Private Guided Tour of the Best Churches in Florence
Active
2h - 4h
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
Experience the best of sacred architecture and art on a guided tour of the churches of Florence. Visit the Cathedral and the Basilica of Santissima Annunziata. Extended options: skip the line to the Basilica di Santa Croce and of Santa Maria Novella.
Choose one of our excellent tour options tailored to your needs and interests. Read the description carefully as each option includes a different program.
2-hour: Florence Cathedral & Santissima Annunziata
Book this tour to visit the Cathedral of Santa Maria del Fiore and the Basilica della Santissima Annunziata.
3-hour: Cathedral, Santissima & Santa Croce
Book this tour to visit the Cathedral of Santa Maria del Fiore, Basilica della Santissima Annunziata and Basilica di Santa Croce.
4-hour: Cathedral, Santissima, Santa Maria & Santa Croce
Join this tour to visit the Cathedral of Santa Maria del Fiore, Basilica della Santissima Annunziata, Basilica of Santa Maria Novella and Basilica of Santa Croce.
Available options
4h: 3h itinerary + Santa Maria
Duration: 4 hours: Join this tour to visit the Cathedral of Santa Maria del Fiore, Basilica della Santissima Annunziata<br/>,: Basilica of Santa Maria Novella and Basilica of Santa Croce.<br/>Expert-Guide: Official 5-Stars Guide who is an Expert in this kind of tours. Guide speaks fluently in chosen language. ITFL008
3h: 2h itinerary + Santa Croce
Duration: 3 hours: Visit the Cathedral of Santa Maria del Fiore, Basilica della Santissima Annunziata and Basilica di Santa Croce. <br/>Expert-Guide: Official 5-Stars Guide who is an Expert in this kind of tours. Guide speaks fluently in chosen language. ITFL008
2H: Cathedral & Santissima
Duration: 2 hours: Book this tour to visit the Cathedral of Santa Maria del Fiore and the Basilica della Santissima Annunziata.<br/>Expert-Guide: Official 5-Stars Guide who is an Expert in this kind of tours. Guide speaks fluently in chosen language. ITFL008
What's included
Skip-the-line tickets to the Basilica of Santa Maria Novella (4-hour option only)
Skip-the-line tickets to the Basilica of Santa Croce (3- and 4-hour options only)
5-Star Licensed Guide who is fluent in the language of your choice
Free admission to Florence Cathedral and the Basilica della Santissima Annunziata (all options)
Private Walking Tour of the Best Churches in Florence
(number of attractions depends on the selected option)
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 Florence Cathedral and the Basilica della Santissima Annunziata. Your walking tour will begin in front of the beautiful Basilica of Santa Maria Novella and head towards the Basilica of San Lorenzo.
3
As you explore the streets, your guide will tell you the history of religion in Florence, introducing you to the historical figures who contributed to the construction of the city's many churches, such as Michelangelo and Michelozzo.
4
Stop 4
The highlight of this tour will be a visit to Florence’s principal church, the Cathedral of Santa Maria del Fiore. Florence Cathedral, the iconic symbol of the city, is known as one of the largest and most beautiful churches in the world, so it is a must-see!
5
Stop 5
Another highlight will be a visit inside the Basilica della Santissima Annunziata, a 1200s church located on the iconic plaza with porticoes by Renaissance architects. It’s a hidden gem rich in Renaissance art and landmark Mannerist frescoes.
6
Stop 6
Church tour to enrich your experience with a visit inside the Basilica di Santa Croce. Skip-the-line tickets are included to save time, as you don't want to wait in line at the ticket office.
7
This landmark Neo-Gothic Franciscan church is known as the Temple of the Italian Glories as it contains tombs of some of the most illustrious Italians, such as Michelangelo, Galileo, Machiavelli. It’s also home to great artistic heritage, such as the stunning altarpieces and Giotto frescoes.
What's not included
Skip-the-line tickets to the Basilica of Santa Croce (in 2-hour option)
Skip-the-line tickets to the Basilica of Santa Maria Novella (in 2 and 3-hour options)
Available languages
Guide guide
DE
RU
EN
IT
FR
ES
Reviews breakdown
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1 reviews
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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
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.
Admission to the Basilica of Santa Croce and Santa Maria Novella is not included in a 2-hour tour.
Church tours during mass and special events (such as scheduled concerts) are limited, therefore the guide may provide all information outside.
Free entry to Florence Cathedral (Duomo) is only for the main church. Due to crowds, the line to enter can be 1 hour long. Open from 10:15 am to 3:15 pm.
Santissima Annunziata is open on weekdays and holidays 7.30 - 12.30; 16 - 18.30.
With skip-the-line tickets, you will have a reserved time slot to enter Santa Croce and Santa Maria Novella, so you won't have to queue for tickets on site.
Headsets will be provided for groups of 5+ people inside Santa Croce.
2- and 3-hour tours: We limit the group size to 25 guests per guide, so that everyone can get the best experience.
4-hour tour: in Santa Maria Novella, 1 guide can lead up to 5 people, so we will arrange an additional guide for larger groups.
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.
- Admission to the Basilica of Santa Croce and Santa Maria Novella is not included in a 2-hour tour.
- Church tours during mass and special events (such as scheduled concerts) are limited, therefore the guide may provide all information outside.
- Free entry to Florence Cathedral (Duomo) is only for the main church. Due to crowds, the line to enter can be 1 hour long. Open from 10:15 am to 3:15 pm.
- Santissima Annunziata is open on weekdays and holidays 7.30 - 12.30; 16 - 18.30.
- With skip-the-line tickets, you will have a reserved time slot to enter Santa Croce and Santa Maria Novella, so you won't have to queue for tickets on site.
- Headsets will be provided for groups of 5+ people inside Santa Croce.
- 2- and 3-hour tours: We limit the group size to 25 guests per guide, so that everyone can get the best experience.
- 4-hour tour: in Santa Maria Novella, 1 guide can lead up to 5 people, so we will arrange an additional guide for larger groups.
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
