Florence SANTA CROCE Basilica Private Tour

Florence , Italy

Florence SANTA CROCE Basilica Private Tour

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(17 reviews)

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

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About this experience

Enjoy an insightful private tour of Santa Croce with a 5-star guide. Visiting the biggest Franciscan church in the world is an incredible experience but without a tour guide, you will deny yourself a unique opportunity to learn the secrets hidden within its walls.

Built in the 13th century Santa Croce became a "Temple of Italian Glory” as Michelangelo Buonarroti, Galileo Galilei and many other famous Italians are buried there.

- Step on Medieval graves and learn why they have sculls and crossbones engraved;
- Learn the mystery about Dante’s empty grave;
- Hear the story how Michelangelo’s body was stolen from Rome;
- Learn all the details of the intricate story of Galileo Galilei and discover the place where he was secretly buried for 100 years;
- Get the headsets to hear the guide clearly.

Enjoy this unique experience with your tour guide, install a dialogue, ask questions, and be ready to hear all the fascinating stories and secrets hidden within the walls of Santa Croce.

Available options

Santa Croce Tour in ENGLISH

What's included

Headsets to hear the guide clearly

Tickets to Santa Croce church

1-hour tour with a 5 star guide

Detailed itinerary

Stop 1

Inside Santa Croce you will hear the stories about the biggest Franciscan church in the world and enjoy looking at its marvellous masterpieces. You will step on Medieval graves of Florentine aristocrats and learn why some of them have sculls and crossbones engraved. You will learn the mystery about Dante’s empty grave and discover where the Statue of Liberty originates from. You will hear the story how Michelangelo’s body was stolen from Rome and learn all the details of the intricate story of Galileo Galilei and discover the place where he was secretly buried for a hundred years. You will enjoy looking at Giotto’s frescoes and learn why a few of them got destroyed. You will admire Donatello’s Annunciation and Brunelleschi’s Pazzi Chapel. You will discover the real story behind the world famous Stendhal’s syndrome and take dozens of pictures in this marvellous temple of flory.

Available languages

Guide guide

Reviews breakdown

Viator 5.0

10 reviews

5★

4★

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1★

Tripadvisor 5.0

7 reviews

5★

4★

3★

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1★

Important information

Wheelchair accessible

Infants and small children can ride in a pram or stroller

Service animals allowed

Public transportation options are available nearby

Transportation options are wheelchair accessible

All areas and surfaces are wheelchair accessible

Suitable for all physical fitness levels

Meeting point

Meet your expert tour guide at the facade of Santa Croce basilica next to Dante's statue, show your voucher and let the adventure begin!

Important notes

The travellers will have the direct entry tickets delivered to them by the tour guide at the entrance to Santa Croce.

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