Itinerary

Brunelleschi Dome

The Brunelleschi Dome (Cupola del Brunelleschi) is the majestic dome of Florence’s Cathedral of Santa Maria del Fiore (Duomo) and a masterpiece of Renaissance architecture. Designed by Filippo Brunelleschi and completed in 1436, it was an unprecedented engineering feat, built without scaffolding using an innovative double-shell structure. The dome stands 116 meters (380 feet) high and remains the largest masonry dome ever constructed. Its interior is adorned with magnificent Last Judgment frescoes by Giorgio Vasari and Federico Zuccari. Visitors can climb 463 steps to the top for a breathtaking panoramic view of Florence, making it one of the city's most iconic landmarks.

Giotto's Bell Tower

Giotto's Bell Tower is a magnificent Gothic-style tower standing beside the Florence Cathedral (Duomo) in Piazza del Duomo. Designed by Giotto di Bondone in 1334, the 84.7-meter (277-foot) bell tower is adorned with stunning marble panels, sculptures, and reliefs created by artists such as Andrea Pisano and Luca della Robbia.The tower’s 414 steps lead visitors to the top terrace, offering one of the most breathtaking panoramic views of Florence, including a close-up of Brunelleschi’s Dome. Part of the Duomo complex, Giotto’s Campanile is a masterpiece of Florentine Gothic architecture, harmonizing elegance and structural ingenuity.

Santa Maria del Fiore Cathedral

The Cathedral of Santa Maria del Fiore, commonly known as the Florence Duomo, is one of the most iconic landmarks of Renaissance architecture. Located in Piazza del Duomo, it was designed in a Gothic style by Arnolfo di Cambio and later crowned with the revolutionary Brunelleschi’s Dome, completed in 1436. The cathedral's striking white, green, and pink marble façade was finished in the 19th century.Inside, visitors can admire the breathtaking Last Judgment frescoes by Vasari and Zuccari, beautiful stained glass windows, and the Crypt of Santa Reparata, the remains of the ancient church that preceded the Duomo. Together with Giotto’s Bell Tower and the Baptistery of San Giovanni, the cathedral forms the heart of Florence’s religious and artistic heritage. Climbing the 463 steps to the top of the dome offers unparalleled panoramic views of the city.

Santa Reparata Crypt

The Crypt of Santa Reparata, located beneath the Florence Cathedral (Santa Maria del Fiore), is an important archaeological site that preserves the remains of the early Christian basilica of Santa Reparata, which predates the Duomo. Dating back to the 4th–5th century, this ancient church served as Florence’s main cathedral until the construction of the Duomo began in the 13th century.Visitors can explore well-preserved mosaics, frescoes, and Roman-era remains, along with tombs of Florentine bishops. One of the most significant tombs is believed to belong to Filippo Brunelleschi, the architect of the Duomo’s famous dome. The crypt offers a fascinating glimpse into Florence’s early Christian and medieval history, making it a must-visit site for history enthusiasts.

Opera del Duomo Museum

The Opera del Duomo Museum in Florence is dedicated to preserving and showcasing the original artworks and sculptures from the Cathedral of Santa Maria del Fiore, Giotto’s Bell Tower, and the Baptistery of San Giovanni. Located behind the Duomo, the museum houses masterpieces by Michelangelo, Donatello, Ghiberti, and Luca della Robbia.Highlights of the collection include Michelangelo’s Pietà, the original bronze panels of Ghiberti’s "Gates of Paradise", and a stunning reconstruction of the Duomo’s original medieval façade. The museum offers an in-depth look at the artistic and architectural evolution of Florence’s most important religious monuments, making it a must-visit for art and history lovers.

San Giovanni Baptistery

The Baptistery of San Giovanni is one of Florence’s oldest and most iconic landmarks, located in Piazza del Duomo. Dating back to the 4th–5th century, it is a masterpiece of Romanesque architecture, featuring an octagonal shape and a striking white and green marble exterior. The interior is adorned with a magnificent golden mosaic ceiling depicting the Last Judgment. The baptistery is also famous for its bronze doors, including Ghiberti’s renowned "Gates of Paradise." A historically significant site, it served as the baptismal place for many Florentine citizens, including Dante Alighieri.