Vasari Corridor
A secret 16th-century elevated passageway connecting Florence's Uffizi to Pitti Palace, offering unique city views.
Highlights
Must-see attractions
Social
From TikTok & Reddit
Best Time
Fewer crowds, more serene
Vasari Corridor
Best Time
Fewer crowds, more serene
Highlights
Must-see attractions
A secret 16th-century elevated passageway connecting Florence's Uffizi to Pitti Palace, offering unique city views.
"Walk in the footsteps of the Medici through this historic, elevated walkway with unique views."
🎟️ Book Joint Tickets
Consider a joint ticket for the Uffizi Gallery and Vasari Corridor for a combined experience.
🚶♀️ Allow ample time
The corridor walk takes about 45 minutes, so plan your Uffizi visit accordingly.
Highlights
Discover the most iconic attractions and experiences
The Secret Medici Passage
Connecting Uffizi Gallery to Pitti Palace
Walk in the footsteps of the powerful Medici family through this historic, elevated walkway.
Ponte Vecchio Views
Above Ponte Vecchio
Experience unique, elevated perspectives of Florence's iconic Ponte Vecchio bridge.
Architectural Marvel
Throughout the corridor
Appreciate the engineering feat of this 1565 enclosed passageway, built for discreet travel.
Planning Your Visit
Book in Advance for Timed Entry
Manage Your Uffizi Visit
Best Times
Insider Tips
from TikTok, Instagram & Reddit
🎟️ Book Joint Tickets
Consider a joint ticket for the Uffizi Gallery and Vasari Corridor for a combined experience.
🚶♀️ Allow ample time
The corridor walk takes about 45 minutes, so plan your Uffizi visit accordingly.
🧐 Imagine Medici Power
Focus on the history and the Medici's power; the artwork inside is minimal.
📸 Unique Photo Ops
Capture stunning, unusual views of the Ponte Vecchio and the city.
Tips
from all over the internet
🎟️ Book Joint Tickets
Consider a joint ticket for the Uffizi Gallery and Vasari Corridor for a combined experience.
🚶♀️ Allow ample time
The corridor walk takes about 45 minutes, so plan your Uffizi visit accordingly.
🧐 Imagine Medici Power
Focus on the history and the Medici's power; the artwork inside is minimal.
📸 Unique Photo Ops
Capture stunning, unusual views of the Ponte Vecchio and the city.
What Travellers Say
Reviews Summary
Reviews for the Vasari Corridor are mixed, with some visitors finding it a unique and historically significant experience, while others feel it's overpriced for the lack of artwork. The unique views and the chance to walk a Medici-era private passage are often praised, but the slow pace and minimal interior content are common criticisms.
"It is utter nonsense to give this corridor one or two stars. First of all there is plenty of time to see the great art in the Uffizi before the appointed walk in the corridor, nobody has to be hurried at all. Second, the stroll down the corridor is intentional, and not painfully slow as some describe; to walk the hallways taken by the most powerful leaders in Italy was a complete honor. So what if the walls were bare or the sculptures were covered. Being able to tie the experience of the Uffizi with the Pitti and Boboli and completes an amazing portrait of a rare world indeed. I have been dreaming of walking this path since my first visit to Florence two decades ago and am grateful for the opportunity to finally experience it."
TJ Ennis
"An utter disappointment. It was nothing more than a recently painted corridor, with a series of busts that had been covered, awaiting an opening of sorts, and an intriguing view into a church from the corridor. We could’ve lived with this, but because the start times were so strict we ended up rushing our visit to the Ufizzi in order to get to the starting point at the proper time. There were some neat views of the bridge from the corridor, but hardly worth the fee and hurried visit of the Ufizzi."
Howard Deane
"All the reviews that tell you that it’s completely empty are true. There’s no artwork, all is modern.
But I loved the experience anyway. You can see the main roads of ancient Florence from above, you’re passing on top of the Ponte Vecchio, it’s so cool to imagine being part of the Medici family and just use this passage to go from one palace to the other.
You can see Florence as you usually don’t.
Could it be better? Yep.
Should it cost less? Yep.
But it’s still super cool."
Andrea Olivato
What People Like
What People Dislike
Frequently Asked Questions
🚇 🗺️ Getting There
The Vasari Corridor entrance is typically located within the Uffizi Gallery. You'll need to have your Uffizi tickets or a combined ticket to access it. Plan to enter the Uffizi first and follow signs or ask staff for directions to the corridor's starting point.
Yes, the Uffizi Gallery, where the Vasari Corridor begins, is easily accessible by public transport in Florence. Numerous bus lines stop near Piazza della Signoria. Walking is also a great option if you're staying in the city center.
Generally, you need a ticket that includes access to the Uffizi Gallery to visit the Vasari Corridor, as its entrance is within the gallery. Check the official Uffizi Galleries website for the most current ticketing information and any special access options.
The Vasari Corridor is a one-way passage, typically starting at the Uffizi and ending near Pitti Palace. If you wish to experience it in reverse or access Pitti Palace afterwards, you'll need to book a tour that accommodates this or plan your Uffizi visit accordingly.
Parking in central Florence can be challenging and expensive. It's recommended to use public transport or walk. If driving, look for paid parking garages like Garage Verdi or Parcheggio Santa Maria Novella, then take a bus or taxi to the Uffizi.
🎫 🎫 Tickets & Entry
Ticket prices can vary, but a joint ticket for the Uffizi Gallery and the Vasari Corridor is around 47€. Some visitors feel this is expensive for the corridor itself, noting the lack of extensive artwork inside.
Tickets for the Vasari Corridor are best purchased directly from the official @uffizigalleries website. Booking in advance is highly recommended due to limited entry and timed slots.
Yes, booking your Vasari Corridor tickets in advance is essential. The corridor has timed entry with a maximum of 25 people per group, and it's a popular attraction, especially after its reopening.
The Vasari Corridor's opening hours are typically aligned with the Uffizi Gallery's hours, but it operates on a timed entry system. It's crucial to check the official Uffizi Galleries website for the most up-to-date schedule and to book your specific time slot.
Refund policies can be strict for timed entry attractions. It's advisable to review the cancellation and refund policy on the Uffizi Galleries' website when purchasing your tickets. Missing your slot may result in forfeiture of the ticket.
🎫 🧭 Onsite Experience
The Vasari Corridor is a 750m long elevated passageway. While it offers unique views and a sense of history, some visitors note that the interior itself has minimal artwork, primarily consisting of busts and views through windows. The experience is more about imagining the Medici's private route.
The walk through the Vasari Corridor typically takes about 45 minutes. This includes time for the escort to guide the group and for visitors to take in the views.
While there is an escort who guides the group, they are not typically a full tour guide. The experience is more about the passage itself and the historical context. Some private tours might offer more in-depth commentary.
From the Vasari Corridor's windows, you can enjoy unique elevated views of Florence, including the Arno River, the Ponte Vecchio, and the surrounding cityscape. It offers a perspective rarely seen by the public.
No, the Vasari Corridor ticket typically does not include entry to Pitti Palace or Boboli Gardens. The exit from the corridor leads you outside, and you would need separate tickets to enter those attractions.
📸 📸 Photography
Photography is generally allowed inside the Vasari Corridor, but always be mindful of any specific signage or instructions from your escort. Capturing the unique views and historical atmosphere is a highlight for many visitors.
The most popular photo opportunities are the views looking out over the Ponte Vecchio and the Arno River. The unique vantage points offer a different perspective of Florence's iconic landmarks.
While general photography is usually permitted, flash photography might be restricted to protect any artworks or sensitive areas. It's best to follow the guidance of your escort and any posted rules.
Given the potentially lower light conditions inside and the need for quick shots, a camera with good low-light performance or a smartphone with a capable camera is recommended. Consider using a wider aperture to capture more light and detail.
Tripods are generally not allowed in crowded historical sites or during timed tours to avoid obstruction and ensure smooth group movement. It's best to rely on handheld photography or a monopod if absolutely necessary and permitted.
For Different Travelers
Tailored advice for your travel style
👨👩👧 Families with Kids
However, parents should be aware that the corridor itself has limited interactive exhibits or extensive artwork that might captivate very young children for the full 45-minute duration. It's best suited for families with children who have a budding interest in history or enjoy imaginative play. Consider purchasing a joint ticket with the Uffizi Gallery, as the latter offers more traditional art that might appeal to a broader range of ages.
🏛️ History Buffs & Architecture Enthusiasts
Appreciating the corridor means focusing on its historical context: the political climate, the need for security, and the architectural solutions employed by Giorgio Vasari. The views from the windows offer a unique perspective on how Florence has evolved while retaining its historical core. It's an opportunity to connect with the past on a tangible level, imagining the daily lives and movements of one of Italy's most influential dynasties.
Deep Dives
In-depth insights and expert knowledge
History and Purpose of the Vasari Corridor
+1The corridor stretches for approximately 1 kilometer (0.6 miles) and passes through various significant Florentine landmarks. It notably runs above the shops on the Ponte Vecchio, a unique architectural feature that allowed the Medici to observe the city from above. Along its length, the corridor also passes through the Uffizi Gallery and the Church of Santa Felicita, offering glimpses into these historic spaces. The construction was a testament to Renaissance engineering and the Medici's desire for both convenience and security.
After years of closure for extensive renovations and restoration, the Vasari Corridor has recently reopened to the public, offering a rare glimpse into this historical artery of power. While the interior is noted for its historical significance rather than extensive artwork, the experience of walking through this secret passage provides a unique connection to Florence's past and the lives of its most influential rulers.
The Visitor Experience: What to Expect
The main attractions within the corridor are the views it provides. Looking out from its windows, you get unparalleled, elevated sights of the Ponte Vecchio, the Arno River, and the bustling Florentine streets below. This offers a different way to see the city, imagining the Medici family using this passage centuries ago. Some sections may feature busts or historical displays, but the emphasis is on the journey and the architectural significance.
It's important to manage expectations: the Vasari Corridor is not a traditional art gallery. Visitors who appreciate history, unique viewpoints, and the concept of a 'secret passage' often find the experience highly rewarding. Those expecting a vast collection of paintings might be underwhelmed, but the historical immersion and the distinct views are widely considered worthwhile.
Social
from TikTok, Instagram & Reddit