Explore Florence’s Historic Vasari Corridor During Evening Tours

Florence's historic Vasari Corridor is opening for evening visits every Friday from July 3 to November 20, 2026. Explore this architectural marvel with guided tours.

The Vasari Corridor Florence’s elevated passageway connecting the Uffizi Gallery to Palazzo Pitti is once again welcoming visitors during evening hours. This remarkable structure, which spans the Ponte Vecchio and offers stunning views of the Arno River, has undergone extensive restoration and is now ready to be experienced in a new light.

After an eight-year closure for structural improvements and conservation work, the corridor reopened in December 2026 with a simplified design that emphasizes its original 16th-century architecture. The restoration, led by the Uffizi Galleries and Italy’s cultural heritage authorities, cost approximately €10–11 million and removed many of the previous display elements, including the famous series of self-portraits, to create a more authentic architectural experience.

The Renaissance Connection

Commissioned in 1565 by Cosimo I de’ Medici and designed by Giorgio Vasari the corridor was originally intended to provide a secure and private route between the Medici’s government offices at the Uffizi and their residence at Palazzo Pitti.

Over the centuries, it became a symbol of Medici power and influence over Florence’s political and cultural life.

The corridor stretches approximately 750 meters and offers some of the most recognizable views of Florence. As visitors walk along the passageway, they can enjoy panoramic vistas of the city, including the iconic Ponte Vecchio and the Arno Riverfront. The evening tours promise to enhance these views with the soft glow of twilight.

Evening Tours and Booking Information

From July 3 to November 20, 2026, the Vasari Corridor will be open every Friday evening for guided tours. Visiting hours are from 7:00 PM to 11:00 PM, with the last entry at 9:50 PM. Each tour accommodates groups of up to 25 visitors, ensuring an intimate and personalized experience.

To participate in these special evening tours, visitors must book in advance through the Uffizi Galleries’ official website. It is recommended to arrive at the meeting point in the piazzale degli Uffizi, near the Loggia dei Lanzi, at least 10 minutes before the scheduled tour time. The guided tours provide a unique opportunity to explore the corridor’s rich history and architectural significance.

A Broader Cultural Initiative

The evening openings are part of a larger effort by the Uffizi Galleries to enhance and diversify the cultural offerings available to visitors. This initiative includes participation in international events such as the European Museum Night and the European Heritage Days. By offering evening and special tours, the Uffizi aims to provide new ways to experience one of the world’s most captivating historical pathways.

Whether you are a history enthusiast, an architecture lover, or simply looking for a unique experience in Florence, the evening tours of the Vasari Corridor offer an unforgettable journey through the city’s Renaissance past. Don’t miss the chance to walk in the footsteps of the Medici and discover the secrets of this extraordinary passageway.