There are many museums in Florence, Italy. Not surprisingly, the city has a long and illustrious history. It is also the birthplace of the Renaissance and several museums bear witness to this.
Vagabondish is reader-supported. When you buy through links on our site, we may earn a small affiliate commission. Read our disclosure.
Of course, Florence has much more to offer its visitors. The truth is that unless it is an extended visit, you will not have time to see everything. That is why it is necessary to plan your visit in advance.
You’re going to want to know the most popular Florence museum.
Galleria dell’Accademia
This museum is one of the main reasons why people come to Florence. It is not unusual to queue just to get through the doors! It is fair to say that this museum houses the best celebrity nudes.
It is where you’ll find Michelangelo’s David which was sculpted from one block of marble between 1501 and 1504. You will be entranced by this status. In fact, there are a number of curiosities about Michelangelo’s David. Not least is the way his expression seems to change as you move around the statue. The veins in his arms and leg muscles almost seem to twitch.
This splendid work of art is an icon of the Italian Renaissance. The details testify to Michelangelo’s skill. His unusual depiction of David makes Michelangelo and the statue stand out. It shows us David before he strikes Goliath. He is strong, concentrated, elegant and contemplative.
It’s interesting to note that this status was supposed to be fixed 260 feet above the ground on the Duomo’s façade. However, everyone was so impressed that it was positioned at the entrance to the Palazzo Vecchio. At the time, the political centre of the city.
It stayed there until 1873 when it was moved into the museum to protect it for all time.
Of course, there are many other exhibits worth looking at in the Galleria dell’Accademia. Michelangelo’s unfinished Prigioni is another great piece of work. You’ll also find a collection of 15th and 16th-century paintings and an impressive hall of musical instruments.
While the Galleria dell’Accademia is the most popular Florence museum, it’s not the only one. It’s worth sparing some time to look at the following:
Galleria degli Uffizi
This art museum is considered world-class and is home to the largest collection of Renaissance art in the world. It includes a delightful 1km long corridor that links the Uffizi to the Palazzo Pitti across the river.
Museo delle Cappelle Medicee
Anyone with a passing interest in history will have heard of the Medici dynasty. At this museum, you’ll see just how impressive the Medici bling was. Semi-precious stones cover the crypts and burial chambers in this eerie, but fascinating, museum.
Palazzo Strozzi
Here you’ll find a contemporary art display that will appeal to everyone, even children. There are also hands-on workshops and tours to help everyone feel involved.
Summing Up
There is little doubt that the Galleria dell’Accademia is the most famous and best Florence museum. However, it’s just one of many fascinating and enlightening places to visit. Make sure you plan your Florence visit to get the most from every minute.