Florence: Skip-the-Line Cathedral Tour with Cupola Climb

Meet at the Piazza del Duomo, the heart of the historic center of Florence and one of the most visited places in the world. Learn about the many historically and architecturally significant buildings that surround the piazza, including the Santa Maria del Fiore Cathedral, Giotto’s Bell Tower, and the Baptistery of St. John.

See the exterior of the Museo dell’ Opera del Duomo and hear the awe-inspiring story of the construction of the Duomo and its cupola. The museum contains masterpieces from Renaissance artists such as Michelangelo, Donatello, Lorenzo Ghiberti Luca Della Robbia, and Arnolfo di Cambio. Learn about two shining examples of Florentine Gothic architecture: Giotto’s Bell Tower and the Basilica of Santa Maria del Fiore. The museum, the Bell Tower, the Crypt, and the Baptistery can all be visited after your tour using your Cathedral ticket.

Outside the cathedral, gaze up at the Brunelleschi’s staggering red-tiled cupola which crowns the Santa Maria del Fiore Cathedral.  Take a moment to appreciate the church’s white and green marble facade. Skip the line for the cathedral and directly enter the church. Hear the story of Arnolfo di Cambio, the cathedral’s original architect and how his work was continued after his death. As you explore the cathedral, your guide will point many details and decorations that otherwise might be overlooked.

At your chosen timeslot, climb up one of the towers of the church to the underbelly of the cupola, which is decorated with Giorgi Vasari’s frescos of the Last Judgement. See Vasari’s grisly vision of hell and his triumphant choirs of angels. Continue to the top of the cupola, where you can take in phenomenal views Florence.