Vasari Corridor
Walk through history in the Vasari Corridor, a 16th-century passage designed by Giorgio Vasari for the powerful Medici family, connecting Florence’s Uffizi Gallery and Pitti Palace. Home to a collection of ancient sculptures, the corridor also offers stunning views of the Arno River and the Ponte Vecchio. You can access the corridor with a special Uffizi Gallery ticket.
- Begin your visit at the Uffizi Gallery and spend two hours exploring masterpieces by Botticelli, Michelangelo, and Leonardo da Vinci.
- Then, walk through the Vasari Corridor, a 1km secret passage connecting the Pitti Palace and Palazzo Vecchio.
- Discover the fascinating history of the corridor, originally constructed for the safety of the Medici family and adorned with frescoed walls and sculptures.
- Experience a unique view of Florence from the Corridor’s windows, offering glimpses of the Arno River, Ponte Vecchio, and iconic squares.
- End your 45-minute exploration at the Buontalenti Grotto, where the corridor finishes, and exit through the Ammannati Courtyard.
More details
- Begin your visit at the Uffizi Gallery and spend two hours exploring masterpieces by Botticelli, Michelangelo, and Leonardo da Vinci.
- Then, walk through the Vasari Corridor, a 1km secret passage connecting the Pitti Palace and Palazzo Vecchio.
- Discover the fascinating history of the corridor, originally constructed for the safety of the Medici family and adorned with frescoed walls and sculptures.
- Experience a unique view of Florence from the Corridor’s windows, offering glimpses of the Arno River, Ponte Vecchio, and iconic squares.
- End your 45-minute exploration at the Buontalenti Grotto, where the corridor finishes, and exit through the Ammannati Courtyard.
Pro tips to help you make a pick
In order to access the Vasari Corridor, you must book tickets to the Uffizi Gallery that specifically includes a 40-minute walk through the corridor.
Your expert guide will provide context before you enter the corridor, and the walk through will involve only whisper communication. Save your questions for after the tour.
This is an exclusive experience with limited space so be sure to book your tickets well in advance, especially if you're planning to visit during the weekends or peak summer months.
Top things to do in Florence
About Vasari Corridor
The Vasari Corridor is a hidden elevated passage in Florence, Italy, connecting the Uffizi Gallery to the Pitti Palace. Built in 1565 by Giorgio Vasari, it allowed Medici rulers safe, private transit.
The Vasari Corridor was built in 1565 by Giorgio Vasari at the request of Duke Cosimo I de’ Medici. Its purpose was to allow the Medici family to move discreetly and securely between their residences at Palazzo Vecchio and Palazzo Pitti, bypassing the crowded streets of Florence.
One of the most iconic sections of the corridor passes above the Ponte Vecchio, Florence’s historic bridge, with panoramic views over the Arno River. While the bridge below is lined with shops, the corridor above provided a private walkway filled with hidden windows.
The corridor houses an extensive collection of self-portraits by renowned artists, including Rembrandt, Velázquez, and Rubens. These works are part of the Uffizi Gallery's collection, making the corridor both a historical site and an art gallery.
Remarkably, the Vasari Corridor survived the bombings of World War II. While much of Florence was damaged, German troops spared the corridor during their retreat in 1944, leaving it largely intact. This act preserved an important piece of Renaissance history.
Why visit Vasari Corridor?
Stunning hidden views of Florence
The corridor provides exclusive vantage points of Florence, including the Arno River, Ponte Vecchio, and the city’s historic skyline. These views are unique to the corridor and cannot be experienced from the regular tourist paths.
Exceptional art collection
Vasari Corridor is home to an extraordinary collection of self-portraits by some of the world’s most famous artists, such as Rembrandt, Velázquez, and Rubens.
Connection between two iconic landmarks
The corridor connects the Uffizi Gallery to Pitti Palace, passing through key landmarks like the Ponte Vecchio. This makes it a perfect way to explore Florence’s cultural and architectural treasures in one seamless experience.
Plan your visit
Nearby cities to explore
World at your tap.
Get the Headout app to get tickets on your phone and access app-only deals. Talk about win-win.
