Palazzo Pitti: Florence Palace, Palatine Gallery & Boboli Gardens
Welcome to the Pitti Palace — a must-see gem in the heart of Florence! And one of the best things to do in Florence. This gorgeous palace was once the lavish home of the powerful Medici family and later the residence of every Grand Duke of Tuscany.
Originally built by the ambitious Luca Pitti in the 15th century, the palace now houses incredible treasures like the Palatine Gallery and is just a short stroll from the Uffizi.
And let’s not forget the dreamy Boboli Gardens right behind it — the perfect spot for a royal-style wander.
- Updated on
Whether you’re a history buff or just here for the pretty views, the Pitti Palace is full of stories and beauty. Ready to explore what’s behind those grand doors? Keep reading — there’s so much to discover!
Author
Welcome!
Welcome to Florence Awaits!
My name is Allie.
Italy is one of my favorite countries to visit in Europe, especially Florence!
I love everything the city has to offer. From the architecture to the most delicious food and wine, Florence has it all. So, come with me on this beautiful journey through Florence.
Allie
Tickets & Tours
Best tours, tickets & activities:
Tickets to Palazzo Pitti: Single museum ticket: 16 euros via the offical website. Ticket prices vary via “Get Your Guide.”
Combo ticket (Palazzo Pitti + Boboli Gardens): 22 euros via the official website. Via “Get Your Guide” 78 euros.
Adress:
Piazza de’ Pitti, 1, 50125 Firenze FI, Italy
Transportation:
From Santa Maria Novella station: Bus C4 from “Stazione Scalette” (~12 min), or ~18 min walk via Ponte Vecchio
Nearby:
Boboli Gardens: directly behind the palace
Uffizi Gallery, Vasari Corridor, Ponte Vecchio: just across the Arno
Ponte Vecchio & Piazza della Signoria – Short walk north across the river.
Recommended exploration time:
Plan at least 4-5 hours
Nearby Sights (optional add-ons):
Uffizi: 1.5-2.5 hours
Accademia: 1 hour
Wander nearby squares & Ponte Vecchio: 1-2 hours
Opening hours:
Tuesday–Sunday: 8:15 AM – 6:30 PM (last entry ~5:30 PM)
Closed: Mondays, Christmas Day (Dec 25), New Year’s Day (Jan 1), May Day
A Quick Peek into Palazzo Pitti’s Royal Past
Let’s rewind to the 15th century when a rich banker named Luca Pitti had a vision: build a palace so grand it would outshine anything in Florence, even Palazzo Vecchio!
He commissioned Filippo Brunelleschi, the mastermind behind Florence’s famous Duomo, to design it. Though Brunelleschi sadly died before it was finished, the original layout is still credited to his genius. Construction began around 1458, and the palace was completed in stages over many years.
In 1549, the powerful Medici family bought the palace, and that’s when its story really took off. Under the Medici — especially Cosimo I de’ Medici and his glamorous wife Eleonora of Toledo — the building grew into a luxurious residence that reflected their massive wealth and political power.
Later, the Lorraine dynasty and even the House of Savoy called this place home. So yes, you’re walking through a building that hosted some seriously bougie dinner parties.
Click for Uffizi, Pitti Palace, & Boboli Gardens 5- day pass!
Architectural Beauty & the Courtyard
The courtyard inside the palace is a stunner in itself. The elegant arcades and stone facades were expanded by Bartolomeo Ammannati, one of Florence’s top architects in the 16th century. As you pass through it, you’ll feel the scale and sophistication of the Medici’s vision.
Inside the Pitti Palace: A World of Museums
Inside the Pitti Palace: A World of Museums
What makes Palazzo Pitti truly unique is that it isn’t just one museum — it’s a palace filled with several museums, each with its own flavor. Let’s break it down so you know what to expect during your tour of Palazzo Pitti.
1. Galleria Palatina (Palatine Gallery)
This is the crown jewel of the palace, located on the first floor. The Palatine Gallery (or Galleria Palatina) is where you’ll find rooms dripping with gold, frescoes, and an impressive collection of Renaissance masterpieces. You’ll see works by Raphael, Titian, Caravaggio, and even Filippo Lippi, all hung in the grand style — no boring white walls here!
Don’t forget to look up. The ceiling frescoes by Pietro da Cortona are next-level. They tell dramatic stories of ancient gods and heroes, and were painted to dazzle the Medici’s guests. It worked on me — I was speechless.
2. The Royal Apartments
Attached to the Palatine Gallery, the Royal Apartments give you a glimpse into how the Medici, the Lorraine, and the Savoy actually lived. Velvet drapes, grand chandeliers, and ornate beds line the rooms. There’s even furniture used by King Victor Emmanuel II!
3. The Gallery of Modern Art
On the top floor, you’ll find the Gallery of Modern Art, which is a peaceful contrast to the baroque drama below. It showcases 18th- to early 20th-century Italian works, including those by artists from the Macchiaioli movement, often referred to as the Italian Impressionists. Their loose brushwork and soft color palettes really stand out after all that gold and grandeur.
4. The Silver Museum (a.k.a. Treasury of the Grand Dukes)
On the ground floor, head to the Silver Museum, also called the Treasury of the Grand Dukes. It’s a glittering display of Medici jewels, ceremonial objects, ancient vases, and finely crafted tableware. You’ll also see exotic items from Asia and the Islamic world — a reminder of the Medici’s global connections.
5. Museum of Costume and Fashion (Costume Gallery)
Fashionistas, rejoice! The Museum of Costume and Fashion is an absolute treat, and one that holds particular interest for me, given my background in fashion. Located in a separate wing, this gallery features historical garments, theatrical costumes, and haute couture pieces. From Medici gowns to 20th-century Italian fashion, it’s fascinating to see how style has evolved over time. I especially loved the delicate lacework on the gowns — imagine wearing those in the Tuscan summer heat!
6. Porcelain Museum & Carriages Museum
If you still have energy, pop over to the Porcelain Museum, tucked inside the gardens, for gorgeous European porcelain (think dainty tea sets and ornate vases). Nearby, the Carriages Museum showcases elegant royal vehicles — yes, real horse-drawn carriages!
The Boboli Gardens: Florence’s Green Heart
Right behind the palace, the Boboli Gardens stretch out over the hillside in elegant, manicured beauty. They were designed in the 16th century and later expanded by the Medici family, with Giovanni de’ Medici serving as a key patron of art and nature. These gardens set the standard for royal European landscaping and served as the prototype for places like Versailles.
The gardens are full of surprises — shady grottos, fountains, marble statues, and even a hidden amphitheater. I brought a picnic (highly recommend) and lounged under a cypress tree with a view of the Florence skyline. Heaven!
Insider Tip: Take a Guided Tour
There’s so much packed into this one palace that a guided tour is the best way to experience it. You’ll hear fun tidbits about Lorenzo de’ Medici, how the Galleria Palatina got its start, and juicy stories about Medici rivalries. Many guides even throw in visits to hidden rooms or point out fresco details you might miss.
Final Thoughts
Whether you’re a Renaissance art lover, a royal history fan, or someone who simply enjoys getting lost in a magical place, Palazzo Pitti is an unforgettable stop. With so many museums, gorgeous gardens, and centuries of history under one grand roof, it’s more than just a palace in Florence — it’s a time capsule of Tuscan luxury. So pack your camera, wear comfy shoes, and get ready to feel like a Medici — just with a bit more sunscreen.
Buon viaggio!
FAQs About Palazzo Pitti
What is the best time to visit Palazzo Pitti and the Boboli Gardens?
Weekday mornings are the best! It’s quieter, cooler, and easier to explore without the crowds.
How long does a full visit take?
Plan for at least 4–5 hours if you want to explore all the museums and take a relaxed stroll through the Boboli Gardens. You can spend longer if you love art or photography!
Is Palazzo Pitti part of the Uffizi ticket?
Sometimes! The Uffizi, Palazzo Pitti, and Boboli Gardens are part of the same museum network. Look for combo tickets when booking to save time and money.
What’s on the ground floor of Palazzo Pitti?
The Silver Museum (or Treasury of the Grand Dukes) is located here, featuring stunning decorative arts, jewelry, and vases.
Who designed Palazzo Pitti?
Filippo Brunelleschi is widely believed to be the original architect, though his student Luca Fancelli likely helped bring the vision to life.
Are there any famous paintings inside the palace?
Absolutely! Works by Raphael, Caravaggio, Titian, Filippo Lippi, and Bartolomeo are part of the impressive collection in the Palatine Gallery.
Can I visit just the gardens without entering the palace?
Yes! There’s a separate ticket for the Boboli Gardens, perfect for a peaceful afternoon in the sunshine.
Allie
Hey everyone! I’m Allie, and I love great Italian food and the relaxed atmosphere in Florence! My favorite thing to do is people watching at a local cafe while drinking a glass of vino!
Did you know that …
By purchasing through my links, you support me at no additional cost.
Thank you for your support. ♥️
via GetYourGuide
Hotels in Florence
via Booking.com
Flights to Florence
via Skyscanner
Be sure to also check out: