The Vasari Corridor (Corridoio Vasariano) is an extraordinary 16th-century elevated, enclosed passageway designed by architect Giorgio Vasari for Duke Cosimo I de' Medici. Spanning approximately one kilometer, this private walkway allowed the Duke to travel safely between government headquarters at Palazzo Vecchio and his residence at Palazzo Pitti. Walking this historic route takes you from the Uffizi Gallery, along the Arno riverbank, and across the famous Ponte Vecchio.
As you trace the Medici family's steps over the Oltrarno district's houses, you will see unique architectural solutions, like how the path winds around the stubborn Mannelli Tower using stone brackets and passes the Church of Santa Felicità, where a private balcony once let royalty attend services unseen. Along the path, you can enjoy panoramic views through decorative windows overlooking the river Arno toward the Ponte Santa Trinita. You will also experience a site steeped in history: the bridge's original meat market was replaced by goldsmith shops in 1593 to spare the Duke unpleasant smells, and sections damaged by historical events like WWII, the 1966 flood, and the 1993 Mafia bombing have been carefully restored.
It offers a rare, intimate perspective on Florentine art, power, and resilience.
What to see at Vasari Corridor
- Elevated one-kilometer passageway connecting Palazzo Vecchio and Palazzo Pitti
- Panoramic window views overlooking the Arno River toward Ponte Santa Trinita
- Architectural detour around Mannelli Tower supported by stone brackets
- Private historical balcony overlooking the interior of the Church of Santa Felicità
- Historic path directly above Ponte Vecchio's famous goldsmith shops
Visiting tips
Keep in mind that once you begin walking through the Corridor, you cannot return to the Uffizi Gallery.
How long: 1-2 hours · Best time: Tuesday to Sunday
How to get there & what’s nearby
Vasari Corridor is easy to reach on Florence’s public transport, and pairs naturally with Florence Cathedral and Uffizi Gallery. For where to stay, the weather and full itineraries, see our Florence travel guide.
See the full Florence travel guide for where to stay, the best time to visit and the top things to do.