Self-Guided Exploration Tour of Politics and Power in Florence

1 h 15 min – 1 h 30 min Private tour

Self-Guided Exploration Tour of Politics and Power in Florence, photo 2 — Photos: the activity supplier, via Viator

About this activity

Ever wondered who wielded the real power behind Florence's Renaissance splendour? Unleash the secrets of the city's grandeur on this self-guided walking tour led by Context Travel expert Siro Chini.

Beyond the artistic brilliance of Donatello, Botticelli, Leonardo, and Michelangelo lies the captivating narrative of influential families like the Medicis. Discover how these dynasties, armed with economic and political might, shaped Florence and Tuscany for centuries, laying the foundation for the Renaissance. Embark on a journey where the streets echo the tales of ambition, power, and the indelible legacy of Florence's formidable families.

Stroll through medieval streets and explore historic landmarks like Giotto’s Bell Tower, the Baptistery of St. John, and Piazza della Signoria. Learn about Cosimo de’ Medici, Brunelleschi's dome, and the Uffizi Gallery.

Get unlimited use of this tour before your booking date and after it. You can use the virtual tour option at home, too.

Private and Luxury Private Sightseeing Tours Audio Guides Cultural Tours Historical Tours Walking Tours New Product Short term availability

At a glance

Duration: 1 h 15 min – 1 h 30 min
Confirmation: Instant confirmation
Ticket: Mobile or paper ticket accepted
Group: Your group only
People per booking: 1–15
Audio guide: English
Operated by: VoiceMap Audio Tours

Ages: Adults (6–99 years)

What is included

Included

Included: Lifetime access to this tour in English
Included: Offline access to audio, maps, and geodata
Included: App for Android and iOS

Not included

Not included: Smartphone and headphones
Not included: Food and drink

Itinerary

Piazza Della Repubblica

Passing by

Start your tour at Piazza della Repubblica, the central square with a rich history dating back 2,000 years to Roman times. Discover the evolution of this vibrant square, where the echoes of ancient settlements linger.
Stop 2

Passing by

Pass by the Panerai Firenze Boutique, a prestigious establishment reflecting Florence's connection to luxury craftsmanship. Take note of the boutique's elegance and its contribution to Florence's reputation for artisanal excellence.
Basilica di San Lorenzo

Passing by

Stroll through the San Lorenzo neighbourhood and see the Basilica di San Lorenzo. Learn about Cosimo de’ Medici, a pivotal figure considered the patron of Renaissance artists, as you explore the area's medieval charm.
Palazzo Medici Riccardi

Passing by

Marvel at the Riccardi Medici Palace, an architectural gem with historical significance. Delve into the legacy of the Medici family and their influence on the flourishing Renaissance culture.
Piazza Del Duomo

Passing by

Arrive at Piazza del Duomo, the heart of Florence, and see the awe-inspiring Cathedral of Santa Maria del Fiore. Admire the grandeur of the cathedral, where the towering dome stands as an iconic symbol of Renaissance engineering.
Stop 6

Passing by

Stare up at Giotto's Bell Tower, an exemplary piece of Tuscan Gothic architecture. Appreciate the mullioned windows that amplify the sound of bronze bells, contributing to the city's auditory landscape.
Via dei Calzaiuoli

Passing by

Wander along Via dei Calzaiuoli, a medieval street lined with elegant buildings. Immerse yourself in the atmosphere of Florence's historical heart as you absorb the charm of this bustling thoroughfare.
Church and Museum of Orsanmichele

Passing by

Discover the Church and Museum of Orsanmichele, structures designed to impress pilgrims and travellers with their size and beauty. Uncover the religious and artistic significance embedded in this historical site.
Piazza della Signoria

Passing by

Visit Piazza della Signoria, Florence's political center, and behold the imposing Palazzo Vecchio. Learn about the city government's seat and the historical events that unfolded in this captivating square.
Fontana Del Nettuno

Passing by

Pause at the Fountain of Neptune, an iconic symbol in Piazza della Signoria. Appreciate the craftsmanship of this majestic fountain, which adds to the visual splendor of the square.
Loggia dei Lanzi

Passing by

Admire the Loggia dei Lanzi, an open-air sculpture gallery showcasing Renaissance masterpieces. Marvel at the captivating statues that adorn this historical loggia.
Stop 12

Passing by

Pass by the Uffizi Gallery, a renowned art house transformed by the Medici family. Soak in the artistic richness as you traverse the Uffizi Courtyard, surrounded by masterpieces from various periods.
Ponte Vecchio

Passing by

Cross the iconic Ponte Vecchio, a bridge with a unique history and architectural charm. Explore the bridge's role in the city's commerce and witness its enduring allure.
Fontana del Porcellino

Passing by

Discover the Fontana del Porcellino, a fountain with a fascinating history. Learn about its origin and why it became a symbol of good luck in Florence.
Museo di Palazzo Davanzati

Passing by

Pass the Museo di Palazzo Davanzati, housed in a 13th-century palace that showcases the transition from medieval to Renaissance architecture. Appreciate the historical context and architectural beauty of Palazzo Davanzati.
Piazza Santa Trinita

Passing by

Arrive at Piazza Santa Trinita, a charming square with historical significance. Immerse yourself in the harmony and simplicity of Palazzo Strozzi's proportions.
Palazzo Strozzi

Passing by

Admire Strozzi Palace, a testament to Renaissance architecture. Take in the proportions and architectural details that define this iconic palace.

Meeting point and pickup

Everyone meets at the meeting point.

Meeting point

The tour starts near the carousel in Piazza della Repubblica in the historical centre of Florence. Travellers can take bus lines 23, C4, 14 or 32 to the city centre.

End point

The tour starts near the carousel in Piazza della Repubblica in the historical centre of Florence. Travellers can take bus lines 23, C4, 14 or 32 to the city centre.

Using your ticket

VOICEMAP CODE

───

Please check your email at the address you provided when you made this booking. You've been sent an eight character code you'll need to redeem your tour.

This code can be used by every member of your party. If you've booked for three people, for example, three people can download this tour using the same code.

DOWNLOAD INSTRUCTIONS

───

1. Once you've received your code, please follow these steps:

2. Install the VoiceMap Audio Tours mobile app

3. Create an account

4. Select Tour Codes from the menu, then select Enter Codes

5. Enter your code then select Download Now

PLEASE NOTE

───

You can download the tour at any time, before or after your booking date. It’s best to download the tour before you set off for the starting point.

This tour follows a set route and includes turn-by-turn directions. It works best if you start it in the right place and follow the directions from one location to the next.

When the download completes, you’ll see a screen with a photo of the starting point and directions to it. The red start button will become active when you are at the starting point.

Remember to bring your own headphones, unless you have booked a driving tour.

SUPPORT

───

For technical support and other queries, please email [email protected]