Medici Chapels: Skip The Line Ticket

Must Do Experiences

• Admire Michelangelo's masterpieces: Day and Night, Dawn and Dusk, and the Madonna and Child.

• Marvel at the opulent Chapel of the Princes, featuring stunning marble and semi-precious stone mosaics.

• Explore the New Sacristy, entirely designed by Michelangelo as a magnificent tribute to the Medici dynasty.

Hidden Gems

• Look closely at the walls of the secret room beneath the New Sacristy, where charcoal sketches attributed to Michelangelo were discovered.

• Pay attention to the intricate pietra dura (hard stone) inlay work in the Chapel of the Princes, a signature Florentine craft.

• Spot the subtle astronomical details and zodiac signs decorating the dome of the Old Sacristy.

What Makes it Special

• It serves as the final resting place for 49 members of the incredibly powerful Medici clan.

• Features an unparalleled concentration of Michelangelo's architectural and sculptural genius in one space.

• Skip-the-line access allows you to bypass notorious Florence queues and maximize your time.

Perfect Timing

When to visit for the best experience

The best time to visit is early in the morning right when the chapels open, or late in the afternoon to avoid peak tour group hours. Visiting during the shoulder seasons of spring and autumn offers a more comfortable and less crowded experience.

Photography Guide

Capture the perfect shots

• Use a wide-angle lens to capture the immense scale and intricate dome of the Chapel of the Princes.

• Turn off your flash, as it is strictly prohibited and can damage the centuries-old artworks.

• Focus on capturing the dramatic natural light that falls on Michelangelo's sculptures in the New Sacristy.

Cultural Etiquette

Respect local customs and traditions

The Medici Chapels are part of a consecrated basilica, so maintain a quiet and respectful demeanor during your visit. Florentines take immense pride in their Renaissance heritage, so showing appreciation and dressing appropriately goes a long way.

Special Events & Experiences

Enhanced experiences and seasonal highlights

• The Feast of San Lorenzo on August 10th brings vibrant celebrations and outdoor banquets to the surrounding neighborhood.

• During Easter, Florence hosts the historic Scoppio del Carro (Explosion of the Cart), making the whole city, including the San Lorenzo district, come alive.

• Occasional evening openings during the summer allow visitors to experience the chapels under atmospheric lighting.

Important Guidelines & Safety

Essential safety information and guidelines

• Beware of pickpockets in the busy Piazza di Madonna degli Aldobrandini outside the chapels.

• Watch your step on the historical stone staircases, which can be uneven or slippery.

• Keep your belongings secure and zipped up while admiring the high ceilings and domes.