Religious site
Cathedral of Santa Maria del Fiore
Photo via TripAdvisor (750dimitrisl)Some booking links are affiliate links. If you book through them, we may earn a small commission at no extra cost to you. We never let this influence which places we recommend.
The Cathedral of Santa Maria del Fiore, commonly called the Duomo, is the heart of Florence's religious and architectural heritage. Its most striking feature is the massive terracotta dome designed by Filippo Brunelleschi, a masterpiece of Renaissance engineering that still dominates the skyline. The cathedral's exterior is clad in white, green, and pink marble panels, creating a geometric pattern that is both elegant and imposing. Inside, the vast nave is relatively austere, but visitors can admire Giorgio Vasari's fresco of the Last Judgment on the dome's interior. Climbing the 463 steps to the top of the dome rewards you with a close-up view of the frescoes and a panoramic vista of Florence. Adjacent to the cathedral are Giotto's Campanile (bell tower), the Baptistery with its famous bronze doors by Ghiberti, and the Museo dell'Opera del Duomo, which houses original artworks. The entire complex is a UNESCO World Heritage site and a must-see for any visitor to Florence.
Don't miss
- Brunelleschi's Dome climb
- Giotto's Bell Tower
- Baptistery's Golden Doors (Gates of Paradise)
- Interior frescoes by Vasari
- Museo dell'Opera del Duomo
Tickets & tours
Ways to visit Cathedral of Santa Maria del Fiore
You don't need a tour to visit — entry is free. A tour is worth it if you want transport, a guide, or to combine Cathedral of Santa Maria del Fiore with nearby sights in one day. That's what these do well.
Cheapest way inSmall Group Florence Cathedral Guided Tour with Priority Access4.1★ · 198 travelers~1 hourFree cancellationFrom$33 per personSee dates →
Most bookedBasilica Santa Croce: Walking Among the Masters of Florence4.9★ · 107 travelers~1 hourFree cancellationFrom$56 per personSee dates →Know before you go
- Dress modestly: shoulders and knees must be covered.
- Buy the Brunelleschi Pass in advance for access to all monuments.
- The dome climb has 463 steps and is narrow; not for claustrophobics.
- Photography is allowed inside but no flash.
A bit of history
Construction began in 1296 under Arnolfo di Cambio, but the dome wasn't completed until 1436. Brunelleschi's innovative double-shell dome, built without scaffolding, remains the largest masonry dome in the world.
Common questions
Is the Duomo free to enter?
Yes, the cathedral itself is free, but you need a ticket for the dome, bell tower, baptistery, and museum.
How many steps to the top of the dome?
463 steps. There is no elevator.
Can I visit the Duomo without climbing the dome?
Yes, you can enter the cathedral for free and see the interior.
What is the dress code?
No shorts, sleeveless tops, or miniskirts. Shoulders and knees must be covered.
Are there guided tours?
Yes, official guided tours are available, but you can also explore independently.
Is the Duomo open on Sundays?
Yes, but hours may be restricted for Mass. Check the official site.
More attractions in Florence
