Explore the artistic heart of Florence beyond the tourist crowds on this captivating guided tour. Led by a certified guide and professional painter, this 3-hour experience unveils the city’s hidden gems and immerses participants in hands-on painting lessons. Discover lesser-known locations, learn about masterpieces, and hone your artistic skills – a perfect blend for art and history enthusiasts. What secrets await in this intimate group experience?
Key Points

- Discover off-the-beaten-path locations in Florence, including the Cenacolo di Sant’Apollonia, Chiostro dello Scalzo, and Basilica della Santissima Annunziata.
- Observe and learn about masterpieces by Andrea del Castagno and the unique chiaroscuro techniques used in the frescoes.
- Engage in hands-on live painting lessons under the guidance of a certified guide and professional painter.
- Small group size of up to 10 participants for an intimate and interactive art history experience.
- Tour is suitable for adults and older children interested in art and history, but not recommended for younger children.
Overview of the Tour

This 3-hour guided tour in Florence offers participants a chance to discover the city’s hidden gems away from the bustling tourist crowds.
Led by Anna, a certified guide and professional painter, the tour provides an intimate experience for a small group of up to 10 people.
A small group of up to 10 people can enjoy an intimate tour led by a certified guide and professional painter.
Participants will observe masterpieces, learn about art history, and even participate in hands-on live painting lessons focusing on various techniques.
The tour covers off-the-beaten-path locations like the Cenacolo di Sant’Apollonia, Chiostro dello Scalzo, and Basilica della Santissima Annunziata, allowing visitors to explore Florence’s rich cultural heritage.
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Discovering Niche Places in Florence

Although Florence is renowned for its iconic landmarks and bustling tourist hubs, the city boasts a wealth of niche places that remain hidden from the mainstream crowds.
On this exclusive tour, you’ll discover these lesser-known gems, guided by a knowledgeable local. From the serene Chiostro dello Scalzo and its intricate frescoes to the vibrant Basilica della Santissima Annunziata, you’ll uncover the city’s artistic and historical treasures away from the typical tourist trail.
With an expert guide providing insightful commentary, you’ll gain a deeper appreciation for Florence’s rich cultural heritage and its hidden gems.
Exploring Masterpieces and Their History

Throughout the tour, you will have the opportunity to discover and explore masterpieces that hold deep historical significance. At the Cenacolo di Sant’Apollonia, they will observe Andrea del Castagno’s "The Last Supper" and learn about its captivating history. Later, at the Chiostro dello Scalzo, the group will admire the frescoes and study the chiaroscuro techniques employed by the artists. At the Basilica della Santissima Annunziata, they will marvel at the colorful frescoes and explore the nuances of color contrast.
| Masterpiece | Location |
| — | — |
| "The Last Supper" by Andrea del Castagno | Cenacolo di Sant’Apollonia |
| Frescoes | Chiostro dello Scalzo |
| Colorful Frescoes | Basilica della Santissima Annunziata |
Hands-on Painting Lessons

Along With exploring the historical significance of the masterpieces, the tour also provides participants with hands-on opportunities to learn and practice various painting techniques.
Under the guidance of Anna, a certified guide and professional painter, guests can participate in live painting sessions focusing on perspective, chiaroscuro, and color contrast.
All necessary art supplies are included, allowing attendees to enjoy the creative process and develop their artistic skills.
This interactive component adds an engaging and educational aspect to the tour, enhancing the overall experience for those interested in both art history and hands-on creative expression.
More Great Tours NearbyGuided by a Certified Guide and Professional Painter

Why is the tour guided by a certified guide and professional painter?
The tour is led by Anna, who brings a unique perspective as both a certified guide and a professional painter. Her expertise allows her to provide valuable insights into the historical and artistic significance of the sites visited, while also guiding participants through hands-on painting lessons.
The tour is led by Anna, a certified guide and professional painter, who provides insights into the historical and artistic significance of the sites while guiding participants through hands-on painting lessons.
Anna’s firsthand experience as an artist enables her to share techniques and tips that enhance the participants’ understanding and appreciation of the local art and architecture.
This combination of guiding and artistic instruction creates a well-rounded and immersive experience for those seeking to delve deeper into Florence’s hidden gems.
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Itinerary Highlights

The tour’s itinerary highlights Florence’s hidden gems, allowing participants to discover niche places often overlooked by mainstream tourism.
Visitors will first observe Andrea del Castagno’s "The Last Supper" and learn about its historical context.
Next, they’ll participate in a hands-on lesson on perspective in painting at the Chiostro dello Scalzo, admiring the frescoes and studying chiaroscuro techniques.
At the Basilica della Santissima Annunziata, they’ll explore colorful frescoes and learn about color contrast.
The tour culminates in a live painting session at Piazza della Santissima Annunziata, with guidance from the certified guide and professional painter.
Included Materials for Live Painting

All the necessary tools for the live painting classes are included in the tour price.
Participants receive a drawing pad, pencils, tempera paints, crayons, erasers, and other essential art supplies. This allows visitors to fully enjoy the hands-on painting lesson without having to worry about bringing their own materials.
Under the guidance of the professional painter and tour guide Anna, attendees can explore various painting techniques like perspective and chiaroscuro.
With all the required tools provided, the live painting session becomes an engaging and accessible creative experience for the group.
Participant Considerations

Although the tour is wheelchair accessible, it may not be suitable for children under 8 years old.
The live painting experience requires focus and attention, which younger children may find challenging. Participants must be able to follow instructions and handle art materials with care.
The tour is best suited for adults and older children interested in art and history. Customer reviews highlight the enjoyable and educational aspects of the tour, making it an ideal activity for those seeking a unique and immersive exploration of Florence’s hidden gems.
Participants should be prepared to engage actively throughout the 3-hour experience.
Frequently Asked Questions

Can I Bring My Own Art Supplies for the Painting Session?
While the tour provides all necessary art supplies, participants are welcome to bring their own preferred materials for the live painting session if they wish. The guide will be happy to accommodate individual preferences.
Is It Possible to Customize the Itinerary Based on My Interests?
Yes, the tour can be customized based on the participant’s interests. The licensed guide, Anna, is flexible and willing to adjust the itinerary to focus on the guest’s preferred artistic techniques or historical sites within the allotted time.
What Happens if the Weather Is Bad During the Outdoor Painting Session?
If the weather is bad, the live painting session will be moved indoors to an alternate location. The guide is prepared to adjust the itinerary as needed to ensure participants have an enjoyable and educational experience, even in inclement weather.
Can I Take the Art Materials With Me After the Tour?
The art materials provided during the live painting session are for use only during the tour. Participants cannot take the materials home with them after the experience ends, as they are meant for shared use throughout the group activity.
Are Photos and Videos Allowed During the Tour?
Yes, participants are generally allowed to take photos and videos during the tour. However, it’s best to check with the guide beforehand to ensure there are no restrictions or sensitive areas where photography may not be permitted.
The Sum Up
This guided tour in Florence offers a unique opportunity to discover the city’s hidden artistic gems and engage in live painting lessons alongside a certified guide and professional painter. Participants can expect to explore lesser-known sites, explore the history of masterpieces, and hone their painting skills, making it an ideal experience for art and history enthusiasts.
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