Florence: Santa Croce Church Private Tour
Active
2h
For a full refund, cancel at least 24 hours before the scheduled departure time.
Manual confirmation
Mobile or paper ticket accepted
About this experience
Santa Croce Church is one of the must if you want to know all about Florence. The Church was consacrated in 1443 but the façade of the church remained unfinished for more than three centuries, showing its bare Florentine limestone surface, the structure apt to sustain the architectural and sculptural elements. When in the nineteenth century Santa Croce became the Pantheon of the Italians it was necessary to complete the works and in 1857 the first stone of the façade was put into place at the presence of Pope Pius IX.
After the guided tour, you will enjoy one of the best Homemade Ice Cream in Florence
Available options
SANTA CROCE PRIVATE GERMAN
Duration: 2 hours
SANTA CROCE PRIVATE ITALIAN
Duration: 2 hours<br/>Pickup included
SANTA CROCE PRIVATE SPANISH
Duration: 3 hours<br/>Pickup included
SANTA CROCE PRIVATE FRENCH
SANTA CROCE PRIVATE ENGLISH
Duration: 2 hours<br/>Pickup included
What's included
Professional guide
2 hour Guided Tour
Homemade Florentine Ice Cream
Earphones for the Santa Croce ( Holy Cross ) Church
Pick up from your hotel if centrally located
Detailed itinerary
1
The Church of Santa Croce is one of Florence’s most significant and beloved landmarks, a masterpiece of Gothic architecture and a sanctuary of Italian heritage. Known as the “Temple of the Italian Glories,” it holds the tombs of some of the country’s greatest figures, including Michelangelo, Galileo, Machiavelli, and Rossini. Its elegant façade, clad in white, green, and pink marble, opens into a vast interior filled with light, frescoes by Giotto, and centuries of spiritual and artistic history. Santa Croce has long been a gathering place for thinkers, artists, and revolutionaries, reflecting both the grandeur and the soul of Florence.
2
Stop 2
Pass by
Piazza Santa Croce is one of Florence’s most iconic and open squares, known for its wide, airy layout and strong sense of local identity. It spreads out in front of the majestic Basilica of Santa Croce, creating a dramatic stage where history, art, and daily life converge. Surrounded by elegant Renaissance palazzi and lively cafés, the piazza has long been a center of public gatherings, festivals, and cultural events. It’s especially famous for hosting the historic Calcio Storico, a traditional and intense Florentine sport played every June. Whether bathed in sunlight or lit up at night, Piazza Santa Croce captures the soul of the city—grand, vibrant, and full of stories.
What's not included
Transportation to/from attractions
Drop-off at your hotel
Available languages
Guide guide
EN
IT
Reviews breakdown
Tripadvisor
5.0
2 reviews
5★
2
4★
0
3★
0
2★
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1★
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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
Please wait for your guide at the Statue of Dante
Important notes
A dress code is required to enter places of worship and selected museums. No shorts or sleeveless tops allowed. Knees and shoulders MUST be covered for both men and women. You may risk refused entry if you fail to comply with these dress requirements.
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
