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How to visit Palazzo Pitti

Visiting Palazzo Pitti offers an immersive journey into the grandeur of Renaissance Florence. From opulent royal apartments to exquisite art-filled galleries, lush gardens, and hidden chambers, every corner reveals the lifestyle, tastes, and ambitions of the Medici and Lorraine families. Planning your visit allows you to fully experience the palace’s masterpieces, architectural splendor, and the serene beauty of the Boboli Gardens, making Palazzo Pitti one of the most captivating cultural destinations in the city.

Navigating your way

Palazzo pitti area view

Timed entry

Booking your tickets in advance allows you to skip the lines and enter the palace more quickly. This is especially useful during peak season, helping you make the most of your visit and enjoy a smoother, more relaxed experience.

Visitors exploring statues and chandeliers in the Palatine Gallery, Pitti Palace, Florence.

Explore the palace

Make your way through the Palatine Gallery and into the Royal Apartments, noticing how each room reveals a different layer of Medici and Lorraine style. The progression from grand reception halls to more personal living spaces gives a clear sense of courtly life across centuries.

Boboli Gardens obelisk and amphitheater with visitors walking, Florence, Italy.

Key highlights

Be sure to spend time with the Palatine Gallery’s Renaissance masterworks, admire the ornate furnishings and ceiling frescoes of the Royal Apartments, and leave time to wander the Boboli Gardens, where terraces, sculptures, and shaded pathways offer space to unwind and take in Florence from above.

Visitors walking through the arcade of the Uffizi Gallery in Florence, Italy.

Nearby insights

A visit to Palazzo Pitti pairs perfectly with a walk to the nearby Ponte Vecchio, Uffizi Gallery, and Piazza della Signoria. Exploring these sites together provides a fuller understanding of Florence’s history, art, and cultural heritage.

Where is Palazzo Pitti located?

Address: Piazza de' Pitti, 1, 50125 Firenze FI, Italy

Palazzo Pitti is located in Florence, Italy, on the south side of the Arno River. It is situated in the Oltrarno district, which is known for its artistic heritage, charming streets, and lively atmosphere. The palace is easily accessible by public transport, car, or on foot, and is within walking distance of other popular attractions, such as the Boboli Gardens, the Uffizi Gallery, and Ponte Vecchio.

Best way to find & reach Pitti Palace

How to get to Palazzo Pitti?

By Public Transport

By public transport

By bus: Take lines 11, 36, C4 and C3. The nearest bus stop is called "Pitti" and is located on Via de' Guicciardini.

By tram: Take the T1 tram line and get off at the "Unità" stop. From there, it's a short walk to the Palazzo Pitti.

By train: You can take a train on line R and stop Florence Santa Maria Novella train station. From there it's a short walk.

By Car

By car

If you are traveling by car to Palazzo Pitti, keep in mind that the palace is located in the historic center of Florence, and parking can be challenging. There are several parking options available:

  • Garage Lungarno (350 meters from Palazzo Pitti)
  • Garage delle Terme (650 meters from Palazzo Pitti)
  • Porta Romana Parking Lot (850 meters from Palazzo Pitti)
  • Oltrarno Parking Garage (1 kilometer from Palazzo Pitti)

Know before you go to Palazzo Pitti

There is one main entrance and several other for specific areas inside the Pitti Palace.

  • The main entrance, which is located on the south side of the palace and leads to the courtyard. From here, visitors can access the Palatine Gallery, Royal Apartments, and other museums within the palace.
  • The accessible entrance with rental wheelchairs and walkers located on the left side of courtyards.
  • The entrance to the Costume Gallery, which is located in the Palazzina della Meridiana, adjacent to the Pitti Palace's southern wing.
  • The entrance to the Boboli Gardens, is accessible via Pitti Palace courtyard. There's also a separate entrance via Romana on the right side of Pitti Palace.
Reserved Parking
  • The palace has several ramps and elevators, providing access to all floors and exhibition areas. 
  • Palazzo Pitti offers free loan of wheelchairs to visitors with disabilities. Wheelchairs can be requested at the main entrance.
  • There are accessible restrooms available for visitors with disabilities throughout the palace and in the gardens.
  • Audio guides are available for rent at the main entrance. The audio guides also have a special mode for visitors with visual impairments.
  • Assistance dogs are allowed in the palace and the gardens.
  • Reserved parking spaces for visitors with disabilities are available in the Parterre Parking Garage, located near the palace.
Restrooms
  • Restrooms: There are restrooms available throughout the palace and in the gardens.
  • Cafes and Restaurants: Palazzo Pitti has several cafes and restaurants including the Palazzina della Meridiana Cafe, the Buontalenti Grotto Cafe, and the Terrace Cafe in the Boboli Gardens.
  • Bookshop: The Palazzo Pitti Bookshop, near the main entrance, offers a wide range of books, guides, and souvenirs related to the palace and its collections.
  • Audio Guides: Audio guides are available for rent at the main entrance, providing visitors with a self-guided tour of the palace and its collections.
  • Cloakrooms: Free storage services available on the right side of the court. Umbrellas, big bags and backpacks can be stored. 
  • Baby Pit-Stops: On the right side of the court, in the basement, is a designated area where nursing mothers can change, relax, and rest.
  • Wi-Fi: Free Wi-Fi is available throughout the palace and the gardens.
Palazzo Pitti
  • Reach the Palazzo Pitti premises at least 15 minutes before it opens to gain entry when the palace isn’t crowded.
  • Opt for the guided tour, if available, so that you don’t miss the important facts about Palazzo Pitti. With a history as fascinating and the palace as vast as Pitti's you'll not regret it!
  • A full 140 rooms, housing a number of important museums and galleries, research beforehand and plan accordingly. The Palatine Gallery, which holds an impressive collection of Renaissance masterpieces, including works by artists Raphael, Titian and Rubens, is the most famous. Visitors can also tour the sumptuous Royal Apartments, Silver Museum, Porcelain Museum, Carriage Museum, and Costume Gallery. The palazzo even houses a Modern Art Gallery, highlighting Italian painters from the 18th to early-20th centuries.
  • If you're into history, particularly interested in the Medici dynasty, consider joining a walking tour of Florence covering the Renaissance monuments built during the reign of the Medici family.
  • The Boboli Gardens offer a peaceful retreat from the hustle and bustle of the city. Take a stroll through the gardens to enjoy the fresh air and beautiful scenery.

Frequently asked questions about visiting Palazzo Pitti

Is Palazzo Pitti worth visiting?

Yes, Palazzo Pitti is worth visiting. It is a stunning palace with various museums and galleries, including the Palatine Gallery, the Royal Apartments, the Gallery of Modern Art, and the Costume Gallery. It houses an impressive collection of Renaissance and early Baroque paintings, with masterpieces by Raphael, Titian, and Rubens.

How long should I spend at Palazzo Pitti?

To fully experience Palazzo Pitti, plan to spend at least half a day there. The Palatine Gallery and the Gallery of Modern Art alone can take a few hours to explore. Additionally, the Boboli Gardens and the Royal Apartments are also worth visiting.

How can I reach the Palazzo Pitti from the city center?

​Palazzo Pitti is located on the south side of the Arno River in Florence and pretty close to Florence city center. You can reach it by crossing the Ponte Vecchio, the 'old bridge', and walking a short distance.

Can I visit the Palazzo Pitti for free?

No, Palazzo Pitti charges an admission fee, and you will need to book tickets to be able to access the museum.

How can I optimize my visit to the Palazzo Pitti for a more personal and less crowded experience?

To have a more personal and less crowded experience, consider visiting Palazzo Pitti during the off-peak season, such as in the fall or winter, and avoid weekends and holidays. Additionally, visiting in the late afternoon or early evening may also result in fewer crowds.

Can I visit the Pitti Palace with kids?

Yes, Palazzo Pitti is a family-friendly destination. Children under 18 years old can enter for free, and there are several exhibits, such as the Treasury of the Grand Dukes and the Museum of Costume and Fashion, that may interest them.

Can I visit the Palazzo Pitti in a group?

Yes, Palazzo Pitti allows groups to visit. Some guided tours are also available for groups.

Is Palazzo Pitti wheelchair friendly?

The Palazzo Pitti is accessible for visitors with disabilities, with a ramp and accessible entrance.

What should I wear when visiting the Pitti Palace?

Dress appropriately for the formal setting of the museum, avoiding bathing costumes, skimpy clothing, wedding dresses, period costumes, or any other fancy dress undignified for such places. It is also forbidden to walk barefoot or bare-chested in the museum.

Is photography permitted inside the Pitti Palace?

Yes, photography is allowed inside the Pitti Palace, including the Palatine Gallery and the Royal and Imperial Apartments. However, the use of flash is not allowed to prevent damage to the artworks.

More reads

About

History

Inside Palazzo Pitti

Inside

Know before you go to Palazzo Pitti

There is one main entrance and several other for specific areas inside the Pitti Palace.

  • The main entrance, which is located on the south side of the palace and leads to the courtyard. From here, visitors can access the Palatine Gallery, Royal Apartments, and other museums within the palace.
  • The accessible entrance with rental wheelchairs and walkers located on the left side of courtyards.
  • The entrance to the Costume Gallery, which is located in the Palazzina della Meridiana, adjacent to the Pitti Palace's southern wing.
  • The entrance to the Boboli Gardens, is accessible via Pitti Palace courtyard. There's also a separate entrance via Romana on the right side of Pitti Palace.
Reserved Parking
  • The palace has several ramps and elevators, providing access to all floors and exhibition areas. 
  • Palazzo Pitti offers free loan of wheelchairs to visitors with disabilities. Wheelchairs can be requested at the main entrance.
  • There are accessible restrooms available for visitors with disabilities throughout the palace and in the gardens.
  • Audio guides are available for rent at the main entrance. The audio guides also have a special mode for visitors with visual impairments.
  • Assistance dogs are allowed in the palace and the gardens.
  • Reserved parking spaces for visitors with disabilities are available in the Parterre Parking Garage, located near the palace.
Restrooms
  • Restrooms: There are restrooms available throughout the palace and in the gardens.
  • Cafes and Restaurants: Palazzo Pitti has several cafes and restaurants including the Palazzina della Meridiana Cafe, the Buontalenti Grotto Cafe, and the Terrace Cafe in the Boboli Gardens.
  • Bookshop: The Palazzo Pitti Bookshop, near the main entrance, offers a wide range of books, guides, and souvenirs related to the palace and its collections.
  • Audio Guides: Audio guides are available for rent at the main entrance, providing visitors with a self-guided tour of the palace and its collections.
  • Cloakrooms: Free storage services available on the right side of the court. Umbrellas, big bags and backpacks can be stored. 
  • Baby Pit-Stops: On the right side of the court, in the basement, is a designated area where nursing mothers can change, relax, and rest.
  • Wi-Fi: Free Wi-Fi is available throughout the palace and the gardens.
Palazzo Pitti
  • Reach the Palazzo Pitti premises at least 15 minutes before it opens to gain entry when the palace isn’t crowded.
  • Opt for the guided tour, if available, so that you don’t miss the important facts about Palazzo Pitti. With a history as fascinating and the palace as vast as Pitti's you'll not regret it!
  • A full 140 rooms, housing a number of important museums and galleries, research beforehand and plan accordingly. The Palatine Gallery, which holds an impressive collection of Renaissance masterpieces, including works by artists Raphael, Titian and Rubens, is the most famous. Visitors can also tour the sumptuous Royal Apartments, Silver Museum, Porcelain Museum, Carriage Museum, and Costume Gallery. The palazzo even houses a Modern Art Gallery, highlighting Italian painters from the 18th to early-20th centuries.
  • If you're into history, particularly interested in the Medici dynasty, consider joining a walking tour of Florence covering the Renaissance monuments built during the reign of the Medici family.
  • The Boboli Gardens offer a peaceful retreat from the hustle and bustle of the city. Take a stroll through the gardens to enjoy the fresh air and beautiful scenery.

Frequently asked questions about visiting Palazzo Pitti

Is Palazzo Pitti worth visiting?

Yes, Palazzo Pitti is worth visiting. It is a stunning palace with various museums and galleries, including the Palatine Gallery, the Royal Apartments, the Gallery of Modern Art, and the Costume Gallery. It houses an impressive collection of Renaissance and early Baroque paintings, with masterpieces by Raphael, Titian, and Rubens.

How long should I spend at Palazzo Pitti?

To fully experience Palazzo Pitti, plan to spend at least half a day there. The Palatine Gallery and the Gallery of Modern Art alone can take a few hours to explore. Additionally, the Boboli Gardens and the Royal Apartments are also worth visiting.

How can I reach the Palazzo Pitti from the city center?

​Palazzo Pitti is located on the south side of the Arno River in Florence and pretty close to Florence city center. You can reach it by crossing the Ponte Vecchio, the 'old bridge', and walking a short distance.

Can I visit the Palazzo Pitti for free?

No, Palazzo Pitti charges an admission fee, and you will need to book tickets to be able to access the museum.

How can I optimize my visit to the Palazzo Pitti for a more personal and less crowded experience?

To have a more personal and less crowded experience, consider visiting Palazzo Pitti during the off-peak season, such as in the fall or winter, and avoid weekends and holidays. Additionally, visiting in the late afternoon or early evening may also result in fewer crowds.

Can I visit the Pitti Palace with kids?

Yes, Palazzo Pitti is a family-friendly destination. Children under 18 years old can enter for free, and there are several exhibits, such as the Treasury of the Grand Dukes and the Museum of Costume and Fashion, that may interest them.

Can I visit the Palazzo Pitti in a group?

Yes, Palazzo Pitti allows groups to visit. Some guided tours are also available for groups.

Is Palazzo Pitti wheelchair friendly?

The Palazzo Pitti is accessible for visitors with disabilities, with a ramp and accessible entrance.

What should I wear when visiting the Pitti Palace?

Dress appropriately for the formal setting of the museum, avoiding bathing costumes, skimpy clothing, wedding dresses, period costumes, or any other fancy dress undignified for such places. It is also forbidden to walk barefoot or bare-chested in the museum.

Is photography permitted inside the Pitti Palace?

Yes, photography is allowed inside the Pitti Palace, including the Palatine Gallery and the Royal and Imperial Apartments. However, the use of flash is not allowed to prevent damage to the artworks.

More reads

About

History

Inside Palazzo Pitti

Inside