The Vasari Corridor, a 750-meter elevated walkway constructed in 1565, was originally designed for the Medici family to travel discreetly between key locations in Florence. Artist and architect Giorgio Vasari crafted this passage, which connects the Palazzo Vecchio, the Uffizi Galleries, and Palazzo Pitti, allowing the Medici to move undisturbed by the public or potential threats. Today, this historic route offers visitors a serene pathway through the heart of Florence, bypassing the bustling crowds below.
The corridor provides spectacular views, elevated above Florence’s iconic streets and along the Ponte Vecchio. This unique vantage point was once exclusive to the Grand Dukes of Tuscany, who utilized it as a private thoroughfare. Visitors can now experience these vistas without the throngs typically found at ground level, affording a tranquil appreciation of the city’s beauty.
Public access to the corridor comes after years of restricted entry, previously available only to those who could afford a significant fee. It was closed in 2016 due to health and safety concerns but reopened with structured visits for groups of 25, accompanied by chaperones and with opportunities to capture photos along the way. Entry is available through a 20-euro ticket, which covers a guided walk along the passage.
Starting at the Uffizi on the second floor, the corridor descends through an opulently frescoed hall onto a terracotta-paved walkway. Its large square windows reveal stunning scenes of the Arno river and the cityscape. In a historical twist, panoramic windows were installed during the era of Mussolini and were famously shown to Adolf Hitler, who opted not to destroy the Ponte Vecchio during World War II, sparing it from the fate of many other bridges in Florence.
As part of the ‘Uffizi Diffusi’ project, which aims to spread art throughout Tuscany, the corridor integrates history with art. Although currently empty, discussions suggest the potential for future displays of artworks, reminiscent of its past when it housed a vast collection of portraits. Visitors today must prepare in advance to understand the corridor’s rich history, as guides will not provide detailed tours.
Tickets for the complete Vasari Corridor experience also include access to the Uffizi Galleries, allowing a two-hour exploration of one of Italy’s most celebrated art collections before venturing into the corridor. A 43-euro ticket option is available, or an additional 20 euros can be added to existing Uffizi tickets, subject to availability. Free entry is available on the first Sunday of each month, yet slots are quickly reserved in advance.
The opening of the Vasari Corridor to the public marks a significant moment in sharing Florence’s rich history. Visitors can now trace the footsteps of the Medici, gaining insight into the past while enjoying unparalleled views of the city.
