Duomo Complex: Guided Visit of Baptistery & Opera Museum

3.7
(40 reviews)

2 to 3 hours (approximately)
Offered in: English and 1 more

Duomo Square reveals a breathtaking panorama, especially at sunset, when its green, white, and red polychrome marble glows in warm light. Although unified in color, the complex spans four centuries: the Baptistery began in the mid-11th century, Giotto’s Campanile rose in the 14th, and Brunelleschi’s Dome was completed in the 15th.
Begin at the Baptistery of San Giovanni with a licensed guide who will unveil its Byzantine mosaics and Ghiberti’s “Gates of Paradise.” Then, discover the Opera del Duomo Museum, where original sculptures, reliefs, and architectural fragments by Michelangelo, Donatello, and Ghiberti reveal their former place on the cathedral.
Your ticket also grants access to the interior of Santa Maria del Fiore and the Crypt of Santa Reparata, where ancient mosaics and early basilica remains lie underground.

Let your senses be stirred by centuries of faith in this iconic site. Experience the art, history, and devotion at the core of Florence’s spiritual timeless landmark

What's Included

Entry ticket to Giotto's Bell Tower (if option selected)
Headsets if necessary
Baptistery and Opera Museum Guided Tour
Entry ticket to Brunelleschi's Dome (if option is selected)
Hotel pickup and drop-off

Meeting and pickup

Meeting point

In front of the Bigallo's Orphanage main door you will find our assistants wearing a yellow jacket.

End point
This activity ends back at the meeting point.

Itinerary

Duration: 2 to 3 hours (approximately)
  • 1

    Facing the cathedral in Piazza del Duomo, the Baptistery of San Giovanni is one of Florence’s most ancient and sacred buildings, dating back to the 11th century. Its distinctive octagonal design, covered in white and green marble, is a stunning example of Florentine Romanesque architecture. Inside, the dome dazzles with gold Byzantine-style mosaics depicting scenes from the Bible and the Last Judgment. The Baptistery is also famous for its three magnificent bronze doors, especially the “Gates of Paradise” by Lorenzo Ghiberti, which Michelangelo himself admired. Rich in history and beauty, this extraordinary space has been the site of baptisms for centuries, including that of Dante Alighieri.

    20 minutes Admission ticket included
  • 2

    The Opera del Duomo Museum in Florence is a must-visit for anyone wanting to delve deeper into the history and artistry of the city’s iconic cathedral complex. Located just behind the Duomo, the museum showcases an extraordinary collection of original sculptures, reliefs, and architectural elements that once adorned the Cathedral of Santa Maria del Fiore, the Baptistery of San Giovanni, and Giotto’s Bell Tower. Highlights include Michelangelo’s moving Pietà Bandini, Donatello’s expressive Magdalene, and the original panels of Ghiberti’s Gates of Paradise. With beautifully curated spaces and stunning reconstructions, the museum offers a fascinating journey through centuries of faith, creativity, and Florentine genius.

    45 minutes Admission ticket included
  • (Pass by)

    Beneath Florence’s Cathedral lies the Crypt of Santa Reparata, an evocative archaeological site revealing the ancient layers of the city’s spiritual history. Visitors can explore the remains of one of Florence’s earliest Christian basilicas, dating back to the 4th–5th century. Among the ruins are intricate mosaics, ancient tombs, and structural foundations that predate the current Duomo. The crypt also houses the final resting place of Filippo Brunelleschi, the brilliant architect of the cathedral’s dome. A visit to the crypt offers a rare and fascinating glimpse into the city’s early Christian roots and the architectural evolution of its most famous landmark.

    Admission ticket free
  • (Pass by)

    Santa Maria del Fiore, Florence’s magnificent cathedral, is one of the most iconic landmarks in Italy and a masterpiece of Gothic and Renaissance architecture. Built over centuries, the cathedral dominates the city skyline with its majestic red-tiled dome designed by Filippo Brunelleschi, a true marvel of engineering and vision. The interior is vast and serene, adorned with stunning frescoes, stained glass windows, and intricate marble floors. Highlights include Giorgio Vasari’s massive Last Judgment fresco inside the dome and the beautiful clock above the entrance, still working according to a unique 24-hour system. Visiting the cathedral is a journey through faith, art, and history, a symbol of Florence’s cultural and spiritual heart.

    Admission ticket free
  • (Pass by)

    Giotto's Bell Tower is one of the finest examples of Gothic architecture in Italy and an essential part of Florence’s Cathedral complex. Designed by Giotto in the 14th century, the tower rises nearly 85 meters and is adorned with vibrant marble panels and detailed sculptural decorations. Climbing its 414 steps rewards visitors with panoramic views over the rooftops of Florence and the iconic dome of the Duomo. A true gem of Florentine art and engineering. Customers are kindly informed that Giotto’s Bell Tower will remain closed from November 10th to 14th.

    Admission ticket free
  • Cupola Del Brunelleschi (Pass by)

    Towering over Florence’s skyline, Brunelleschi’s Dome is an architectural marvel and a symbol of the city’s artistic brilliance. Completed in 1436, it was the largest dome in the world at the time, and remains the largest brick dome ever built. Its double-shell structure was a bold innovation that changed the course of engineering. As you climb the 463 steps, you'll pass through the interior of the dome, getting a close look at Giorgio Vasari’s monumental frescoes of the Last Judgment. At the top, you’ll be rewarded with breathtaking panoramic views over the city and surrounding hills. A visit to Florence wouldn’t be complete without experiencing this Renaissance masterpiece up close.

    Admission ticket free

Additional info

  • Wheelchair accessible
  • Infants and small children can ride in a pram or stroller
  • Public transportation options are available nearby
  • Infants are required to sit on an adult’s lap
  • Transportation options are wheelchair accessible
  • Suitable for all physical fitness levels
Supplied by ACCORD Italy Smart Tours & Experiences

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Tags

Private and Luxury
Cultural Tours
Historical Tours
Walking Tours
Likely to Sell Out
Short term availability

Cancellation Policy

For a full refund, cancel at least 24 hours before the scheduled departure time.

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Rating

3.7 Based on 40 40 reviews
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