Medici Chapels: Tickets and Tours
4.6The Medici Chapels are one of the Uffizi group of museums in Florence, and are part of the complex of San Lorenzo, which also includes the Basilica of San Lorenzo. These chapels are the final resting place of the historically prominent Medici family.
A visit to the Medici Chapels is worthwhile not just because of the magnificent work of Michelangelo, but also because they hold a significant place in the history, culture and reawakening of the city of Florence during the Renaissance period.
The Medici Chapels are one of the Uffizi group of museums in Florence, and are part of the complex of San Lorenzo, which also includes the Basilica of San Lorenzo. These chapels are the final resting place of the historically prominent Medici family.
A visit to the Medici Chapels is worthwhile not just because of the magnificent work of Michelangelo, but also because they hold a significant place in the history, culture and reawakening of the city of Florence during the Renaissance period.
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The Medici Chapels are one of the Uffizi group of museums in Florence, and are part of the complex of San Lorenzo, which also includes the Basilica of San Lorenzo. These chapels are the final resting place of the historically prominent Medici family.
A visit to the Medici Chapels is worthwhile not just because of the magnificent work of Michelangelo, but also because they hold a significant place in the history, culture and reawakening of the city of Florence during the Renaissance period.
Here's all you need to know about Medici Chapels, one of the most exciting museums in Florence.
What are the prices of Medici Chapels tickets?
- Full price ticket (age 18 and above): €17 per person
- Reduced ticket (European Citizens aged 18-25 years): €11
- Child ticket (age 6-17 years): Free
These rates include the pre-sale service and online service fees. Entry to temporary exhibitions may incur a surcharge.
Who qualifies for discounts?
People with disabilities and their accompanying carer qualify for free entry, providing they have the necessary medical documentation of the disability. No reservation is needed and they will be assisted upon arrival.
European citizens between the age of 18 and 25 qualify for a discounted ticket, but will need to provide proof of identity and age.
Who qualifies for free entry?
All visitors under the age of 18 years can enter for free, but children under the age of 12 years must be accompanied by an adult.
Should you book in advance?
Tickets can be booked through the official Florence Museum website. As the site is a very popular attraction, it is advisable to book online and you may be asked to select an alternative booking time or date should there not be availability for your first date of preference.
What types of Medici Chapels tours are available?
If possible, you should endeavor to visit the Medici Chapels on a guided tour. Your guide will not only point out the remarkable features of the buildings, but also tell you stories about their construction and of the wealthy family whose remains are interred at this site.
Guided Tour
You can choose between a small group or private tour of the Medici Chapels. On a guided tour, you have the knowledge of an expert at your fingertips to learn all about the many magnificent pieces on display, as well as the history of the museum and the artists who created the works.
A pre-booked tour allows you priority access and you will be sure to see all of the treasures that make the Bargello one of Italy’s most-loved museums.
Combo Tours
There are several choices of combo tours that combine a visit to the Medici Chapels with visits to other attractions or tours. A Medici family heritage tour, the Accademia Gallery, and San Lorenzo Square are commonly combined with a Medici Chapels tour.
What are the highlights at the Medici Chapels?
The Medici Crypt, the Chapel of the Princes, and Michelangelo’s New Sacristy are all part of the Medici Chapels Museum. The museum also exhibits the Treasure of the San Lorenzo Basilica, which includes an array of Renaissance and Baroque liturgical items and reliquaries crafted by goldsmiths of those eras.
A journey through the chapels begins with the expansive Crypt, the final resting place of the Medici family. This leads to the Chapel of the Princes, resplendent with semi-precious stones and rare marble inlays, all crowned by an expansive frescoed dome.
The construction of this chapel was initiated by architect Matteo Nigetti in 1604, and spanned over two centuries.
Between 1520 and 1534, Michelangelo created the exquisite decorations for the New Sacristy. This included funerary monuments for the Medici family, an endeavor Michelangelo began before departing for Rome. The New Sacristy, as it is seen today, was completed and arranged by Giorgio Vasari and Bartolomeo Ammannati.
The Chapel of the Princes houses the sarcophagi of six Medici Grand Dukes, two colossal gilded bronze statues, and sixteen coats of arms of Tuscan towns crafted from semi-precious stones, mother-of-pearl, lapis lazuli, and coral.
The New Sacristy features Michelangelo's sculptural masterpieces, including the tombs of Lorenzo Duke of Urbino and Giuliano Duke of Nemours, and the Madonna and Child on the tomb of Lorenzo the Magnificent and his brother Giuliano.
How do you get to the Medici Chapels?
The Medici Chapels are part of the San Lorenzo complex, located at the Piazza Madonna degli Aldobrandini. This area is part of the “Medici Mile” and is close to many of Florence’s other notable attractions.
You can walk or use a tram or taxi to reach the Basilica complex. The tram route begins at Alamanni-Stazione
What are the opening times?
The Medici Chapels are open from Monday to Sunday from 8:15 AM to 1:50 PM. The site is closed on the 2nd and 4th Sunday as well as the 1st, 3rd and 5th Monday of each month.
The chapels are also closed on Christmas Day, New Year’s Day and 1 May.
The last permissible entry time is around 1 hour before closing time.
Are the Medici Chapels accessible to wheelchair users?
The Medici Chapels are wheelchair accessible, and disabled visitors and one carer or family member can enter the attraction at no cost. Staff are on hand to assist people with disabilities.
Which other museums can be visited in Florence?
Travel tips
- Secure your entry and save time by pre-purchasing tickets online.
- Choose off-peak hours by visiting on weekdays or in the morning to avoid the crowds.
- Be aware of closures and check for any planned shutdowns or events before your trip.
- Use audio guides or guided tours to enrich your knowledge of the chapels' historical importance.
- Respect photography rules and exhibit regulations to ensure a pleasant experience for all visitors.