What is the Firenze Card?
The Firenze Card is a special pass designed for art and history lovers who want to explore Florence’s incredible museums with ease.
It grants access to over 50 museums, galleries, and historical sites across the city, allowing visitors to skip the regular ticket lines.
For €85, the card is valid for 72 hours from the moment of first activation—meaning you have three full days to visit as many museums as possible.
But before you buy it, there are a few things you need to know. While it is a fantastic way to experience Florence, it comes with certain rules and requirements—some of which may surprise you.
Let’s break down exactly how it works, what’s included, and whether it’s the right choice for your trip.
How the Firenze Card Works
So, you’ve got your Card—No waiting in ticket lines, no hassle… Sounds perfect, right?
Well, almost. Here’s what nobody tells you: some museums STILL require a reservation—and if you don’t book at least one day in advance, you’re not getting in.
The Firenze Card gives you priority access to almost all museums and monumental sites in Florence and the surrounding area—no reservations needed, except for the Uffizi and the Galleria dell’Accademia.
For these two museums, a free reservation is required and must be made by calling the Firenze Musei call center (+39 055 294883) or by visiting the ticket offices at Orsanmichele (Via de’ Calzaiuoli) or My Accademia (Via Ricasoli 105/r, reopening from March 1, 2025).
As of December 9, 2024, reservations are also mandatory for the Museo di Palazzo Vecchio through the Firenze Card app or website. For the Cappella Brancacci, bookings must be made via the online ticket office.
Check the official website for the full list of museums that need a reservation and how to book, follow the instructions.
How to Get and Use the Firenze Card
1. Where to Buy It
You can purchase the Card in two ways:
- Online – Buy it through the officialwebsite and receive a digital version that you can activate via the app.
- In Florence – If you prefer a physical card, you can purchase it at authorized sales points across the city, including major museums and tourist information centers.
2. Digital or Physical – Which One to Choose?
The Card is available in two formats:
- Digital Card – Once purchased online, the card is accessible through the official app. This option is convenient because you don’t need to pick up a physical card—just show the QR code at museum entrances.
- Printed Card – If you prefer a traditional approach, you can get a physical card from official sales points in Florence. This is useful for those who like having a tangible pass or don’t want to rely on a phone.
Regardless of which format you choose, both versions work the same way and offer identical benefits.
3. Activating Your Card
Your 72-hour countdown does not start when you buy the card—it begins the moment you enter your first museum. That means you can purchase your Firenze Card in advance and activate it when you’re ready to start exploring.
To activate it:
- Digital Card – Open the app and scan the QR code at the first museum you visit.
- Printed Card – Simply show it at the entrance of your first museum, where it will be marked as activated.
Once activated, you have exactly 72 hours to visit as many museums as you can before the pass expires.
How to Restart Your Card
If your 72-hour period has expired, but you still want to continue visiting museums, you don’t need to buy a brand-new card. Instead, you can restart your existing Firenze Card by paying a reduced renewal fee of €29.
How It Works
- The restart option is only available once per card.
- You must reactivate it within 12 months from the date of first activation.
- The renewed card grants you another 72 hours of access to all included museums.
- You can restart it either online through the website or at authorized ticket offices in Florence.
This feature is ideal for visitors who:
✔️ Didn’t have enough time to see everything in 3 days.
✔️ Want to extend their museum visits during a longer stay in Florence.
✔️ Plan to return within a year and want to continue using the same card.
Is It Worth It?
If you’re visiting 3+ museums a day, YES. If you’re here for one museum and 10 wine bars, maybe not.
The Card costs €85, so it’s worth it if you’re planning to dive deep into Florence’s art scene!
Pro Tip: Don’t wait until the last minute to book those museums. Call as soon as you get your card—or risk missing out!
Firenze Card FAQ
1. How much does the Firenze Card cost?
The Firenze Card costs €85 for 72 hours. During this time, you have access to over 50 museums and monuments in Florence and the surrounding area, with priority access to most locations.
2. Where can I buy the Firenze Card?
You can purchase the Firenze Card online through the official website, or in person at authorized sales points in Florence, such as museums, tourist information offices, and train stations.
3. What can I see with the Firenze Card?
With the Firenze Card, you can access a wide range of museums and historical sites, including:
- Uffizi Gallery
- Accademia Gallery
- Pitti Palace and Boboli Gardens
- San Salvi Museum
And many more, including churches, historic palaces, and temporary exhibitions.
4. How much does it cost to renew the Firenze Card?
Renewing the Firenze Card costs €29 and provides another 72 hours of access to all included museums. You can only renew the card once per purchase, within 12 months of the initial activation.
5. Is the Firenze Card valid for all museums in Florence?
The Firenze Card provides access to over 50 museums and historical sites, but there are a few exceptions. For example, for the Uffizi and the Accademia Gallery, a free reservation is required, which can be made online or through the booking center.
6. How do I activate the Firenze Card?
You can activate the Firenze Card when you enter your first museum. If you have a digital version, simply scan the QR code via the app. If you have a physical card, show it at the entrance.
7. Is the Firenze Card refundable?
No, the Firenze Card is non-refundable. Once purchased and activated, it cannot be returned for a refund.
8. Can I use the Firenze Card for public transport?
No, the Firenze Card does not include public transportation, only access to museums and historical sites in Florence.
9. How long do I have to wait to enter museums with the Firenze Card?
In general, the Firenze Card allows you to skip the line at most museums. However, for popular museums like the Uffizi or the Accademia Gallery, there might be a brief wait if you haven’t made a reservation.
10. Does the Firenze Card have an expiration date?
The Firenze Card is valid for 72 hours from the moment it is activated. After that, it expires automatically and cannot be used for further visits.