Florence Duomo Tour: 1.5-hour Small Group Florence Duomo Tour & Secret TerracesCity, Historical and Theme Tours

Ciao Florence Tours & Travels

Overview

This Florence Duomo tour is a unique and exclusive way to admire the famous Duomo as never before. Admire the panorama of Florence from the Duomoʼs 32 meter-high terraces, and then climb to the very top of the Dome! Don't miss the chance to take a closer look at the incredible Brunelleschi "Cupola" a masterpiece of art and architecture that remains unmatched and whose techniques of building are covered with a veil of mystery.

Highlights

◾ Discover the secret terraces of the incredible Florence Cathedral, perfect for photo opportunities
◾ Access to the exclusive circular room and admire the restorers at work
◾ Skip the line to access Brunelleschi's Cupola
◾ Learn all about the history of the Cathedral from a passionate, art-loving local guide

About this Experience

✔ Health & safety measures apply
✔ Small-group tour
✔ No booking fees

DURATION: 1.5 hours
STARTING TIME: 2.15 pm
MEETING POINT: Ciao Florence Sales Office - Via Cavour, 12 Black
LANGUAGES: English
OPENING SEASON: All year round
WHO CAN COME: Florence Duomo tour is suitable for all. Not wheelchair accessible

Description - What to expect

This Florence Duomo tour is an unmissable opportunity to visit the top attraction of Florence. Meet your expert, tour guide for an enchanting walk towards the Florence Duomo. You will be welcomed by the imposing red, white, and green marbled Duomo Complex: the Cathedral, Bell Tower, Baptistery, and Dome. Follow your guide past the notoriously long lines and enter directly into the Cathedral to learn more about this masterpiece's beauty and allure.

Your guide will dive into the fascinating history and immense wonder of the Cathedral. Begin your journey through the Middle Ages and Renaissance as you learn about the unusual construction of the Cathedral, its façade, and Brunelleschi’s Dome: the unparalleled landmark of Florence. Over a span of 150 years, many of Italy’s greatest geniuses took part in the design and construction including Arnolfo di Cambio, Pisano, Giotto, and Brunelleschi, among others.

As you discover the hidden secrets of the Cathedral, your professional guide will lead you to one of the Duomo's most spectacular sights: The Last Judgment frescoes by Vasari and Zuccari. A dizzying array of colorful designs and realistic depictions, this masterpiece has a unique story of greed and betrayal.

Next, you will begin your climb to the Northern terrace of the Cathedral rooftop: an intriguing walk through a narrow, open-air corridor that has been closed to the public for centuries. Your group will reach a secret room, where a guard will unlock the door to the terrace. The panoramic view from above Piazza del Duomo will take your breath away! Enjoy the private terrace as you walk above the entire city. Admire aerial views full of Renaissance architecture, terracotta rooftops, nearby churches, and the rolling Tuscan hills in the distance. Right before your eyes, you will find the city’s best and most up-close view of Brunelleschi’s Dome. Admire every detail of the architectural marvel, taking plenty of everlasting photos.

The Florence Duomo tour will next bring you to the private “Circular Room” (also closed to the public!) where you will have the opportunity to see ancient statues that once stood on the façade of the Duomo.

Before heading back down, use your skip-the-line ticket to walk around the inner edge of the Duomo, admiring the stunning Last Judgment frescoes up close. If you are ready to see Florence from the highest point of the city center, ascend another set of ancient stairs to the absolute TOP OF THE CUPOLA! From the top of Brunelleschi’s Dome, you can enjoy stunning 360° views of Florence from the top of the city!

With this Florence Duomo tour, you will also receive 72-hour full-access, skip-the-line passes to all parts of the Duomo Complex. This includes: Giotto’s Bell Tower*, Giovanni’s Baptistery and Museo dell’Opera del Duomo. Spend your remaining time in Florence, without being rushed, visiting the city's top monuments.

What's included, what's not

✔ English only small group tour
✔ Professional guide
✔ Guided tour of the Cathedral with skip-the-line access
✔ Exclusive access to the central nave
✔ Exceptional opening of Duomo North Terrace
✔ Skip the line and reserved access to Brunelleschi's Cupola
✔ 72-hour full-access, skip-the-line passes to all parts of the Duomo Complex. This includes: Giotto’s Bell Tower, the Baptistery, and the Opera del Duomo Museum

Why choose this experience

◾With a knowledgeable tour guide, you'll gain deep insights into the history and architectural marvels of the Florence Duomo, enhancing your understanding of this iconic landmark.
◾Bypass the notoriously long lines and enter the Cathedral directly, maximizing your time to explore and appreciate the beauty of the Duomo Complex.
◾Experience exclusive access to areas typically closed to the public, including the Northern Terrace and the private Circular Room, offering breathtaking views and a closer look at ancient statues.
◾Delve into the rich history of the Cathedral, from its medieval origins to the Renaissance contributions of Italy’s greatest artists, making your visit not just a sightseeing trip but an enriching journey through art and culture.
◾Climb to the top of Brunelleschi’s Dome for unparalleled 360° views of Florence, capturing the city's stunning architecture and picturesque landscapes—perfect for memorable photos.
◾Enjoy a 72-hour skip-the-line pass to all parts of the Duomo Complex, allowing you to explore at your own pace without the pressure of a fixed schedule.

This Florence Duomo tour offers a comprehensive and unforgettable experience, blending history, art, and breathtaking views into one remarkable adventure.

Good to know - practical information

◾ Entrance into the Duomo Cathedral requires a strict dress code. We cannot be held responsible for entry denied due to improper dressing. Please make sure your shoulders and knees are covered
◾This Florence Duomo tour is not suitable for children under 7 years of age
◾ Comfortable shoes are recommended
◾ Please note the number of steps to reach the top of each monument: Terraces: 153, Terraces + Brunelleschi's Dome: 153 + 310 steps
◾ Large bags and backpacks are not allowed on the Dome. Entry will be denied if you do not comply with this
◾Kindly note that from January 1st, 2025 the 72hr Skip the Line Pass will no longer include Giotto's Bell Tower