Skip-the-line Basilica di Santa Croce & Old Town with Guide
Active
2h - 5h
For a full refund, cancel at least 24 hours before the scheduled departure time.
Instant confirmation
Mobile or paper ticket accepted
About this experience
Discover the secrets of the Temple of the Italian Glories, also known as the Basilica of Santa Croce. Extended option: private car transfers and the best view from Piazzale Michelangelo.
2-hour: Basilica di Santa Croce
Visit the Basilica of Santa Croce and see other highlights of the Old Town of Florence, such as the Duomo and Santa Maria Novella.
3-hour: Basilica di Santa Croce & Transfer
Book a 1-hour round-trip transfer and a 2-hour guided tour of the Basilica of Santa Croce and the Old Town of Florence.
3,5-hour: Basilica di Santa Croce & Piazzale Michelangelo
Visit the Basilica of Santa Croce and see other highlights of the Old Town of Florence, such as the view from Piazzale Michelangelo, the Duomo and Santa Maria Novella.
4,5-hour: Santa Croce, Piazzale Michelangelo & Transfer
Book a 1-hour round-trip transfer and a 3,5-hour guided tour of the Basilica of Santa Croce and other highlights of the Old Town, including Piazzale Michelangelo.
Available options
2H:Basilica di Santa Croce
Duration: 2 hours: Visit the Basilica of Santa Croce & see other highlights of the Old Town of Florence,such as the Duomo & Santa Maria Novella.<br/>Expert-Guide: Official 5-Stars Guide who is an Expert in this kind of tours. Guide speaks fluently in chosen language. ITFL017
3H:BasilicadiSanta Croce &Tran
Duration: 3 hours: Book a 1-hour round-trip transfer and a 2-hour guided tour of the Basilica of Santa Croce and the Old Town of Florence.<br/>Expert-Guide: Official 5-Stars Guide who is an Expert in this kind of tours. Guide speaks fluently in chosen language. ITFL017<br/>Pickup included
4,5H:SantaCroce,Piazzale&Trans
Duration: 4 hours 30 minutes: Book a 1-hour round-trip transfer and a 3,5-hour guided tour of the Basilica of Santa Croce and<br/>,: other highlights of the Old Town, including Piazzale Michelangelo. <br/>Expert-Guide: Official 5-Stars Guide who is an Expert in this kind of tours. Guide speaks fluently in chosen language. ITFL017<br/>Pickup included
3,5H:BasilicadiSanta&Piazzale
Duration: 3 hours 30 minutes: Visit the Basilica of Santa Croce & see other highlights of Old Town of Florence,such as the view from Piazzale Michelangelo<br/>,: the Duomo and Santa Maria Novella. <br/>Expert-Guide: Official 5-Stars Guide who is an Expert in this kind of tours. Guide speaks fluently in chosen language. ITFL017
What's included
Skip-the-line tickets to the Basilica of Santa Croce
Extended walking tour with Piazzale Michelangelo (3,5 and 4,5-hour options only)
(number of attractions depends on the option selected)
Private transfers with pickup and drop-off at your accommodation
Private transfers with pickup and drop-off at your accommodation (3 and 4,5-hour options only)
Private Walking Tour of Basilica of Santa Croce, Old Town and Piazzale Michelangelo
5-Star Licensed Guide who is fluent in the language of your choice
Detailed itinerary
1
Meet your guide in front of the entrance to Hotel Santa Maria Novella, P.za di Santa Maria Novella, 1, 50123 Firenze FI, Italy. Please do not enter the hotel, it is only a meeting point and the staff is not informed about the tour.
2
Stop 2
Visit the Basilica di Santa Croce with skip-the-line tickets. On this walking tour you will see some of the most important landmarks and churches in the historic center of Florence.
Visit the Basilica di Santa Croce with skip-the-line tickets and enjoy the best panoramic view of Florence from Piazzale Michelangelo.
3
Stop 3
This includes the Basilica di Santa Maria Novella and the world famous Duomo, which is the 4th largest cathedral in the world.
4
The Temple of the Italian Glories is located in the heart of Santa Croce, and is named so because many greatly honored Florentines are buried or commemorated here.
5
Inside the Basilica, your Private Guide will show you the tombs of Michelangelo, Galileo, Dante, Machiavelli, and other historic figures. You will also see amazing sacred art, such as the Renaissance frescoes that depict scenes from the life of St. Francis and St. John the Evangelist. The guide will show you all the hidden gems that most visitors miss.
6
Stop 6
Follow your Private Guide to the other side of the Arno River and climb to the hilltop square dedicated to Michelangelo. It offers an unparalleled view of the Florence skyline, with highlights such as the magnificent Duomo and Ponte Vecchio. The expert commentary will help you discover the Jewel of Renaissance like never before!
7
Book private transfers with the Old Town with the Basilica di Santa Croce and Piazzale Michelangelo. This option includes an estimated 1-hour round-trip transfer between the meeting point and the address provided when booking. Enjoy the convenient pickup and drop-off service!
This includes pickup and drop-off directly at your accommodation so you can fully enjoy the comfort of transfers in a private car, van or bus. This way you can have a hassle-free experience without worrying about getting lost or being late for your tour.
What's not included
Extended walking tour with Piazzale Michelangelo (in 2 and 3-hour options only)
Private transfers with pickup and drop-off at your accommodation (in 2 and 3,5-hour options only))
Available languages
Guide guide
DE
RU
EN
IT
FR
ES
Important information
Wheelchair accessible
Infants and small children can ride in a pram or stroller
Public transportation options are available nearby
Infants are required to sit on an adult’s lap
Transportation options are wheelchair accessible
All areas and surfaces are wheelchair accessible
Suitable for all physical fitness levels
Please check your email the day before the tour.
Please note private car transfers and Piazzale Michelangelo are not included in the 2-hour option.
Skip-the-line tickets to the Basilica di Santa Croce grant you immediate entry at your booked time, without waiting in line at the ticket office. Tickets include headsets for groups of 5+ people.
Church tours during mass and special events are limited.
Piazzale Michelangelo is located up a hill so you should wear comfortable shoes.
We limit the group size to 25 guests per guide, so that everyone can get the best experience. The price will be higher if you need more than 1 guide.
The 3- and 4,5-hour options include an estimated 1-hour round-trip transfer from your accommodation. Transfer time can take longer or shorter depending on the distance and traffic.
We will arrange a standard car (sedan) for 1-4 people and a larger van for groups of 5 people and more. You can book a 5-people tour to take advantage of a larger vehicle.
Meeting point
Meet your guide in front of the entrance to Hotel Santa Maria Novella, P.za di Santa Maria Novella, 1, 50123 Firenze FI, Italy. Please do not enter the hotel, it is only a meeting point and the staff is not informed about the tour.
Important notes
Know Before You Go:
- Please check your email the day before the tour.
- Please note private car transfers and Piazzale Michelangelo are not included in the 2-hour option.
- Skip-the-line tickets to the Basilica di Santa Croce grant you immediate entry at your booked time, without waiting in line at the ticket office. Tickets include headsets for groups of 5+ people.
- Church tours during mass and special events are limited.
- Piazzale Michelangelo is located up a hill so you should wear comfortable shoes.
- We limit the group size to 25 guests per guide, so that everyone can get the best experience. The price will be higher if you need more than 1 guide.
- The 3- and 4,5-hour options include an estimated 1-hour round-trip transfer from your accommodation. Transfer time can take longer or shorter depending on the distance and traffic.
- We will arrange a standard car (sedan) for 1-4 people and a larger van for groups of 5 people and more. You can book a 5-people tour to take advantage of a larger vehicle.
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
From $25
per person
Price varies by option
Secure booking
Free cancellation available
Instant confirmation
