A museum dedicated to model trains in the heart of Florence

Discover a miniature world with moving trains and detailed scenes.

4.8 Rating out of 5
1.494 Reviews on Google
18 € From a ticket
Photos
Intricato modello in miniatura di una città con edifici dettagliati, verde, binari del treno e un grande sfondo dipinto con nuvole.

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In short

What Hzero is

HZERO is a museum located in the heart of Florence, at Piazza degli Ottaviani. This museum is dedicated to model trains and offers visitors an immersive experience around a 280 square meter railway model, one of the largest in Europe. Inside, visitors can explore a detailed miniature world where tiny trains travel through cities, countryside, and mountains, telling stories of everyday life.

The museum was initiated by Giuseppe Paternò Castello di San Giuliano in 1972 and later developed with the contribution of his family. The exhibition combines technology, craftsmanship, and a deep passion for detail. Every corner reveals a small story, showcasing the evolution of rail transport and its impact on daily life.

HZERO is accessible to people with disabilities, with specially designed entrances and restrooms. The museum is suitable for visitors of all ages, including children, and offers interactive activities like augmented reality games and the ability to control the speed of a model train. On the upper floor, there is a small documentary viewing area and a well-stocked gift shop.

Nearby the museum, visitors can find numerous restaurants and cultural attractions, such as the Loggia di S. Paolo and the Museo Novecento. The central location of the museum makes it easily accessible from various train stations in Florence, such as Firenze Santa Maria Novella.

The tickets

Tickets for Hzero

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HZERO Museum: An Immersive Journey into Trains

Discover a unique museum set around one of Europe's biggest model train sets!

18 €

Ticket details

What's included

  • Entrance to the HZERO Museum

Not included

  • Audio guide
  • Mobile ticket
  • Instant delivery
  • Wheelchair accessible
Buy the ticket
Its origins

The history

The HZERO museum project was initiated in 1972 by Giuseppe Paternò Castello di San Giuliano, and later developed with the contribution of his family. The idea was to create an engaging experience centered around the world of model trains, combining craftsmanship and technology to tell stories through railway models.

The railway model at HZERO is one of the largest in Europe, with a surface area of 280 square meters. Over the years, the museum has become a reference point for train enthusiasts and anyone interested in creativity and artistic storytelling. The exhibition reflects the history and evolution of rail transport, showcasing its impact on urban and rural life.

How you visit

The visit

A visit to HZERO offers a unique experience for train enthusiasts and families. The museum is open every day except Tuesday, and visitors can explore the railway model at their own pace. Families with children will find interactive activities on the upper floor, where it's possible to control the speed of a model train and participate in augmented reality games.

The museum provides lockers for visitors and the opportunity to purchase souvenirs in the museum shop. Additionally, there is a small café where visitors can enjoy a break with coffee and pastries. The average visit lasts about two hours, but many visitors choose to spend more time exploring every detail of the model.

All signage and explanations are available in both Italian and English, making the museum accessible to international visitors. The staff is very helpful and ready to provide additional information and insights about the trains and scenes depicted in the model.

It is advisable to purchase tickets in advance to avoid queues at the entrance, especially during peak tourist periods in Florence.

When it opens

Opening hours

Monday 10:00–19:00
Tuesday Closed
Wednesday 10:00–19:00
Thursday 10:00–19:00
Friday 10:00–19:00
Saturday 10:00–19:00
Sunday 10:00–19:00

Hours from the Google record, current as of publication.

The reviews

What visitors say

Visitors appreciate the care and detail of the railway model, which offers a fascinating view of the miniature world. Many comment on the quality of the interactive activities for children, making the visit engaging for the whole family.

The staff receives many praises for their helpfulness and knowledge, contributing to a positive and memorable experience for visitors. The explanations in English and Italian are appreciated by international tourists, who find the museum accessible and informative.

Additionally, the museum's gift shop and café are mentioned positively, offering a variety of items and a pleasant break during the visit.

The location

Where it is

Piazza degli Ottaviani, 2r, 50123 Firenze FI

Around here

What's nearby

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Getting around

Photos by Caffè dei Fossi, Melaleuca Bakery + Bistrot | Brunch & Specialty Coffee, Poke House - Firenze, Caffetteria🍸Ottaviani • Bar • Tabacchi •Champagne, Omer Cavallieri, Michael Ni, Francesco Baldi, Kno Art Concept Store, Il Tamarino Stampe d'Arte, tommaso pestelli, Mário Correia, via Google.

Questions

Questions about visiting

How long does a visit to the museum last?

The average visit lasts about two hours, but visitors can choose to spend more time.

What languages are available for the explanations?

All signage and explanations are available in both Italian and English.

Is the museum suitable for children?

Yes, the museum offers interactive activities suitable for children and families.

Nearby

Other places in Firenze