Botticelli's Birth of Venus, Uffizi
Must-SeeSandro Botticelli's iconic goddess emerging from the sea. Room 10-14 of the Uffizi. Arrive at opening (8:15am) for quiet viewing.
Michelangelo's David, Accademia
Must-SeeThe 5.17m marble giant that defines Renaissance sculpture. Book timed tickets online — the queue without is 1-2 hours.
Leonardo's Last Supper, Santa Maria delle Grazie
Must-SeeUNESCOBook 2-3 months ahead — only 25 visitors every 15 minutes. The deterioration makes it more poignant. Viewing time: exactly 15 minutes.
Raphael's School of Athens, Vatican
Must-SeeIn the Stanza della Segnatura, Vatican Museums. Every philosopher of antiquity in one composition. Go early morning to appreciate it without crowds.
Masaccio's Brancacci Chapel
Hidden GemThe frescoes that launched the Renaissance — Masaccio's use of perspective and light changed painting forever. Santa Maria del Carmine. Book ahead, limited visitors.
Where to start
Start at the Uffizi in Florence for the full Renaissance journey. For a single masterpiece experience, book the Last Supper in Milan months ahead — it is transcendent.