The godfather of the renaissance: the Medici family

Florence’s Renaissance glory was not built on art and genius alone, it was forged by one family: the Medici. This private tour designed by Artviva, offers a captivating journey into the dynasty that transformed the city into the cradle of the Renaissance.

This private experience leads you through the streets, piazzas and palaces once ruled by the Medici. Guided by an expert storyteller, you’ll uncover tales of ambition, betrayal and brilliance, stories that shaped not only Florence but also the course of European history.

Your journey features landmarks inseparably linked to the Medici: Piazza della Signoria, the heart of Florentine politics; the Medici Chapels, final resting place of the family; the exterior of Palazzo Medici Riccardi, the first Renaissance palace they commissioned; and San Lorenzo, their parish church, filled with masterpieces by Brunelleschi, Donatello and Michelangelo.

But this is far more than a history lesson. The tour reveals the Medici as Renaissance power brokers—patrons of Botticelli, Leonardo da Vinci and Michelangelo, as well as shrewd bankers and rulers. Their alliances and rivalries still echo through Florence’s art, architecture and legacy.

For over 20 years, Artviva, Florence’s original boutique tour company, has crafted cultural experiences of the highest quality. Our guides are chosen for both expertise and engaging style, ensuring every step is enlightening and entertaining. Unlike crowded group tours, this private experience moves at your pace, with your questions and interests shaping the narrative.

With Artviva, luxury lies in authenticity, storytelling and connection. Discover Florence through the eyes of its greatest patrons, and its most notorious family.