Medici Chapels’ opening hours | Best time to visit, duration, & more

Weekdays are your best bet if you want to enjoy the Medici Chapels without a crowd blocking your view of Michelangelo’s sculptures. The quietest times are before 10:30am and after 4:30pm, when most tour groups have moved on to other landmarks.

Weekends, especially Saturdays and open Sundays, can be busier, but they also offer something special—a livelier atmosphere, with street musicians often playing nearby in Piazza San Lorenzo.

First Sundays of the month = free entry + crowds. If you don’t mind waiting, it’s a great way to visit for free. If not, this is the day to avoid unless you arrive early.

During peak season (June to August), tourist numbers surge, causing longer queues and heat inside the chapels. Visiting early morning or late afternoon is advisable. Private tour groups from cruise ships are common, but crowds often clear within 10-15 minutes. Summer offers more guided tours with English-speaking guides. 

In contrast, the low season (November to March) provides a quieter experience, except during holidays. January and February are ideal for an uncrowded visit, and rainy days are perfect for avoiding crowds, as tourists often opt for indoor attractions like the Uffizi Gallery.