Florence Cathedral: a symbol of the city
Santa Maria Novella is the symbol of Florence. Find out all the info and how to arrange a visit to its wonderful interior and Brunelleschi's famous dome.
Florence Cathedral: the tickets most chosen by travelers
The Cathedral of Florence, the unique monument that everyone talks about
With its majestic Gothic façade and the incredible dome designed by Brunelleschi, the Cathedral of Florence, also known as the Cathedral of Santa Maria del Fiore, is a masterpiece that attracts millions of visitors every year. This imposing symbol of the Renaissance is located in the heart of Florence and offers a unique experience, thanks also to the magnificent panoramic view of the city from the top of the dome.
Participating in a guided tour of the Florence Cathedral will allow you to appreciate the history and architecture of this cathedral, as well as discover hidden details and curiosities told by expert guides. The tour is not limited to the cathedral: it also includes access to the Opera Cathedral Museum and the Baptistery of Saint John. For an unforgettable experience, we recommend purchasing tickets in advance, especially if you want to climb to the dome and admire Brunelleschi’s masterpiece up close.
If you are planning to visit it, you will discover how to make the most of this extraordinary monument and its wonders. This experience will allow you to learn about the history and curiosities that lie both inside and outside the Cathedral of Florence.
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The best tours to visit the Cathedral of Florence
Hours and Tips to Avoid Queues at the Florence Cathedral
The Florence Cathedral is open to the public every day, but access hours may vary depending on the season and the area of the complex. Generally, the Cathedral is accessible from 10:15 AM to 15:45 PM, while the Dome, the Bell Tower, and the Baptistery may have different opening hours.
For updated and detailed information about the hours, we recommend checking the official website of the Florence Cathedral.
Tip: To avoid long waits, it's preferable to purchase tickets online in advance. Additionally, planning your visit during the early morning hours or late afternoon will help you avoid peak times.
Dress Code: Appropriate attire for a place of worship is required (access is prohibited with bare legs and shoulders, sandals, and hats).
Important Note: Before accessing the monuments, it is mandatory to deposit bags, backpacks, and other bulky items at the luggage storage located at Piazza Duomo No. 38/r.
Tickets for the Florence Cathedral: which one to choose for a complete visit
To fully explore the Florence Cathedral and its entire monumental complex, it is advisable to carefully choose the ticket that best suits your needs. Various types of tickets are available, ranging from guided tours to admission tickets for individual areas. Below is an overview of the main options to better plan your visit:
1. Brunelleschi's Dome and Florence Cathedral: Reserved Entrance + Audio Guide
- Prices starting from 55€;
- Instant ticket delivery;
- Quick access;
- Audio guide available in Chinese, Korean, French, Japanese, English, Italian, Dutch, Polish, Portuguese, Russian, Spanish, German, Turkish;
- Smartphone tickets accepted.
Things to know before your visit:
- Bring along an ID/passport and headphones;
- Pets and large bags are not allowed;
- You will need to climb 463 steps to reach the top of the Dome;
- All tour participants must have a ticket, including children;
- Reviews from pass buyers rated 4.2/5.
2. Brunelleschi's Dome and Florence Cathedral: Entrance Ticket + Guided Tour
- Prices starting from 59.99€;
- Instant ticket delivery;
- Duration 1h 30min;
- Quick access;
- English-speaking guide-companion;
- Maximum number of people 24;
- Smartphone tickets accepted.
Things to know before your visit:
- Backpacks, strollers, and luggage are not allowed;
- Wear appropriate shoes for climbing stairs.
1. Why is Florence Cathedral so famous?
Florence Cathedral, also known as the Duomo, is renowned for its massive dome engineered by Filippo Brunelleschi, which was an architectural marvel of the Renaissance. Its intricate façade, rich history, and cultural significance make it one of Italy’s most iconic landmarks.
2. Is it free to enter Florence Cathedral?
Yes, entry to the main part of Florence Cathedral is free, but tickets are required for access to the dome, the bell tower, the baptistery, and the crypt.
3. Is Florence Cathedral the same as the Duomo?
Yes, Florence Cathedral is often referred to as the Duomo. "Duomo" is an Italian word for a cathedral, and it specifically refers to the Cathedral of Santa Maria del Fiore in Florence.
4. Who are the 12 statues on the front of Florence Cathedral?
The 12 statues on the front of Florence Cathedral represent the Apostles. These statues were added to the cathedral’s façade during the 19th-century restoration.
5. Why was Michelangelo's David not placed on the Florence Cathedral?Michelangelo’s David was originally intended for the Florence Cathedral but was deemed too beautiful and delicate to be exposed to the elements. It was instead placed in a public square and later moved to the Accademia Gallery.
6. How strict is the Duomo dress code?
The Duomo enforces a modest dress code, requiring visitors to cover their shoulders and knees. While not overly strict, entrance may be denied to those in shorts or sleeveless tops.
7. Is it okay to wear shorts in Florence?
Yes, wearing shorts is generally acceptable in Florence, especially in hot weather. However, if visiting religious sites like the Duomo, it’s best to bring a shawl or cover-up to adhere to dress codes.
8. Is walking up the Duomo worth it?
Yes, climbing the Duomo is highly recommended, as it offers spectacular views of Florence and an up-close look at the interior of Brunelleschi’s dome. The climb is steep but memorable for the unique perspective it provides.
9. Can you take pictures inside the Duomo?
Yes, photography is allowed inside Florence Cathedral, but flash and tripods are usually not permitted. Be mindful of signs indicating any restricted areas for photos.
How to reach the Cathedral of Florence
The Cathedral is located in the heart of Florence's historic center, easily reachable on foot from the main attractions of the city. Its central location will allow you to take a pleasant walk through the historic alleys and discover other iconic monuments along the way, such as the Ponte Vecchio and the Uffizi Gallery.
Transport options:
By foot: If you are staying in the center, a walk to the Cathedral is one of the best experiences, allowing you to admire the beauties of Florence in all their splendor.
By tram: Take the T2 tram line and get off at Unità. The Cathedral is about 500 meters from the tram stop.
By taxi: You can call a taxi from anywhere in the city. The average price is around €12-14.
By bus: The C2 and C4 buses will take you to the Duomo of Florence.
Bicycles and electric scooters: Florence offers numerous options for sustainable mobility that will allow you to move easily in the historic center.
The best experiences in Florence
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Visiting the Florence Cathedral: tips and useful information
Get ready for a great journey through Renaissance Italy: visiting the Duomo in Florence is an experience not to be missed. Let's discover its wonders.
Vedi ❯Curiosities about the Cathedral of Florence: history and legends
The Duomo of Florence is not only an architectural marvel, but it is also surrounded by a series of stories and curiosities that make the visit even more fascinating. Below are some of the most interesting legends and historical facts related to the Cathedral of Santa Maria del Fiore:
Brunelleschi's Dome: a Masterpiece of the Renaissance
Brunelleschi's Dome, towering over the Cathedral of Santa Maria del Fiore in Florence, is one of the most famous architectural works in the world and an undisputed symbol of the city. Designed by Filippo Brunelleschi and completed in 1436, it represents an extraordinary engineering feat of the Renaissance.
Unprecedented Innovation
The uniqueness of the dome lies in its construction: it was built without the use of internal scaffolding, thanks to a system of bricks arranged in a herringbone pattern and an ingenious self-supporting structure. The dome consists of two shells, an inner one and an outer one, that work together to ensure stability and resistance.
Brunelleschi closely guarded his construction methods, to the point that some techniques are still the subject of study and admiration. The entire structure, over 100 meters high, remained the largest dome in the world for centuries and deeply influenced subsequent architecture, including that of Michelangelo for St. Peter's Basilica.
The golden sphere: symbol of Florence
At the top of the dome stands a golden copper sphere, designed by Andrea del Verrocchio, a disciple of Donatello and master of Leonardo da Vinci. This sphere, placed in 1468, represents the sky and the link between earth and divine. Fun fact: in 1601 it was struck by lightning and fell to the ground, but was promptly restored and repositioned.
Visiting the Dome: an unforgettable experience
Climbing Brunelleschi's Dome is an experience that not only offers a breathtaking view of Florence, but also the opportunity to admire up close the extraordinary frescoes of the Last Judgment by Giorgio Vasari and Federico Zuccari, decorating the inside of the dome.
The climb involves approximately 463 steps and is not suitable for those who suffer from claustrophobia or vertigo, as the passages are quite narrow. However, the effort is well rewarded by the panoramic view of the city and the surrounding hills.
The mystery of the unfinished facade
For many centuries, the facade of the Cathedral remained unfinished. It was only in the 19th century that it was completed, thanks to a national competition for the design of the neo-Gothic façade that we see today. Before that, the building had a simple and incomplete facade, which emphasized its grandeur but left the impression of a work still under construction. The current facade, richly decorated, is made of white, green, and pink marble, giving the Duomo an elegant and majestic appearance.
The Sundial of the Cathedral
Inside the Cathedral, you can find a sundial created by Paolo dal Pozzo Toscanelli in the 15th century. This astronomical instrument, positioned at a precise point in the nave, was used to calculate the summer solstice and demonstrate the accuracy of the calendar. Even today, during the solstice, a ray of sunlight passes through a hole in the dome and illuminates a specific spot on the Cathedral's floor, marking the exact position of the sun.
Final Tips for an Unforgettable Visit of Florence Cathedral
Visiting the Duomo of Florence means immersing yourself in a timeless dimension, where art, history, and spirituality blend in a unique atmosphere. To make your experience even more special, here are some useful tips:
Wear comfortable shoes: Between the steps of the Dome and the corridors of Giotto's Campanile, be prepared for a good amount of climbing. Comfortable shoes will make the visit less tiring and allow you to move around easily.
Respect the dress code: As a place of worship, appropriate clothing is required to enter the Cathedral. Shoulders and legs should be covered; it is advisable to bring a scarf or shawl to cover yourself if necessary.
Plan ahead: Especially during peak season, the Cathedral of Florence can be very crowded. Booking tickets online and planning your itinerary will help you avoid long waits and fully enjoy every moment.
Don't miss the artistic details: Every corner of the Cathedral and the monumental complex contains precious artistic details, from the stained glass windows to the statues, mosaics, and frescoes. Take the time to carefully observe these features to fully appreciate the beauty of Renaissance art.