The best way to experience the Duomo in Florence is to take a professional tour – here are three of the best.
(Photo: Getyourguide.com)
The Florence Duomo, officially known as the Cathedral of Santa Maria del Fiore, is a must-see on any trip to the capital of Italy’s Tuscany region. This a is a masterpiece of Gothic architecture, with the huge dome built between 1420 and 1436 to a plan by Filippo Brunelleschi – it is still the largest masonry vault in the world. Visitors can climb 463 steps to the top of the dome for epic views over Florence and the surrounding Tuscan countryside. To really appreciate the history behind one of Italy’s most impressive pieces of architecture, take a tour of the Duomo with an expert guide.
Florence: Duomo Guided Tour with Optional Dome Climb Upgrade
Skip the lines and get a guided tour of the Cathedral of Santa Maria del Fiore and its famous dome. The dedicated tour guide explains the fascinating story of the building’s creation, from its origins as a 7th-century church to the impressive 89,000 square foot cathedral that stands in its place today. There is some really in-depth information provided, explaining the building techniques that make the Dome such an architectural wonder. The upgrade option allows you to ascend the Dome at your pace and take in the unrivalled views of Florence. The ticket also allows entry not only to the Cathedral but also to the Baptistery, Giotto’s Bell Tower, and the Duomo Museum, valid for 72 hours following the tour. From €19.00.
Book at Getyourguide.com
Florence: Duomo Tour with VIP Terrace Access & Giotto Pass
This is a top-rated tour with skip-the-line entry to Florence Cathedral, with a guided tour of the Duomo. The guide carefully points out all the must-see features of the iconic building. After a 30-minute guided tour of the ground level of the cathedral comes the unique part of the tour. Climb the 150 steps up to the North and South Terraces, not open to the general public, for a panoramic bird’s-eye view of Florence and beyond. The tour also includes the Giotto pass, which allows independent access to visit Giotto’s Belltower, the Baptistery of San Giovani, the Opera del Duomo Museum, and the Basilica of Santa Reparata within 72 hours of your visit to the Duomo. From €42.00.
Book at Getyourguide.com
Florence Duomo and Brunelleschi’s Dome Small Group Tour
This is a small group tour that takes its time – it’s three hours in length – to go into detail about this architectural marvel. The professional guide takes you around the Florence Duomo complex with pre-reserved tickets. You’ll get the lowdown on the architecture, artwork, and mosaics of this world-famous church in Florence. Included in the tour is a climb to the top of the dome to appreciate the incredible views. The tour then heads to the Museum of Opera and Giotto’s Bell Tower for an equally immersive experience. For history buffs this tour is hard to beat. From €76.00.
Book at Viator.com