Galileo Museum (Museo Galileo)

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.

Ways to explore

Located next door to the Uffizi Galleries, the Galileo Museum is an easy stop on a day of sightseeing in Florence. Explore it on your own by reserving a skip-the-line ticket and using the museum’s app and audio guide during your visit.

For deeper insights into the importance of the instruments on display, check out the museum on a private or small-group guided tour. Or, join a Galileo-themed tour of Florence that includes a stop at the museum and a visit to his elaborate tomb in the Basilica of Santa Croce.

Accessibility

The Galileo Museum is wheelchair accessible, with a ramp entrance, accessible restrooms, and wheelchair lifts to the upper levels. Visitors with disabilities and their companions get free entry to the museum.

Age limits

None

What to pack

Bottled water, headphones for listening to the museum’s in-app audio guide

What to wear

You’ll do lots of walking around the museum (and Florence in general), so wear comfortable shoes and suitable clothing for the weather.

Not allowed

Flash photography, tripods, selfie sticks

Amenities

Wi-Fi, restrooms, lockers, bookshop

Address

The Galileo Museum is located along the Arno River in central Florence. It’s a short walk from the Ponte Vecchio, Piazza della Signoria, and other major attractions, though you can also get there by car or public transportation.

Driving

Unless you have a special permit to drive in Florence’s historic center, you’ll need to take a taxi to the Galileo Museum. You can get a cab by phone, app, or at the taxi stands in the city’s main squares.

Public transportation

The C1 bus runs north–south through central Florence and drops off very close to the museum at the Galleria degli Uffizi and Diaz stops. You can purchase tickets via Autolinee Toscane’s “at bus” app or at a tobacco shop.

Best times to visit

The Galileo Museum is quietest just after opening, so head there early to enjoy the installations in peace.

Best days to visit

There’s no bad day to visit the museum, which is open daily. On busy weekends, enjoy the exhibits as a break from the crowds at Florence’s more popular attractions.

Best months to visit

Visit the Galileo Museum from October–February, when you’ll bypass the spring break and summer tourist rush.