Florence , Italy

Private Florence Cathedral Tour

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(4 reviews)

For a full refund, cancel at least 24 hours before the scheduled departure time.

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Mobile or paper ticket accepted

About this experience

You’ll start the tour from the Museo dell'Opera del Duomo, the famous workshops where they worked on the construction of the Cathedral, and then you head to the Baptistery which is famous for its golden Byzantine mosaics. Next, the tour will continue with the entrance to the Cathedral, introducing you to the discovery of the artistic beauties of the Cathedral, including a visit to the Crypt of Santa Reparata.
Inside the New Cathedral Museum, you will find the original of the Gates of Paradise, Donatello's Magdalene and Michelangelo's Pietà. Thanks to this tour you will get to know the complete history of the splendid Cathedral of Florence, and the monuments of its complex, an opportunity to be seized on the go!

The guide will then leave you free to conclude the tour with the ascent to Brunelleschi's Dome from which you can enjoy the aerial view of an incomparable panorama of the city of Florence.

Available options

Low Season

Duration: 2 hours

High Season

Duration: 2 hours

High Season/EFS

Duration: 2 hours

What's included

Professional Guide

Entrance tickets

Detailed itinerary

Stop 1

Don't miss the visit to the Cathedral of Florence with its superb frescoes, the interior of the Baptistry with its Byzantine mosaics, and the Opera Museum with original artworks by Donatello, Michelangelo and more.

Meet your guide at the central door of the Cathedral of Florence. During this guided tour you will visit the Baptistery and Museum of Opera del Duomo, with the original Door of Paradise, the Magdalene by Donatello, the Pietà by Michelangelo, and many other Renaissance works.

From inside the Duomo, you can admire the frescoes by Vasari and the whole Cathedral Santa Maria del Fiore, and go underground to discover the crypt of Santa Reparata.

Available languages

Guide guide

DE EN IT FR ES

Reviews breakdown

Viator 4.0

1 reviews

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4★

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1★

Tripadvisor 4.7

3 reviews

5★

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1★

Important information

Public transportation options are available nearby

Not recommended for travelers with spinal injuries

Not recommended for pregnant travelers

Not recommended for travelers with poor cardiovascular health

Travelers should have at least a moderate level of physical fitness

The ascent to the Dome provides 464 steps. No elevator.

The ascent to the Campanile includes 414 steps. No elevator.

The visit to the Brunelleschi's Dome and the bell tower is carried out after the tour, independently.

The customer has 72 hours after the tour to get to the bell tower with the same ticket of the tour.

To access the Opera del Duomo Complex, shoulders and legs must be covered.

This tour does not provide discounts for children.

Tour not suitable for people who can’t climb the steps of the Dome (pregnant women, people with heart problems, walking problems, etc.)

Meeting point

Meet your guide at the central door of the Piazza del Duomo at 10:45 am.

Important notes

Please reach the meeting point 15 minutes before.

About Florence

Florence, the capital of Italy's Tuscany region, is a treasure trove of art, architecture, and history. Known as the birthplace of the Renaissance, it's home to iconic masterpieces, stunning cathedrals, and a rich cultural heritage that continues to captivate visitors from around the world.

Top Attractions

Duomo

The Florence Cathedral, known as the Duomo, is a masterpiece of Renaissance architecture. Its iconic dome, designed by Brunelleschi, offers panoramic views of the city.

Architecture/Religious 2-3 hours Free to enter the cathedral, €18 for the climb to the dome

Uffizi Gallery

One of the world's most famous art museums, the Uffizi Gallery houses works by Botticelli, Michelangelo, and Leonardo da Vinci.

Museum/Art 2-3 hours €20

Ponte Vecchio

A medieval stone bridge famous for its jewelry shops. It's one of the most iconic landmarks in Florence.

Architecture 30 minutes to 1 hour Free

Piazzale Michelangelo

A panoramic terrace offering breathtaking views of Florence. It's a perfect spot for sunset and photography.

Scenic Viewpoint 1-2 hours Free

Accademia Gallery

Home to Michelangelo's famous statue of David, the Accademia Gallery is a must-visit for art lovers.

Museum/Art 1-2 hours €16

Must-Try Local Dishes

Bistecca alla Fiorentina

A thick-cut, grilled T-bone steak, seasoned simply with salt and pepper. It's a must-try for meat lovers.

Dinner Contains beef, not suitable for vegetarians or vegans

Ribollita

A hearty vegetable and bread soup, traditionally made with leftover bread and vegetables. It's a classic Florentine dish.

Lunch/Dinner Vegetarian, can be made vegan

Lampredotto

A Florentine street food made from the fourth and final stomach of a cow. It's typically served in a sandwich.

Lunch Contains beef, not suitable for vegetarians or vegans

Cantucci

Almond biscotti traditionally served with Vin Santo, a sweet Tuscan wine. They are crunchy and perfect for dipping.

Dessert Contains almonds, can be made gluten-free

Popular Activities

Hiking in the Tuscan countryside Cycling tours Hot air balloon rides Wine tasting tours Spa day at a luxury hotel Strolling through the gardens of Villa medici Visiting museums and art galleries Attending opera or concerts

Best Time to Visit

April to June, September to October

These months offer pleasant weather and fewer crowds compared to the summer peak. Ideal for sightseeing and outdoor activities.

15-28°C 59-82°F

Practical Information

Language

Official: Italian
Widely spoken: English, French, Spanish
English: Moderately spoken

Currency

Euro (EUR)

Time Zone

GMT+1 (CET), GMT+2 (CEST during daylight saving time)

Electricity

230VV, 50HzHz

Safety Information

Overall Safety Rating: Generally safe

Florence is generally safe for tourists, but pickpocketing and petty theft can occur, especially in crowded areas. Be aware of your surroundings and take precautions to protect your belongings.

Important Precautions:

• Keep valuables secure and out of sight
• Be cautious of your surroundings, especially in crowded areas
• Use licensed taxis or ride-sharing apps

Getting there

By air

Florence Airport • 5 km from city center
Pisa International Airport • 85 km from city center

By train

Santa Maria Novella Station

By bus

Villa Costanza Bus Station, Florence Airport Bus Terminal

Getting around

Public transport

The bus network covers the entire city and is the primary mode of public transport. Buses are frequent and reliable.

Taxis

Available • Apps: MyTaxi, FreeNow

Rentals

Car, Bike, Scooter

Neighborhoods

Santa Maria Novella Oltrarno San Lorenzo Santa Croce

Day trips

Siena

70 km from Florence • Half day to full day

A medieval city known for its stunning Piazza del Campo and the Palio, a traditional horse race held twice a year.

Pisa

85 km from Florence • Half day

Home to the iconic Leaning Tower of Pisa, this city offers a mix of historic sites and scenic views.

Chianti Wine Region

30-50 km from Florence • Full day

A picturesque wine region known for its rolling hills, vineyards, and charming villages.

Festivals

Festa di San Giovanni • June 24 Calcio Storico Fiorentino • June (dates vary) Firenze dei Fiori • April to June

Pro tips

Visit major attractions early in the morning or late in the afternoon to avoid crowds
Book tickets for popular attractions in advance to save time and avoid long queues
Explore the city's hidden gems, such as the Oltrarno neighborhood and the secret passages of the Palazzo Vecchio
Try local specialties like Bistecca alla Fiorentina, Ribollita, and Lampredotto
Learn a few basic Italian phrases to enhance your experience and connect with locals