Tickets Florence

Vasari Corridor Tickets

4.4(510 Ratings)

Headout is an authorized and trusted partner of the venue, offering curated experiences to enjoy this attraction.

Vasari Corridor
Vasari Corridor spanning the Arno River with Uffizi Gallery entrance in Florence, Italy.
Uffizi Gallery arcade with tourists walking under the arches in Florence, Italy.
Tourists viewing Renaissance art at Uffizi Gallery, Florence, Italy.
Vasari Corridor view with Uffizi Gallery entrance in Florence, Italy.
Vasari Corridor seen from Uffizi Gallery, Florence, Italy, showcasing historic architecture.
Visitors walking through the Hallway of the Uffizi Gallery in Florence, Italy, admiring classical sculptures.
Tourists admiring Renaissance paintings at Uffizi Gallery, Florence, Italy.
Vasari Corridor linking Uffizi Gallery and Pitti Palace in Florence, Italy.
Florence Hop-on Hop-off tour bus crossing Ponte Vecchio bridge.
Tourists viewing Renaissance art at Uffizi Gallery, Florence, Italy.
Tickets
3.4(0)

Uffizi Gallery Tickets with Vasari Corridor Access

With special access to Uffizi, walk along the secret Medici Passage up to the Boboli Gardens.

  • Start your journey at the Uffizi Gallery and spend a couple of hours exploring masterpieces by Botticelli, Michelangelo, and da Vinci.
  • After visiting the Uffizi, step into the Vasari Corridor, a 1km passageway between Pitti Palace and Palazzo Vecchio, built for the Medici family’s safety.
  • Along the route, discover ancient sculptures and a collection of Greek and Roman inscriptions, offering a fascinating glimpse into the past.
  • Enjoy a bird’s-eye view of Florence, with windows overlooking the Arno River, Ponte Vecchio, and historic squares.
  • End your 45-minute visit at the Buontalenti Grotto in the Boboli Gardens and exit through the Ammannati Courtyard.


Check availability
Mobile ticket
2 hr. 45 min.
reviewer
KarelJun, 2025
3/5

WE LIKED: UFFIZI GALLERY WE DIDN'T LIKE: VASARI CORIDOR - after reconstruction only empty white wall space (overpass) with no arts at the time. Sculptures/busta in Coridor wraped in plastic - prepared for upcoming exhibition been said. PITTI PALACE - inside exhibitions - other disappointment - presentation of art stucked in the past - all of beautiful crystal chandeliers and statues covered by visible layer of dust/dirt... We have to say that we like art - we visited many museums and palaces around the Europe but never saw anything like that... It is pity that we cannot upload any photos to our review :(

reviewer
LaraineMay, 2025
4/5

The corridor has been beautifully restored but wasn't quite complete when I visited in May.

reviewer
AxelJul, 2025
5/5
reviewer
FionaMay, 2025
4/5
reviewer
NicoMay, 2025
5/5
reviewer
KarinMay, 2025
5/5
reviewer
ThomasMay, 2025
5/5
reviewer
AndreasMay, 2025
4/5
reviewer
KimberlyJun, 2025
2/5

Museum was fine but tour of the corridor was a waste of time. Felt like the Guide would have preferred to be somewhere else. Did as little as possible to complete the tour. She did nothing to explain the significance of the corridor or the Medici family's influence on Florence. Walls of the corridor were fresh drywall which left us with a sterile, new construction feeling tour. Guide could have filled in the gaps by explaining the history.

reviewer
AndreaApr, 2025
2/5
reviewer
PatriciaApr, 2025
1/5

It was impossible to buy 2 tickets at the same time: we had to make 2 reservations. On site, very crowded, no one visible, difficult to understand where to queue.... The ticket is very poorly explained, we don't understand where and at what time it starts, and we weren't the only ones..... We spent over 3 hours in the gallery: it was crowded, but there was a wealth of works (we could even stay longer). When we arrived for the corridor, we were told that it wasn't the right time and that we were late due to the wrong explanations on the tickets. Like others, we were refused access even though our names were on the list and hardly anyone was on site. A refund for this part seems to me the least we could do, and clearer explanations for your future customers. I look forward to hearing from you. Sincerely

reviewer
UlrikeMar, 2025
3/5

The burocracy surrounding getting a ticket for that Vasari corridor! Which turned out to contain no art works, the girls tasked with taking us looked bored to tears, told us nothing except what we were NOT allowed to do. The whole experience could have been completed in ten minutes rather than 45!

reviewer
AnnegretMar, 2025
5/5
reviewer
AnnetteFeb, 2025
4/5
reviewer
PoecheimFeb, 2025
5/5
reviewer
HanaaFeb, 2025
5/5
reviewer
LisaJan, 2025
5/5
reviewer
DanielaJan, 2025
5/5
reviewer
AlessioApr, 2025
2/5

The much-vaunted restoration of the Vasari Corridor is an immense disappointment. Except for the exterior views observable from windows and small windows, the interior of the corridor looks more like a hospital ward than a museum. Aseptic white walls and ceiling, no paintings as they were before restoration. Yes, the right word is "hospital corridor"...but no description will ever match standing in front of it. Money badly spent...mitigated only by a visit to the Uffizi. Those are worth a visit...the Corridor leave it alone for the time being.

reviewer
VosselerFeb, 2025
2/5

The reservation was there, but the barcode and QR code were missing on the ticket, so there were problems getting in

reviewer
DanielJan, 2025
2/5

I "only" received a PDF ticket, a so-called B-ticket. This was not valid at the entrance. So I had to queue and go through 2-3 counters to gain correct entry. Due to this loss of time, I missed the slot for the Corridoio Vasariano and paid for something I didn't get.

reviewer
RoyJan, 2025
2/5

The meeting time was 11.15 at the entrance to the corridor, but the directions wouldn't open and no-one was very helpful about where to find it. We did find it at the end, but didn't have time to see any art. The guide spoke Italian and a translated into to English after I asked her, butI was disappointed mainly because we didn't see any art. The directions should be clearer and explaining to get there when the gallery opens . Up until now I have found Headout very good. We have a tour tomorrow hoping it goes well.

reviewer
HeulwenFeb, 2025
1/5

We were not properly notified about the arrangements of the tour and missed the tour. Not seeing until too late that we were meant to start 2 hours early to the allotted time.

reviewer
MauroJan, 2025
1/5

At 1 p.m. I purchased the museum + Vasarian Corridor ticket online indicating 1:35 p.m. as the time, which was the first available time. I went as suggested 15 minutes earlier to the museum entrance. At that point I was told that 1:35 p.m. was the time I should report to the entrance of the Vasarian Corridor. I was told that since it was far from the entrance I would have to run there otherwise I would lose the opportunity to access the Vasarian corridor as it is only accessed at the appointed time. Finally I was told that once I left the corridor I would no longer be able to visit the Uffizi. So frantic running in search of door D19 (imagine how complicated it was to find it) corridor visited and Uffizi never seen despite ticket paid and no refund received despite complaints to the bilglietteria who rightly threw the blame at the poor service provided by Headout. Very bad experience

With special access to Uffizi, walk along the secret Medici Passage up to the Boboli Gardens.

  • Start your journey at the Uffizi Gallery and spend a couple of hours exploring masterpieces by Botticelli, Michelangelo, and da Vinci.
  • After visiting the Uffizi, step into the Vasari Corridor, a 1km passageway between Pitti Palace and Palazzo Vecchio, built for the Medici family’s safety.
  • Along the route, discover ancient sculptures and a collection of Greek and Roman inscriptions, offering a fascinating glimpse into the past.
  • Enjoy a bird’s-eye view of Florence, with windows overlooking the Arno River, Ponte Vecchio, and historic squares.
  • End your 45-minute visit at the Buontalenti Grotto in the Boboli Gardens and exit through the Ammannati Courtyard.

Inclusions

  • Access to the Vasari Corridor

  • Entry to Uffizi Gallery

Exclusions

  • Guided tour of Ufizzi Gallery and the Vasari Corridor
  • Your tickets are nominative and cannot be transferred. The name and date of birth on the ticket must match the ID of the visitor.
  • Note: The time selected while booking is for access to the Vasari Corridor. You may enter the Uffizi gallery only up to 2 hours before your scheduled entry to the Vasari Corridor which has been given on the ticket.
  • Your ticket grants access to the Uffizi Gallery’s Statues and Paintings section, but visit it before your Vasari Corridor entry time, as it is a one-way route.
  • Once you exit the Corridor at the Buontalenti Grotto, you cannot return to the Corridor.
  • This experience is accessible to people with reduced mobility.
  • Keep in mind large bags and suitcases are not allowed on this experience. Pack wisely!
  • These tickets can't be cancelled or rescheduled.
Uffizi Gallery exterior with Vasari Corridor, Florence, Italy, part of combo tour with Pitti Palace and Boboli Gardens.
Vasari Corridor view with Uffizi Gallery entrance in Florence, Italy.
Tourists viewing Renaissance art at Uffizi Gallery, Florence, Italy.
Palazzo Pitti and fountain view from Boboli Gardens, Florence.
Palazzo Pitti facade with visitors in Florence, Italy.
Vasari Corridor seen from Uffizi Gallery, Florence, Italy, showcasing historic architecture.
Visitors viewing Renaissance art in the Uffizi Gallery, Florence, Italy.
Florence Hop-on Hop-off tour bus crossing Ponte Vecchio bridge.
Palazzo Pitti exterior with visitors in Florence, Italy.
Boboli Gardens Florence with view of manicured hedges and historic statues.
Combos
4.4(0)

Combo (Save 10%): Uffizi Gallery & Vasari Corridor Ticket + Pitti Palace, Boboli & Bardini Gardens Skip-the-Line Ticket

All-in-one Florence experience with Uffizi, Vasari Corridor, Pitti Palace & Boboli Gardens.

  • Save on time and money with this combo ticket that includes the Uffizi Gallery, Vasari Corridor, Pitti Palace, and Boboli Gardens.
  • Discover iconic Renaissance art at the Uffizi and explore the Medici family’s secret passageway in the Vasari Corridor.
  • Experience the grandeur of the Pitti Palace’s Royal Apartments with skip-the-line tickets before moving on to the Palatine Gallery and Porcelain Museum.
  • Unwind at the Boboli and Bardini Gardens, admiring fountains, grottoes, and centuries-old artifacts.


Check availability
Mobile ticket
reviewer
BrianMay, 2025
4/5

Artworks were overwhelming Rooms were opulent Spent several hours roaming The gardens were fresh and blooming

reviewer
AntonioApr, 2025
4/5

The works of art in the Palace

reviewer
MrsJun, 2025
5/5

The instructions were clear and easy to pick up the tickets and we were able to get about the place without any hold ups or delays.

reviewer
LuciaJun, 2025
3/5

When I picked up my ticket, I was not warned at any point that it was not valid for the visit to the royal apartments. To see this, we had to return to the ticket office to pick up a ticket specifically for it (despite it being free access). Very poorly specified.

reviewer
MelindaJun, 2025
5/5

No issues at ticket office redeeming our voucher and transaction was easy. The pitti place and Gardens are both amazing and well worth the visit

reviewer
KarelJun, 2025
3/5

WE LIKED: UFFIZI GALLERY WE DIDN'T LIKE: VASARI CORIDOR - after reconstruction only empty white wall space (overpass) with no arts at the time. Sculptures/busta in Coridor wraped in plastic - prepared for upcoming exhibition been said. PITTI PALACE - inside exhibitions - other disappointment - presentation of art stucked in the past - all of beautiful crystal chandeliers and statues covered by visible layer of dust/dirt... We have to say that we like art - we visited many museums and palaces around the Europe but never saw anything like that... It is pity that we cannot upload any photos to our review :(

reviewer
DmitryJun, 2025
5/5

Smooth e perience and easy purchasing process. The only drawback is a requirement to exchange booking reference for tickets at the ticket office.

reviewer
MRMay, 2025
5/5

Our favourite visit in Florence. Great to skip the queues & spend more time discovering this beautiful palace & its gardens.

reviewer
VasilachiMay, 2025
3/5

There are no skip the line tickets. You have to go to the office to get your physical tickets anyway and then you have to wait in line.

reviewer
MariaJun, 2025
5/5

Everything went very well, the tickets arrived promptly.

reviewer
LauraJun, 2025
5/5

Super fast entry, easy to use app, clear information. Overall great experience :)

reviewer
GregoryJun, 2025
4/5

Egyptian Obelisk Very helpful staff

reviewer
EJun, 2025
3/5

They did not have WiFi at Pitti so I had to turn on my own internet which costs extra so I was annoyed about that

reviewer
CarlierJun, 2025
4/5

A visit to the Palazzo Piti and the Palatine Gallery is a pure marvel. As for the garden, disappointingly uninteresting.

reviewer
DavidMay, 2025
5/5

Thought the palace and gardens were fantastic. Tour with students added a special touch!

reviewer
LaraineMay, 2025
4/5

The corridor has been beautifully restored but wasn't quite complete when I visited in May.

reviewer
JulieMay, 2025
5/5

Ticketing was easy. The palace and gardens are beautiful, just as expected.

reviewer
JenniferMay, 2025
5/5

Easy and such an amazing place to visit. Incredible value. The cafe was wonderful as well.

reviewer
DanielaMay, 2025
5/5

Easy tickets check in. Took advantage of the luggage store inside the palace before departure from the city.

reviewer
MariaMay, 2025
4/5

well-kept environments, friendly and knowledgeable staff

reviewer
PamelaMay, 2025
5/5

Everything was beautiful. So much history & well kept

reviewer
NicolaeApr, 2025
5/5

Wonderful place and complete with everything. Perfect even for non-art enthusiasts.

reviewer
ChrsitneApr, 2025
5/5

Great organization by the agency. Quick admission. Palazzo and gardens are an EXPERIENCE!

reviewer
AxelJul, 2025
5/5
reviewer
KimberlyJul, 2025
4/5

All-in-one Florence experience with Uffizi, Vasari Corridor, Pitti Palace & Boboli Gardens.

  • Save on time and money with this combo ticket that includes the Uffizi Gallery, Vasari Corridor, Pitti Palace, and Boboli Gardens.
  • Discover iconic Renaissance art at the Uffizi and explore the Medici family’s secret passageway in the Vasari Corridor.
  • Experience the grandeur of the Pitti Palace’s Royal Apartments with skip-the-line tickets before moving on to the Palatine Gallery and Porcelain Museum.
  • Unwind at the Boboli and Bardini Gardens, admiring fountains, grottoes, and centuries-old artifacts.

Inclusions Uffizi Gallery & Vasari Corridor

  • Access to the Vasari Corridor

  • Entry to Uffizi Gallery

Pitti Palace & Boboli Gardens

  • Skip-the-line entry to Pitti Palace

  • Skip-the-line entry to Boboli Gardens

  • Access to Palatine Gallery

  • Access to Bardini Gardens

  • Access to Porcelain Museum

Exclusions Uffizi Gallery & Vasari Corridor

  • Guided tour of Ufizzi Gallery and the Vasari Corridor

Pitti Palace & Boboli Gardens

  • Guide

  • Transfers

  • Access to the Grotta del Buontalenti at Boboli Gardens

Uffizi Gallery & Vasari Corridor

  • Keep in mind large bags and suitcases are not allowed on this experience. Pack wisely!

  • This experience is accessible for people with reduced mobility.

  • Your tickets are nominative and cannot be transferred. The name and date of birth on the ticket must match the ID of the visitor.

  • Note: The time slot you select is for the Uffizi Gallery. You must arrive at the Vasari Corridor two hours later. Please note that re-entry to the Uffizi Gallery is not permitted once you proceed to the corridor.

  • Your ticket grants access to the Uffizi Gallery’s Statues and Paintings section, but visit it before your Vasari Corridor entry time, as it is a one-way route.

  • Once you exit the Corridor at the Buontalenti Grotto, you cannot return to the Corridor.

Pitti Palace & Boboli Gardens

  • Keep in mind food & beverages are not allowed in the exhibition areas.
  • Mobile phones must be turned off or at least placed in silent mode.
  • It is forbidden to run or walk barefoot in the museum premises.
  • Shutterbugs, take note: Photography with any professional equipment including the use of flash and drones is a no-go inside the venue.
  • Pets cannot tag along for this experience, with the exception of guide dogs and service animals, properly leashed and with a public medical certificate.
  • From the square, the slope to the entrance of the Pitti Palace is rather steep (with a maximum gradient of 20%), so a companion is recommended for wheelchair users.
  • From the courtyard, you can take the stairs or lifts to access the Palatine Gallery (1st floor). The lifts are located on the right side near the cloakroom.
  • The entire Boboli Gardens area is pedestrianized, and is not accessible by vehicle; if you have a disability badge, you can park nearby.
  • Facilities: free cloakroom storage.
  • Backpacks, bags, umbrellas and other large objects must be stored in the cloakroom prior to entry.
  • Guests under the age of 12 years must be accompanied by an adult.
  • These tickets can't be cancelled or rescheduled.
Ponte Vecchio bridge in Florence illuminated with New Year lights reflecting on the Arno River.
Vasari Corridor seen from Uffizi Gallery, Florence, Italy, showcasing historic architecture.
Vasari Corridor view with Uffizi Gallery entrance, Florence private tour.
Tourists admiring Renaissance paintings at Uffizi Gallery, Florence, Italy.
Visitors viewing Renaissance art in the Uffizi Gallery, Florence, Italy.
Vasari Corridor view with tourists on a private tour near Uffizi Gallery, Florence.
Vasari Corridor view with Uffizi Gallery artworks, Florence private tour.
Visitors exploring art in the Uffizi Gallery during a small group guided tour in Florence, Italy.
Boboli Gardens Florence with historic sculptures and manicured landscapes.
Vasari Corridor view with Uffizi Gallery artworks, Florence private tour.
Private Tours
NEW

Private Tour of Vasari Corridor and Uffizi Gallery

  • Discover Florence’s artistic legacy with a 3-hour private guided tour of the Vasari Corridor and Uffizi Gallery. With priority access, get hassle-free entry.
  • Don't let language get in the way! Choose from Spanish, Italian, English, or French, and enjoy spirited conversations with your guide.
  • See Italian Renaissance art at the Uffizi Gallery. Admire works by Botticelli, Correggio, Da Vinci, Raffaello, Michelangelo, Filippo Lippi, Mantegna and more.
  • Walk through the Vasari Corridor, built in 1565 as a private passageway for the Medici family to move between their offices in the Uffizi and Pitti Palace.
  • Enjoy unique views of the Florentine cityscape, including the Arno River, and Ponte before concluding your tour at Boboli Gardens.


Check availability
Instant confirmation
Mobile ticket
3 hr.
Guided tour
reviewer
WarrenMay, 2025
1/5
  • Discover Florence’s artistic legacy with a 3-hour private guided tour of the Vasari Corridor and Uffizi Gallery. With priority access, get hassle-free entry.
  • Don't let language get in the way! Choose from Spanish, Italian, English, or French, and enjoy spirited conversations with your guide.
  • See Italian Renaissance art at the Uffizi Gallery. Admire works by Botticelli, Correggio, Da Vinci, Raffaello, Michelangelo, Filippo Lippi, Mantegna and more.
  • Walk through the Vasari Corridor, built in 1565 as a private passageway for the Medici family to move between their offices in the Uffizi and Pitti Palace.
  • Enjoy unique views of the Florentine cityscape, including the Arno River, and Ponte before concluding your tour at Boboli Gardens.

Inclusions

  • 3-hour private tour

  • Skip-the-line access to Uffizi Gallery & Vasari Corridor

  • English/Spanish/French/Italian-speaking guide (as per the option selected)

Exclusions

  • Hotel transfers
  • Tip: The Uffizi gift shop is stocked with art reproductions, postcards, gadgets, and an excellent selection of art books.
  • The following are not allowed at Uffizi: flash photography, outside food and drink, drones, and pets (with the exception of service animals with advance notice).
  • The experience is not wheelchair accessible.
  • These tickets can't be cancelled or rescheduled.

Top things to do in Florence

Walk through history: Vasari Corridor reopens after 8 years

On 21 December 2024, the Vasari Corridor, Florence’s iconic elevated passage, reopened after eight years of meticulous restoration. Built in 1565 by Giorgio Vasari, this 700-meter-long "air tunnel" was once a private walkway for the Medici family. Connecting the Uffizi Gallery to the Pitti Palace, it offers rare views of Florence and a unique window into Renaissance history.

Why visit the Vasari Corridor?

Vasari Corridor view with Uffizi Gallery entrance in Florence, Italy.
Vasari Corridor view from Uffizi Gallery, Florence, Italy.
Ponte Vecchio and Vasari Corridor in Florence, Italy, overlooking the Arno River.
Vasari Corridor
1/4

Walk the Medici’s secret path

Built in 1565 as a private passage for Florence’s ruling family, the Vasari Corridor was designed to protect the Medici from public eyes. Walking through it is like stepping into their shoes and uncovering the intriguing layers of Renaissance power and politics.

Soak in Florence’s best-kept views

Peer through hidden windows to see Florence as the Medici once did—from the Arno River glistening below to the city’s timeless rooftops. These unique vantage points are unlike anything you’ll find elsewhere.

Experience Vasari’s architectural genius

A marvel of Renaissance design, this 700-meter-long corridor seamlessly connects landmarks like the Uffizi, Ponte Vecchio, and Pitti Palace. Its understated elegance speaks volumes about Vasari’s mastery.

Discover Florence’s hidden gem

Unlike the city’s bustling landmarks, the Vasari Corridor provides a quiet and exclusive way to explore Florence’s history, perfect for those craving something truly unique.

Things to know before booking your tickets to the Vasari Corridor

  • To access the Vasari Corridor, you must purchase a special ticket which includes access to the Uffizi Gallery. Tickets are only available via reservation, and slots are limited to one group at a time.
  • Each visit lasts approximately 45 minutes and is limited to groups of 25 people.
  • The route through the corridor operates as a one-way system, starting from Room D19 inside the Uffizi Gallery and ending at the ​Pitti Palace. Once you leave the Uffizi, re-entry is not permitted.
  • The tour ends at the Ammannati Courtyard in the Pitti Palace. You can extend your visit by purchasing tickets to the ​Boboli Gardens or Pitti Palace in advance for a seamless experience.
  • Guiding is not permitted in the Vasari Corridor. However, Uffizi staff will accompany visitors, pointing out important artifacts and at times using the whisper system to communicate.
  • Access to the Vasari Corridor is highly sought after, and tickets sell out quickly due to limited daily availability. To secure your spot, book at least two weeks ahead of your visit​.
  • Please note that access is restricted for wheelchairs with a total weight over 230 kg and with a length of over 120 cm.

What to see along the Vasari Corridor

Discover rare sculptures and artworks, peek through hidden windows, and take in panoramic views of the Florence skyline and Arno River as you walk along the ​iconic Medici passage.

Vasari Corridor spanning the Arno River with Uffizi Gallery entrance in Florence, Italy.

Uffizi Gallery entrance

Begin your journey in the prestigious Uffizi Gallery, home to some of the world’s greatest Renaissance masterpieces. The corridor starts at Room D19, seamlessly transitioning from the gallery’s ornate interiors into the elevated walkway.

Book Uffizi tickets
Vasari Corridor view along Lungarno Passage in Florence, Italy, showcasing historic architecture.

The Lungarno Passage

The corridor moves along the Lungarno degli Archibugieri, running parallel to the Arno River. Here, you’ll catch your first glimpses of Florence’s historic skyline, framed by small, discreet windows.

Ponte Vecchio in Florence

Crossing the Ponte Vecchio

A highlight of the route, the corridor traverses Florence’s most famous bridge, the Ponte Vecchio. Elevated above the bustling goldsmith shops below, this section offers breathtaking views of the Arno River and the surrounding cityscape through its iconic square windows.

Church of Santo Stefano al Ponte exterior in Florence, Italy, showcasing its historic architecture.

Over the Santo Stefano Church

The corridor passes above the Church of Santo Stefano al Ponte, an often-overlooked gem in Florence. Its strategic placement highlights the Medici’s influence in seamlessly blending civic and religious landmarks.

View of the Oltrarno District in Florence with historic buildings and narrow streets.

The Oltrarno District

Once across the river, the corridor winds through Florence’s quieter Oltrarno neighborhood, known for its artisans and historic charm. This section reveals the Medici’s mastery of integrating their private passageway into the urban fabric.

Pitti Palace and Boboli gardens in Florence

Exit at the Boboli Gardens

The corridor concludes at the Buontalenti Grotto in the Boboli Gardens, a Renaissance masterpiece of landscaping and artistic design. Visitors exit near the gardens and are guided to the Ammannati Courtyard of the Pitti Palace, the grand former residence of the Medici family.

Book tickets to Boboli Gardens

Highlights of the corridor

Vasari Corridor's historic passageway with arches architecture in Florence, Italy.

The restored corridor architecture

Step into a 700-meter-long passage that exemplifies minimalist Renaissance design. With its restored terracotta floors and elegant arched ceilings, the Vasari Corridor once served as the Medici family’s private walkway. Today, it offers visitors a tranquil and immersive journey through Florence’s rich history.

Ponte Vecchio spanning the Arno River in Florence, Italy.
Vasari Corridor sculptures in Florence, Italy, showcasing Renaissance art.
Vasari Corridor interior
Vasari Corridor interior with Renaissance paintings in Florence, Italy.

Unique facts about the Vasari Corridor

Ponte Vecchio and Vasari Corridor
  • The Vasari Corridor was commissioned in 1565 by Cosimo I de’ Medici to commemorate the marriage of his son, Francesco I, to Joanna of Austria. Its rapid construction in just five months showcases Vasari’s architectural prowess.
  • The corridor includes a private balcony inside the Church of Santa Felicita, allowing the Medici family to attend mass without mingling with the public. This unique feature emphasizes their need for both privacy and influence in religious spaces.
  • While the corridor enabled the Medici to traverse Florence unnoticed, it also allowed them to observe the daily lives of the city's citizens from above. The windows gave them a strategic view of the bustling streets and markets.
  • In 1938, Benito Mussolini ordered the enlargement of certain windows in the corridor to impress Adolf Hitler during his visit to Florence. These modifications remain, providing panoramic views of the city.
  • When the corridor was built in 1565, the Ponte Vecchio was lined with butchers and tanners, whose businesses created unpleasant odors. To improve the route for the Medici family, Cosimo I ordered these shops to be replaced with goldsmiths and jewelers, giving the bridge its elegant reputation today.

History of the Vasari Corridor

  • 1565: Commissioned by Duke Cosimo I de’ Medici, designed by Giorgio Vasari, and built in five months to celebrate the marriage of Francesco I de’ Medici and Joanna of Austria.
  • 1664: Cardinal Leopoldo de’ Medici begins installing self-portraits, creating one of the world’s largest collections​.
  • 1938: Windows are enlarged on Mussolini's orders to impress Hitler during his visit to Florence.
  • 1944: Survives World War II bombings; its structure remains mostly intact despite the destruction of neighboring bridges​.
  • 1993: Suffers damage during the Via dei Georgofili bombing, with several artworks destroyed. Some are restored and displayed as a reminder of the attack​.
  • 2016: Is closed to the public for restoration due to safety concerns.
  • 2024: Reopens with updated safety measures, accessibility improvements, and a redesigned interior to welcome visitors again.

Complete history

Know before you visit the Vasari Corridor

Vasari Corridor
  • Opening days: Tuesday to Sunday.
  • First group: 10:15am | Last group: 4:35pm
  • Visits last approximately 45 minutes and are strictly by reservation.
  • Closed on: The corridor is closed on Mondays and follows the same closing schedule as the Uffizi Gallery. Special open days are available if they don’t coincide with a Monday.
Best time to visit
  • Start point: Entry to the corridor begins at Room D19 on the first floor of the Uffizi Gallery.
  • End point: Boboli Gardens near the Buontalenti Grotto and Pitti Palace.
Getting there
Vasari Corridor Facilities
  • Toilets: Available along the corridor route.
  • Lighting: Energy-efficient LED systems illuminate the passage.
  • Safety features: Includes new emergency exits and video surveillance for a secure visit.
  • Cloakroom: While there is a cloakroom at the Uffizi, bulky items (like suitcases, backpacks, and large umbrellas) are not permitted inside the corridor.
  • Restrooms and café: Restrooms and a café are available at the Ammannati Courtyard in the Pitti Palace, where the tour ends.
Plan your visit
Vasari Corridor Accessibility
  • Fully accessible for visitors with mobility challenges.
  • Equipped with ramps, lifts, and platforms for ease of navigation.
Boboli Gardens
  • Arrive at least 10-15 minutes before your scheduled time to check in and avoid missing your entry slot.
  • The tour ends at the Pitti Palace. To make the most of your experience, purchase tickets for the Boboli Gardens or Pitti Palace museums in advance.
  • With a length of over 1 kilometer and sections involving stairs, wear comfortable walking shoes to enhance your experience.
  • Large bags, umbrellas, and tripods are not permitted inside. Use storage facilities at the Uffizi to keep your belongings safe during the tour​.

Frequently asked questions about Vasari Corridor tickets

Can I purchase a separate ticket for the Vasari Corridor?

No, the Vasari Corridor is included with a special ticket for the ​Uffizi Gallery. Separate tickets for the corridor alone are not available.

Can I visit Pitti Palace and Boboli Gardens along with the Vasari Corridor?

You must purchase separate tickets to access the​ Boboli Gardens and the ​Pitti Palace. Those holding valid tickets for these attractions may continue their visit from the Ammannati Courtyard.

Why was the Vasari Corridor closed for 8 years?

The Vasari Corridor was closed to the public in 2016 to address safety concerns, perform restoration work, and meet modern accessibility and preservation standards. It reopens in December 2024, following renovations to enhance visitor experience.

How often are access slots for the Vasari Corridor available?

Access slots for the Vasari Corridor are scheduled at intervals of every 20 minutes, with visitors admitted in small groups of up to 25 people.

Will the staff act as guides during the visit?

No, the staff accompanying the group during the visit are not guides. Their role is to ensure safety and smooth operations while you explore the Vasari Corridor.

Does the Vasari Corridor still have its famous self-portrait collection?

No, the self-portraits that were once displayed in the corridor have been relocated to dedicated rooms in the Uffizi Gallery. The corridor now features ancient sculptures, inscriptions, and frescoes.

What are the best views from the Vasari Corridor?

The corridor’s windows provide stunning panoramic views of Florence, including the Arno River, Ponte Vecchio, and the city’s historic rooftops. These views were once reserved exclusively for the Medici family.

More reads

Vasari Corridor in Florence, Italy, showcasing historic art and architecture.

History

Vasari Corridor sculptures in Florence, Italy, showcasing Renaissance art.

About

Tickets Florence
Scan code
Download the Headout app

Get Help 24/7

We Accept
VISA
MASTERCARD
AMEX
PAYPAL
MAESTROCARD
APPLEPAY
GPAY
DISCOVER
DINERS
IDEAL
AFFIRM
Headout is an authorized and trusted partner of the venue, offering curated experiences to enjoy this attraction.