Signoria square: Tickets and Tours

The Piazza della Signoria, or Signoria Square, has been the beating heart of Florence since Roman times. The square is a must-see for art and history lovers with its palaces, museums, open-air sculptures and fountain. Delve into the past of Tuscany’s capital with a Signoria Square tour in Florence.

Continue reading to find out more about visiting Signoria Square, one of the most captivating attractions in Florence.

What are the best Signoria Square tours in Florence?

Children’s Signoria Square tours

Give your kids an hour of discovery with a tour of the square that's designed for children. The tours introduce the myths behind the many statues found in the square. Guides are skilled at piquing the interest of kids of all ages while keeping the myths from being too frightening or graphic for the youngest participants.

Are there any combined tours available?

Private Signoria Square tours plus Palazzo Vecchio

With the sheer quantity of amazing places to see in Florence, a quick day tour that skims from one site to the next can leave you wanting. Enlist a private guide for an in-depth exploration of the Signorina Square. With only your group to provide for, you’re guaranteed the guide’s full attention.

Take in the immensity of the piazza with its eye-catching Fountain of Neptune before venturing into the Palazzo Vecchio, a former Medici home. After the grandeur of the palace, step into the gallery-like piazza. Stroll among the statues of the Loggia dei Lanzi and learn the backstory of the other centuries-old structures that line the square.

What will you see at Signoria Square?

Palaces and museums

While the square’s best-known attraction is the Palazzo Vecchio, this pocket of Florence boasts several other monuments that display Italian art and national treasures that span over a millennium. The buildings are prime examples of pre-Renaissance architecture and are worth a peek inside.

Peer up at the Palazzo Vecchio’s 90-meter tower, learn the history of the nearby Palazzo Gondi, the Bargello Museum and the Palazzo Uguccioni. After your tour, treat yourself to tickets for the museum to spy the works of Tuscan artists plus a room dedicated to Michelangelo’s work. Climb to Gondi’s rooftop terrace for peerless city views.

Statues

Walk among centuries-old statues in Signoria Square’s outdoor art gallery. The piazza encloses a large number of dramatic open-air statues and others sheltered under the Loggia dei Lanzi’s arcade.

With pieces dating from as far back as the 1st century, the mainly medieval and Renaissance sculptures of the Loggia depict various Roman and Greek myths. Outside of the covered archways, glimpse depictions of biblical characters and powerful Florentine leaders, as well as a copy of the statue of David.

Where in Florence is Signoria Square?

The Signoria Square is centrally located in Florence, just a 5-minute walk from the Ponte Vecchio. Many of Florence's other major attractions are in walking distance, including the Uffizi Gallery and the Duomo.

Is Signoria Square wheelchair friendly?

The Signoria Square is a flat and open square and will be easily accessible to wheelchair users and their companions.

When is the best time to visit Signoria Square?

The best time to visit Signoria Square is during the spring (April to June) and autumn (September and October). During these periods, the weather is usually mild and pleasant, which makes it comfortable for outdoor sightseeing. You'll also avoid the heat and crowds of the peak summer season.

As for the best time of the day to visit, it largely depends on what you want to experience. In the morning, you can avoid the midday bustle, while the late afternoon provides the best lighting for photography. Visit in the evening to soak up the piazza's lively atmosphere.

Travel tips

• Before visiting, do a bit of research about the historical significance of the square and its statues to truly appreciate their importance. Some key features are Palazzo Vecchio, the Fountain of Neptune, and the Loggia dei Lanzi which houses an open-air sculpture gallery.
• If you're planning on spending much of your time in Florence visiting its famous outdoor squares, make sure you wear comfortable footwear and weather-appropriate clothing. Sunscreen and a hat are a must in summer.
• Take your time and enjoy the atmosphere of the square. Sit at one of the surrounding cafes, enjoy an Italian coffee or gelato, and watch the world go by.