Galileo Museum (Museo Galileo) Tours
Science buffs of all ages marvel at the array of historic scientific and mathematical instruments at Florence’s Museo Galileo. Check out barometers, globes, and microscopes dating as far back as the 13th century, as well as a telescope that Galileo used. Engaging hands-on exhibits demonstrate the instruments’ inner workings.
The Basics
A giant sundial at the entrance hints at what you’ll find inside this state-of-the-art museum located just around the corner from the Uffizi Gallery. Collected by the Medici and Lorraine dynasties, the instruments offer a journey into the history of astronomy, mathematics, and other sciences, with a focus on the contributions of Galileo Galilei.
To skip the entry line, buy your ticket in advance. For deeper insight into the importance of the instruments on display, explore the museum with a guide. Or, join a Galileo-themed tour of Florence that includes a stop at the museum.
Things to Know Before You Go
- Older kids especially enjoy the interactive section of the museum with hands-on models and exhibits.
- The museum is accessible to wheelchairs.
- Purchase science-themed books and souvenirs in the museum shop.
- The museum doesn’t have a café, but you’ll find a variety of dining options in the immediate vicinity.
How to Get There
Museo Galileo is located just behind the Uffizi Gallery on Piazza dei Giudici along the Arno River, an easy walk from the train station and Florence’s main sights.
When to Get There
There’s really no bad time to visit. In summer, the museum can be a welcome break from the heat and crowds of other more famous attractions in Florence.
The Museo Galileo Collection
The museum occupies two entire floors of the Palazzo Castellani—the first floor is home to the Medici Collection, and on the second you’ll find the Lorraine Dynasty Collection. Each room is organized around a theme, such as The Representation of the World.
Address: Piazza dei Giudici, 1, Florence 50122, Italy
5 Tours and Activities to Experience Galileo Museum (Museo Galileo)
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Small-group Guided tour of Galileo's Museum
Experience one of Florence’s most fascinating museums with a 1.5-hour guided tour of Galileo's National Science Museum. Enjoy skip-the-line entrance and benefit from a small-group size as you browse the interactive exhibitions, admire Galileo’s original telescopes and scientific tools, and learn all about the scientist’s groundbreaking discoveries.
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From
$65.20
From
$65.20
Galileo Galilei Private Science Tour of Florence
Explore the life and scientific legacy of one of the most famous Florentines on a private tour revolving around Galileo. Visit the astronomer’s namesake museum to learn about his life and see historic telescopes, and pay tribute at a forum and statue dedicated to him at the Observatory Museum. After learning about Galileo’s controversial theories and discoveries, finish the journey in front of his tomb inside the Basilica of Santa Croce.
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From
$246.05
Price varies by group size
From
$246.05
Price varies by group size
Face masks required for travelers in public areas
Face masks required for guides in public areas
Hand sanitizer available to travelers and staff
Discovering Galileo Museum in Florence Private Tour for Kids & Families
Welcome to Florence! Would you like to introduce your children to the man that revolutionized science, leaving an indelible legacy which still affects our lives today?
Our Galileo Galilei Tour for Kids in Florence is an excursion the whole family will enjoy.
With an expert English- speaking guide, history and science come to life to inspire and delight one and all.
You will learn all about the life and scientific discoveries of Galileo Galilei, an Italian astronomer, physicist and engineer, considered one of the most important revolutionaries in the field of science.
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From
$121.79
Price varies by group size
From
$121.79
Price varies by group size
Face masks required for travelers in public areas
Face masks required for guides in public areas
Hand sanitizer available to travelers and staff
From the Middle Ages to the Stars
A journey that will take you to discover the most characteristic museums of the city. It will start from the Basilica of Santa Croce with the famous tombs of Michelangelo and Galileo and then visit the Bargello National Museum with sculptures and masterpieces by Michelangelo, the Galileo Galilei science museum, the Ponte Vecchio and the city across the river, ending with the square Holy spirit.
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From
$342.22
From
$342.22
Florence Walk and Galileo Museum
This is the perfect tour to get to know Florence away from the crowds. Let's discover Florence and its history through the scientific collection of the Medici family. The Medici were the patrons of Galileo and played a relevant role in his trial. In spite of the heresy accusation, Galileo is the father of modern science.
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From
$222.54
per group
From
$222.54
per group
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