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The Original Florence Walk – The Best Private Florence Walking Tour

Join Florence’s Best Private Walking Tour and let us show you the highlights & intricacies of the city with our lively tour through the historic center of Florence

Discover Florence’s Unmissable Highlights

 

Step into the heart of Florence with the best guides in Florence leading the way on this Florence walking tour.

This private Florence walking tour showcases the city’s most celebrated landmarks, from grand Renaissance palaces to charming hidden alleys.

But what truly sets this private Florence walking tour apart is the storytelling—our Florence guides don’t just share facts; they transport you through time with vivid tales of intrigue, rivalry, genius, and artistic brilliance. 

Learn about the scandalous feuds of the Medici, the bitter rivalry between Michelangelo and Leonardo da Vinci, and the secrets hidden within Florence’s ancient streets.

Every stop on the Florence walking tour is filled with compelling stories that will make history come alive before your eyes.

A Journey Through Florence’s Most Iconic Sites

 

  • Piazza del Duomo – Marvel at the stunning Cathedral of Santa Maria del Fiore, Giotto’s Bell Tower, and the Baptistery’s magnificent Gates of Paradise.
  • Ponte Vecchio – Walk across Florence’s oldest bridge, lined with historic artisan shops and breathtaking views of the Arno River.
  • Piazza della Signoria – Explore the political heart of Florence, home to Michelangelo’s David replica and the grand Palazzo Vecchio.
  • Santa Trìnita and Orsanmichele – Admire these exquisite churches filled with masterful frescoes and sculptures.
  • Hidden Corners of Florence – Venture beyond the well-trodden paths to uncover secret alleyways, medieval towers, and enchanting details often overlooked.

Expert Guides Who Bring Florence to Life

ArtViva’s handpicked Florence guides are not only licensed experts but also passionate storytellers who make history vibrant and engaging. With deep knowledge and a talent for storytelling, they will transport you through Florence’s past, unveiling its secrets and illuminating its rich cultural heritage. From thrilling tales of betrayal to awe-inspiring artistic breakthroughs, their storytelling will make Florence’s history unforgettable.

Why Choose a Florence Private Walking Tour?

  • Personalized Experience – Enjoy a tour tailored to your pace, interests, and preferences.
  • Exclusive Attention – Ask all the questions you want and engage in deeper discussions with your expert guide.
  • Flexibility – Whether you wish to linger at a particular site or skip ahead, your guide will adjust to your desires.
  • Stress-Free Exploration – Avoid the crowds and experience Florence with ease and comfort.

Florence’s Cultural and Historical Legacy

From the Medici’s power struggles to Michelangelo’s artistic rivalries, Florence’s history is filled with intrigue. Discover how this small city became a world-renowned center of art, politics, and innovation. Every street, square, and building tells a story—let your private guide unveil them for you.

Florence Walking Tour Customizable to Your Interests

While our expertly curated route covers Florence’s must-sees, this private tour allows for customization. Whether you’re an art lover, a history buff, or a casual explorer, we can tailor the experience to match your preferences.

What You Will Love About This Florence Private Walking Tour

  • Experience Florence’s most famous landmarks with your own expert guide.
  • Enjoy a flexible, personalized itinerary tailored to your interests.
  • Discover fascinating stories and hidden gems that bring the city to life.
  • Take in breathtaking views and incredible Renaissance architecture.
  • Learn insider insights that go beyond what guidebooks offer.

FAQs About the Private Original Florence Walk

Can I customize the itinerary? Yes! Your guide will tailor the experience to match your interests and preferences.

How long is the tour? The standard tour lasts 2.5 to 3 hours, but we can adjust to your schedule.

Do we go inside the Duomo? We explore the exterior in depth, but an interior visit can be arranged upon request.

Is this tour suitable for families with children? Absolutely! Our guides adapt the storytelling to engage all ages.

What should I bring? Comfortable shoes, a camera, and curiosity!

Book Your Private Original Florence Tour Today

Discover Florence with the luxury of a private guide and an itinerary tailored to you. Availability is limited, so secure your spot now!

More Exclusive Private Florence Experiences

 

Private Early Morning Florence Walk

Beat the crowds and see Florence’s treasures in the serene morning light.

The Private Original David Tour

Skip the line and admire Michelangelo’s masterpiece up close with a dedicated guide.

Private Masterpieces of the Uffizi

Explore the Uffizi’s world-famous art collection with a customized itinerary.

Exclusive Vasari Corridor Tour

Step inside the legendary passageway once reserved for Medici rulers.

Private Pitti Palace and Boboli Gardens Tour

Discover Florence’s grandest palace and its stunning Renaissance gardens at your own pace.

Florence by Night Private Walking Tour

Experience Florence’s magic under the stars with a customized evening stroll.

Medici Conspiracy Walking Tour

Unravel the thrilling plots and power struggles of Florence’s ruling family in a private setting.

Private Wine Tasting Tour in Tuscany

Indulge in world-class wines at exclusive Tuscan vineyards with your own sommelier.

Private Cooking Class in Florence

Learn authentic Italian recipes from expert chefs in a hands-on experience, tailored to your skill level.

The Ultimate Private Tuscany Day Trip

Discover rolling vineyards, medieval towns, and exquisite wines on this exclusive excursion customized for you.

 

The History of Florence: The Cradle of the Renaissance

Florence is a city of unparalleled historical significance. Known as the birthplace of the Renaissance, it was home to legendary artists, thinkers, and leaders who shaped the course of history. It was here that Brunelleschi revolutionized architecture with the breathtaking dome of the Duomo, where Botticelli painted ethereal masterpieces, and where Galileo challenged the very understanding of the universe. Florence was also the seat of the powerful Medici family, whose patronage fueled the greatest artistic and scientific advancements of the time. Walking its streets, you are following in the footsteps of history’s most brilliant minds. Our expert guides will share the extraordinary tales that make Florence not just a city, but an open-air museum of human achievement.

Every corner of Florence tells a story, from the medieval towers that whisper tales of merchant rivalries to the grand piazzas that once staged political power plays. The city’s rich tapestry of history is woven into its stunning cathedrals, hidden passageways, and ancient bridges. On the Private Original Florence Walk, Florence walking tour you will uncover the secrets behind the Ponte Vecchio, learn about the shocking betrayals within the Palazzo Vecchio, and stand where Renaissance masters once debated philosophy and art. This immersive experience connects you to Florence’s past in a way that no guidebook can.

A private walking tour through Florence allows you to explore at your own pace while diving deep into the city’s extraordinary history. Your expert guide will bring the past to life with compelling stories, revealing how Florence became the epicenter of culture, finance, and artistic innovation. Whether you’re fascinated by Michelangelo’s genius, the intrigue of Medici rule, or the architectural wonders of the Duomo, the Private Original Florence Walk, Florence walking tour ensures a personalized, unforgettable journey through the heart of one of the world’s most historic cities.

 

Tour Details

Sites visited on this tour:

  • Cathedral of Santa Maria del Fiore*
  • Church of Santa Trìnita*
  • Church of Orsanmichele* (Please note from October 2019 entry to Orsanmichele is limited due to construction work)
  • Baptistery (external)
  • Bell Tower (external)
  • Gates of Paradise
  • Brunelleschi’s Dome (external)
  • Vasari Corridor (external)
  • Piazza della Signoria
  • Palazzo Vecchio
  • Ponte Vecchio
  • Piazza della Repubblica

 

Weather
This tour runs rain or shine

Dress code
Knees, shoulders and backs must be covered for entry into churches.

Tour Length
3 hours-finishes near the Duomo

Time
The private tour can run at a time that suits you.

*On Sundays and religious holidays, the churches of Santa Trìnita, Orsanmichele, and the Duomo are closed for religious services. Please note that there is no priority entrance for the Duomo; entrance is strictly a first come, first served basis. In cases where lines are too long, the Duomo is covered externally only.

 

Meeting Point

Meeting point will be advised after booking

FAQ's

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

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.

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.

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

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.

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

Snacks are allowed (better not to snack inside the churches) you will have a break at a café around 11.30am

This tour runs rain or shine!

Yes, the original Florence Walk is kid and family friendly. We also have a private Florence for Kids tour.

This is a 3 hour walking tour that includes church entry but there are no steps.

We allow a maximum of 15 adults per group. We do our best to keep the groups small, on rare occasions we may need to be slightly over.  

Reviews

11 reviews for The Original Florence Walk – The Best Private Florence Walking Tour

  1. Rated 5 out of 5

    Sabine Poebing-Nania

    È stata un’esperienza molto speciale. Non solo per la pandemia di Covid e per la conseguente atmosfera speciale a Firenze grazie ai pochi turisti. Ma anche e soprattutto per via del tour quasi privato. Noi due eravamo gli unici e la nostra guida era accompagnata dal suo collega, quindi sembrava veramente come un tour privato. In termini di contenuti, non c’è sicuramente visita guidata migliore a Firenze se sei interessato alla sua storia e allo stesso tempo vuoi avere una ampia comprensione del centro storico. Il tour è stato molto divertente e abbiamo ricevuto risposte conclusive a tutte le nostre domande. Consiglo vivamente questo Tour.

  2. Rated 5 out of 5

    Thomas Reidenbach

    Alex, our guide, was excellent in every way. He gave us great insights into the history, architecture, and culture of Florence. He took us to places vistors could never find on their own. We highly recommend this tour

  3. Rated 5 out of 5

    Kathleen Rigby

    Our group of 7 people had a wonderful experience with Laura during our 3-hour walking tour of Florence. Laura was a delightful and knowledgeable guide who took us on a great tour of Florence and introduced us to many facts and information that we would never have known without her. I highly recommend Laura to anyone interested in a Walking Tour of Florence,

  4. Rated 5 out of 5

    Kay & Jim Schlembach

    We found ArtViva through Rick Steves’ Tuscany Guide. This is our second semi-private tour, and we were so pleased! Laura was kind, knowledgeable, and expert at pointing out historical & quirky highlights of Florence’s old city, including recommendations on street food. We did go back for lampredotta and a fabulous porchetta sandwich (located near the famous “Fontana del Procellino” – bronze boar statue). Laura’s love of Florence is infectious, and greatly enhanced our enjoyment of the city. Worth every penny. Can’t wait to schedule another ArtViva tour on our next trip to Italy.

  5. Rated 5 out of 5

    Elizabeth in Alexandria VA

    I found ArtViva after searching many other tour companies that offered “custom tours”. I selected ArtViva because they were willing to work with me to customize a private walking tour for my family and me, the price point was excellent, and they were very accomodating. The Artviva staff person, Faezeh was kind, efficient and very responsive to my requests. Our tour guide, Alessandro was amazing. He met us at our hotel, was willing to “pivot” regarding the walking tour and gave everyone a great experience (many age groups and people who were easily “churched out”). Best of all, I had asked him for a visit to a mosaic studio. He kindly arranged everything and it was a lovely way to cap a great walking tour of Florence’s 4 major neighborhoods. I highly recommend ArtViva

  6. Rated 5 out of 5

    Paul Steinke

    Our Artviva walking tour of Florence in June 2022 was led by a guide named Martina. She was extraordinarily knowledgeable, pleasant and adept at leading our group. She also spoke English very well, so there was no language barrier. The portable tour microphones were a great help as well. All in all we were quite pleased with our experience.

  7. Rated 5 out of 5

    Claire Mendez

    We booked The Original Florence Walk it did not disappoint.This is the second time I’ve booked w ArtViva when in Florence. Our guide was very informative and kept it interesting she had a lot of knowledge in history which made it more enjoyable to ask many questions. I would highly recommend this tour and when I’m back I will book another. Thank you ArtViva

  8. Rated 5 out of 5

    Debbie Stoner

    We learned a lot from Eleanora. She was well informed and very proficient in English. She customized the tour to fit our interests which we appreciated. We would recommend the tour. We tipped her directly. Thanks

  9. Rated 5 out of 5

    Dorothy Yundt

    Our guide was deep in knowledge and history of Florence, especially her love of art! The tour exceeded our expectations and we would highly recommend this as a great walking tour of Florence!

  10. Rated 5 out of 5

    Rodney Hayward

    Our guide, Martina met us at our hotel and did a great job introducing us to her home city. Her passion for Florence was only beaten by her incredible knowledge of the history of this incredible place. One of our group would recommend a short gelato break in the middle of the tour but other than that the tour was very informative and provided context for our few days here. Highly recommend the tour and our guide.

  11. Rated 4 out of 5

    Gloria Nemechek

    The tour guide was very knowledgeable and covered many historical highlights. We enjoyed our tour but thought price was out of line. Should be less. Thank you

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EU's new General Data Protection Regulation (GDPR) comes into effect on May 25, 2018. We want to let you know we’ve updated our Privacy Policy and Terms and Conditions

Information about the European General Data Protection Regulation (GDPR)

We inform you that for the establishment and execution of the contract with you, when you book one of our services our organization comes into possession of some of your data, also acquired verbally, qualified as personal by the European Regulation 2016/679 (GDPR).According to the law, this treatment will be based on principles of correctness, lawfulness, transparency and protection of your privacy. According to article 13 of the GDPR 2016/679, therefore, we provide you with the following information: Nature of the data processed:We process your data:• Anagraphic, fiscal and of an economic nature necessary for the performance of contractual relationships with you, whether current or future;• Spontaneously supplied by you for the personalized execution of the current or future contract, bearing in mind that there is no obligation on your part to supply them. The data are processed with your express consent (Article 24 letter a, b, c Privacy Code and Article 6 letter b, and GDPR) accepting - with a click in the box at the end of the completion of the form - the terms and conditions of the service we perform.All data will be used solely and exclusively to fulfill:• Pre-contractual, contractual, post-contractual and tax obligations arising from relationships with you;• To the obligations established by law, regulations, community legislation or an order of the Authority.We are not in possession of your data that can be classified as sensitive, particular or of a judicial nature (articles 9 and 10 of the GDPR). Purpose of the processing and duration:Your data are processed for the entire duration of the relationship contract and also subsequently, for contractual requirements and related fulfillment of legal obligations and taxation, and for effective management of financial and commercial relationships. The Data Controller will process personal data for the time necessary to fulfill the aforementioned purposes and in any case for no more than 10 years from the termination of the relationship for the purposes of service. Methods of processing: The processing will be carried out with both manual and / or computerized tools telematics with organizational and elaboration logistics closely related to the purposes themselves and however in order to guarantee the security, integrity and confidentiality of the data in compliance with the organizational, physical and logical measures provided for by the provisions in force. Obligation or right to provide data:As regards the data that we are obliged to know, in order to fulfill the obligations established by law, their non-conferment by you involves the impossibility of establishing or continuing the relationship, to the extent that such data are necessary for execution of the same. Scope of knowledge of your data: The following categories of subjects may become aware of your data, as managers or processors, appointed by the undersigned company:• Data controller;• Accounting and billing staff;• Those involved in the marketing and execution of services. Communication and dissemination:Your data will not be disseminated to third parties by us for their provision or consultation.Your data may be communicated by us to entities, as far as their respective and specific competence is concerned and in general to any public or private entity with respect to which there is obligation for us (or faculty) recognized by law or secondary or community legislation) or need for communication, as well as to our consultants, within the limits necessary to carry out their duties at our office organization, after our letter of appointment imposing the duty of confidentiality and security. Rights of the interested party: In accordance with Art. 7 of Legislative Decree 196/03 of the Articles of the GDPR 679/16: 15 / Right of access, 16 / Right of rectification, 17 / Right to cancellation, 18 / Right to limitation of treatment, 20 / Right to portability, 21 / Opposition right, 22 / Right to oppose the automated decision-making process of GDPR679 / 16. You can exercise your rights by writing to the Data Controller with an email to: [email protected] Withdrawal of consent: With reference to Art. 23 of Legislative Decree 196/03 and Article 6 of GDPR 679/16, you can revoke the consent given at any time. Owner and manager of the treatment: The data controller is PIER CARLO TESTA, Director of the company "The Original & Best Walking Tours" with registered office in Via Sassetti 1 in Florence (Italy). The Data Processor, who can be contacted to exercise  rights and / or for any clarificationsregarding the protection of personal data, can be reached at: [email protected]
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