Medici and Lorraine families . Our guide made learning about who they were interesting, especially hearing stories of their lives. It was a chance to not only learn about history but to actually feel these historical figures were people like us. Without the guide, I confess I have walked right by this atrium without more than a glance in the past.

The Main Rooms and the Masterpieces

The Uffizi Gallery is an important museum in the art of the Renaissance , but it includes works from Roman times (the marble statues) to the early Renaissance and all the way through to European painters of the 18th century . With over 50 halls , each with many works of art, which ones are the most important?? Our guide provided an overview of the earlier works, particularly in their importance to the collecting of the Medici - why they collected Roman art, for example - as we made our way into the first halls that contain works by Giotto, Cimabue and Duccio di Buoninsegna and then on to what is considered International Gothic style . I was not an art major in college even if I enjoyed both history and art and I confess I am no expert but learn a lot from these visits. They put both the history into better perspective, since a good guide such as Lia is able to make connections with other things happening in time at the same moment.

Who should do a guided tour?

A guided tour is perfect for everyone but, in particular, for anyone:

• with limited time
• who wants to see the main works of art
• who wants to learn why these masterpieces are considered masterpieces
• enjoy the best the museum offers, skipping the long line at the entrance!

As you cover centuries of art through each room, we were able to see how the art was changing and she explained the why behind the artists, their patrons, the influences of other artists coming before and after. As you arrive at the more "important" halls, such as the ones that house two of Sandro Botticelli's most important works, La Primavera (Spring) and The Birth of Venus , you'll know they are considered as two of the most important masterpieces at the Uffizi . Our guide took us into the main halls and directly to the main works, giving us a chance to admire the works while explaining what makes each unique and special in the history of art. Some of the other masterpieces you'll see include the Annunciation by Leonardo da Vinci , the Tondo Doni by Michelangelo and the Venus of Urbino by Titian .

Enjoy the view of Ponte Vecchio from the corridor by the Arno river and of Palazzo Vecchio from the cafè terrace before heading downstairs to also view works by Caravaggio , Bronzino and Raphael .

Working your way through the Uffizi

The Uffizi Gallery is a labyrinth in which one can gladly get lost to enjoy all of the treasures within. The history held within the palazzo and in each painting and statue is just one aspect that makes Florence one of the most beautiful and fascinating cities in the world so the museum is must-see on your itinerary.

After having visited the Uffizi with our guide, I highly recommend everyone visits the Uffizi with a tour guide , it makes such a difference in your experience. Having that art expert along with you makes discovering the Uffizi and its masterpieces an interesting and fun journey, because the artists and their paintings are brought to life . Knowing some of the who, what and why enriches the visit to the museum.

Being the top museum in all of Italy , I can assure you there are more artworks in the museum than you can see, even if you had an entire day to stay inside. Since most of us don't have a day, but maybe not even that much time, the help of a guide in finding the most important works of art makes it possible for us to appreciate them in the limited time we do have.

Unless you’re an art historian or know a good amount of art and its history - but even then - an expert in art accompanying you on the adventure of visiting the Uffizi will be worth it !

Note that the Uffizi Gallery does not offer guided tours directly: it only has an audio device you can rent after you enter the museum and use that to audio guide to steer you during your visit in the many rooms. While it is useful and available in several languages, noting some of the main works in every room, it does not tell you which masterpieces are important for their role in shaping the history of art or of the Renaissance. That is one of best reasons why having an actual qualified guide accompany you through the museum makes a huge difference - in addition to being able to answer your questions, of course :).

Why book with Florence/Italy Tickets?

This tour is organized directly by the tour agency New Globus Viaggi, working in Florence and Tuscany for over 20 years. We tried this specific Uffizi tour because we know them personally and trust the knowledge and expertise of the tour guides they work with, and in fact, were not disappointed. The guides they have are not only licensed, but experts in art history who have made knowing about Florence their main professional focus. We know that the tours and experiences are good value and will become part of the memories of travelers to Florence that choose them, and for that reason we try their tours and then recommend them.

Ready to book? Check your dates below:

If you have any questions about this tour before booking, you can post on our forum and I will try to answer them as best as I can from my own experience doing the tour.

This page and website contains affiliate links. This means that if you make a purchase after clicking on such links (to Viator.com, Italy-Tickets.com, Booking.com, RentalCars.com, etc), Visit Florence will get a small percentage of the purchase price, at no additional cost to you. Thanks for your support! Read more details .

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Uffizi gallery, accademia gallery, santa maria novella church, palazzo strozzi, brancacci chapel, casa buonarroti, book your uffizi guided tour.

• Priority access with qualified, licensed local guide
• Stay inside as long as you want after the tour ends

Duration : about 1.5-2 hours

→ Book your tour »

Top Uffizi Gallery Tours

Author: Lourdes Flores

I'm from California but have called Florence my home for over a decade. I love to explore Italy; it is a lot of fun to try to see everything like I'm seeing it for the first time, keeping you, our readers, always in mind. I enjoy sharing what I know and helping others as they make their travel plans for Tuscany through our Forum . If you have itinerary-related questions, please post them there!

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Ultimate Guide To Rome’s Borghese Gallery: Masterpieces & Tips

The Borghese Gallery houses a jaw dropping art collection in a luxurious garden villa. It’s rich in ancient Roman, Renaissance, and Baroque pieces. It houses works from the greatest artists of the time, including Titian, Caravaggio, Raphael, Rubens, and Canova.

The collection is housed in sumptuous palace. Its splendidly decorated marble rooms and frescoed ceilings. For art lovers, it’s a highlight of any visit to Rome.

In this Borghese Gallery guide, I tell you everything to see inside and give you must know tips for visiting and getting tickets. The highlights of the collection are:

• Bernini sculptures
• Raphael paintings
• Caravaggio paintings
• Canova sculptures
• Venetian Room (Titian, Veronese, Tintoretto)

• the Borghese has strictly controlled access with limited tickets, which means you avoid crowds
• it’s absolutely essential to book a skip the line ticket weeks in advance
• you can’t stay in the museum for more than 2 hours
• there are scads of masterpieces so you may want to book a guided tour. This 2.5 hour small group guided tour gives you an extra half hour in the museum. You can also book a private tour .
• read this guide first to maximize your time

Who Were The Borghese?

The Borghese family is a noble Italian family from Siena . They moved to Rome in the 16th century. Once in Rome, the Borghese family gained prominence and amassed great wealth.

The Borghese behind this glamorous gallery was Scipione Borghese. He was the pope’s nephew, a cardinal, and an avid art collector.

Scipione commissioned architect Flaminio Ponzio to build the Borghese Villa. Its sole purpose was to show off Scipione’s ever expanding collection of precious art. He wanted to create a “theater of the universe” to entertain VIPs.

But Scipione wasn’t your typical cardinal. Or perhaps he was.

Scipione was an unscrupulous and greedy sort. In his obsessive quest to build a preeminent collection, he used any tactic, however illegal, to acquire a masterpiece he coveted.

In 1608, Scipione hired thieves to steal a Raphael masterpiece, The Deposition , from a convent altar.

Scipione would confiscate art from people who hadn’t paid taxes. He’d jail artists on trumped up charges who refused to sell their paintings to him. The big bully would forcibly remove pieces from artists’ studios.

Scipione even blackmailed the great Baroque artist Caravaggio . The artist was desperate to return to Rome, after he was exiled because of a brawl and murder accusation.

Scipione could have pardoned him. Instead, Scipione made him wait in desperation.

When Scipione finally issued the pardon, a grateful Caravaggio gave him David with the Head of Goliath , one of Caravaggio’s best paintings.

Caravaggio was also commissioned to paint Madonna and Child with St. Anne for altarpiece in a chapel in St. Peter’s Basilica . When it was declared inappropriate for a basilica, Scipione appropriated the piece. That may have been his plan all along.

Though his methods were dastardly, Scipione’s taste was unassailable. The Borghese Gallery boasts some of the finest works of Italian art .

Scipione was expert at sniffing out talent. He commissioned works from rising stars such as Caravaggio and Bernini.

In particular, the cardinal commissioned Bernini to create a series of sculptures that would become the pièces de résistance of his sanctuary. Bernini carved intensely charged bodies of mythological gods and heroes from massive slabs of marble.

In the process, Bernini helped pioneer the emotion, dynamism, and immediacy characteristic of Baroque art.

In the late 1770’s, the Borghese family renovated the villa. They reorganized the collection to improve the viewing experience.

Thereafter, the villa functioned as a semi-public museum, only open to select members of the public.

In 1902, the museum was sold to the Italian government. In 1903, it opened as the Galleria Borghese.

Guide To The Borghese Gallery: What To See

It’s hard to drill down to the top paintings from over a thousand works of art.

But here’s my list of 16 important artworks to see in the Borghese Gallery. When you’ve only got two hours, you have to make every minute count. So decide what you want to see in advance.

1. Raphael, Young Woman With a Unicorn

Intended as a wedding gift, this Raphael masterpiece depicts the virtues and symbols of a young bride. The young Florentine woman in the painting symbolizes virginity and spiritual love.

Even the lap dog unicorn is a symbol of chastity. Medieval legends hold that only a virgin can tame a unicorn.

Raphael’s painting was clearly influenced by Leonardo da Vinci’s masterpiece, the Mona Lisa . Raphael used Leonardo’s half length format, the sitter’s folded hands, and added a beautiful landscape in the background.

Unlike the Mona Lisa , however, the woman has a look of cool watchfulness not an enigmatic smile.

2. Raphael, Deposition

Sticky fingered Scipione stole Deposition from the altarpiece of a church in Perugia. The pope told the victimized city that the painting was a gift for his nephew. When confronted with his theft, he ordered a copy for the parishioners.

Raphael’s painting shows Christ being taken down from the cross. One woman faints at the tragedy, while another looks on in disbelief.

The painting fuses the best of Raphael’s rich colors with a touch of Michelangelo’s physicality. Raphael had recently been in Florence and seen Michelangelo’s battle frescos in the Palazzo Vecchio .

A hallmark of Raphael, Deposition is ordered in harmonious geometric perfection. His lyrical figures exude a narrative pull. The painting is currently on display, but behind glass walls undergoing diagnostic review for future conservation.

There’s plenty of other Raphael works to see in Rome. But his most breathtaking pieces are among the masterpieces of the Vatican .

3. The Sleeping Hermaphrodite

There are 20 known copies of the ancient Greek sculpture of the sleeping hermaphrodite. The Borghese’s Sleeping Hermaphrodite is a Roman copy inspired by Polycles’ Greek original from the 2nd century BC. Romans thought copying the Greeks reflected exquisite taste.

In this version, the figure of Hermaphroditos, always portrayed as a female with male genitalia, lies asleep on a messy mattress. The sculpture exudes ambiguous seductiveness. It may appear to be female or male.

Look up, the ceiling continues the theme. The frescos in the room depict the myth of Hermaphrodite, the son of Hermes and Aphrodite.

According to Ovid’s Metamorphoses , the youth’s double nature resulted from his forced union with the clingy water nymph Salmacis. She beseeched the gods to never let them part. Her wish was granted and their bodies were fused.

Another version of the Sleeping Hermaphrodite is at the Louvre, on a mattress created by Bernini in 1602 at Cardinal Scipione’s request. The Sleeping Hermaphrodite inspired many copies. There’s also a bronze one on display at the Prado Museum in Madrid .

READ : Underrated Masterpieces of the Louvre

4. Caravaggio, David with the Head of Goliath

The Borghese Gallery owns six Caravaggios. It’s the greatest collection of Caravaggio anywhere in the world. Caravaggio pioneered Baroque painting, much as Bernini pioneered Baroque sculpture. You could literally camp out in the Caravaagio room and never leave.

Caravaggio was a bit of a rogue, leading a reckless rock star life. In 1606, he got into a brawl and may have killed a man. He fled Rome to escape prosecution. Then he created this brilliant painting of uncompromising realism and, perhaps, of a guilty conscience.

In it, David carries the severed head of Goliath, having conquered his superior foe. Caravaggio painted his own face on the grisly Goliath. The painting is renowned for its use of chiaroscuro , which sets light colors against a dark background for maximum dramatic effect.

5. Caravaggio, Saint Jerome Writing , 1606

I heard a tour guide dissing this painting as a “lesser” work by Caravaggio. To my eye, that seemed wrong.

It may not be as soulful or graphic as Caravaggio’s David with the Head of Goliath painting. But it’s powerful.

Scipione commissioned the painting. St. Jerome was a Roman priest who translated the bible into Latin. In Caravaggio’s painting, a devout St. Jerome appears bald and wrinkled.

He innocently stretches out an arm to refill his writing quill, thereby drawing your attention to the skull.

6. Caravaggio, Madonna and Child with St. Anne

This Caravaggio painting has an interesting backstory. In 1605, with the help of Scipione, Caravaggio received a commission to paint an altarpiece for St. Peter’s Basilica. It was the dream of every artist in Europe. Caravaggio was effectively given a chance to paint himself out of trouble.

His assigned task was to paint the Virgin Mary shooing away evil in the form of a snake, with baby Jesus and St. Anne by her side. Simple enough, except Caravaggio rendered it a rather blunt way, which he must have known might antagonize the pope.

In Caravaggio’s version of the biblical tale, he used a well known prostitute as the model for the virgin, whose face was instantly recognizable. Even though Caravaggio made an attempt at piousness (halos and all), he still refused to compromise.

Caravaggio’s virgin is depicted as a voluptuous and tender peasant with a hiked up red dress and ample breasts. Together, she and a frontally nude Jesus crush a snake beneath their feet. St. Anne is seen as a withered old gypsy woman.

Caravaggio’s painting was shown for only two days. Then, it was abruptly removed from St. Peters. It wasn’t “pure” enough, despite its sense of the miraculous in ordinary reality.

The painting was sold for a pittance to Cardinal Borghese. Any chance of Caravaggio receiving papal favor and future commissions was forever eliminated.

7. Berini, Apollo and Daphne

For some time, the great Baroque sculptor Bernini was only too happy to work exclusively for his patron, Cardinal Scipione. He produced three masterpieces for him.

Stunningly beautiful, these Berninis are the stuff of legend. It’s worth a trip to Rome just to see them.

Apollo and Daphne is inspired by a passage in Ovid’s Metamorphoses where a mischievous Cupid holds sway. Apollo is struck by Cupid’s golden arrow. Overwhelmed by lust, he chases after Daphne.

But Daphne’s simultaneously been stuck by a lead arrow of disgust. She cries out to her father, a river god, for help. He transforms her into a laurel tree.

Bernini captures the intense action of the dramatic moment, with the pair’s arms and legs moving in space and Daphne partially transformed into a tree. The details are so good that it seems real rather than merely mythological. Newly renovated, the sculpture looks absolutely pristine.

8. Bernini, Rape of Persephon e

This stunning sculpture was created when Bernini was only 24!

He takes the classic story of the abduction of Persephone from Roman mythology as his theme. The title is clickbait. In ancient terminology, “rape” means kidnapping.

This stunning sculpture was created when Bernini was only 24. He takes the classic story of the abduction of Persephone from Roman mythology as his theme. The title is clickbait. In ancient terminology, “rape” means kidnapping.

Pluto, king of the underworld, falls passionately in love with Persephone. He abducts her. Bernini captures the climatic moment in visceral life-like detail.

In the sculpture, Pluto seizes a crying Persephone. Terrified, she fights to free herself from her molester. You can see indentations in Persephone’s leg where Pluto grasps her. Cerebus, the three-headed guard dog, sits at Persephone’s leg barking.

Persephone’s mother, Demeter, was distraught. She caused crops to wither unless and until Zeus/Jupiter intervened and forced Pluto to let Persephone go.

But Persephone had tasted the underworld’s pomegranates, a situation no doubt maneuvered by Pluto. So Persephone spent the winter months down below, and returned to her mother in the spring.

9. Bernini, David

Bernini’s David appears like an olympic athlete in swirling motion. His feet are wide apart and he twists to gain the maximum swing for his shot. The intensity of his gaze and energy are palpable. You can feel his resolution.

David’s face is that of Bernini’s. A mirror was held up for Bernini as he chiseled David’s face.

Bernini’s David is often compared and contrasted with Michelangelo’s Renaissance statue of David in Florence’s Accademia, one of Florence’s best museums . While Michelangelo’s is calm and serene, Bernini’s David is full of emotion and in attack mode.

READ : Guide To Michelangelo’s David in Florence

10. Bernini, Self Portraits, 1623, 1630-35

Bernini could paint as well as sculpt, not surprising for an artist of his prodigious talent. The Borghese holds two of his self portraits, one at age 25 and one at age 35.

In the one above, the artists looks confident. He would go on to transform Rome, from St. Peter’s Square to Rome’s many fountains.

11. Bernini, The Goat Amaltea

This small sculpture was created by a teenage Bernini, who was a child prodigy. It’s significant because the sculpture is Bernini’s earliest identified work.

The sculpture is based on the Greek myth where Cronus eats his children so they won’t murder him as prophesied. To protect her son Zeus from Cronus, Rhea hides him in a cave on Crete.

Bernini gives the classic myth a Roman spin. Two young boys are shown as putti, children who sometimes appear as cherubs or cupids. The goat looks almost motherly. The sculpture is typical of Bernini’s preference for sculptural groupings.

12. Antonio Canova, Pauline Borghese as Venus

Commissioned by Camillo Borghese, Canova’s Venus Victorious is an utterly beautiful Neo-Classical marble statue of a semi-nude, reclining Pauline Bonaparte. She was the flirtatious and promiscuous sister of Napoleon, who married Camillo Borghese.

The golden apple in her hand identifies her as Venus. Venus was the goddess who won history’s first beauty contest. Originally, Canova intended to depict her as Diana. But Borghese insisted on Venus. In fact, the Borghese family believed they were descended from the heroic founder of Rome, Aeneas, the son of Venus.

The sculpture scandalized society. At the time, nude depictions of the aristocracy were rare. Invited viewers could only inspect it by candlelight. When asked how she could have posed in such a manner, Borghese cooly replied “the room wasn’t cold.”

The sculpture has been cleaned and restored. Its milky glow mimics Borghese’s indulgent ritual of daily milk baths.

Canova masterfully recreates the creases of the sheet, the plump pillows, and the soft dent she puts in the mattress. It’s beautiful to behold and everything seems almost real.

13. Titian, Sacred and Profane Lov e

Titian’s Sacred and Profane love is the star of the Borghese’s wonderful “Venetian Room” and a famous Italian Renaissance painting. It was commissioned in 1513 to celebrate the marriage of Niccoló Aurelio, a secretary to the Council of Venice, to Laura Bagarotto.

As its title implies, the painting presents two forms of love. Sacred love stands on the right with a church in the background. Profane love, in the guide of a bejeweled woman, sits on the left.

A baby Cupid plays in the middle, an ambiguous combination of the two. Another ambiguous feature is that the women are sitting on a tomb filled with water.

In 1899, American art collector Isabella Stewart Garner considered buying the painting for her Boston museum . Legend holds that the Rothschild family also offered to pay a massive sum for this painting. But the Borghese family refused.

14. Antonio Corregio, Danae

Antonio Corregio was a late Italian Renaissance painter who anticipated the Baroque period. He was known for his erotic mythological paintings and was a master of chiaroscuro.

The artist is a mysterious figure, with an undocumented life. Not much is known about him. He was reputedly both impoverished and aristocratic, uneducated and well-trained. Whatever the truth, historians consistently praise him for his naturalism and ability to capture feminine beauty.

This painting portrays Danae, a figure from Greek mythology. Danae was the daughter of Acrisius, King of Argos. An oracle forecast that Acrisius would be murdered by Danae’s son. So he jailed her in a bronze tower.

Correggio depicts Danae under a shower of gold. As she lies on a bed, Eros undresses her. At the foot of the bed, two putti or amoretti play with arrows.

15. Jacopo Bassano, Last Suppe r

This Last Supper painting is considered Bassano’s master work and was recently restored. It’s a classic of Mannerist painting with dramatic elements, elongated figures, and bright colors.

The Mannerists departed from the perfection and classicism of the High Renaissance. Unlike the linear and smooth organization of the twelve apostles in Leonardo da Vinci’s The Last Supper in Milan , Bassano’s work is a disorganized scene.

You see the figure of Christ and some highly excited apostles in an unconventional peasant setting. (This use of “real world” settings would be adopted by Caravaggio in the Baroque period.) The apostles erupt at the prophecy that one of them will betray Christ.

The painting depicts the controversy and different reactions the apostles have to the prophecy. Jesus and the redheaded disciple form the center of the artwork. The way Bassano portrays them is different from other Last Suppers . Jesus lags behind someone and is almost in the background.

Each item on the table is intentional, and appears as a still life. The dark lighting gives the painting a nocturnal feel.

16. Leda and the Swan After Leonardo da Vinci, Attributed to Il Sodoma

The painting of Leda and the Swan After Leonardo da Vinci , is attributed to Mannerist painter Il Sodoma. (Though the attribution is not uncontested.) Based on a Leonardo painting, the painting depicts the mythological story of Leda and the Swan.

Three drawings of Leda by Leonardo still survive, but his painting is a missing Leonardo. Many artists, including Raphael and Leonardo’s assistants, drew sketches of Leonardo’s Leda.

Research suggests that an unfinished version of the painting was in Leonardo’s house when he died in France 1519. The painting was inherited by one of Leonardo’s pupils, but then disappeared.

In Solodma’s rendition, as in Leonardo’s, Leda stands in an elegant curving pose, her hair partially escaping from her plaits. She wraps her arms around the swan’s neck.

X-rays techniques have revealed another composition beneath the painting depicting Leda’s four children emerging from the Swan’s eggs.

Tips For Visiting The Borghese Gallery

No guide to the Borghese Gallery would be complete without some must know tips for visiting. The Borghese Gallery can be tricky to visit. So, here are some tips to ensure you have the best museum experience.

1. How To Get a Ticket to the Borghese Gallery

Entrance to the Borghese Gallery is strictly controlled. The museum limits the number of visitors at any given time. 100 visitors are permitted in two hour time slots.

At the end of each slot, the gallery is emptied before the next set of visitors is let in. This system has the benefit of ensuring the museums isn’t too crowded.

In low season, it may be possible to purchase same day tickets onsite. But generally, you 100% must make a reservation to guarantee access and avoid disappointment.

The easiest way to make a reservation is to book a Borghese Gallery tour . Your expert guide will make the necessary reservations and ensure you see the key highlights in your 2+ hour time slot.

You can also make a reservation either by telephone or online on the museum’s official website . You then collect your tickets in the basement.

If tickets are sold out, try buying a ticket with a reserved time slot from a reseller like Viator or Tiqets . The tickets will cost much more, but you will have your coveted spot.

Tiqets sends the ticket right to your smartphone. Viator representatives (the option I used) meet you outside the museum entrance. There, you’ll exchange your voucher for a ticket.

2. Borghese Gallery Rules

You’ll have to check everything that isn’t tiny before entering the gallery, including handbags, backpacks, strollers, umbrellas, etc. The bag check is outside and is free. There’s often a long line. So allot time for this process.

You should arrive early (30-40 minutes) to the Borghese Gallery to check your bag and collect your ticket. You don’t want that process to eat into your 2 hours. You’ll get a claim check to reclaim your items when you’re done with your visit.

No food or drink is permitted inside the museum.

3. How To Allot Your Time At The Borghese

The Borghese Gallery has 20 rooms spread spread across two floors. The ground floor has 8 rooms. The first floor, the Pinacoteca or painting gallery, has 12 rooms. After you hand over your ticket, you can pick up an audio guide in the basement.

On my visit, visitors were shuttled directly to the upper floor to begin the visit. You only have 2 hours, so keep an eye on the clock.

The quality of the works is so high, it’s easy to loose track of time. Try not to get stuck in the beautiful Venetian Room.

Allot most of your time for the ground floor, which houses the Bernini sculptures and Caravaggio paintings.

4. Practical Information

Address : Piazzale del Museo Borghese.

Getting There : You can take a taxi or the metro. The nearest metro station is “Spagna” on Line A. If you take a taxi, Be sure to say you’re going to the Galleria Borghese, not the Villa Borghese. The gallery is a 20 minutes walk from the Barberini metro stop.

Hours : Open daily 9:00 am to 7:00 pm, except closed on Monday. Open late on Wednesday night until 10:00 pm No entry after 5:00 pm.

Entry fee :

13 €, plus online reservation fee of 2 €. The 1.5 hour audio guide is 5 €. I advise getting it, if you’re not on a guided tour.

On the second Wednesday of the month, the museum is free. But you must still reserve a spot, as per the usual procedure.

I hope you’ve enjoyed my guide to the Borghese Gallery. You may enjoy these other Rome travel guides and resources:

• 8 ways to spend 1 day in Rome
• 3 day itinerary for Rome
• 5 day itinerary for Rome
• Hidden gems in Rome
• Best museums in Rome
• Archaeological sites in Rome
• Guide to the Borghese Gallery
• Rome’s secret palace museums
• Guide to the Capitoline Museums
• Guide to free art in Rome
• Guide to Palatine Hill
• Guide to the Roman Forum
• Guide to the Colosseum
• Walking tour of central Rome

If you’d like to visit the Borghese Gallery in Rome, pin it for later.

2 thoughts on “Ultimate Guide To Rome’s Borghese Gallery: Masterpieces & Tips”

is it possible to download the guides. They are excellent. I would like to be able to take them into a gallery/museum. Wi fi to access internet isnt always possible. I’d raather have downloaded to my tablet.

I’m not sure … I’m not very tech savvy. I always travel with international data bc I use my phone as a GPS. You could open the page on your phone when you have wifi and keep the page open.

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Last Updated on April 12, 2024 by Leslie Livingston

Best Accademia Gallery Guided Tour – 2024

Skip the line, skip-the-line accademia gallery guided tour.

Discover the second most visited museum in Florence with an expert tour guide. Over one hour, your guide will lead you through this famous museum, including the discovery of Michelangelo’s David.

Starting from the office, you will walk together with your guide along the path to the gallery entrance. Once there, you will enter through the priority entrance without waiting in long lines.

Once inside, you will retrace one of the places with the largest number of sculptures by Michelangelo in the world. You will come across a museum of musical instruments and the Sala dei Prigioni, which contains sculptures designed for Pope Julius II. Alongside your guide, you will enter from the priority entrance to the museum and enjoy a journey into the life of the genius of Michelangelo Buonarroti, discovering Renaissance sculptures. At the end of the tour with your guide, you can stay inside the museum to further appreciate the works and sculptures.

Accademia Gallery Guided Tour Highlights

Accademia gallery guided tour tour description.

Immerse yourself in Florence’s famous Accademia. Take a tour of the gallery to encounter its outstanding collection of gothic and renaissance paintings and other artworks.

Learn about the artwork’s origins and the artists who created them, and uncover insights into the lives of history’s greatest artists. Marvel at the most famous statue on Earth, the David, and snap a photo for your holiday album.

Enjoy the luxury of the small group, which means your guide can personalize and customize the tour to suit your needs, giving you a better understanding of the artwork you’re most interested in.

• Skip-the-line tickets
• Expert guide
• Headsets and earphones
• Free luggage deposit

WHAT TO BRING

• Passport or ID card

Skip-the-Line Accademia Guided Tour

Experience the Accademia Gallery, Italy’s second-most-popular museum and the home of the original Michelangelo’s David.

Uffizi & Accademia Small Group Walking Tour

Explore Florence on a small group tour with an expert local guide. See Michelangelo’s David, the Duomo, and Botticelli’s Birth of Venus.

Accademia Gallery Guided Tour

See Michelangelo’s David, the most famous statue in the world, in a small group with an expert guide and priority entrance. 

Accademia Gallery Guided Tour Image Gallery

A guided tour through the museum is the perfect way to see the museum without waiting in line.

Best value accademia gallery guided tour, you’ll find, don’t wait these tours are selling out fast, good to know before you go, we bring you a few valuable pieces of helpful information before any accademia gallery guided tours..

• On the first Sunday of each month, entrance is free of charge, but as tickets can’t be reserved ahead of time, entry is not guaranteed.
• Skip-the-line tickets with priority access are included!
• Children aged six and younger can join the tour for free.
• Printed or mobile vouchers are accepted.
• Free cancellation up to 24 hours before the activity starts.
• This Accademia Tours has free cancellation and a full refund.
• Pets and luggage or large bags are not allowed in the museum.

Book your Accademia Gallery guided tour today!

An experience you don’t want to miss.

Thanks to the Skip The Line tickets, you can enter the museum without having to queue: a not indifferent advantage, given that the Academy gallery is one of the most visited places in Florence. At the entrance, you will meet the professional tourist guide who will accompany you for the duration of the guided tour: the best way to visit the museum and deepen the history and secrets of the works of art that are kept there.

Admire Michelangelo’s David, an authentic masterpiece of world sculpture

The most famous work inside the Academy Gallery is undoubtedly Michelangelo’s David. The sculpture is in the place of honor of the gallery, and it drives with its imaginative amount on visitors: it was transported here in 1873, and the room in which it is hosted was built specifically to place the statue best. Originally, the statue of David was placed in Piazza della Signoria. In addition to David, the Academy gallery hosts two other masterpieces by Michelangelo: the prisons and San Matteo, both admirable during the guided tour.

Discover the other masterpieces of art preserved in the Accademy Gallery

During the visit, you can admire other works of art kept inside the Academy Gallery, less known but equally worthy of being visited. In addition to some sculptural groups, the museum houses a vast collection of paintings by Florentine authors active between the thirteenth and sixteenth centuries, as well as a significant catalog of Golden Pale and Gothic works. At the end of the guided tour, you can stay inside the museum as long as you want. The access ticket also guarantees entry to the interesting musical instrument museum.

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Guided Tour of the Uffizi Museum

The Uffizi Gallery is an incredible museum , with over 60 halls full of impressive and stunning works of art from the 12th century up to the 16th century.

During your vacation in Florence , it is natural that you’ll want to see all of its amazing treasures . There are so many in Florence so you might only have a few hours to dedicate to your visit to the Uffizi .

The solution? A guided tour of the Uffizi museum!

Let a specialized art history expert guide you through the Uffizi Gallery and to the masterpieces contained within! During your tour, the guide will accompany you from hall to hall, taking you on a journey into art and its history as he or she illustrates the most beautiful works of art in the museum. Not only will you learn about the importance of each painting, but also the context in the times when they were made!

Book a Guided Tour with Viator

Viator offers many guided tours of the Uffizi Gallery for you to choose from. You can book a guided tour of the Uffizi museum or a tour that combines a walking tour in Florence with the tour within the Uffizi Gallery or one that includes both a tour of the Uffizi and Accademia museums, to list just a few examples.

Check the full list of tours on Viator! »

Book your Guided Tour with Florence Tickets

You can visit the Uffizi with a professional tour guide organized by local tour agency Florence Tickets . This special 3.5 hour “masterclass with an art expert” allows you to enter with priority access and a small group. The tour runs every day at 3.00pm . Check your dates and book below with the form (or through this link if the form below is not working):

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The 5 best sightseeing tours of buckingham palace.

See one of Britain's top attractions on a walking, biking, bus or private taxi tour.

The Best Tours of Buckingham Palace

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A tour of Buckingham Palace is a must-do on your next London vacation.

On a visit to London , some of the top attractions are linked to the royal family. But nothing is quite as iconic as a visit to the one of the three official residences of the monarchy – Buckingham Palace . While it's only open to the public on select dates, you can relish in its beauty from the regal gates, snap a selfie and catch a Changing the Guard ceremony.

How to Tour Buckingham Palace

For about 10 weeks every summer (select dates from July 11 to Sept. 29, 2024), Buckingham Palace opens its elaborate gates, welcoming visitors to explore its lavish State Rooms, grounds and Royal Collection artworks. The Royal Mews is also open to visitors from March to October, showcasing the Royal Family's real working stables and ornate, historic carriages – including the Gold State Coach used for Queen Elizabeth II's Platinum Coronation in 2022.

The Best Sightseeing Tours of Buckingham Palace

If you aren't here at the right time, fear not; this extravagant, 18th-century royal residence is just as impressive from the outside, making it worth a visit any time of year. Come on a Monday, Wednesday, Friday or Sunday morning to see the Changing the Guard ceremony – when the red-and-black-clad Royal Guard marches toward the palace, accompanied by striking military music – and see a tradition that's been running for more than 300 years. Combine it with explorations in the surrounding area of Westminster to see London at its most quintessential.

You can explore all of this independently, of course – but if you're looking to dig a little deeper, hear about the king's coronation and uncover local secrets, consider a guided London tour . Insider experts can point out the best photo spots, take you to the must-see sights and show you the ins and outs of the area while sharing  knowledge of the country's royal history along the way.

There are tons of options out there, so where do you start? Based on local knowledge and traveler review sites, here are some of the most highly rated tours.

Changing of the Guard Walking Tour

Price: From $13

Duration: 2 to 3 hours

Standout perk: Witness the pomp of the iconic Changing the Guard ceremony.

Watch the Royal Guard march toward Buckingham Palace as you witness this historic, quintessentially British spectacle on a two-hour tour of Westminster's highlights. Accompanied by a military band, you'll see the Old Guard (soldiers on duty) switch to the New Guard as they arrive at the palace from Wellington Barracks. Your guide will explain which regiment is which, before taking you on a guided walking tour past other world-famous, attractions, including Big Ben, Clarence House, the Houses of Parliament , St James's Palace and Westminster Abbey .

Recent travelers gave high ratings to the tour, saying guides were able to take them to the best photo spots for the ceremony, while offering a wealth of historical and entertaining insight.

Tours leave at 10 a.m. and depart from the corner of Piccadilly and Arlington Street (between The Ritz and The Wolseley), ending at Parliament Square.

Local tip: Look at the Horse Guards Clock on the Horse Guards Parade – the official entrance to Buckingham Palace and St James's Palace – to see a dark stain above the 2 (II, in Roman numerals). It marks the time King Charles I was executed outside the Palace of Whitehall in 1649, after being charged with treason.

View & Book Tickets: Viator

Windsor Castle & Buckingham Palace Tour

Price: From $164

Duration: 8.5 hours

Standout perk: Get a rare chance to explore the State Rooms with Buckingham Palace tickets, and tick off two of the United Kingdom's grandest royal residences in one day.

This twin-castle tour offers the opportunity to enter Buckingham Palace and see its State Rooms, Royal Collection artwork and other treasures, with commentary from an audio guide. After you've toured the palace, you'll travel by coach about 25 miles west of London to Windsor Castle – the oldest and largest occupied castle in the world, and the family home of the monarchy for more than 900 years. Explore the castle's lavish State Apartments and grounds, and visit St George's Chapel – the burial place of Queen Elizabeth II alongside many other monarchs, and the spot where Prince Harry married Meghan Markle. Recent travelers said the tour was a great opportunity to see inside both palaces. Several commented on the extensive art collection at Buckingham Palace, and many enjoyed hearing insights from the guides, although some complained about long lines. The tour takes place from July through September on select Mondays, Thursdays and Saturdays, and leaves from Victoria Coach Station at 7:45 a.m. Local tip: Windsor Castle has its own Changing the Guard ceremony, as well as its own extensive art collection – the ceremony takes place at 11 a.m. on select days of the week.

Full-day London with Changing of the Guard and Private Cruise

Price: From $158; with optional London Eye or Harrods cream tea for an additional fee

Duration: 9 hours

Standout perk: You'll see many of London's key attractions in one day, and enjoy a river cruise thrown in for good measure.

If you want to combine a visit to see Buckingham Palace's Changing the Guard ceremony with stops at several other London spots, this is a great choice. The full-day trip begins at the UNESCO listed Tower of London where you'll have the chance to see the crown jewels.

From here you'll visit Buckingham Palace to witness the famous pomp and pageantry of the ceremony, and get the chance to admire the palace's impressive architecture from the outside. The day includes a tour of the elaborate St. Paul's Cathedral (not available on Sundays), before embarking on a boat tour of the Thames, passing key attractions including Tower Bridge and Shakespeare's Globe. The day also includes a photo stop at Westminster Abbey, where Prince William and Kate Middleton married in 2011, and a brief walking tour of Parliament Square. Travelers can choose to add a ride on the famous London Eye observation wheel (or opt for a quintessentially British cream tea at Harrods instead).

Recent travelers loved the tour and praised the guides as highly knowledgeable and entertaining. Many were impressed with how much they saw in a day and said it gave them a great introduction to London (although it's worth noting a few felt there was quite a bit of walking involved).

Tours leave from Victoria Coach Station at 7:45 a.m. and finish at the London Eye.

Local tip: If you fancy delving deeper into the Tower of London in your own time, book a ticket to see the Ceremony of the Keys. Dating back seven centuries, this nightly ceremony is when the castle gets locked up for the night, with a special exchange between the sentry and Yeoman Warder taking place at 9:30 p.m. between the atmospheric battlements – both eerie and magical.

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The London Essentials Bike Tour

Price: From $38

Duration: 3.5 hours

Standout perk: Get active on two wheels, and combine a Buckingham Palace stop with a visit to Kensington Palace and other royal sights.

This half-day guided cycling tour is a great option to get active on your London trip. You'll start at Kensington Gardens – the home of Kensington Palace, where Princess Diana lived with the now King Charles, and Queen Victoria's birthplace. From here, pedal to the Royal Albert Hall to check out this elaborate concert hall, opened by Queen Victoria in 1871. Afterward, cycle through Hyde Park and on to Green Park to reach Buckingham Palace, where your guide will regale you with little-known stories about the palace. Continue on to Trafalgar Square, Westminster Abbey, the Houses of Parliament and Big Ben as you take in some of the capital's key highlights, before returning to the Royal Parks.

Recent travelers raved about the tour and were really impressed by the knowledge of the guide. Many enjoyed the small group size and said the cycling was a good, leisurely pace, with plenty to see along the way, and iced tea and snacks included as a bonus.

The tour leaves from outside the main entrance at Hilton London Hyde Park. The recommended minimum age is 9 – you can pre-book junior bikes and child seats. While the bicycle and helmet for use during the tour are included, attraction entry fees are additional.

Local tip: If you've got time after the tour, it's well worth exploring Kensington Palace a bit more. Admire the elaborate, Georgian-era King's Staircase and the King's State Gallery with its fine art collection, see the Queen's State Apartments where Mary II would come to relax or welcome guests, and visit the Sunken Garden, once a favorite spot of Princess Diana's. After, enjoy afternoon tea or lunch at the Kensington Palace Pavilion amid the gardens.

View & Book Tickets: GetYourGuide

The Premier Classic London: Private 4-Hour Tour in a Black Cab

Price: From $461

Duration: 4 hours

Standout perk: You'll see many of London's must-see attractions, and as it's a private tour, you can tailor the trip to your liking.

If you're after a private tour, this half-day trip in a classic London black cab is just the ticket.

You can choose to align your visit to Buckingham Palace with a Changing the Guard ceremony, and you'll get expert commentary from your personal taxi driver, who's also a registered tour guide. Alongside the palace, you'll pass must-see points including the Houses of Parliament, Downing Street, St James's Palace, the Tower of London, Piccadilly Circus, Shakespeare's Globe, Borough Market and Covent Garden , with options to stop along the way.

Recent travelers loved the tour and said guides were able to tailor the trip, stopping at spots both on and off the tourist trail and offering plenty of historical insight.

Your driver-guide can pick you up and drop you off at your hotel; or a central London location.

Local tip: Make a stop at Borough Market to try some of the best food in the city, with more than 100 stalls offering everything from Persian to Italian, alongside plenty of fresh produce.

Why Trust U.S. News Travel

Laura French is an award-winning British travel writer based in London. She grew up just outside the city and worked around the corner from Buckingham Palace for several years. She loves exploring the surrounding area, and used her own experience alongside online research to compile the roundup.

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