Florence is a city that feels like a living museum, and if there’s one place that captures its soul, it’s the Cathedral of Santa Maria del Fiore—better known as the Florence Duomo.
We recently traveled through Tuscany, and walking up to the Duomo for the first time was unforgettable. Whether you’re here for art, history, or just the view from the top, this cathedral will amaze you.
In this guide, we’ll walk you through everything you need to know about visiting the Cathedral of Santa Maria del Fiore—from history and architecture to tips for climbing Brunelleschi’s Dome, buying tickets, and how to plan your visit wisely.
The History of Florence Cathedral
The story of the Florence Cathedral begins in 1296 when construction first started under architect Arnolfo di Cambio. Over the next 140 years, this project evolved, attracting great minds like Filippo Brunelleschi, who crafted the awe-inspiring dome that still fascinates engineers and historians today.
One unforgettable event tied to the cathedral is the Pazzi Conspiracy of 1478 when an assassination attempt against the Medici family unfolded during a Mass inside.
Today, the cathedral stands not just as a church but as a symbol of Florence’s resilience, innovation, and Renaissance heritage.
Location and How to Get There
You’ll find the Florence Cathedral in Piazza del Duomo, right in the heart of the city. If you’re staying anywhere in Florence’s historical center, it’s likely a short walk.
Nearest landmarks:
- 2 minutes from the Baptistery of St. John
- 4 minutes from Piazza della Repubblica
- 8–10 minutes from the Uffizi Gallery
Florence is best explored on foot, as per our experience, but the nearest bus stop is Via de’ Cerretani, just a block away.
Florence Duomo Opening Hours
Before planning your visit, it’s important to know that each part of the cathedral complex has different hours.
| Sites | Opening Hours | Closed |
| Cathedral | 10:15 AM – 4:45 PM | Sundays and holidays (mass only) |
| Dome (Brunelleschi’s Cupola) | 8:15 AM – 7:30 PM | No closure day |
| Giotto’s Bell Tower | 8:15 AM – 7:45 PM | No closure day |
| Baptistery of St. John | 8:30 AM – 7:30 PM | No closure day |
| Crypt of Santa Reparata | 10:15 AM – 4:45 PM | 8:30 AM–7:30PM |
Florence Cathedral Tickets
You can’t just walk into the dome or bell tower without a ticket. But don’t worry—it’s all quite affordable.
🎫 Ticket Options
- Brunelleschi Pass (€30) – Full access to all sites including the Dome (must book a time slot).
- Giotto Pass (€20) – All sites except the Dome.
- Cathedral Entry – Free, but with long queues and only allows entry into the main nave.
Go for the Brunelleschi Pass. Climbing the dome is an experience you don’t want to miss!
Tickets are available online at the Opera di Santa Maria del Fiore website or kiosks around the piazza. Pre-book to skip the lines.
Architectural Marvels of the Florence Cathedral
Brunelleschi’s Dome
The dome is the largest masonry dome in the world, completed in 1434 using groundbreaking techniques that eliminated the need for scaffolding. Its double-shell design—an inner dome for support and an outer dome for beauty—is considered a marvel of engineering.
Visitors climbing the 463 steps can witness up-close views of the dome’s frescoes depicting the Last Judgment by Giorgio Vasari and Federico Zuccari.
It’s hard to believe, but they built the dome without modern machines or scaffolding. Brunelleschi’s engineering was so advanced, people thought it was impossible. Today, the dome remains the largest brick dome in the world.
If you’re exploring Florence’s rich art scene beyond the Duomo, don’t miss the San Marco Museum, home to Fra Angelico’s stunning frescoes and monastic tranquillity.
The Façade
Covered in vibrant white, green, and pink marble, the façade features intricate designs, bronze doors, and mosaics, symbolizing Florence’s faith and artistry. It was completed in the 19th century but harmonized beautifully with the Renaissance design.
Giotto’s Bell Tower
Standing adjacent to the cathedral, this campanile offers another stunning perspective of Florence. Its design, attributed to Giotto, is admired for its geometric patterns and carved reliefs. Climbing the tower’s 414 steps rewards visitors with panoramic city views.
The Baptistery of San Giovanni
Famous for its Gates of Paradise, designed by Lorenzo Ghiberti, the Baptistery is a masterpiece in its own right. The golden panels narrate biblical stories with unparalleled artistry.
Art and Interior Highlights
Despite its austere interior, the Duomo holds countless treasures, including:
- Stained glass windows by masters like Donatello and Paolo Uccello.
- The liturgical clock painted by Paolo Uccello is one of the few in the world that has only one hand.
- Frescoes such as Dante Before the City of Florence by Domenico di Michelino.
- The crypt of Santa Reparata showcases ancient ruins and relics of Florence’s early history.
Best Time to Visit the Cathedral of Santa Maria del Fiore
If you’re planning your trip to Florence, knowing the best time to visit the Cathedral of Santa Maria del Fiore can make your experience much more enjoyable. Spring (from April to June) is a favorite season among travelers—it offers sunny days, blooming flowers, and fewer crowds compared to summer. You’ll have pleasant weather for walking around Piazza del Duomo and exploring the cathedral complex, including Giotto’s Bell Tower and Brunelleschi’s Dome.
Summer (July and August), on the other hand, brings large tourist crowds and high temperatures. If you must visit during this time, early mornings are your best bet to avoid long lines and the midday heat, especially if you’re climbing the dome or tower. Autumn (September to October) is another excellent time—Florence cools down, the city feels more relaxed, and you’ll still get that golden Italian sunlight on the cathedral’s marble facade.
For a quieter, reflective experience, consider winter (November to February). There are fewer tourists, and the cathedral looks magical during the Christmas season. However, check holiday opening hours in advance, especially if you’re aiming to see all five monuments of the cathedral complex. Regardless of the season, weekday mornings (before 9 AM) are the best time to visit the Florence Cathedral for a peaceful and crowd-free experience.
Photography Tips
For a panoramic photo, we highly recommend climbing either Brunelleschi’s Dome or Giotto’s Bell Tower. From the dome, you get a full 360-degree view of Florence. From the bell tower, you can photograph the dome itself, framed by the city rooftops—a must-have shot! Another great spot is Piazzale Michelangelo, a little farther away but worth the walk or taxi ride. It offers a postcard-perfect view of the Florence Cathedral within the skyline.
Inside the cathedral, photography is allowed but without flash. Try wide-angle shots to capture the interior space or focus on details like Vasari’s fresco of the Last Judgment. For the best indoor lighting, visit mid-morning when sunlight softly enters through the stained-glass windows. And always be respectful of worshippers during your shoot—this is still an active place of worship.
Travel Tips From Our Florence Experience
Having just explored the Cathedral of Santa Maria del Fiore ourselves, we’ve gathered a few personal travel tips that can really enhance your visit. First and foremost, book your tickets in advance, especially if you want to climb Brunelleschi’s Dome—entry is timed and slots fill up quickly. We recommend getting the Brunelleschi Pass, which gives you access to all five major attractions: the Cathedral, Dome, Bell Tower, Baptistery, and Crypt.
Prepare for the climb. Both the dome and bell tower involve over 400 narrow, winding steps, with no elevator. Wear comfortable shoes with good grip, bring a small bottle of water, and go light on luggage. Large backpacks aren’t allowed, and there are no lockers. A small crossbody bag works best.
Florence can be warm, so a scarf or shawl is useful—not only for sun protection but also to meet the cathedral’s dress code, which requires covered shoulders and knees. Also, bring headphones and download an audio guide app—many are free and packed with great info about the cathedral’s history, art, and architecture.
Where to Stay Near the Cathedral of Santa Maria del Fiore
One top-rated option is Hotel Duomo Firenze. As the name suggests, it’s just steps from the cathedral and offers clean, modern rooms with some great views of the dome.
Another favorite of ours is B&B La Terrazza Sul Duomo, a charming bed and breakfast with a rooftop terrace that faces the cathedral directly. Imagine having breakfast while looking at Brunelleschi’s Dome—it’s an unforgettable experience and a romantic choice for couples. If you’re looking for a more upscale stay, Palazzo Niccolini al Duomo is a historic boutique hotel that combines classic Italian elegance with luxury amenities. Some rooms even have private windows facing the cathedral!
If you’re on a tighter budget, don’t worry. There are also affordable guesthouses and small hotels nearby that offer excellent service. Just be sure to book early—hotels near the Florence Cathedral fill up quickly, especially in spring and summer.
FAQs
What is the Cathedral of Santa Maria del Fiore known for?
It’s famous for its red-tiled dome, designed by Brunelleschi, and its stunning marble exterior.
Can you enter the Florence Cathedral for free?
Yes, entry to the main cathedral is free. However, the dome, bell tower, and other parts require a ticket.
Conclusion
The Cathedral of Santa Maria del Fiore isn’t just a church; it’s a testament to human ingenuity, artistic brilliance, and Florence’s enduring spirit. Whether you’re marveling at the dome or uncovering its hidden treasures, the Duomo offers a journey through time and creativity. Make it the centerpiece of your Florence adventure!
We hope this guide helps you plan your visit. Florence captured our hearts, and the Duomo was a big reason why. Whether it’s your first time in Italy or your fifth, this place will leave you in awe.