Florence Duomo Complex Private Guided Tour

Florence , Italy

Florence Duomo Complex Private Guided Tour

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(33 reviews)

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About this experience

The Duomo Complex in Florence is one of the greatest sites in the world. Come and join me on my 2-hour private tour of the Duomo, Cathedral Square, the Baptistery of St. John and the Opera del Duomo Museum and uncover the history of these spectacular monuments.

Enjoy visiting the massive Cathedral to marvel at its stunning architecture, monumental dome, and impressive fresco by Giorgio Vasari.

Admire Michelangelo’s Pietà that he was making for his own tomb and learn the story about one of the greatest mistakes the genius ever made.

Visit the place where Michelangelo made his David and see where the David was originally supposed to be placed.

Take a look at the original Gates of Paradise - the marvel of Lorenzo Ghiberti.

See Donatello’s sculptures that once decorated Duomo and the Baptistery of Florence.

Enjoy looking at the golden mosaics of the Baptistery of St. John and learn how Florentines were baptized back in the days!

Available options

Duomo Complex tour in ENGLISH

What's included

2-hour tour with a licensed tour guide

Headsets to hear the guide clearly

Ghiberti pass (tickets to the Baptistery, the Duomo Museum, the Crypt of St. Reparata)

Detailed itinerary

Stop 1

We will start the tour in "Florentine Paradise" - the square between the Baptistery of St. John and Duomo. You will learn set intricate story of the creation of "Gates of Paradise" and an incredible competition that gave start to the Renaissance.

Stop 2

Step into the oldest building in Florence and admire its marvellous Medieval mosaics. Hear the story on how Dante saved a baby and learn why people stopped washing themselves after the baptism.

Enjoy your priority entrance to the Cathedral of Florence and learn the stories about its creation. Enjoy the detailed story of the construction of the biggest masonry dome in the world and learn why no one managed to surpass it.

Stop 4

Enjoy the recently restored Pietà by Michelangelo and take a look at the sculptures by Donatello. Admire the original Gates of Paradise and see the immense reconstruction of the Medieval façade of the Duomo.

Get into the Crypt of St. Reparata and walk along the ruins of the original cathedral built in the 5th century. Take a look at the remains of the mosaic floor with Early Christian symbols on it.

What's not included

Climbing the Dome is excluded as it requires a special pass

Climbing Giotto's Bell Tower is excluded as it requires a special pass

Available languages

Guide guide

Reviews breakdown

Viator 5.0

19 reviews

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1★

Tripadvisor 5.0

14 reviews

5★

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Important information

Wheelchair accessible

Infants and small children can ride in a pram or stroller

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 in Piazza San Giovanni at the Gates of Paradise of the Florentine Baptistery (the golden gates that face the Duomo).

Important notes

Your tour guide will provide you with the direct entry tickets to the Duomo Complex at the meeting point. If you have a child with you for this tour, please note that the Duomo Complex has strict rules as per the redemption of the children's tickets (ages 0-14). In order to redeem your children's tickets the tour guide will need the documents proving their age, thus we kindly ask you to bring your kids' ID with you (paper copy or a digital photo is accepted).

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