What is the best guide to the Uffizi?

Question

We are making our first trip to Florence and the Uffizi is the highlight for my husband and I. We are so excited and we only have one free day to spend at the museum. So, we want to make the best of our visit.

1. How can we best prepare? (what is the best guide to the collections, map, etc.)

2. What is the best way to navigate through, see, and learn? Is it through an audio tour or with a guide book and map? If so, which one(s) are the best?

Answer 1

About the Uffizi, since it so popular you need to get your tickets in advance. They let people in by shifts so you want to get as early an entrance time as possible to allow you the most time in the museum (assuming you do want to spend a good deal of time there).

A personal guide can is good that you can have an interactive discussion, however, they really aren't practical except for groups and usually won't spend a whole day in a museum.

I think they rent headsets there that will give you descriptions of the art. This is a good option and I've used it recently at the Louvre. I see that you can also purchase an audio guide (I'm guessing it's an MP3, podcast) but I've never tried one of those.

Answer 2

If this is really important to you the best thing may be an actual tour guide. Personal guides can be really great - unfortunately I could not tell you a specific one to use.

My favorite all around book for museums and churches, something that gives more information than most guides, is the Blue Guide to Florence. There is something about all the major works in this book and each room is covered. You have to keep in mind though that some of the collection moves around rapidly and that some rooms may be closed, etc.

There are also places to books tours on-line - but I think you will probably end up with a group. If you are staying at a hotel while in Florence maybe you should contact the concierge now and ask if they can arrange for a private guide?