Small Group Florence Cathedral Guided Tour with Priority Access

Florence , Italy

Small Group Florence Cathedral Guided Tour with Priority Access

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(191 reviews)

30m

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

Admire the magnificent Cathedral of Santa Maria del Fiore in the company of an expert guide. This timeless masterpiece has become the symbol of the city of Florence. You will SKIP THE LONG LINES at the entrance, which will save you precious time during your vacation! Your local guide will take you on a JOURNEY THROUGH TIME to discover the history of the creation of the Duomo: learn about its origins and how it became the THIRD LARGEST CATHEDRAL IN THE WORLD. The anecdotes of the innovative techniques used by Filippo Brunelleschi to build the Dome will leave you speechless. Thanks to a preferential route reserved exclusively for our group, you can access the area below the Dome, to admire closely Zuccari and VASARI’S FRESCOES depicting THE LAST JUDGMENT.

Available options

Tour in Spanish

Tour in English

What's included

Preferential route reserved exclusively for our group to access the area located below the Dome

Professional guide

Guided tour of 30 minutes in a small group (maximum 25 people)

Entrance tickets to the Museum of the Misericordia di Firenze

Skip the line access to the Cathedral of Santa Maria del Fiore (Duomo)

Headphones for larger groups

Detailed itinerary

Meet your guide at Piazza del Duomo 19/20, in front of the Misericordia Museum, by the ambulances. As you stand below this grandiose building, prepare to discover the heart and soul of Florence! When your group has arrived, your guide will give you a short description of the exteriors of the Cathedral, including some background information about the architecture and its unique red and green colors. Skip the line passes are included in this tour, so quickly enter with your guide, pass through security, and you will be ready to discover the secrets of the Florence Duomo!

Stop 2

After entering, your professional and local guide will lead you to the back of the Cathedral. You will learn about the history of the church in chronological order. Did you know that Santa Maria del Fiore was originally built over Roman ruins? Discover how this sacred space in Florence has evolved with the Florentine people over different eras of time. Although the Cathedral’s construction began before the Renaissance, Brunelleschi's iconic dome inspired architects and artists for generations following. Over a span of 142 years, the gigantic church and dome were perfected. Learn all about how the Duomo became united with the skyline of Florence, with its famous silhouette.
As your guide explains the history in a vivid, storytelling manner, you will learn about the famous works of art stored in the Cathedral.

Stop 3

As you encounter the masterpieces, you will inch closer and closer to the most famous sight of the church - the breathtaking frescoes decorating Brunelleschi’s dome. Giorgio Vasari and Federico Zuccari completed the “Last Judgement” paintings, giving the interiors of the dome a pop of color, along with an intriguing story. Your guide will be happy to explain the history of the frescoes.

Your guided tour inside Santa Maria del Fiore will last about an hour. Don’t miss out on this captivating tour to learn more about the beautiful symbol of Florence.

Available languages

Guide guide

EN ES

Reviews breakdown

Viator 4.0

125 reviews

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Tripadvisor 4.5

66 reviews

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Important information

Infants and small children can ride in a pram or stroller

Public transportation options are available nearby

Not recommended for travelers with spinal injuries

Not recommended for travelers with poor cardiovascular health

Suitable for all physical fitness levels

Entrance to the Cathedral of Florence requires an appropriate dress code. Please make sure your shoulders and knees are covered

It is strictly forbidden to bring large bags or luggage inside the Duomo

Due to security controls at the entrance of the Cathedral, waiting times may be longer for access to the Duomo

Meeting point

DUOMO SQUARE, N.19/20 - FLORENCE
You guide will wait for you in front of "Misericordia" Museum

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