Culture vultures make a beeline for the Piazza della Signoria, gateway to the Uffizi Gallery and the Loggia dei Lanzi. This lively square has been a popular meeting place for Florentines since the 14th century, and day or night you’re sure to find something going on.
The Uffizi (Galleria degli Uffizi) houses a priceless collection of works by the giants of the Italian Renaissance, including Botticelli, da Vinci, Caravaggio and Raphael. Originally in the private ownership of the wealthy Medici family, the collection was officially opened to the public in 1765, making it one of the first modern museums in the world. In high season in particular, the queues can be very long, so it’s worth buying an admission ticket in advance.
Many of the sculptures in the open-air arches of the adjoining Loggia dei Lanzi are replicas, the originals having been removed to museums for safe keeping. On either side of the steps are the famous Medici lions, the heraldic symbols of Florence, while Cellini’s sculpture of Perseus holding the head of Medusa is a reminder of the power that this notorious family once wielded.
Perhaps the most photographed sculpture in the world is Michelangelo’s David, which stands proudly outside the 14th-century Palazzo Vecchio, Florence’s main town hall. A replica was installed in its place when the original was moved to the Accademia Gallery (Galleria dell’Accademia) in 1873. The palace contains a remarkable collection of paintings and sculptures, and visitors can tour the sumptuously decorated private rooms of the Medici court and climb the tower for a panoramic view of the Arno and the city skyline.
The Piazza della Signoria is a popular spot for people-watching, with many lively cafés and bars where you can find a quiet corner to survey the endless parade of fashion-conscious Florentines against a backdrop of some of the city’s most exquisite buildings. The civic square which was once the scene of riots and public executions is now alive with a more cosmopolitan crowd of pleasure-seekers.
Piazza della Signoria Tours and Activities
Visit Piazza della Signoria
Tours & day trips
See all 1320 activitiesOpens in new tabSmall-Group Wine Tasting Experience in the Tuscan Countryside
Private & custom tours
See all 463 activitiesOpens in new tabE-Bike Florence Tuscany Ride with Vineyard Visit
Classes & workshops
See all 120 activitiesOpens in new tabPasta making class in Florence
Adventure & outdoor
See all 73 activitiesOpens in new tabCinque Terre and Pisa Day Trip from Florence
Attractions
See all 36 activitiesOpens in new tabUffizi Gallery Tickets with Skip-The-Line Admission
Reviews of Piazza della Signoria
5/5 - Excellent
Tram to centre of Florence is two minutes away. Terrific place
Popular places to visit
Fountain of Neptune
Learn about the local history of Florence when you take a trip to Fountain of Neptune. Discover the fascinating museums and stunning cathedral in this vibrant area.
Palazzo Vecchio
Find out about the history of Florence with a stop at Palazzo Vecchio. Discover the acclaimed art galleries and churches in this vibrant area.
Gucci Museum
Rich with history, Gucci Museum is a cultural attraction worth visiting in Florence. Amble around this vibrant area's riverfront or experience its acclaimed art galleries.
Orsanmichele
You can learn about the history of Florence with a trip to Orsanmichele. Discover the acclaimed art galleries and stunning cathedral in this vibrant area.
Uffizi Gallery
A visit to Florence’s famous art gallery will bring you face to face with some of the world’s best-loved masterpieces.
Piazza San Firenze
You can learn about the history of Florence when you stop by Piazza San Firenze. Stroll along the riverfront or visit the churches in this vibrant area.
Top Piazza della Signoria Hotel & Accommodation Deals
Check availability on hotels close to Piazza della Signoria
- Holidays and getaways similar to Piazza della Signoria
- Are there hotels near Piazza della Signoria?
- Hotels near popular Florence Attractions
- Hotels near Cathedral of Santa Maria del Fiore
- Hotels near Uffizi Gallery
- Hotels near Ponte Vecchio
- Hotels near Piazza del Duomo
- Hotels near Pitti Palace
- Hotels near Basilica of Santa Maria Novella
- Hotels near Gallery of the Academy of Florence
- Hotels near The Mall Luxury Outlet
- Hotels near Boboli Gardens