Galleria dell’Accademia: David Statue Museum of Florence

The Galleria dell’Accademia in Florence is certainly one of the most important cultural treasures in Tuscany and a real magnet for art lovers from all over the world. A visit to this famous museum is one of the best things to do in Florence and the original statue of David by Michelangelo makes it particularly special. In addition to the David, the Galleria dell’Accademia houses an impressive collection of valuable sculptures and paintings from various periods of art history. Among the most famous Florentine artists are Paolo Uccello, Domenico Ghirlandaio, Sandro Botticelli and Andrea del Sarto. It is well worth a visit, as it is a veritable treasure trove of Renaissance art. But what are the best tips for the Galleria dell’Accademia in Florence, what to expect during a visit, and which tours are particularly recommended?

In this travel guide, you will find all the important information and tips about the Galleria dell’Accademia and the Statue of David in Florence in Italy. We also show you great pictures, the best attractions and highlights, and where to find good places to stay nearby.

Galleria dell’Accademia (David Statue)

General Information about the Galleria dell’Accademia

The Galleria dell’Accademia in Florence is home to an impressive collection of works of art dating from the 1300s to the 1600s, including sculptures, paintings, and religious artifacts. Founded in 1784 by Pietro Leopoldo, the Grand Duke of Tuscany, the former Academy of Fine Arts has housed the original of Michelangelo’s David since 1873. With more than 1.5 million visitors a year, the Galleria dell’Accademia is the second most visited art museum in Italy, after the Uffizi Gallery. The visitor magnet par excellence is Michelangelo’s David, a marble statue over 5.17 meters high and weighing 5560 kilograms. It was carved from a single block of marble between 1501 and 1504. In addition to the “David”, the gallery houses other works by Michelangelo, including the 4 incomplete “Prisoners” commissioned by Pope Julius II for his tomb.

If you visit the Galleria dell’Accademia, there are several other works to admire in addition to the statue of David. The Colosso Hall, with its majestic atmosphere, introduces visitors to the world of Florentine art. The Plaster Casts Gallery exhibits various types of busts, full-length figures and monumental tombs. The Prigioni’s Gallery houses Michelangelo’s “Prisoners” and in the David’s Grand Gallery you can admire Michelangelo’s masterpiece “David” in all its splendor. The Pacino Hall and the Giotto, Giotteschi, and Orcagna Halls offer a glimpse into the history of Florentine art. Also worth a visit is the “Museo degli strumenti musicali”, a collection of musical instruments, including those by Stradivari, Niccolò Amati and Bartolomeo Cristofori.

Galleria dell’Accademia

Galleria dell’Accademia

Galleria dell’Accademia

Galleria dell’Accademia

Tickets and Guided Tours

It is highly recommended to book tickets for the Galleria dell’Accademia in Florence a few days in advance. The Statue of David is one of the most important sights in Italy and the line to get into the museum is always very long. Booking in advance will cost you a few euros more, but you’ll have a fixed time slot and won’t have to wait in line. You can also use GetYourGuide to book tickets without waiting.

A recommendation is to book an audio guide or, even better, a private tour with an art expert. This will give you additional background information about the artworks on display.

Where to Stay near Galleria dell’Accademia

There are several excellent places to stay near the Galleria dell’Accademia. Most of them are hotels, guesthouses or apartments, ideal for a city break. If you are looking for a comfortable accomodation near the famous “David” and the Galleria dell’Accademia, we can give you these recommendations… It’s worth a look!

• Fantastic Apartments: The Palazzo Alfani – Residenza d’Epoca offers 2 beautiful apartments just opposite the Galleria dell’Accademia.
• Wonderful 4-Star Hotel: The iQ Hotel is a stylish 4-star hotel in Florence. Guests love the modern décor, the cool atmosphere, and the breakfast.
• Charming Bed & Breakfast: The Secret Garden Firenze is an insider’s tip if you are looking for a beautiful, personally run bed & breakfast in Florence!

More about Florence:

• Top 20 Amazing Things to Do in Florence (Italy)

• Top 12 UNIQUE Boutique Hotels in Florence

• Ponte Vecchio: The Famous Old Bridge of Florence

• Boboli Gardens: The Historical Garden of Florence

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