The Original David Tour – Accademia Museum

Q: What forms of payment do you accept?

We accept most major credit cards and payment forms. Please see the bottom of our website for the payment types accepted.

Q: Why choose a private tour?

Most of our customers enjoy having the benefits of a private tour. You have your own guide. You can have rest stops when you like. We can tailor the tour to suit your needs and preferences. We always choose the best guide for your needs, whether you are a family, an art school, or a company doing an incentive event.

Q: Are the tours kid friendly?

All our tours except our Sex, Drugs and Renaissance tour are kid friendly. When doing a private tour with us, you have your own guide, so tell us in the notes of the booking the ages of your kids and we will tailor the tour and choose a guide that's great for kids for you. We also have 4 special kids' tours in Florence.

Q: Is the tour in English?

All tours are conducted in English only unless otherwise noted or requested. Other languages available for all private tours on request.

Q: Do you offer private tours?

We are offering mainly Private and some Semi-private tours at the moment. We do not offer many semi private small group tours anymore due to the consequences of the Covid-19 pandemic. The difference between Private and Semi-private is that the private tours are fully private tours with your own guide and the Semi-private are small shared group tours where individuals can join others.

Q: Does skip-the-line mean we don’t have to wait?

You won’t have to wait in line with the rest of the visitors that do not have a reservation, there is a separate entrance for people who have skip-the-line reservation but you still have to go through security check and there might be a line for that.

Q: Can the tour be done with physical disabilities and/or wheelchair?

Yes, you will be accompanied by one of the museum guards through a different entry.

Q: Can this tour be combined with other tours?

Yes, you can combine this tour with the Original Florence Walk and the Uffizi tour to cover all the highlights of Florence, but we recommend spreading the tours over at least 2 days.

Q: Are children allowed on the tour?

Yes, children of all ages are allowed on the tour.

Q: Is the tour also available in different languages?

The shared group tour runs in English only, but we can arrange private tours in other languages.

Step into Florence’s artistic heart with our Private Original David Tour. Gain exclusive skip-the-line access to the Accademia Gallery, where Michelangelo’s David stands in all its glory. With an expert guide, uncover the fascinating stories behind this world-renowned masterpiece and Michelangelo’s other incredible works.

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Private Original David Tour – A Guided Accademia Museum Experience

Discover the Private Original David Tour

Florence is home to one of the most celebrated sculptures in the world—Michelangelo’s David. With our Private Original David Tour, you will enjoy exclusive access to the Accademia Gallery, avoiding long lines and immersing yourself in the fascinating world of Renaissance art. Led by an expert guide, this experience provides an in-depth look at the genius of Michelangelo and the incredible story behind his most famous masterpiece.

What Makes This David Tour Unique?

Unlike other tours, this experience is tailored for art enthusiasts who want to go beyond just seeing David. Our knowledgeable guides bring Michelangelo’s story to life, revealing secrets about his techniques, struggles, and the artistic revolution he led. This private tour allows for a more intimate exploration, giving you the chance to ask questions and truly engage with the artwork.

A Journey Through Art: David Tour Itinerary

Meet Your Guide: Begin your journey in Florence’s historic center, where your expert guide will introduce you to Michelangelo’s world.
Skip-the-Line Access: Walk past the crowds with your priority entrance to the Accademia Gallery.
Encounter Michelangelo’s David: Stand in awe before the original masterpiece and learn about its fascinating history and hidden details.
Explore Michelangelo’s Other Works: Discover the powerful unfinished sculptures known as the Prisoners, representing mankind’s struggle for freedom.
Learn About the Marble’s Journey: Hear the incredible story of how a discarded block of marble was transformed into the world’s most famous statue.
See the Original Placement Site: Visit the location where David was originally intended to stand.

The History of Michelangelo’s David

The most famous sculpture in the world, a must-see masterpiece in Florence. David represents the pinnacle of Renaissance sculpture, capturing the essence of human beauty and strength. Commissioned in 1501 by the Florence Cathedral, the statue was intended to be part of a series of biblical figures adorning the cathedral’s exterior. However, its extraordinary detail and imposing presence led city officials to place it in front of Palazzo Vecchio instead, where it became a symbol of Florence’s defiance and resilience.

Listen to stories about its amazing creation. The massive block of marble Michelangelo used had been abandoned for over 40 years due to imperfections that made it nearly unusable. Michelangelo, only 26 years old at the time, saw its potential and spent over two years meticulously carving David. Working in secrecy, he created a masterpiece that defied artistic conventions, bringing the biblical hero to life with unmatched anatomical precision and emotional depth.

Hear about the artist—Michelangelo—a fascinating and difficult genius, a tormented poet who died a miserly multi-millionaire. Known for his intense passion and perfectionism, Michelangelo lived a life of artistic brilliance and personal isolation. He often described himself as tormented by his own genius. Despite accumulating great wealth, he lived frugally and remained deeply devoted to his art, even composing poetry about his struggles. David was just one of many masterpieces he created, cementing his reputation as one of history’s greatest artists.

See where Michelangelo carved the David as well as enjoying an exclusive introduction to his other famous works. During the tour, you’ll have the unique opportunity to visit the very space where Michelangelo worked and learn about his other breathtaking sculptures, including the unfinished Prisoners, which seem to emerge from the marble in an eternal struggle for freedom.

Who is This David Tour Perfect For?

Art and history lovers who want to deepen their understanding of the Renaissance.
First-time visitors looking for an engaging and informative experience.
Families who want an interactive and educational introduction to Michelangelo.
Travelers who appreciate exclusive, personalized experiences over large group tours.

The Cultural Significance of Michelangelo’s David

David is more than just a statue; it is a symbol of human potential, artistic perfection, and the political spirit of Florence. Created from a single block of marble, this 17-foot masterpiece showcases Michelangelo’s unparalleled skill in anatomy and expression. Your guide will take you beyond the surface, revealing the deeper meanings behind David’s stance, gaze, and even the sculpting techniques that make it a timeless icon.

Why Choose Artviva for This David Tour Experience?

Expert Guides: Our guides are handpicked and trained to provide the most insightful and entertaining narratives.
Exclusive Access: Skip the lines and maximize your time with our priority entry.
Authenticity & Quality: ArtViva is the only tour company recommended by major travel guides, including Rick Steves.
Unparalleled Expertise: We specialize in bringing history and art to life, ensuring a rich and memorable experience.

What You Will Love About the Private Original David Tour

Enjoy a personalized, private experience led by an expert guide.
Skip the long lines and gain fast access to the Accademia Gallery.
Uncover hidden details and secrets of Michelangelo’s David.
Admire the unfinished Prisoners sculptures and their powerful symbolism.
Discover the story behind the marble and Michelangelo’s artistic vision.

FAQs About the Private Original David Tour

1. How long does the tour last?
The tour typically lasts about 1.5 hours, giving you ample time to explore David and other important works in the Accademia Gallery.

2. Is this tour suitable for children?
Yes! Our guides make the experience engaging and educational, making it a great option for families.

3. Are entrance fees included in the tour price?
Yes, your tour includes skip-the-line tickets to the Accademia Gallery, with no hidden fees.

4. Will I see anything other than Michelangelo’s David?
Absolutely! In addition to David, you’ll explore other works by Michelangelo and various Renaissance masterpieces housed in the gallery.

5. Can I take photos during the Original David Tour?
Photography is allowed in most areas of the gallery, but flash photography is not permitted.

Secure Your Spot on the Original David Tour Today

This exclusive tour is in high demand, and availability is limited. Don’t miss your chance to witness Michelangelo’s genius up close. Book now to ensure your place on this unforgettable journey through Florence’s artistic heritage!

More Michelangelo-Themed Tours You Might Like

The Genius of Michelangelo Tour – Explore Michelangelo’s life, work, and influence in Florence, including the Accademia Gallery and Medici Chapels.
Michelangelo in Florence Tour – Medici Family Patronage – Discover the connection between Michelangelo and the powerful Medici family, including access to original documents.
Exclusive After-Hours Tour of Michelangelo’s David – Experience a private evening visit to the Accademia Gallery for an intimate encounter with David.
Original Florence Walk & David Tour – Combine a walking tour of Florence with a guided visit to the Accademia Gallery.
Best of Florence Express – Accademia & David Tour – A fast-paced yet comprehensive tour covering Florence’s top highlights, including Michelangelo’s masterpieces.
Masterpieces in Florentine Churches Tour – Visit Florence’s renowned churches featuring Michelangelo’s architectural and sculptural contributions.

Tour Details

Sites Visited

The Accademia Gallery in Florence and the streets of Florence with Michelangelo’s traces

Highlights of the Original David Tour include:

Enjoy the fastest possible access to the Accademia museum in the company of a great guide
See the David by Michelangelo, a must-see masterpiece in Florence considered by many as the greatest piece of art ever made
Our David tour will tell you about the amazing creation of Michelangelo’s statue plus an exclusive introduction to other works by Michelangelo
Discover the interesting history of the marble, where Michelangelo carved his famous statue and the original place it was supposed to be positioned
Hear about Michelangelo – a fascinating and difficult genius, a tormented poet and one of the most talented masters of the Renaissance who died a miserly multi-millionaire
Experience an exclusive introduction to his other famous works and much more
Accademia ticket price and museum reservation fees included in the price, with no hidden extras

PLEASE NOTE – Persons under 18 now are required to bring their original ID with them to the tour for museum entry

Not included:
Gratuities, drinks and snacks

Location:
Florence city center

Dress Code:
Comfortable shoes

Weather:
This tour runs rain or shine

Length

1 hour

You may like to do our wonderful Learn How to Cook Florentine Steak Experience after the David tour. The restaurant is a 10-15 minute walk towards the Palazzo Vecchio.

You can choose to do a Private David Tour on any day or time.

Meeting Point

The David Tour Meeting Point will be advised on booking

FAQ's

         b
 What forms of payment do you accept?
 
We accept most major credit cards and payment forms. Please see the bottom of our website for the payment types accepted.
  b
 Why choose a private tour?
 
Most of our customers enjoy having the benefits of a private tour. You have your own guide. You can have rest stops when you like. We can tailor the tour to suit your needs and preferences. We always choose the best guide for your needs, whether you are a family, an art school, or a company doing an incentive event. 
  b
 Are the tours kid friendly?
 
All our tours except our Sex, Drugs and Renaissance tour are kid friendly. When doing a private tour with us, you have your own guide, so tell us in the notes of the booking the ages of your kids and we will tailor the tour and choose a guide that’s great for kids for you. We also have 4 special kids’ tours in Florence.
  b
 Is the tour in English?
 
All tours are conducted in English only unless otherwise noted or requested. Other languages available for all private tours on request. 
  b
 Do you offer private tours?
 
We are offering mainly Private and some Semi-private tours at the moment. We do not offer many semi private small group tours anymore due to the consequences of the Covid-19 pandemic. The difference between Private and Semi-private is that the private tours are fully private tours with your own guide and the Semi-private are small shared group tours where individuals can join others.
  b
 Does skip-the-line mean we don’t have to wait?
 
You won’t have to wait in line with the rest of the visitors that do not have a reservation, there is a separate entrance for people who have skip-the-line reservation but you still have to go through security check and there might be a line for that.

  b
 Can the tour be done with physical disabilities and/or wheelchair?
 
Yes, you will be accompanied by one of the museum guards through a different entry.
  b
 Can this tour be combined with other tours?
 
Yes, you can combine this tour with
the Original Florence Walk and the Uffizi tour to cover all the highlights of
Florence, but we recommend spreading the tours over at least 2 days.
  b
 Are children allowed on the tour?
 
Yes, children of all ages are allowed on the tour.
  b
 Is the tour also available in different languages?
 
The shared group tour runs in
English only, but we can arrange private tours in other languages.

Reviews

50 reviews for The Original David Tour – Accademia Museum

Rated 5 out of 5
Ann Smith – 11/05/2017
Guide’s knowledge was amazing and she presented the information very logically and in a compelling way. I loved going by the Duomo first to get that perspective and building to David himself. Your tours are fantastic and the audio link really helps the experience – also thank you for restaurant recommendations!
Rated 5 out of 5
Nanaimo B.C – 05/08/2018
Wanting to avoid the huge lines at the Accademia we took Rick Steves advice and booked a walking tour of the museum with ArtViva The tour we took was the Original David Tour, which concentrates on the statue of David within the Accademia. Our guide was excellent and it was obvious to us that she was very passionate about art in general, and Florentine art and Michelangelo’s David in particular. She provided some very unique insights into Michelangelo’s style and the approaches he used to create this breathtaking statue. I highly recommend ArtViva. They provide exceptional service and are professional in every way.
Rated 5 out of 5
Carolyn West – 26/08/2018
We thought the Original David tour was absolutely fantastic – interesting and educational
Rated 5 out of 5
James and Chelsea Lamb – 13/09/2018
The David tour was wonderful! Great information and also interesting! Look forward to doing more Artviva Walking Tours on our next trip to Italy. Very professional, helpful, and trustworthy in a sea of ‘tour guides’ that fall short.
Rated 5 out of 5
Karin Franchino – 09/03/2019
Irene was an outstanding tour guide, beautiful display of The Original David. Also great display of other unfinished sculptures by Michael Angelo. A must tour for anyone visiting Florence.
Rated 5 out of 5
Definitely would recommend to friends… – 16/04/2019
Definitely would recommend to friends and family
Rated 5 out of 5
Amy Zimmer – 16/04/2019
Irene is a terrific guide. Her PhD in Art History gave us a very insightful perspective and depth of the famous statue David. Sweet personality too! Loved the tour.
Rated 5 out of 5
Debbie Burston – 16/04/2019
Our guide was very knowledgeable! She explained things about the Statue of David that we would have never known. It was a short tour, but well worth it.
Rated 5 out of 5
Mary Newton – 17/04/2019
Klaus is an excellent tour guide and his knowledge was superb! It was a fantastic experience!
Rated 5 out of 5
Lara Brown – 29/04/2019
We didn’t have to wait at all. After a nice little introduction to the Duomo and surrounding area we went into the Galleria with our humorous and intelligent guide. He pointed out some really fascinating things and answered all our questions. Would really recommend!
Rated 5 out of 5
Barbara K. – 30/04/2019
This tour was excellent because of the very knowledgeable guide Martina. You learn so much of the back story to the art and the artist. Took two Artviva tours in Florence and would definitely use them again.
Rated 5 out of 5
Joyce Massey – 05/05/2019
Despite the pouring rain, Brenda, our guide, made this tour very special for my husband and I. Her enthusiasm was contagious and her knowledge seemingly unlimited. Her explanations of the sculpture as we walked around David truly helped us understand why the David is an irreplaceable treasure. Thank you!
Rated 5 out of 5
Wendy – 18/05/2019
Everything went smoothly. Had a good time. Guide was Awesome !
Rated 4 out of 5
James Kautz – 19/05/2019
Of the 4 ArtViva tours we took in Florence and Milan, this was the best. Understandable guide, just enough information, good duration. We will recommend this tour and other ArtViva tours to our friends.
Rated 5 out of 5
Kelley – 20/05/2019
Our tour guide was very knowledgable about David and called out a number of very subtle nuances that I would not have caught otherwise. Really enjoyed it when she had us look at David from various angles to really appreciate all the details!
Rated 5 out of 5
Jan – 21/05/2019
My group of 8 friends really enjoyed our tour with Hilda. She is so enthusiastic and we thought her explanations and details to be just right information. Would certainly recommend to others.
Rated 5 out of 5
Ellen Frank – 05/06/2019
Our guide did an excellent job of combining history with the conjecture of the times. Highly recommend her for anyone who wants a deep dive into art history, Florence history, and art technique.
Rated 5 out of 5
J D Sullivan – 05/06/2019
Loved our Academy/David tour! The guide knew the history, and stories, bringing the artists and their work to life.
Rated 5 out of 5
Jeannemarie Viggiano – 05/06/2019
We met our guide, a personable young woman, while we walked the from our meeting spot to the Accademina she talk about the life of Michelangelo. As promised out group was small, our guide was well educated in all aspects of Florence, David and Michelangelo. When we arrived at the Accademina, we didn’t wait in line at all, while in Florence, this is the BEST was to see all the sites as efficiently as possible. When we were finished with our tour, we were free to browse the rest of the Accademina at our lesiure.
Rated 5 out of 5
Chris Rodgers – 05/06/2019
Superb tour guide. We appreciated his passion for the work of Michelangelo and his knowledge of the artist. He added a feature we didn’t expect and it was a difference maker.
Rated 5 out of 5
Heather D – 18/06/2019
This was the perfect amount of time. Late in the day wS not super crowded in the gallery, but still glad we were able to skip the line. Helge shared a lot of information about Michelangelo’s sculpting style, marble, etc. Knowledge that you would not gain otherwise from a self tour. Headsets were very helpful. I would recommend.
Rated 5 out of 5
Julia Johnston – 19/06/2019
My husband and I had one day in Florence and took this tour to help streamline our sightseeing. Our guide (An American originally from New York) was funny, interesting and made the tour come alive. Skipping the tourist line also saved us alot of time! Great experience…would recommend to others.
Rated 5 out of 5
Stephen Vaughn – 19/06/2019
An excellent guide. Her knowledge and passion of Michelangelo’s works was incredible. Had a great time and agreed there was no better way to see the David.
Rated 5 out of 5
YELENA MUSHKATINA – 02/07/2019
Being 14, I had never been in Euroupe before. I had been to art museums in different places, but they didn’t really interest me because I hadn’t really seen anything beneath the surface of the painting. But with Tatiana, she explained the art in such interesting and exciting ways which inspired me to delve deeper into this art. Her energy and jokes kept my attention throughout the whole tour and I honestly wished that it had gone on for longer. Thank you Tatiana for making this museum so memorable for me
Rated 5 out of 5
GH – 20/07/2019
Tatiana our tour guide was extremely knowledgeable and entertaining. We learnt so much about Michelangelo and his works as this tour had a specific focus on him. Art Vive did not disappoint in any way and the experience was outstanding
Rated 5 out of 5
John Di Cecco – 15/10/2019
Terrific and well worth the price!
Rated 5 out of 5
Marialuz Sevilla-Herrera – 15/10/2019
Ricardo did a thorough and engaging review of key pieces of art in the museum. Skipping the line was an added treat. There was an opportunity after the tour to stay and enjoy the museum on your own. Excellent value!
Rated 5 out of 5
Californian family with teens – 15/10/2019
We participated in two Artviva tours. Both were excellent. Quality, content and tour guide were fantastic. I highly recommend ArTiva on your next visit to Florence. In fact, the ArtViva tours were the HIGHLIGHT of the Florence segment of our trip. The small group tour concept really felt more like a Private Tour.
Rated 5 out of 5
Jan H – 16/10/2019
Our guide (Alejandro) was passionate about the Gallery and especially the David. I thought it was a great tour and he was willing to answer my questions even when tour was officially over (last one of the day). The staff at the museum was good too.
Rated 4 out of 5
Marie Ottawa, Canada – 16/10/2019
Mario was our guide and made this experience a lively one! He was one of the first guides to ask everyone their names and made us feel very welcomed. He explained his background and his passion for Michelangelo with his thesis of a deeper insight to Michelangelo. Everything that was described as part of the tour was included. It was my second time seeing David so Mario’s long thesis dissertation was interesting but at the same time lost some of my interest. Some of it was a bit repetitive and subjective. He was very happy to answer questions and i thoroughly enjoyed his enthusiasm. He has given me some food for thought
Rated 5 out of 5
Susan Acosta – 16/10/2019
Would recommend Artviva tours. Small groups, great knowledgable guides
Rated 5 out of 5
Andrew Wilson – 16/10/2019
Fun, funny and most of all educational and entertaing take a tour with klaas and you will come away with an entirely new perspective on how David was created and what he may represent. Bring your opinion, open your your mind to new thoughts and take an intellectual ride with Klaas
Rated 5 out of 5
Tony Willis – 16/10/2019
The Original David at the Accademia Private Tour with our guide Irene from ArtViva was incredible. She was very knowledgeable and passionate about the subject and she went out of her way to answer all of our questions. The private tour was great because Irene started sharing with us the wonder of the Original David from the moment she introduced herself to us. We have a wonderful walk from our hotel, past the Uffizi Gallery, and the original location of the David at City Hall. Irene provided an insight and passion for the David that a review or guide book or Wikipedia just could never provide. We would highly recommend this tour with a Private guide and if it were us we would request Irene because she was amazing! The David is an amazing work of art but being in its presence was truly a stunning experience and the best way to appreciate this masterpiece.
Rated 5 out of 5
Cynthia Mendelson – 16/10/2019
We loved the tour! And after seeing the crazy long lines waiting to enter the museum a skip the line tour is the only way to go! Our guide, Irene, was incredibly knowledgeable and personable. She gave us so much information and made the tour interesting and fun. We are still talking about everything we learned about David! Would absolutely recommend Art Viva and Irene!!
Rated 5 out of 5
Jude Robb and Pete Gladwin – 16/10/2019
Loved the tour, easy to book and ArtViva is a wonderful balance of passion and professionalism for this beautiful city of Florence, absolutely recommend ArtViva, the best in Florence .
Rated 5 out of 5
Christopher Corsig – 16/10/2019
Hilda our tour guide was terrific. Very well informed and knowledgeable making for a great tour and added greatly to our appreciation of the David Sculpture
Rated 5 out of 5
Penny – 16/10/2019
Really enjoyed this tour. Easy booking, easy access. A must for Florence!
Rated 5 out of 5
JOHN ROSLAK – 16/10/2019
Brenda was fantastic! Her enthusiasm and knowledge made for a great experience!
Rated 5 out of 5
Erin Hoffer – 16/10/2019
Riccardo gave an excellent tour at the Accademia. His knowledge of the David, the works of Michaelango, and his life was exceptional. It really is a must do while in Florence.
Rated 5 out of 5
Sarah G – 29/10/2019
The tour was enjoyable and just the right amount of time. I learned about The David and enjoyed doing so. Wonderful experience and I fully recommend this tour!
Rated 5 out of 5
John Lapointe – 29/10/2019
The tour of Academia was wonderful. Our guide was extremely knowledgeable and passionate about David and Michelangelo. Her love for this fabulous work of art helped us appreciate its uniqueness and beauty even more.
Rated 5 out of 5
Eleanor Sears – 29/10/2019
The tour was good. Lots of information about the making of David. Was nice to see with a small group. The Museum was not crowded at this late hour. Would recommend this tour.
Rated 5 out of 5
Jacopo Rangoni – 29/10/2019
Our tour guide was very knowledgeable! The tour is mostly about David and the stories about him! overall amazing tour! A must do if you are in Florence!
Rated 5 out of 5
Roslyn Muller – 29/10/2019
Very knowledgeable guide. Recommend this tour.
Rated 5 out of 5
Trish – 31/10/2019
Klaas provided wonderful information in a personable fashion. We had a great time.
Rated 5 out of 5
Audrey Hays – 06/11/2019
The day of our tour at the Accademia we also had a walking tour of Florence. We found out that their was going to be a “strike” at the Accademia and our tour was moved up to account for the new hours. We were incredibly impressed with the organization of the tour group and communication efficiency. We did not feel rushed during our tour of the David as a result of their proactive problem solving. Highly recommended.
Rated 5 out of 5
David and Nancy Moses – 12/11/2019
We debsted whether to take this tour or make our own arrangements for the Academia. I am truly glad that we did take the tour. Our guide was wonderful. He gave us a lot of insight to Michelangelo and where he did his work in Florence. This was information we would not have gotten unless we took the to tour; and to see the David was a WOW moment enhanced by the tour guides comments of how to look at the statue. The tour company did a good job of organizing the tour, the meeting place was well defined, and the people were very nice.
Rated 5 out of 5
Deborah Smith – 19/11/2019
Our tour guide, Sally, was informative, enthusiastic, and knowledgeable about the David and gave a great tour. The tour was easy to sign up for and stress free. I would recommended this tour to my friends.
Rated 5 out of 5
Andy Beu – 19/11/2019
Absolutely loved our guide Corina…knowledgeable…lovely description of all the art. An incredible experience thanks to Corina.
Rated 5 out of 5
Shash Muller – 17/10/2024
Barbara was an Excellent knowledgeable guide who made David come to life! We learned about the history but also about how to interpret the David and why he was so special. We also got a few extra secret views of other parts of the museum. Barbara’s shares all of this in a story telling way while engaging our small private group of 5. Extra points to Barbra for skipping the line to get us right in!