How to Plan Your Florence Cathedral Priority Access Guided Tour and Gelato

If you’re planning a trip to Florence, you cannot miss visiting the Cathedral of Santa Maria del Fiore. A guided tour can provide you with a deeper understanding of the history, art, and architecture of one of the most iconic buildings in Italy. With a priority access guided tour, you can skip the lines and enjoy the beauty of this stunning building without wasting time in the queue. In this guide, we will walk you through how to plan your Florence Cathedral Priority Access Guided Tour and Gelato.

Experience

The tour includes entry to the Cathedral, the Baptistery, the Opera del Duomo Museum and a climb to the Brunelleschi Cupola. The tour will be led by a professional guide who will share all the insights about the history, art, and architecture of the Cathedral. Here are some highlights of the tour:

Skip the line to get into the Cathedral by getting in through the crypt door

With this tour, you will skip the long line to get into the Cathedral by getting in through the crypt door. This is a fantastic benefit as the lines can get very long, especially in the peak season.

Experience the beauty of the Dome

The tour will take you to the top of the Brunelleschi Cupola. The view from the top is simply breathtaking. You will have the chance to see all of Florence from a bird’s eye view. Additionally, you will learn about the story of Filippo Brunelleschi, the architect who built the Dome, and the challenges he faced during his time.

Learn all the secrets of the Dome from your guide

Your guide will share all the insights about the Dome and its history. You will learn about the technical challenges the architect faced, the interesting stories behind the paintings at the ceiling and the story of Last Judgement fresco made by Zuccari and Vasari.

Visit all the museums included within 3 days

Included in the tour are entry tickets to the Baptistery, the Opera del Duomo Museum, and the Crypt. All of these tickets are valid for three days, meaning you can visit the museums on your own time and at your leisure.

Climb up to the top of the Brunelleschi Cupola for a 360° view

The climb to the top of the Brunelleschi Cupola is one of the highlights of this tour. The Cupola is a part of the Cathedral of Santa Maria del Fiore and offers a 360° panoramic view of Florence. The climb can be steep and challenging, but the view is worth it.

Full description

The guided tour of the Cathedral of Santa Maria del Fiore starts at the entrance of the Cathedral, where the guide will give a brief introduction before entering. The guide will take you through the various sections of the Cathedral, sharing insights on the history, art, and architecture. The guided tour lasts about an hour. After the guided tour of the Cathedral, the guide will take you to the top of the Brunelleschi Cupola, where you can enjoy the panoramic view of Florence. The climb to the top of the Cupola can be strenuous, so be sure to wear comfortable shoes. Next, the guide will take you to the Baptistery where you can admire the remarkable bronze doors made by Lorenzo Ghiberti. The guide will also provide you with a brief history of the Baptistery. The final stop on the tour is the Opera del Duomo Museum. Here you can see various artworks, including Michelangelo’s unfinished Pieta, and the original golden and bronze doors of the Baptistery made by Lorenzo Ghiberti. The Museum is home to many other masterpieces that you cannot miss.

Includes

The tour includes a live professional guide, entry tickets to the Baptistery, the Opera del Duomo Museum, and the Crypt.

How to Book

You can book Florence Cathedral Priority Access Guided Tour and Gelato on GetYourGuide website. Click book the tour here and follow the instructions on the booking page to confirm your reservation. In conclusion, booking a Florence Cathedral Priority Access Guided Tour and Gelato is a great way to experience the history, art, and architecture of Santa Maria del Fiore. The breathtaking views from the top of the Dome and the insights from the professional guide will make your tour unforgettable.

FAQ about the Cathedral Of Santa Maria Del Fiore

1. What is the Cathedral Of Santa Maria Del Fiore?

The Cathedral Of Santa Maria Del Fiore is a cathedral located in Florence, Italy. It is also known as the Duomo di Firenze, which translates to “Dome of Florence”. The cathedral is one of the most famous landmarks in Florence, and is considered one of the masterpieces of Italian Gothic architecture.

2. What are the opening hours of the Cathedral Of Santa Maria Del Fiore?

The cathedral is open from Monday to Friday from 10:00 am to 5:00 pm, and on Saturdays from 10:00 am to 4:45 pm. On Sundays and religious holidays, the cathedral is open for prayer only, and access to the dome may not be possible. Visitors are advised to check the official website for any changes to the opening hours.

3. Is there an admission fee for the Cathedral Of Santa Maria Del Fiore?

There is no admission fee to enter the cathedral itself. However, if you wish to climb up to the top of the dome, there is a fee of 18 euros for adults and 3 euros for children under 12 years old. It is recommended to book your tickets in advance online to avoid long lines.

4. What is the dress code for visiting the Cathedral Of Santa Maria Del Fiore?

Visitors to the cathedral are advised to dress modestly, with no bare shoulders, shorts, or short skirts. This is especially important if you wish to enter the cathedral for prayer.

5. What is the best time to visit the Cathedral Of Santa Maria Del Fiore?

The cathedral is one of the most popular tourist attractions in Florence, so it can get very crowded, especially during peak season (June to September). It is best to visit early in the morning or late in the afternoon to avoid the crowds.

6. Can I climb up to the top of the Cathedral Of Santa Maria Del Fiore?

Yes, visitors can climb up to the top of the dome for a stunning panoramic view of Florence. The climb is quite long and steep, with 463 steps, but the views are worth it. Visitors with a fear of heights or claustrophobia are advised not to attempt the climb.

7. What is the history of the Cathedral Of Santa Maria Del Fiore?

The construction of the cathedral began in 1296, and it was completed in 1436. The dome, which is the most famous feature of the cathedral, was designed by Filippo Brunelleschi and completed in 1436. The cathedral has undergone several renovations and restorations over the centuries, and it remains one of the most iconic landmarks of Florence.

8. What are some interesting facts about the Cathedral Of Santa Maria Del Fiore?

• The cathedral is the third-largest church in the world, after St. Peter’s Basilica in Rome and the Basilica of the National Shrine of Our Lady of Aparecida in Brazil.
• The dome of the cathedral is the largest brick dome ever constructed.
• The cathedral is decorated with some of the most beautiful frescoes and artworks of the Renaissance, including works by Giotto and Donatello.

9. How do I get to the Cathedral Of Santa Maria Del Fiore?

The cathedral is located in the heart of Florence, and is easily accessible on foot or by public transportation. The nearest bus stop is “Duomo”, which is served by several bus lines. The nearest train station is Firenze Santa Maria Novella, which is about 20 minutes’ walk from the cathedral.

10. Are there any restrictions on photography inside the Cathedral Of Santa Maria Del Fiore?

Photography is not allowed inside the cathedral, although you are allowed to take photos of the exterior and the dome. However, if you wish to take professional photos or videos, you must obtain a permit from the Opera di Santa Maria del Fiore.

Book Your Tour Now

The Cathedral Of Santa Maria Del Fiore is one of the most iconic landmarks of Florence, and is a must-visit attraction for anyone visiting the city. With its stunning architecture, beautiful frescoes, and panoramic views from the dome, the cathedral offers a unique and unforgettable experience for visitors of all ages. By planning your visit in advance, you can avoid the crowds and make the most of your time in this historic and beautiful city.

How to Spend Your Time as a Tourist in Cathedral of Santa Maria del Fiore

Are you planning to visit the Cathedral of Santa Maria del Fiore on your next trip to Florence? This iconic landmark is a must-see destination for tourists from all around the world. Whether you are a history lover, an architecture enthusiast, or simply looking for Instagram-worthy photo opportunities, the Cathedral of Santa Maria del Fiore has something to offer everyone. To help you make the most out of your visit, we have put together this guide on how to spend your time as a tourist in the Cathedral of Santa Maria del Fiore. From discovering the history behind the cathedral to exploring its stunning architecture, here is everything you need to know:

1. Learn About the History of the Cathedral

The Cathedral of Santa Maria del Fiore has a long and fascinating history that dates back to the 13th century. The cathedral was designed by Arnolfo di Cambio and construction began in 1296. It was completed 140 years later by Filippo Brunelleschi, the famous Florentine architect. One of the highlights of the cathedral’s history is the competition that was held to design its dome. Brunelleschi won the competition with his innovative double-shell dome construction, which is still considered a masterpiece of Renaissance engineering. To learn more about the history of the Cathedral of Santa Maria del Fiore, we recommend taking a guided tour. You can book a tour through the official website or at the ticket office on-site.

2. Explore the Architecture

The Cathedral of Santa Maria del Fiore is known for its stunning Gothic architecture. The exterior of the cathedral features a mix of pink, white, and green marble and intricate details, including sculptures and reliefs. Inside the cathedral, you will find beautiful frescoes and stained glass windows, as well as the famous dome designed by Brunelleschi. The interior of the dome is adorned with frescoes depicting the Last Judgment, which were created by Giorgio Vasari and Federico Zuccari. To get the best view of the dome, climb the stairs to the top of the cathedral’s bell tower. You will be rewarded with stunning panoramic views of Florence and the surrounding Tuscan countryside.

3. Discover the Crypt

The Crypt of Santa Reparata is located beneath the cathedral and dates back to a much earlier church that once stood on the site. The crypt features excavated remains of the ancient church, as well as the original pavement. Visiting the Crypt of Santa Reparata is a unique experience that gives visitors a glimpse into the cathedral’s past. It is also a quiet and peaceful place to escape the crowds and heat of the Italian sun.

4. Climb the Cupola

If you are feeling adventurous, we recommend climbing to the top of the cathedral’s cupola. The climb is steep and narrow, but the views from the top are well worth the effort. You will get a bird’s-eye view of the cathedral’s stunning architecture and the surrounding city of Florence. We recommend booking your climb in advance, as spaces are limited and can sell out quickly during peak tourist season.

5. Attend a Mass or Concert

If you are interested in experiencing the spiritual side of the Cathedral of Santa Maria del Fiore, we recommend attending a mass or concert. Regular masses are held throughout the week, and there are also special concerts and events held throughout the year. Attending a mass or concert is a great way to experience the cathedral’s acoustics and feel a sense of connection to the history and culture of Florence.

Book Your Tour Now

The Cathedral of Santa Maria del Fiore is a must-visit destination for anyone traveling to Florence. Whether you are interested in history, architecture, or spirituality, there is something for everyone to enjoy. To make the most out of your visit, we recommend taking a guided tour, exploring the architecture, visiting the crypt, climbing the cupola, and attending a mass or concert. We hope that this guide has been helpful and has inspired you to plan your next visit to the Cathedral of Santa Maria del Fiore.