Experts' Choice Award Palazzo Vecchio
What the experts agree on
Florence's fortress-like town hall since 1299, Palazzo Vecchio dominates Piazza della Signoria with Renaissance masterworks. The Medici family's private rooms—frescoed by Vasari and studded with sculptures by Donatello and Michelangelo—are the real
“Florence's forbidding, fortresslike city hall was begun in 1299, presumably designed by Arnolfo di Cambio, and its massive bulk and towering campanile dominate Piazza della Signoria.”
– Fodor's
Condé Nast Traveler "Florence's medieval-style city hall, Palazzo Vecchio overflows with acres of frescoes depicting the Medici family's leading figures and feats." Full review
Let's Go "One of the highlights is the Room of the 500s, which features worryingly aggressive/erotic statues for a room that used to hold a political council. " Full review
Lonely Planet "Palazzo Vecchio entrance." Full review
Michelin Guide 3 Stars
"Topped by a fine 94m-high bell tower, this huge building dominates its square." Full review
Afar Magazine "This imposing building has served as Florence’s town hall since Medici times." Full review
Travel + Leisure "It's studded with works by the likes of Donatello, Michelangelo, and Bronzino, but it's the ruling Medici family's private rooms, frescoed by Giorgio Vasari, that really spin back the centuries."
Florence Travel Guide
July 7, 2021
Frommer's "Florence's fortresslike town hall was built from 1299 to 1302 on the designs of Arnolfo di Cambio, Gothic master builder of the city." Full review
Travel + Leisure "Palazzo Vecchio is an amazing example of Renaissance architecture. Statues by Donatello, Michelangelo, and Giorgio Vasari dot the exterior, and the interior is equally incredible."
25 Best Things to Do in Florence, Italy
September 17, 2023
Independent "The Palazzo Vecchio was built in the 14th century and later modified by the last duke of Tuscany Cosimo I de'Medici, and is a popular tourist destination"
Rough Guide "Just a short walk away, you'll find the Palazzo Vecchio, Florence's impressive town hall, where you can dive into the city's political history and admire stunning Renaissance interiors"
