A visit to the Duomo, whose construction was completed in the 15th century, is essential for understanding and immersing yourself in both Florence and the Renaissance. Tickets to the complex include access to the dome, baptistery, bell tower, crypt, and museum, and are valid for 48 hours from use. As entry to the cathedral is free, there are often long lines. Many visitors opt to join a guided tour to explore the more hidden corners of the landmark—and to skip the lines. Audio guides are also available.
The cathedral is open beginning in the morning most days, but is closed for Sunday morning service and on major holidays; the museum is closed the first Tuesday of each month.
Dress modestly. For women, it’s best to cover knees and shoulders (a scarf will do). Sandals, sunglasses, and hats are discouraged.
It's more than 400 steps to the top of architect Filippo Brunelleschi’s dome, so proper footwear and fitness level are recommended. There is no elevator.
Tickets can be purchased at the Duomo, but expect lines. You can also purchase tickets in advance, or access the complex through a guided tour.
The Duomo is at the very center of Florence, less than a 10-minute walk from the train station. It's also near the must-see Uffizi Gallery, so the two are often paired together. Independent travelers and guided tours alike often stop at the Accademia Gallery as well, where Michelangelo’s David resides.
The museum is closed on the first Tuesday of each month. Crowds are unavoidable, but quieter times are early morning and late afternoon, especially outside of the busy summer months (May through September).
The pink, white, and green marble facade of the Duomo is a sight in itself, but the real can’t-miss views are from the top of the cupola. Climbers are rewarded with an unforgettable vista of Florence’s red-roofed skyline, the Arno River, and the rolling hills beyond. There are panoramic views from atop Giotto’s Campanile, as well. Back on ground level, admire the famous stained glass and frescoes that line the cathedral’s interior. The cathedral’s crypt, which includes the tomb of Brunelleschi, is also worth a visit.
