How to Visit the Uffizi Gallery: Tickets, Tours & Insider Advice

Wondering about the best way to visit the Uffizi Gallery? 

The museum holds some of the most famous artworks in historic here, like Botticelli's La Primavera or Caravaggio's Medusa. The museum is really big, with thousands of paintings and sculptures, which can make visiting a bit overwhelming.

That’s why it’s important to plan ahead. We visited the Uffizi many times and compiled here our top tips for making the best of your experience.

The content of this webpage:

1. Buying skip-the-line tickets in advance
2. Knowing the best time to visit the Uffizi
3. Self-guided vs. guided visit—What’s Right for You?
4. Preparing what to see (if visiting on your own)
5. Uffizi Gallery opening hours
6. Tips for a smooth visit to the Uffizi
7. 4 ways to skip the lines at the Uffizi
8. Visiting the Uffizi with kids
9. Getting to the Uffizi
10. Where to stay near the Uffizi
11. What we love near the Uffizi
    
    

The Uffizi Gallery showcases an extraordinary collection of both paintings and sculptures—each room revealing a new artistic treasure

The Best Way to Visit the Uffizi Gallery: Plan Ahead

Buy skip-the-line tickets in advance

Booking skip-the-line tickets in advance for the Uffizi isn’t just smart, it’s essential if you want to make the most of your time. This means, you’ll breeze past the crowds and head straight into the art.

The easiest way to get skip-the-line tickets is to book online through platforms like Tiqets or GetYourGuide.

They offer various options—standard skip-the-line, combo tickets, and Florence city passes. You’ll select your visit date and a timed entry slot when booking, which is required to skip the lines.

👉 Pro tip: morning slots are usually less crowded inside.

Know the best time to visit the Uffizi

The time you visit the Uffizi really can make all the difference.

The best time to visit the Uffizi with fewer crowds is between November and February. During this low tourist season, you can enjoy a quieter, more relaxed experience—even on rainy days.

From April to October, the museum is always busy, so picking the right day and time really matters.

• The best times of day to visit are early in the morning right after opening, around lunchtime (from 1 PM), or later in the afternoon (after 5 PM)—these windows are usually much quieter.
• Avoid weekends, when the museum is busiest. Midweek visits are calmer, though it's best to skip Tuesdays, as the Uffizi is closed on Mondays and often crowded the next day.
• Also avoid the first Sunday of the month—admission is free, but the crowds are intense.
  
  

We completely fell in love with this one—La Primavera by Botticelli. It’s even more stunning in person at the Uffizi!

Self-guided vs. Guided tours—What’s right for you?

Not sure whether to wander on your own or follow a guide? A self-guided visit is perfect if you prefer flexibility—you can focus on what interests you most, take breaks when you like, and go at your own pace.

But if you want to get the most out of your visit without feeling lost, a guided tour is a great choice. Expert guides can give you fascinating background on the art and artists, helping you appreciate details you might otherwise miss. Either way, having a plan makes all the difference.

Prepare for your visit so you know what to see (if visiting on your own)

If you’re an art lover (but not quite an expert), prepping for your visit to the Uffizi Gallery is a smart move. This museum is huge—and yes, we mean really huge. With thousands of artworks, it’s easy to get overwhelmed.

Most of the must-sees are on the top floor, where you could easily spend 2.5–3 hours. To make the most of it, check out the Uffizi’s official website before your visit. Their collection is laid out in chronological order, so you’ll journey through the evolution of art from the Middle Ages to the Renaissance and beyond.

One of the best ways to explore the Uffizi is with a local guide—either in a small group or on a private tour.

Many guided experiences also include other highlights like Michelangelo’s David at the Accademia or a Florence walking tour, so you get more out of your day.

Prefer to go solo? The Uffizi offers a solid audio guide, or you can download a self-guided tour to play on your phone (just don’t forget your headphones!).

Uffizi Gallery opening hours, closing days, and late-night visits (2025)

The Uffizi Gallery is open Tuesday to Sunday, from 8:15 AM to 6:30 PM. The ticket office closes at 5:30 PM, so be sure to get your ticket before then. The museum is closed on Mondays, Christmas Day, and New Year’s Day.

Bonus tip: From March 26 to December 17, the Uffizi stays open late on Tuesdays until 9:30 PM—a rare chance to enjoy the art in a quieter, evening setting.

One of the few paintings Michelangelo ever made—The Tondo Doni is so bold and sculptural, it almost feels like a painting carved in stone

Tips for a Smooth Visit to the Uffizi

When to Arrive and How Long to Stay

To beat the crowds, it’s best to arrive right at opening (8:15 AM) or later in the afternoon after 4 PM. Most visitors spend about 2 to 3 hours in the Uffizi, which is enough time to see the highlights without feeling rushed. If you’re an art lover, you could easily spend longer—just be sure to pace yourself and take breaks when needed.

What to Bring (and What to Leave Behind)

When visiting the Uffizi Gallery, pack light but smart. Bring a small bag or backpack—large bags and backpacks may not be allowed inside or might need to be checked. Don’t forget your tickets (printed or digital), ID, and a bottle of water to stay hydrated (there are water fountains inside).

Wear comfortable shoes, as you’ll be walking and standing a lot. Leave behind bulky items, selfie sticks, and large umbrellas, as these aren’t allowed inside. Also, keep your phone handy for photos (where permitted) and to access any audio guides or apps. Traveling light makes your visit smoother and more enjoyable!

Facilities and Accessibility Info

The Uffizi Gallery does a great job making sure everyone can enjoy the art. If you’re using a wheelchair, you’ll find ramps and elevators to help you get around most areas—just know that some of the older parts can be a bit tricky to access. There are also accessible restrooms to keep things comfortable.

Need to drop off a big bag? No problem! There’s a free cloakroom where you can leave larger items. Plus, there are cafés and cozy spots to take a breather when you need one.

If you’re visiting with little ones, strollers are welcome, but the museum can get crowded, so plan accordingly. And if you need any extra help, the friendly Uffizi staff are always ready to assist. Just check the official website before you go to catch the latest on accessibility and services.

Best Uffizi Gallery Tickets

4 Ways to Skip the Line at the Uffizi Gallery

1. Official Museum Tickets

To make the most of your Uffizi visit, buy tickets from official sources like the museum’s website or trusted partners. This ensures your tickets are valid and lets you choose timed entries or skip-the-line options.

Buying ahead is key—tickets often sell out fast, especially in busy months. Avoid last-minute hassle and long waits by securing your spot early!

2. Third-Party Ticket Platforms

Third-party ticket platforms like Tiqets, GetYourGuide, and Viator offer convenient ways to purchase Uffizi Gallery tickets online. These sites often provide a range of options, including skip-the-line access, guided tours, and combo tickets with other Florence attractions.

3. Private or Small Group Tours

If you want to really get the most out of your Uffizi visit, consider booking a private or small group tour. The best part? These tours always include priority entrance, so you skip the long lines and head straight inside. Plus, having a local guide means you’ll hear all the juicy stories behind the famous artworks and get to explore the highlights without feeling rushed. Whether you like a more personal private tour or the friendly vibe of a small group, it’s a great way to make your Uffizi experience unforgettable.

4. Firenze Card – Is It Worth It?

Sure! Here’s a travel blog–style text for Firenze Card – Is It Worth It?:

If you’re planning to see a lot of Florence’s top museums, you might have heard about the Firenze Card. It’s a 72-hour pass that gives you access to over 70 museums, including the Uffizi, Accademia, Palazzo Pitti, and more—with skip-the-line benefits too.

But is it worth it? If you’re a real art lover and want to pack in several museums during your stay, the Firenze Card can save you both time and money. It’s perfect for a whirlwind cultural tour. However, if you’re only planning to visit the Uffizi or a couple of museums, buying individual tickets might be cheaper and less pressure.

So, think about your itinerary and how much museum time you want. For museum buffs, the Firenze Card is a total game-changer. For a more relaxed visit, you might prefer picking tickets as you go.

Wear comfortable shoes and light clothes when visiting the Uffizi

Visiting the Uffizi with kids? See useful tips...

Wonder if visiting the Uffizi Gallery with kids is a good idea? It surely can be challenging as the museum is huge and overwhelming.

We suggest you to buy tickets for your family in advance to avoid any waiting in lines. Also, choose priority entrance tickets, which will allow you to enter the museum straight without waiting. Plus, make a list of art works you are going to see as it is not possible to see it all.

Or opt for a guided tour such as Kids treasure hunt in Uffizi - family tour that lasts for 2 hours on which your kids will discover the masterpieces through small games and riddles, or Skip-the-line Uffizi tour for families with kids with engaging games to keep kids focused.

The Uffizi day trip from Rome

Dreaming of Florence but based in Rome?

It’s easy—just hop on a Trenitalia Frecciarossa fast train early in the morning and you’ll be at Santa Maria Novella (SMN) station in just 1.5 hours.

From the station, skip the taxi and walk 20 minutes through Florence’s charming streets. It’s a beautiful stroll: head behind Basilica di Santa Maria Novella, take Via del Sole, then Via della Spada, and turn right onto Via de' Tornabuoni (hello, luxury shopping). Keep walking toward the Arno River, pass the iconic Ponte Vecchio, and you’ll find the Uffizi Gallery just ahead.

Want it all planned for you? Try Florence in a Day tour (lasts for 5 hours; starts at 9:45 AM) covering the Uffizi, Accademia, and Florence’s highlights. Easy, fun and no stress.

Finding your way to the Uffizi

This fabulous Florence's museum is situated in the very heart of the city (Piazzale degli Uffizi 6), and is easily accessible from anywhere in the city. It stands atop a hill overlooking the Arno River, offering stunning views of the surrounding area. 

The Uffizi Gallery is situated only a short walk from the Ponte Vecchio

From the Accademia

Walk southwest on Via Ricasoli until you see Piazza del Duomo. Turn right, then quickly left onto Via dei Calzaiuoli. Keep going until you reach Piazza della Signoria. Turn right on Via Vacchereccia and you'll see the Uffizi Gallery.

From Florence Santa Maria Novella train station

It's about a 20-minute walk. Take Via Cerretani to Piazza del Duomo. Then go right on Via Calzaiuoli towards Piazza della Signoria. When you see Palazzo Vecchio, go to its right side. The Uffizi is right there. The entrance is on the left, and tickets are sold on the right towards the Arno river.

From Santa Croce

Start at Basilica di Santa Croce. Take Via Antonio Magliabechi, then turn right on Corso dei Tintori. Keep going onto Via de Neri, then Via della Ninna until you get to Piazzale degli Uffizi. That's where the museum is.

From Oltrarno

It's easy to reach the Uffizi from Oltrarno. Just cross the Ponte Vecchio or Ponte Santa Trinita, and walk towards the Uffizi, which is situated on the bank of the river.

Where to stay near Florence’s Uffizi Gallery

If you want to stay near the Uffizi Gallery, Centro Storico is the obvious choice. This historic heart of Florence is packed with iconic sights and offers easy access to everything.

Here you’ll find most of the city’s 5-star hotels and great apartments—just be sure to book early for the best deals.

You'll love staying at the stylish and cosy La Casa di Chiara apartment in Florence

For a quieter, more local vibe, try Oltrarno, just across the Arno River. It’s less crowded and more affordable, with charming restaurants, wine bars, and authentic artisanal shops.

Our top pick? Casa di Chiara, a stylish, modern apartment about a 20-minute walk or short tram ride from Centro Storico. It’s beautifully equipped and the owners are incredibly friendly—you’ll feel right at home. 👉 Check it out and request a booking

Another favourite is Benci House, a boutique guesthouse just five minutes from the Uffizi. It offers spacious rooms, a lovely terrace, and a tasty breakfast served in a cozy dining room.

Right across the Arno, Borgo San Jacopo Rooms has comfy rooms and delicious breakfast with super helpful staff.

If you prefer a hotel, try Globus Urban Hotel in the San Lorenzo district, a 10-minute walk from SMN train station and close to the Duomo. The rooms are comfy, breakfasts are hearty, and the staff make it extra special.

What we love to see/do near the Uffizi?

At one corner of Piazza della Signoria, you’ll find the Loggia dei Lanzi—an open-air gallery filled with stunning sculptures like Perseus with the Head of Medusa and The Rape of the Sabine Women.

It’s free to visit and part of the Uffizi, making it a perfect spot to rest and people-watch. See where we love to eat in Florence!

Need a quick bite? Pop into the Coin department store nearby. Grab a tasty mortadella schiacciata or enjoy pizza and a drink on the outdoor terrace.

From the piazza, stroll down Via Porta Rossa for some shopping. Don’t miss Leonardo Firenze—a local gem selling delicious cantucci and other Tuscan treats.

Then follow the Arno River to Ponte alla Carraia and cross over to grab a scoop at Gelateria La Carraia—one of the best (and most affordable) gelatos in town.

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