Begin your tour at the Natural History Museum of Florence, one of Europe’s first public science museums.
Founded in 1775 by Peter Leopold of Lorraine, the museum preserves a unique heritage of science, art, and nature.
Explore the "Giardino dei Semplici" Botanical Garden, established in 1545 by Cosimo I de' Medici. Discover 6,000 plant species, magical medicinal specimens, the world's largest inflorescence, and monumental trees like a 1720 Yew (Taxus baccata).
Next, visit the La Specola Museum, located near Piazza Pitti, that showcases a 18th-century anatomical and botanical waxes, minerals, and over 4 million zoological specimens.
See giant Galapagos tortoises, a white rhino, an 1828 Egyptian mummified crocodile, and so much more. Admire the famous Boboli Hippo, a real hippo gifted to Grand Duke Peter Leopold that lived in the Boboli Gardens.
During the walk to the Specola, stop to taste Florentine artisanal ice cream.
Book your visit an experience where science meets art.
What's included
Gelato break
Ticket entrances
Local expert guide
What to expect
University of Florence Natural History Museum
45m · Admission ticket included
Fossils and Skeletons: Huge remains of ancient animals like mammoths, mastodonts, and a large whale.
Earth History: Rocks and fossils arranged in order of Earth's timeline.
Tuscan Reperti: Many important fossils found in the Tuscany region.
Museo di Storia Naturale, Orto Botanico “Giardino dei Semplici”
30m · Admission ticket included
The Orto Botanico di Firenze, also known as the Giardino dei Semplici, the "Garden of simples", is a botanical garden maintained by the University of Florence.
Museo di Storia Naturale - La Specola
45m · Admission ticket included
The museum has deep ties with history; parts of the collection can be traced back to the Medici Family. It is known for its collection of wax anatomical models from the 18th century. It is the oldest scientific Museum of Europe.
Meeting and pickup
Meeting point
In front of Manfredo Fanti statue, San Marco Square, Florence
End point
The tour ends at La Specola Museum, via Romana 17. You can stay inside even after the tour. Distance from the train station of Santa Maria Novella, 15 minutes walking
Additional information
Wheelchair accessible
Infants and small children can ride in a pram or stroller
Public transportation options are available nearby
Infants are required to sit on an adult’s lap
Transportation options are wheelchair accessible
Suitable for all physical fitness levels
Cancellation policy
For a full refund, cancel at least 24 hours before the scheduled departure time.
