Top Things to See at the Florence Cathedral Complex
1. The Cathedral of Santa Maria del Fiore
Step inside the grand nave of the Florence Cathedral, where elegant Gothic architecture meets Renaissance harmony.
Admire the marble floor with intricate geometric designs and look up to see Brunelleschi’s Dome from within, beautifully decorated with the Last Judgment frescoes by Giorgio Vasari and Federico Zuccari (16th century).
2. Brunelleschi’s Dome
Climb the 463 steps to the top for a close look at the frescoes and a breathtaking panoramic view of Florence.
This revolutionary engineering masterpiece made Filippo Brunelleschi famous throughout Europe and remains the largest masonry dome ever built.
3. Giotto’s Bell Tower
Standing 84 meters tall, the Giotto’s Campanile mirrors the Cathedral’s colorful marble façade.
Its rich decorations include reliefs and statues (the originals are now in the museum).
From the top, you’ll enjoy one of the most spectacular views of the Duomo and Florence’s skyline.
4. The Baptistery of San Giovanni
One of Florence’s oldest buildings, dating back to the 11th century, the Baptistery is famous for its white and green marble exterior and octagonal shape.
Don’t miss the “Gates of Paradise” by Lorenzo Ghiberti (copies are on-site; the originals are in the museum).
Inside, admire the stunning Byzantine mosaics covering the dome.
5. The Opera del Duomo Museum
A must-visit for art lovers. The Museo dell’Opera del Duomo houses the original artworks removed from the complex for conservation purposes.
Highlights include Michelangelo’s Bandini Pietà, the original Baptistery doors, sculptures by Donatello and Nanni di Banco, and a reconstruction of the unfinished medieval façade.
6. The Terraces and the Crypt
Beneath the Cathedral, visit the remains of the ancient church of Santa Reparata.
Some tours also include access to the Cathedral’s terraces, offering unique views over the city and the Dome.
FAQ – Visiting the Florence Duomo
1. Do I need a ticket to enter the Cathedral?
Entrance to the Cathedral of Santa Maria del Fiore is free, but lines can be very long. We recommend booking the Ghiberti Pass with timed entry or joining our 1:45 PM guided tour for a seamless visit.
A combined ticket is required to climb Brunelleschi’s Dome, Giotto’s Bell Tower, or to enter the Baptistery, Crypt, and Opera del Duomo Museum.
2. How long does it take to visit the entire complex?
3. How many steps are there to climb the Dome and the Bell Tower?
4. When is the best time to visit the Dome or Bell Tower?
Early morning or late afternoon to avoid crowds.
Sunset offers a particularly stunning view.
5. Is reservation required for all entries?
Yes. Timed-entry reservations are mandatory for all monuments within the complex.
6. What is the dress code?
As a sacred site, visitors must cover shoulders and knees. Avoid short shorts or crop tops.
7. Where are the main entrances?
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Cathedral: left side of the façade (security checks required)
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Dome: north side entrance of the Cathedral
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Bell Tower: base of the tower itself
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Baptistery: directly opposite the Cathedral façade
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Museum: Piazza del Duomo, behind the Cathedral’s apse
8. Are there discounts for children or groups?
Yes. Children aged 0–6 enter free of charge.
9. Is the site accessible to visitors with reduced mobility?
The Cathedral and Baptistery are accessible.
Unfortunately, the Dome and Bell Tower are not, as there are no elevators.
10. Can visitors attend Mass?
Yes. Access during religious services is separate and not part of the tourist visit.
Check the official Florence Cathedral website for updated Mass times.
Related Experiences and Attractions
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Uffizi Gallery Tickets and Tours – combine your visit with another masterpiece of Florence
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Cultural Tours in Florence – discover the city’s art, history, and traditions
Plan Your Visit to the Florence Cathedral
Discover the heart of Renaissance Florence with an expertly curated tour of the Duomo Complex.
Climb Brunelleschi’s Dome, admire Giotto’s Bell Tower, explore the Baptistery, and step into centuries of art and history at the Opera del Duomo Museum.
Book your Florence Cathedral tickets now and experience one of the most iconic landmarks in the world.
