Tour Details
- Duration
- 3 hours
- Product Type
- Tour
- Venues
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- Baptistery of St. John
- Florence Duomo
- Museo dell'Opera Del Duomo
- Ghiberti's doors
Photos & Highlights
- Explore the complex architecture of the Duomo Complex and get the real story of Brunelleschi's Dome
- Led by a local historian
Select a date
Tour Description
When thinking of Florence, one particular Renaissance church instantly comes to mind: Santa Maria del Fiore and its famous dome, more commonly known as the Duomo. During this 3-hour tour, you will visit the stunning Baptistery, explore the Cathedral and its crypt, and discover masterpieces in the Museo dell’Opera del Duomo. Led by an expert guide, this tour brings the stories behind Florence’s most famous landmarks to life.
Experts
The Duomo is its own unique character in this story, with a long, dramatic story of its design and construction. You’ll begin at the Baptistery, admiring its intricate mosaics and marble facade before delving into its rich history. Next, you’ll visit the Florence Cathedral where your guide will talk about Brunelleschi and the “perspective machine” he developed, to establish, for the first time since antiquity, a system for mathematical perspective. You'll also explore the Crypt of Santa Reparata, revealing layers of history beneath the cathedral.
The tour concludes at the Museo dell’Opera del Duomo, home to the original works of art and sculptures created for the complex. From intricate carvings to a cross-section of Brunelleschi’s dome, the museum ties together themes of art, faith, and innovation. Your guide will leave you with fresh insights and plenty to ponder as you continue exploring Florence’s architectural wonders.
By the end of the tour, you’ll have a deeper understanding of the Duomo Complex’s cultural and historical significance. From its role in shaping Florence to the artistry of its creators, you’ll walk away with a newfound appreciation for these masterpieces and the city that inspired them.
- You’re a history enthusiast eager to uncover the stories behind Florence’s most iconic landmarks.
- You appreciate guided tours that provide deep cultural and historical insights.
- You want to see both the renowned sites and hidden layers, like the Crypt of Santa Reparata.
- Florence Cathedral - Duomo
- Baptistery of St. John
- Museo dell'Opera Del Duomo
- Santa Reparata
The Baptistery of St. John is currently undergoing restoration of the mosaics of the vault, which are not visible at this time, although this site is still worth seeing.
Tickets
Tickets to the The Baptistery of San Giovanni, the Opera del Duomo Museum, and the crypt of Santa Reparata are included in the cost of the tour.
Additional Trip-Planning Resources
- For more information on planning your travels to Florence, take a read through our Context Stories.
- If you are looking to learn more about Florence prior to a visit, check out our online lectures.
Is this tour suitable for children or elderly participants?
While this tour is not specifically designed for children, it is appropriate for all ages.
While this tour is not specifically designed for children, it is appropriate for all ages.
Are tickets to the Duomo Complex included in the tour price?
Yes, the tour price includes all necessary entrance tickets to the Baptistery, Cathedral, Crypt of Santa Reparata, and the Museo dell’Opera del Duomo.
What should I wear?
As the tour includes visits to religious sites, modest attire is recommended. Visitors cannot show bare legs or bare shoulders, they cannot wear sandals, hats, or sunglasses. Bulky backpacks and bags are not allowed
Will there be time to climb the Duomo or Giotto’s Bell Tower?
This tour does not include a climb of the Duomo or Bell Tower, but your guide can provide information on how to do this independently after the tour.
Is there the possibility of accessing the Terraces during this tour?
No, this tour does not include access to the Florence Duomo Terraces, if you are looking for an experience like this, please check out our VIP Florence Duomo Exclusive Access Tour with Terraces View.
We understand that some of our valued guests may have mobility concerns, and we want to ensure you have a comfortable and enjoyable experience throughout your tour. If there are any accessibility concerns that your tour guide will need to be aware of, please let our team know at the time of booking.
Is this tour accessible to wheelchair users?
Yes, this tour is accessible to wheelchair users and those with mobility issues.
Book with confidence — see Context's flexible cancellation policy here.
Where You'll Start
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129 Reviews
Reviews can only be left by Context customers after they have completed a tour. For more information about our reviews, please see our FAQ.
One of the highlights of our stay in Florence was our tour of the Duomo complex and the Museum of the Duomo. Even though the Baptistry was undergoing major restorations, she was able to make it come to life for us which we thought was pretty impressive. We appreciated Valerie's energy, knowledge, and enthusiasm. She is an accomplished guide.
Philip
Mar 13, 2025
It was a fascinating and in-depth description of works of art in the museum and baptistery, but maybe I didn't understand, I was expecting to get inside the cathedral.
Ana maria
Oct 16, 2019
Siro had exceptional knowledge and enthusiasm. Fantastic tour, very enjoyable.
Erik
Sep 20, 2019
