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Cathedral of Santa Maria del FioreCastle & palace tours

Our most recommended Cathedral of Santa Maria del Fiore Castle & palace tours

Florence: Full-Day Trip by High-Speed Train from Rome

1. Florence: Full-Day Trip by High-Speed Train from Rome

Experience the beauty of Florence, the capital city of Tuscany and the birthplace of the Renaissance, in less than two hours by high-speed train from Rome. We will pick you up from your hotel and accompany you to Roma Termini railway station, where our travel assistant will check you in and board the train with you. Upon arrival in Florence, our local guide will meet you in Piazza del Duomo and take you on a walking tour of the city, including the Cattedrale di Santa Maria del Fiore, the Ponte Vecchio, and Piazza Signoria. Then, enjoy access to the famous Galleria degli Uffizi and admire the masterpieces of Botticelli, Michelangelo, Raphael, and more, as our local guide unveils the secrets and stories behind these priceless works of art. After the tour, you will have plenty of free time to explore the city at your leisure and enjoy lunch or a snack (not included in the price) at a nice restaurant or bar. Finally, we will meet at a designated time, head to the train station, and travel back to Rome in the late afternoon. Don't miss this opportunity to immerse yourself in the rich history and art of Florence with us.

Best of Florence: 2-Hour Walking Tour

2. Best of Florence: 2-Hour Walking Tour

If you’re interested in the culture of Florence and the beauty of its architecture, join this 2-hour guided walking tour that takes in the most important monuments of this UNESCO World Heritage Site. The walking tour begins at the Piazza San Firenze; home of the Bargello and the Tribunale Fiorentino. Walk first to the Church of Santa Croce, home to many well-known masterpieces and burial place of some of Italy's most important personages. Next come to Piazza Signoria known for Neptune's Fountain, the Palazzo Vecchio, and the lovely Piazzale degli Uffizi. Cross the Ponte Vecchio; the medieval stone bridge famous for its gold jewelry shops, and arrive at the spectacular Pitti palace; former residence of the Medici family. Head back toward the Arno and the historic center along Via Maggio and Ponta Santa Trinita, passing along Via Tornabuoni where you will see some of Florence's top fashion boutiques. Stop at the Strozzi Palace; prototype of Renaissance architecture and then finish with the impressive Piazza Republica and the magnificent Florence Cathedral.

Florence: Walking Tour with Skip-the-Line Accademia Gallery

3. Florence: Walking Tour with Skip-the-Line Accademia Gallery

Discover Florence’s historic center on a walking tour including the imposing Duomo, elegant Uffizi Square, the renowned leather market, and the Accademia Gallery with Michelangelo’s David. Stroll along the streets lined with the architecture of the Middle Ages and the Renaissance, admire the city in its continued glory, and discover its hidden gems. Begin with a walking tour and learn about the fascinating history of Florence as you visit the heart of the Renaissance Civic and Political Center, famous for its ancient statues and glorious fountains. With your guide leading the way, visit all of Florence's top sights, including the iconic sculptures at Piazza Signoria, Palazzo Vecchio, and the Uffizi Courtyard. Walk towards the astounding Florence Cathedral of Santa Maria del Fiore, from where Brunelleschi’s dome dominates the skyline of Florence and never ceases to impress. Gaze at the Baptistry Doors by Ghiberti, coined the “Gates of Paradise” by Michelangelo, and get an up-close view of the Duomo, where your guide will tell you interesting facts about the building. Benefit from skip-the-line access to the Accademia Gallery where you will have the unique opportunity to see Michelangelo’s statue of the Slaves and his magnificent 17-foot marble masterpiece, the David.

From Venice: Florence Day Trip By Train with Walking Tour

4. From Venice: Florence Day Trip By Train with Walking Tour

Visit Florence with a comfortable day trip from Venice.  Depart in the morning from Venezia Santa Lucia train station and in just 2 hours you will reach the heart of Florence, the city of Renaissance! Reach your local professional guide, and start a comprehensive Walking Tour, discovering the most iconic sights of Renaissance and Medieval Florence. You will first explore the Medici district, with the ancient San Lorenzo Church, admire the beauty of the monumental complex of the Duomo, with the Cathedral of Santa Maria del Fiore, the iconic Brunelleschi's Dome, the elegant Giotto's Bell Tower and the beautiful Romanesque Baptistery of San Giovanni. The tour then goes through the characteristic streets of the medieval district where you can also admire the imposing Church of Orsanmichele, a masterpiece of Florentine Gothic art. You will be led to the picturesque Straw Market: don’t forget to rub the nose of the famous “porcellino” (little pig). Going on, you will find yourself in Piazza Signoria, one of the most beautiful squares in the world where you will be fascinated by the beautiful Fountain of Neptune with the imposing marble statue of Ammannati and by the sculptural masterpieces of the Loggia dei Lanzi.  Dominating the square, the majestic Palazzo Vecchio before arriving to the romantic and picturesque Ponte Vecchio, the oldest bridge in Florence. Then, have a break and enjoy a delicious Tuscan Lunch in a typical restaurant located in the old town (if option selected, otherwise free time for lunch). The rest of the day is at your leisure: you can enjoy your free time going for some shopping and discover unique art crafts in the numerous Florentine artisan shops, taste local products in one of the restaurants on the first floor of the Central Market or just sit at the table of a historic café in Piazza della Repubblica.

Florence: Private Walking Tour w/ Accademia & Uffizi Entry

5. Florence: Private Walking Tour w/ Accademia & Uffizi Entry

Start your tour at The Uffizi Gallery where you can explore the world's greatest collection of Renaissance art during a guided tour. See masterpieces by Giotto, Botticelli, Da Vinci, Raphael, Michelangelo, and Caravaggio. Gaze at iconic paintings such as Botticelli's Birth of Venus and discover the lives of the artists and the fascinating times in which they lived. Head over to the Accademia gallery where you will have the opportunity to come face to face with Michelangelo's David, the most famous statue in the world. After this, admire the genius of Brunelleschi and Ghiberti at the magnificent Duomo which dominates the skyline of Florence. Learn about its construction and the fiery personality of its architect. Learn about Florence's mercantile past and the story of the city's guilds and merchants. Explore the beautiful Orsanmichele, the granary transformed into a market, and finally a church. Pass by Palazzo Davanzati, an exquisitely decorated palace which gives a valuable insight into the private lives of the city’s powerful merchant dynasties. See the external architecture of the Ospedale degli Innocenti, a hidden gem also designed by Brunelleschi. Learn the touching story of this hospital, which actually was the world’s first orphanage. Continue on to the Piazza della Signoria which was the political heart of the Renaissance Florence. Explore the chambers and corridors of the imposing Palazzo Vecchio, where you will learn about the power and corruption of Florence. Next pay tribute at the tombs of Dante and Michelangelo in the breathtaking medieval basilica of Santa Croce. Finally, end your private tour on the picturesque Ponte Vecchio. Gaze into the tranquil waters of the Arno at the end of your day, you will have truly experienced Florence at its magnificent best.

Florence: Discover Hidden Gems with World's Best Experts

6. Florence: Discover Hidden Gems with World's Best Experts

Dive into a rich journey through Florence and Tuscany with AppyGuide's unique audio and video storytelling. Collaborating with leading global experts, we provide more than 70 continually expanding, dynamic audio/video guides. Savor insights from renowned voices, including art historian Andrew Graham-Dixon and some of Italy's finest winemakers. Explore not only celebrated landmarks like the Uffizi Gallery and Michelangelo's David, but also venture off the typical tourist routes with our regularly updated content. Delve into captivating stories about Italy's famous Brunello di Montalcino wine, marvel at the Last Supper by Andrea del Castagno, or admire the stunning frescoes in the Magi Chapel. Thanks to our daily content updates, there's always a fresh tale waiting to be discovered! Just slip on your headphones and start your exploration at your own pace, from wherever you are. With your purchase, gain instant, unlimited access to our full guide collection for three months – all you need is a smartphone and an internet connection to stream. Immerse yourself in the splendid sights, sounds, and tastes of Florence, all through your headphones. Gear up, and embark on an unforgettable exploration with AppyGuide!

Florence: Best of Florence Private Tour with Uffizi Gallery

7. Florence: Best of Florence Private Tour with Uffizi Gallery

Florence was at the center of artistic, political and scientific developments during the Renaissance, and was home to men such as Michelangelo, Leonardo da Vinci, and Galileo. The masterpieces that fill the galleries of the Uffizi and the Duomo were created by some of the greatest artistic geniuses of the age, who were supported by the mighty Medici dynasty. On your engaging Florence tour, your personal guide will discuss the connections between art and political power, and explain why Florence played such an important role in European history.  This comprehensive tour includes must-see sights such as the Uffizi and Ponte Vecchio, as well as some fascinating parts of Florence that are often overlooked. The relatively compact size of the city center makes Florence ideal for walking, and on your tour, you’ll see some of the most famous piazzas and fountains, as well as exploring the atmospheric back streets. Wander the Uffizi Gallery and come face to face with masterpieces by Giotto, Botticelli, Da Vinci, Raphael, Michelangelo, Titian, Caravaggio and more. See the Duomo, the site of an attempted coup and the religious heart of Florence. Get to know the fascinating, multilayered history of the building as you explore the remains of Santa Reparata, the 4th-century cathedral buried beneath the 15th-century cathedral. Learn about the art of Brunelleschi, the headstrong architect of the Duomo who achieved his vision against all odds. Visit the Baptistery, the distinctive octagonal building nearby, which attracted the most talented artists in Florence. See the Baptistery's exquisite bronze doors that took 21 years to complete and were dubbed the “Gates of Paradise” by Michelangelo.

Florence: Private Tour by Bike with Gelato Tasting

8. Florence: Private Tour by Bike with Gelato Tasting

Visit the city highlights in the historic center of Florence on a relaxing tour by bike. Pedal at your own pace while observing the artistic and architectural beauties of the city. Learn from your local guide, make stops for insights and take wonderful photos. First, stop at Piazza del Duomo to discover the famous Baptistery of San Giovanni and the Cathedral of Santa Maria del Fiore. Marvel at Giotto's bell tower and the dome designed by Filippo Brunelleschi. Then, continue your way towards Palazzo Medici, where artists such as Donatello, Michelangelo, and Botticelli worked. Discover the Republic Square and Piazza della Signoria with the Palazzo Vecchio, the Statue of David, and the Loggia dei Lanzi. Finally, pass by the Uffizi Gallery and cross Ponte Vecchio to reach Palazzo Pitti. At the end of the tour enjoy a delicious Italian ice cream.

Florence: Accademia Gallery and Walking Semi-private Tour

9. Florence: Accademia Gallery and Walking Semi-private Tour

This small-group tour begins with a visit to the Accademia Gallery. Enjoy priority entrance with an expert guide and see Michelangelo’s David. Hear all about the making of the colossal statue that made history and see other works by Michelangelo, like the unfinished Slaves and the Saint Mathew, still bearing his chisel marks. Discover how and why the David became an icon of the Renaissance. After the Accademia visit, follow your guide on a walking tour through the heart of the city. Stroll through Cathedral square and learn about the history of the Cathedral and the construction of the monumental dome designed by Filippo Brunelleschi. See the Baptistery and its beautiful doors. Continue to Piazza della Signoria to admire the beautiful Renaissance fountain and sculpture. See Palazzo Vecchio, the medieval town hall of Florence, that later became the residence of the first Medici grand dukes. Enjoy all the benefits of a small group, making the most of your time in Florence. Get insider tips from our local guide as you see the city’s top attractions and discover other things to do in town.

Florence: Private Tour with Accademia Gallery & Food Tasting

10. Florence: Private Tour with Accademia Gallery & Food Tasting

Join a private 3-hour guided tour that will introduce to you the most spectacular attractions of Florence. You will learn about cultural and historical values that make Florence the cradle of Renaissance and one of the most influential art cities in the world. Taste local food specialties in the Florence central market. The guided tour includes visit to the extraordinary statue of David within the Florence Galleria dell'Academia museum, where you can admire every detail of Michelangelo’s masterpiece that took him more than 2 years to finish. Before Michelangelo was given the task to sculpt David's Statue, other famous artists including Leonardo da Vinci were consulted to take the mission. Your guide will also introduce to you the famous Duomo of Florence: Cathedral of Santa Maria del Fiore. Being one of the largest Duomo even constructed, Florence Duomo took almost 2 centuries to be completed by 3 different architects. This is the reason why Florence Duomo is a combination of 3 different architectural styles: Gothic, Romanesque, and Renaissance. Your private expert guide will also accompany you to the most spectacular square of Florence: Piazza della Signoria. It is the main point of the origin of Florentine Republic and the political focus of the city. Piazza della Signoria can be considered as an open air museum that displayed excellent collection of antique and Renaissance sculptures including the Medici lions. Together with Piazza della Signoria, you will visit the courtyard of Florence city hall: Palazzo Vecchio, which is richly decorated with massive painting on the ceiling and harmoniously curated proportioned columns. It is also where the David Statue was originally located before being moved to the inside of Galleria dell'Academia museum. Undoubtedly, you cannot visit Florence without visiting Ponte Vecchio. The most symbolic bridge in the world. It is in Ponte Vecchio that the bankruptcy concept was introduced, which literally translated into “broken desk/broken table” (''banca rotta'') in Italian to describe the act that the merchants’ table on Ponte Vecchio was destroyed if he was not able to pay back his debt. Unlike all other bridges that were destroyed during the World War II, it is said that Hitler has given his direct order to not destroy Ponte Vecchio during the German occupation of the town. To bring to our clients the most detailed introduction of Florence, our tour also include a visit to the central market of Florence, which was fully renovated in early 2010s. Here you will find a collection of the most famous local food specialities in Florence, from the legendary Tuscan wine to the most famous street food of the city: Lampredotto. Depending on the time of the tours, you can choose between local specialities, a glass of wine, or Italian gelato. Your knowledge guide will undoubtedly give you the best advices on what to know about the fantastic but also complex cuisine of Florence.

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What people are saying about Cathedral of Santa Maria del Fiore

Overall rating

3.7 / 5

based on 3 reviews

Valentina, our guide, was wonderful. She was very informative, and clearly passionate about her lovely city. She well beyond simply showing us around and pointing out the sights. In a short time she gave us a sense of the history of Firenze and some of its local culture.. With so much to see, 2 hours is not nearly enough, but if you are pressed for time as we were, this tour gave us a good feel of the central part of the city. It also allowed us to see the amazing statue of David. While quite busy inside, we did not feel rushed at all.

Annette was fantastic! So knowledgeable and enjoyable. She spoke excellent English. The 2 hour tour was just the right amount of time to hit the highlights of Florence without feeling rushed. It was very crowded at the museum, but we only waited a few minutes.

We had Patricia as a guide. She spoke English well and explained everything we saw in good detail. Timing was excellent. We truly enjoyed this tour and would definitely recommend the tour to others.

We spent two very pleasant hours with Alessio, an affable and above all very prepared guy where he explained to us in a very exhaustive way the monuments and history of Florence.

very informative tour with Stephanie, gave lit of historical information and very engaging