By Monika
How to Visit the Florence Cathedral and Climb the Duomo (a Complete Guide)
If you’re in Florence, there’s one experience you really shouldn’t miss – visiting the Florence Cathedral and the famous Brunelleschi Dome.
The first time you see the Florence Cathedral, it stops you in your tracks.
You turn a corner in the historic center, and suddenly the massive dome is right in front of you – far bigger than you imagined, glowing in the sunlight, and surrounded by crowds of people who all seem to be staring up.
No photo really prepares you for how impressive it feels in real life.
But visiting the Florence Cathedral complex isn’t as straightforward as it looks. There are several monuments to see, different ticket options, strict entry rules plus, especially for climbing the famous Duomo.
Without some planning, it’s easy to waste time in long lines or completely miss out on the experience.
We spent a good chunk of our first day in the city exploring this amazing complex so let me show you exactly how to plan your visit step-by-step: what is there to see, what tickets to buy and what climbing the Duomo is like, plus I’ll share some helpful tips from our experience that can make your visit much smoother, especially if it’s your first time in Florence!
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- How to Visit the Florence Cathedral and Climb the Duomo (a Complete Guide)
About Florence Cathedral Complex
Florence Cathedral is by far the most visited and the most famous attraction of Florence. It is what comes to mind when Florence is mentioned, and for good reasons. It’s stunning, very impressive, and a must-see for any Florence itinerary.
The Cathedral (Basilica Santa Maria del Fiore) is part of a larger complex of 6 monuments, managed by an organization called Opera di Santa Maria del Fiore, including also:
- Brunelleschi’s Dome
- Giotto’s Bell Tower
- Baptistery
- Santa Reparata
- Opera del Duomo Museum
Piazza del Duomo monuments map:
How to get to Florence Cathedral
Florence Cathedral is located on Piazza del Duomo, in the heart of historic Florence.
Good to know: the historic center of Florence is a UNESCO World Heritage Site, and all the monuments of Piazza del Duomo are included as well.
It is only a 12-minute walk from the main train station in Florence (Firenze Santa Maria Novella), which is where you’d arrive by train from another city or by public transportation from the Amerigo Vespucci International Airport (FLR).
Before you start your visit:
Two very important things to take into account before you start exploring Piazza del Duomo:
- Leave your luggage at the luggage storage located near the Opera del Duomo Museum (see the map above).
Luggage is considered anything larger than your wallet, so purses, small personal backpacks, umbrellas etc. will need to be stored.
Take your documents (tickets, passports, etc.) and wallets with you, and if you don’t have pockets to fit it all in (like me!), you’ll be given a small plastic shopping bag, where you should also put a small bottle of water (you’ll need it if you’re climbing the Duomo!)
We didn’t read about that enough before our visit, but luckily, a kind Duomo line attendant informed us and showed us where to go. Good thing I always like to be early everywhere, and we didn’t miss our time slot! (more on Duomo tickets later in this article)
Learn more about luggage storage here.
- Make sure to follow the dress code
Your arms and knees need to be covered in order to enter the Cathedral, including Santa Reparata and the Dome, and the Baptistery. The dress code is not enforced for the Bell Tower and the Museum.
Helpful hint: if you’re visiting in the summer, as we did, you may want to invest in a light scarf to cover your arms and another one to wrap around your waist long enough to cover your knees.
After suffering through a VERY HOT (but wonderful otherwise!) visit to the Vatican City in Rome in long pants, we decided to purchase a couple of those scarves from the street vendors and always kept them in our backpacks in case we needed to use them. That way, we could wear comfortable summer clothes but were also prepared for the church visits.
Piazza del Duomo attractions
Now, let’s go over all the monuments under Opera di Santa Maria del Fiore, so you can decide which ones you’ll want to visit, so you can choose the right entry pass. I’ll give you all the ticket information you need at the end of this article.
Florence Cathedral (Basilica Santa Maria del Fiore)
Florence Cathedral is one of the largest churches in Europe. Its construction started in 1296, and it became consecrated when the famous dome was completed in 1436.
Get more historical details here.
Admission to the Cathedral is FREE. You can enter it from the main entrance (see the picture above or the Piazza del Duomo map) or through the Santa Reparata entrance (more on Santa Reparata later in this article)
What surprised me most about the Cathedral wasn’t just the size — it was also how bare the interior felt compared to the outside. Most visitors expect a richly decorated church inside, but in reality, the inside of the Cathedral is not overly impressive.
BUT – the stained-glass windows are beautiful, and of course, the real highlight is the dome fresco which you can glance at from the main church floor.
Good to know: there is always a line to enter the Cathedral, but don’t get discouraged – it moves fast, and if you’re not climbing the dome, it will be your only opportunity to see it.
Opening hours: Monday to Saturday 10:15 am – 3:45 pm; closed on Sundays and during religious holiday masses.
Time needed: 30 minutes should be enough to walk through the church.
Brunelleschi’s Dome
If you’re going to do one climb in Florence, choose climbing the iconic Duomo (Cupola) – the masterpiece built by Filippo Brunelleschi that became a symbol of Florence since it was finished in 1436.
You need a timed AND named ticket for the climb and will only be allowed to enter during the time slot specified on your ticket. (more on the dome tickets further in this article)
First, you’ll go through a security check and then you’ll start going up.
The climb is 463 stairs, and while there are places to rest, there is no elevator.
Take advantage of those rest spots – the stairs are narrow, ending, and the air can be a bit stuffy, so when you get to the more open areas, make sure to stop for a moment to look around and drink some water.
At one point, you’ll go through a narrow passage, where you’ll get a glimpse of the Basilica below.
Getting to the observation deck of the Dome feels SO GOOD!
Besides the well-deserved satisfaction from completing the climb, you can finally get some fresh air, and the views of the city below you are incredible!
Plus, the viewing area itself is beautiful, with stone arches and columns.
The ticket allows you 45 minutes for the experience, and towards the end of this time window, there were attendants reminding you to start climbing down in order for the next group to enter the balcony.
The staircase down is initially steep and narrow, then gets much better.
Overall, I’d say that climbing the Duomo was a lot easier than expected and definitely worth the effort.
Important: Climbing the dome is not advised for visitors with heart conditions, claustrophobia, mobility issues, or pregnant women. Minors under 18 are only allowed with an adult.
Opening hours: 08:15 am – 6:45 pm on weekdays, 08:15 am – 4:30 pm on Saturdays and 12:45 pm – 4:30 pm on Sundays.
Time needed: 45 minutes
Tips for climbing the Duomo in Florence
- Reserve your tickets early
- Purchase the Brunelleschi Pass or a separate Duomo ticket
- Leave your luggage at the storage place mentioned above
- Arrive on time or 10-15 minutes early and have your ID ready
- Come well rested
- Bring water
- Take advantage of rest areas
Giotto’s Bell Tower
This is the bell tower for the Florence Cathedral, and like the Duomo, it’s famous for the viewing area at its summit offering an amazing panorama of the city and the Duomo itself.
And just like the Duomo, it does involve climbing a set of of stairs to reach the top.
This climb is 414 steps, and there is no elevator, but there are 3 loggias on the way to rest.
We did not climb the tower – as I mentioned in my guide to the best things to do in Florence – we underestimated how much there is to see and simply ran out of time. I definitely will make it a priority next time I visit.
Learn more about Giotto’s Bell Tower here.
The tickets to the Bell Tower may be timed, depending on the ticket/pass you purchase (I explain that at the end of this article).
Opening hours: daily 08:15 am – 6:45 pm
Time needed: about 45 minutes
Santa Reparata
Santa Reparata is the site of the first Christian cathedral in Florence, dating back to the 4th-6th century. It’s located in the underground of the Florence Cathedral.
You enter through an entrance located near Giotto’s Bell Tower. There will most likely be a line, but like with other Piazza del Duomo monuments, it moves fast. We didn’t have to wait too long, even though it looked like we might!
Good to know: if you’re already inside the Cathedral, you can enter Santa Reparata from the main church floor as well (of course, if you have a valid ticket!)
You’ll go down a set of stairs and enter a room with the ruins of the ancient basilica, mosaic flooring, artifacts, and tombstones.
It is also a burial site for the famous Filippo Brunelleschi.
Learn more here.
Helpful hint: If you have your ticket for Santa Reparata, you can also take that opportunity to tour the Cathedral before you go down the stairs – this was a nice surprise for us, and we avoided waiting in yet another line!
Opening times: Monday – Saturday 10:15 – 16:00 and Sundays 13:30 – 16:00
Time needed: 30-45 minutes
Baptistery
The Baptistery (Battistero di San Giovanni) is located right in front of the Cathedral (where the line forms) and is most famous for the golden mosaics covering the vault and part of the walls. Despite the ongoing renovation work, you can still see them, just not in their entirety.
There are three main doors to the Baptistery, each designed by a different artist: the South by Andrea Pisano, the North, and the most famous East door (also known as “Gates of Paradise”) by Lorenzo Ghiberti.
All three doors are replicas, with the original sets stored at the Opera del Duomo Museum.
To enter the Baptistery, you’ll go through the North door, near Via de’ Martelli.
Once inside, besides the mosaics, also check out the exquisite marble floor and other beautiful artwork.
Good to know: even though the vault is under renovation and the mosaics there are not visible, it is still worth visiting the Baptisery to see other artwork.
Opening hours: Monday – Saturday 08:30 am – 7:30 pm, closed on some Sundays or open for limited hours 08:30 am – 1:30 pm
Time needed: 30 minutes should be enough
Opera del Duomo Museum
This is where the original bronze doors from the Baptistery are displayed along with other works of art by Michelangelo, Donatello, Brunelleschi, and many others.
It has 3 floors and a viewing terrace on top, from which you can see the iconic dome up close.
We did not visit the Museum and missing that view in one of my biggest “Florence regrets”. Don’t make my mistake and visit!
Helpful hint: The terrace of the Museum is different from the Duomo Terraces, which require a guided tour.
Opening hours: daily 08:30 – 19:00; the museum is closed on every first Tuesday of the month
Time needed: about 90 minutes
Florence Cathedral tickets
You can enter the Cathedral for free, but to access the other sites, you need to purchase a ticket.
Additionally, as of March 1, 2025, tickets for the Duomo are both timed AND named – IDs will be checked and the name on the ticket has to match the name on a form of ID presented to the attendant (learn more on this rule here).
I recommend reserving your tickets well in advance, as this is the most visited Florence attraction and tickets will sell out, especially in the summer.
Purchase tickets here or on the official website where you’ll find three different passes:
- Brunelleschi Pass – gives you access to all the monuments described in this article and is valid for 3 consecutive days.
You can only enter each site once during the validity time window, and you will have to choose the day and time for the Duomo climb.
That’s the pass we bought for our visit, and it was very convenient.
Helpful hint: with this pass only the Duomo tickets are timed – you can visit the other sites at your convenience, within their opening hours, during the pass validity.
Cost: €30 for visitors 14 years old and older and €12 for children 7-14. Children under 7 years old enter free.
- Giotto Pass – gives you access to all Brunelleschi Pass monuments except for the Dome and is also valid for 3 consecutive days.
Important: you will have to choose the day and time to climb to the top of the Bell Tower. This was NOT required for the Brunelleschi Pass holders.
Cost: €20 for visitors 14 years old and older and €7 for children 7-14. Children under 7 years old enter free.
- Ghiberti Pass – gives you access to the Baptisery, Santa Reparata, and the Museum, and like the other two passes, is also valid for 3 consecutive days.
Important: you will have to choose the day and time to visit Santa Reparata. This was NOT required for the Brunelleschi Pass and Giotto Pass holders.
Cost: €15 for visitors 14 years old and older and €5 for children 7-14. Children under 7 years old enter free.
Purchase your pass here.
Which ticket should you buy?
You’ll have to decide how many attractions you’d like to visit and how they would fit into your itinerary.
Keep in mind that only the Brunelleschi Pass gives you access to the Duomo.
Even though your stay in Florence may be shorter than the 3 days the passes allow, it’s worth purchasing all your admission tickets together online – it will save you time and the hassle of trying to get individual entry tickets from the ticket office (located near the Baptisery), and avoid the risk of them being sold out.
How to plan a visit to the Florence Cathedral complex
Depending on the pass you bought, you will have one attraction that requires a timed entry.
I would recommend doing it first so you don’t have time constraints and don’t feel rushed when visiting the other sites included in your ticket.
That’s especially true if you’re planning to visit all or most of them in one day.
If you choose to space the sites over the 3 days that the pass allows, while also visiting other Florence attractions, I’d recommend scheduling the timed entries (like the Uffizi or Accademia Galleries) in the morning, so that yu have the rest of the day to visit other places and spend as much time in each as you wish.
Helpful hint: if you choose to visit all the Brunelleschi Pass attractions in one day, I would plan on climbing the Duomo first thing in the morning and then climbing the Giotto Tower last, so you give your legs some rest.
How much time do I need to visit all the Florence Cathedral monuments?
To visit all six monuments together, I would dedicate one whole day to Piazza del Duomo. That way, you’ll have plenty of time to spend at each site, and you won’t risk missing important artwork and stunning views!
You’ll also have time to grab some lunch at one of many cafes and restaurants around the plaza. We ate at Osteria del Fiore and really enjoyed the food.
And don’t miss delicious ice cream at Edoardo il Gelato Biologico, also near the Duomo – try the Chianti flavor!
Helpful hint: make sure to check the opening times of each attraction. Just click “change date” and choose the day of your visit to make a good plan.
Duomo complex tours
If you’d like all the logistics of visiting this amazing religious complex to be arranged for you, visit it with a guided tour.
Find more great options here:
For ideas on how to incorporate Florence into your Italian vacation, check out our 7-days Italy itinerary and see exactly how we spent our days!
FAQ:
Entry to the cathedral itself is free, but you’ll need a ticket if you want to climb the dome, visit the bell tower, the museum, or the baptistery. The dome climb in particular requires a timed reservation, so it’s best to book in advance.
There are 463 steps to reach the top of the dome. There’s no elevator, but the climb is done in stages, and there are a few spots where you can stop briefly if you need a short break.
Yes! Especially if it’s your first visit to Florence. The views from the top are incredible, and seeing the dome’s frescoes up close on the way up makes the experience even more special.
Most people spend about 30–45 minutes going up and down, depending on how busy it is and how often you stop for photos or breaks.
It’s not extremely hard, but it can feel a bit challenging because the staircases are narrow and sometimes steep. If you’re comfortable climbing stairs and don’t mind small spaces, you should be fine — just take it slow and wear comfortable shoes.
The dress code wasn’t strictly enforced for the Duomo climb during our visit but it definitely is for the Cathedral, the Baptisery and Santa Reparata. I would recommend just being prepared to cover your knees and shoulders everywhere you’re asked. Important: sandals are not allowed for the Duomo climb!
Absolutely! With careful planning and spacing out climbing the Duomo and the Bell Tower, it is possible – just dedicate the whole (or most of) the day to Piazza del Duomo.
I hope this article helped you plan your visit to the most iconic attraction of Florence – Basilica Santa Maria del Fiore and the surrounding monuments.
Wondering what else you should see in Florence? Read my guide to the best things to do in Florence.
Need help planning your visit to Florence? Follow my 2-4 day Florence itinerary for some inspiration!
Planning your first trip to Italy? Get all essential tips to avoid common Italy mistakes and plan your best Italian adventure!
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About Monika
An avid traveler and a passionate trip planner, mildly obsessed with being organized and prepared 🙂
Well aware of how precious travel time is, I’m here to share my experience and help you get the most out of your vacation time.
“Taking the hassle out of trip planning”