The Majestic David: A Masterpiece of Renaissance Sculpture
Discover Michelangelo's David, a breathtaking Renaissance masterpiece in Florence, where art and history converge in a stunning display of human beauty.
Nestled in the heart of Florence, the Galleria dell'Accademia is home to one of the most famous sculptures in the world: Michelangelo's David. This breathtaking work of art stands at a towering 5.17 meters (17 feet) and showcases the unparalleled skill of the Renaissance artist, who sculpted it from a single block of marble. The statue, which depicts the biblical hero David before his battle with Goliath, is celebrated not just for its size but for its intricate details and lifelike representation, capturing the essence of human emotion and strength. Visitors to the Galleria dell'Accademia can marvel at the stunning craftsmanship of David up close, as well as explore a variety of other fascinating works of art, including Michelangelo's unfinished sculptures known as the Prisoners. The museum itself is steeped in history, adding to the overall experience of viewing one of the world’s greatest masterpieces. The surrounding area is also rich in culture, with charming streets filled with shops, cafes, and other attractions, allowing tourists to immerse themselves in the vibrant atmosphere of Florence. When planning your visit, be sure to allocate sufficient time to fully appreciate both David and the other artworks in the gallery. It is advisable to book tickets in advance during peak tourist seasons to avoid long queues. The Galleria is open daily, providing ample opportunity to witness this iconic sculpture and learn about its history and significance in the context of Renaissance art. Whether you are an art lover or a casual tourist, a visit to Michelangelo's David is an unforgettable experience that encapsulates the artistic spirit of Florence.
Local tips
- Book your tickets online in advance to skip the long lines.
- Visit early in the morning or later in the afternoon for a quieter experience.
- Take your time to appreciate the details of the sculpture and the surrounding artworks.
- Consider joining a guided tour for in-depth insights into the history of the David.
- Explore the nearby streets of Florence for delightful cafes and shops after your visit.
A brief summary to David
- Via Ricasoli, 58/60, Florence, Metropolitan City of Florence, 50129, IT
- +390550987100
- Visit website
- Tuesday 8:15 am-6:20 pm
- Wednesday 8:15 am-6:20 pm
- Thursday 8:15 am-6:20 pm
- Friday 8:15 am-6:20 pm
- Saturday 8:15 am-6:20 pm
- Sunday 8:15 am-6:20 pm
Getting There
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Car
If you're driving, take the A1 motorway towards Florence. Upon reaching Florence, follow the signs for 'Centro' (city center). Once in the city, navigate to Via Ricasoli which is located near the Accademia Gallery. There are several parking garages in the vicinity, such as Garage Michelangelo and Garage della Storia, where you can park your vehicle (parking fees apply, typically around €2.50 per hour). From the parking garage, it's a short walk to David.
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Train
For those using public transportation, take a train to Florence Santa Maria Novella station (SMN). From there, exit the station and head towards Piazza della Repubblica. Continue walking straight until you reach Via Ricasoli. The walk will take approximately 15-20 minutes. Alternatively, you can take a bus from the train station to the city center; look for buses heading towards Piazza San Marco and get off at the stop for Via Ricasoli, which is a short distance from the gallery. A single train ticket from nearby towns to Florence costs between €5 and €10 depending on the distance.
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Bus
If you're in another Tuscan city, you can take a regional bus to Florence. Bus companies such as FlixBus and SITA offer services to Florence. Once you arrive at the Florence bus station, the walking directions are similar to those from the train station: head towards Piazza della Repubblica and then to Via Ricasoli. A bus ticket can cost anywhere from €3 to €15 depending on your starting point.
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Taxi or Ride-Sharing
For a more convenient option, you can take a taxi or a ride-sharing service like Uber to David. Simply enter 'Via Ricasoli, 58/60, Florence' as your destination. Taxi fares from different areas in Florence to the Accademia Gallery vary, but expect to pay around €15 to €25 depending on your starting point. This is a good option if you're traveling with luggage or in a group.
Attractions Nearby to David
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Giardino di palazzo Grifoni Budini Gattai
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Galleria dell’Accademia di Firenze
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Museo Degli Strumenti Musicali
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Opificio delle Pietre Dure
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Loggia dei Servi di Maria
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Antoine - Visite Florence
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Piazza delle Belle Arti
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Statua equestre di Ferdinando I de' Medici
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Piazza della Santissima Annunziata
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Selfie Museum Firenze
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Florence Art Lab
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The SS. Annunziata di Firenze
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Piazza San Marco
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Monumento a Manfredo Fanti
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Museo degli Innocenti
Landmarks nearby to David
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The Baptistery of St. John
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Giotto's Bell Tower
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Campanile di Giotto
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Loggia del Bigallo
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Tourist House Duomo
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Chiesa di Santa Maria Maggiore
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Colonna dell'Abbondanza
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Bargello National Museum
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Museo Nazionale del Bargello
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Synagogue and Jewish Museum of Florence
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Piazza della Repubblica
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Fun in Tuscany
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CHIANTI WINE TOUR
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Fish Market
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Church and Museum of Orsanmichele