Florence offers several museums and public spaces that can be visited at no cost if you know their admission conditions. This guide brings together key places and explains when and how to get in for free, with clear opening times and exceptions.
Galleria degli Uffizi
The Galleria degli Uffizi is one of the most important museums in the world, known for its impressive collection of Renaissance masterpieces. Visitors can enjoy this artistic treasure completely free of charge on the first Sunday of every month.
Free Admission Conditions
Admission is free of charge on the first Sunday of every month. During the rest of the month, a ticket is required. Advance reservations are not accepted on free Sundays, so arrive in good time.
Specific Opening Hours
Open from Tuesday to Sunday, 8:15 – 18:30 (last entry 17:30). Closed on Mondays. Arrive early: queues get long.
Inside you will find works by Leonardo da Vinci, Michelangelo, Caravaggio and more.
Check out our expert tips if you’re travelling to Florence.
Palazzo Vecchio
The Palazzo Vecchio is Florence’s former town hall and one of its most interesting museums.
Free Admission Conditions
Free only for residents of the Metropolitan City of Florence on the first Sunday of the month (Domenica Metropolitana). Proof of residence is required.
Specific Opening Hours
Open 9:00 – 19:00 (last entry 18:00). On Thursdays: 9:00 – 14:00. Some rooms, such as the Hall of the Five Hundred, may be partially closed depending on events.
Museo di San Marco
The Museo di San Marco was a Dominican convent where Fra Angelico lived. It preserves magnificent frescoes and the artist’s cell.
Free Admission Conditions
Free on the first Sunday of the month. Opening hours that day: 8:30 – 13:50 (last entry 13:20).
What to See
Don’t miss Fra Angelico’s cell and the Annunciation (fresco on the dormitory staircase).
Check our guide to museums in Florence so you don’t miss anything important.
Cathedral of Santa Maria del Fiore
The Cathedral of Santa Maria del Fiore (Duomo) is free to enter, but tourist visits are only allowed from Monday to Saturday, 10:15 – 15:45. On Sundays it only opens for mass.
Access to the dome, bell tower and other monuments is paid separately.
Piazza della Signoria
A public space that is always open and free, full of sculptures such as the Fountain of Neptune and the replica of David.
Good to Know
The museums on the square (for example, Palazzo Vecchio) are only free for residents of the Metropolitan City of Florence on the first Sunday.
Boboli Gardens
The Boboli Gardens, behind the Pitti Palace, are a classic example of an Italian Renaissance garden.
Free Access Conditions
Free entry on the first Sunday of every month (initiative #Domenica al Museo).
Visiting Hours
Opens at 8:15; closing time varies by season (in August: 19:10). Last entry 18:10. Closed on the first and last Monday of every month.
Ideal for strolling and enjoying panoramic views over Florence.
San Lorenzo Market
The San Lorenzo Market is perfect for immersing yourself in everyday Florentine life without spending a cent.
Areas and Opening Hours
- Ground floor (fresh produce): Monday to Friday 9:00 – 15:00; Saturday 9:00 – 17:00; Sundays and public holidays closed.
- Food court (upper floor): Sunday to Thursday 9:00 – 23:00; Friday and Saturday 9:00 – 24:00.
- Outdoor leather and souvenir stalls: Tuesday to Sunday 9:00 – 18:30.
Entry is free; you’ll only pay for what you buy.
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* The information on prices, opening times and admission conditions is current as of August 2025 according to official sources. This data may change at any time due to public holidays, maintenance works or changes in regulations. Always check the official websites or phone numbers of each place before your visit.
