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- Florence Cathedral
- Brunelleschi's Dome
- Baptistery of St. John
- Giotto's Bell Tower
- Opera del Duomo Museum
- Santa Reparata Florence
- Duomo Rooftop
- Piazza del Duomo
- History
- Architecture
- Inside
- Plan Your Visit
- Skip the Line Tours
- Guided Tours
- Timings
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- Entrances
- Facts
- Dress code
- Mass schedule
Book Duomo Florence Dome Climb Tickets
4.2(36.2K Ratings)
- Elevate your Florence experience on this guided tour of the entire Cathedral Square, with the privileged option to climb the cathedral's iconic dome.
- You get the best of both worlds! The expertise of a guide through the Cathedral, Baptistery, and Opera Museum – and the freedom to explore each site yourself.
- Gain a deeper appreciation for the square, from the octagonal San Giovanni's Baptistery to the vividly tiled Giotto's Bell Tower, on a tour in the language of your choice.
- Marvel at the intricate details of the Florence Cathedral, from the stunning marble façade matching the tower, to the ornate frescoes inside.
- Opt for Dome and Bell Tower access. Discover Brunelleschi’s intricate architecture and be met by sweeping views of Florentine landmarks, like Accademia Gallery.
Inclusions
- Guided tour of the Florence Cathedral Complex
- Expert English, Italian Spanish or French-speaking guide
- Entry to Santa Maria del Fiore Cathedral
- Entry to Opera del Duomo Museum & Baptistery
- Entry to Brunelleschi's Dome (optional)
- Entry to Giotto's Bell Tower (optional)
Exclusions
- Entry to the Secret Terrace
- Tip: Arrive a little early to your guided tour of the Florence Duomo. This allows you to get acquainted with the meeting point, ensuring a stress-free start.
- Dome access is so exclusive, even guides can't get in. Yep, you read that right! Dome access is just for the privileged few, so you'll be unaccompanied for that part of the tour.
- This tour is not for the faint hearted. There are a whopping 463 steps to climb to reach the top of the Dome, and no elevator access. Are you up for the challenge?
- Strict Dress Code: Clothing that covers the knees and shoulders. Sandals, headgear and sunglasses are also not allowed.
- You can cancel these tickets up to 48 hours before the experience begins and get a full refund.
- Get the flexibility to choose how you want to explore the Florence Cathedral Square with multiple ticket options. Tailor your visit to your preferences.
- Uncover each site at your pace. Admire sculptures in the Opera Museum, marble mosaics in the Baptistery, and famous tombs in the Crypt of Santa Reparata.
- With a ticket upgrade, you have the opportunity to climb Giotto’s Bell Tower, absorbing unparalleled vistas of Florence – an exclusive experience.
- Yet another upgrade lets you ascend the dome of Brunelleschi, and get a closer look at the Last Judgement frescoes by Giorgio Vasari and Federico Zuccari.
- Guess what? Tickets to the Opera Museum, Bell Tower and Baptistery all have extended validity. You can visit these sites up to 72 hours after your chosen date!
Inclusions
- Entry to Santa Maria del Fiore Cathedral
- Entry to the Crypt of Santa Reparata
- Entry to Opera del Duomo Museum & Baptistery
- Entry to Brunelleschi's Dome (optional)
- Entry to Giotto's Bell Tower (optional)
Exclusions
- Tour guide
- Entry to the Secret Terrace
- Tip: Inside the Santa Maria del Fiore Cathedral, watch out for a unique mechanical fresco painted by Paolo Uccello, that tells time in the ‘Italic Hour’!
- Please note that the Cathedral closes by 3:45 pm and remains closed on Sundays. Entry to the Cathedral is free of charge.
- The Museum is closed on the first Tue of each month.
- Access to the Santa Maria del Fiore Cathedral is free, without tickets but you will need to book tickets to enter other parks like the Crypt, Duomo Museum, Brunelleschi's Dome, and Giotto's Bell Tower.
- There are 463 steps to the top of the Dome, and 414 steps to the top of Giotto's Bell Tower, with no elevator access.
- The Baptistery is presently undergoing restoration efforts to preserve and restore its vaulted mosaic artwork.
- Strict Dress Code: Clothing that covers the knees and shoulders. Sandals, headgear, and sunglasses are also not allowed.
- Dome access is timed and must be visited on the date & time selected during checkout.
- The tickets are valid for 3 consecutive days from the date of visit (inclusive of the purchase date).
- The Dome & Bell Tower are not accessible for wheelchair users, guests with mobility issues, back problems, or heart conditions.
- These tickets can't be cancelled or rescheduled.
- Looking for VIP treatment? Stop the search. The most exclusive tour in Florence invites you to not just the Cathedral's iconic dome, but also its secret terrace!
- Immerse yourself in the Florence Cathedral, from Bandinelli’s marble choir to Uccello's clock, as your guide reveals the captivating stories of its creation.
- See the huge technicolor stained-glass occhi windows and Vasari's iconic Last Judgement frescoes up close as you climb Brunelleschi’s Dome.
- Get early access to an English-guided tour by upgrading your ticket and enjoy an Italian breakfast: Coffee, cappuccino, and pastries.
- Enjoy unparalleled views of the city and gaze down into the interior of the Cathedral from its Secret Terrace, a 140-meter-long balcony.
Inclusions
- Guided tour of Santa Maria del Fiore Cathedral
- Guided tour of the Secret Terrace with entry
- Entry to Brunelleschi's Dome
- Expert local guide
- Early entry English-guided tour (optional).
Exclusions
- Entry to Giotto's Bell Tower
- Entry to Opera del Duomo Museum
- Entry to San Giovanni Baptistery
- Tip: Make sure your camera is fully charged for this one! You'll experience some of the best panoramic views in Florence.
- There's no elevator up to the top, so be prepared to climb those 463 steps to get to the dome!
- Children aged 0-6 are not allowed for the early entry English-guided tour.
- Strict Dress Code: Clothing that covers the knees and shoulders. Sandals, headgear, and sunglasses are also not allowed.
- Suffer from heart problems, vertigo, claustrophobia, or reduced mobility? Maybe Dome access isn't for you. Why not check out an Express Guided Tour of Florence Cathedral without Dome access instead?
- You can cancel these tickets up to 24 hours before the experience begins and get a full refund.
Combo (Save 5%): Uffizi Gallery + Accademia Gallery + Florence Cathedral Square Tickets
from €80.90
€76.86
Save 5%
- Unlock 3 of the city's artistic treasures with 1 combo ticket to Uffizi Gallery, Accademia Gallery, and the Cathedral Square at a discounted rate.
- From the Renaissance classic Spring by Sandro Boticelli, to the gory Baroque depiction of Judith Beheading Holofernes by Artemisia Gentileschi, find a wide range of art at Uffizi.
- Explore the 7 halls of the Accademia Gallery, like the Gipsoteca, where you will find nuanced statues by maestros like Lorenzo Bartolini and Luigi Pampaloni.
- Discover Florence Cathedral, San Giovanni Baptistery, and the Opera Museum. Take the chance to climb Giotto’s Bell Tower and Brunelleschi’s Dome!
Inclusions
- Entry to Santa Maria del Fiore Cathedral
- Entry to the Crypt of Santa Reparata
- Entry to Opera del Duomo Museum & Baptistery
- Hosted entry to Accademia Gallery
- Hosted entry to Uffizi Gallery
- Entry to Brunelleschi's Dome (optional)
- Entry to Giotto's Bell Tower (optional)
Exclusions
- Entry to the Secret Terrace
- Tour guide
- Tip: As you explore the Crypt of Santa Reparata, keep an eye on the floor! Don’t miss the majestic peacock and Solomonic knots among the geometric mosaics.
- Due to security reasons, Accademia and Uffizi galleries can only accommodate a certain number of people at any given time. Depending on the crowd, you may be moved to a slightly earlier or later time slot upon arrival.
- Strict Dress Code: Clothing that covers the knees and shoulders are required in the Cathedral. Sandals, headgear and sunglasses are also not allowed.
- These tickets can't be cancelled or rescheduled.
Combo (Save 5%): Florence Cathedral + Pitti Palace & Boboli Gardens Tickets
from €47.90
€45.51
Save 5%
- Uncover 2 distinct legacies in Florence with tickets to Santa Maria del Fiore Cathedral and the Medici wonders, Pitti Palace and Boboli Gardens!
- Visit the cathedral complex over 3 days, including the Opera Museum and St. John’s Baptistery. Upgrade to scale Brunelleschi’s Dome and Giotto’s Bell Tower.
- Set foot into the former regal residence Pitti Palace, exploring the museums and Royal Apartments. Also enjoy the serene Bardini Gardens!
- See dramatic mythic battles like Apollo flaying Marsyas by Giovanni Bilivert to coy portraits like Painting and Poetry by Francesco Furini at Palatine Gallery.
- The serene Boboli Gardens invites you to an intricately planned set of symmetrical woods, hidden caves, and sculptures.
Inclusions
Florence Cathedral
- Entry to Santa Maria del Fiore Cathedral
- Entry to the Crypt of Santa Reparata
- Entry to Opera del Duomo Museum & St. John's Baptistery
- Entry to Brunelleschi's Dome (optional)
- Entry to Giotto's Bell Tower (optional)
Pitti Palace, Palatine Gallery & Boboli Gardens
- Skip-the-line entry to Pitti Palace
- Skip-the-line entry to Boboli Gardens
- Access to Palatine Gallery
- Access to Bardini Gardens
- Access to Porcelain Museum
Florence Cathedral
- Tip: Check out the Pietà sculpture by Michelangelo at the Opera del Duomo Museum.
- Strict dress code: Clothing that covers the knees and shoulders. Sandals, headgear, and sunglasses are also not allowed.
- The Dome & Bell Tower are not accessible for wheelchair users, guests with mobility issues, back problems, or heart conditions.
- Please note that there are 463 steps to the top of the Dome, and 414 steps to the top of Giotto's Bell Tower, with no elevator access.
- The Opera Museum, Bell Tower, and Baptistery all have flexible entry. You'll be able to visit these sites within 72 hours of first use.
- Dome access is timed and must be visited on the date & time selected during checkout.
Pitti Palace and Boboli Gardens
- Tip: Watch out for the Isolotto at Boboli Gardens, an oval-shaped island in the middle of a pond, featuring fountains, statues and citrus trees!
- Keep in mind food & beverages are not allowed in the exhibition areas.
- Mobile phones must be turned off or at least placed in silent mode.
- It is forbidden to run or walk barefoot in the museum premises.
- Shutterbugs, take note: Photography with any professional equipment including the use of flash and drones is a no-go inside the venue.
- Pets cannot tag along for this experience, with the exception of guide dogs and service animals, properly leashed and with a public medical certificate.
- These tickets can't be cancelled or rescheduled.
Top things to do in Florence
Florence Cathedral Dome | Quick facts
- Location: Piazza del Duomo, 50122 Firenze FI, Italy
- Designer: Filippo Brunelleschi
- Construction Start Date: 7th August 1420
- Completion Date: 25th March 1436
- Materials Used: Bricks, sandstone, and marble
- Height: 116 meters
- Diameter: 45.5 meters
- Number of Steps to Reach the Top: 463
Why climb the Duomo Florence Dome?
See all photos
Climbing the Brunelleschi’s Dome
Before the climb
Book your tickets in advance, specifying the date and time for the climb. It is the most coveted Duomo experience, so the tickets sell out real fast. Options include extras like Duomo sub-attractions, guided tours, and priority access. Individuals with medical conditions, mobility issues, or severe claustrophobia may find the climb challenging, so assess your health beforehand. Arrive at the meeting point 15 minutes early.
The climb
Visiting Duomo Cathedral is incomplete without climbing the 463 steps to the Dome. After the initial ascent you find a 3-foot wide ledge lining the inside of the dome, 130+ feet in the air, offering views of the cathedral and frescoes depicting the Last Judgment. Originally built for maintenance workers to climb up and down for the maintenance of the cathedral, the route takes you can take 30-45 minutes.
Reaching the top
The top of the dome offers unparalleled panoramic views of the city of Florence, its various landmarks, and the surrounding countryside. You can take pictures but do not use flash or carry any kind of photography equipment. Also, make sure you’ve dressed appropriately with your shoulders and knees covered. Since the dome is located inside the Duomo Cathedral, there is a dress code in place for visitors.
Construction of the Florence Cathedral Dome
Construction process
Started in 1420, the construction of the Florence Cathedral Dome was complex because it was built without using a wooden or iron structure to support the masonry. Brunelleschi employed different techniques like a double shell made of sandstone and marble. He built an octagonal dome using brick with nothing beneath to support it during construction.
Innovations & contributions
Brunelleschi, a visionary, revolutionized construction with innovations like ox-driven hoist machines for lifting heavy stones during the Dome's construction. He employed a self-reinforcing herringbone pattern in brick wall construction and designed an amphibious boat to transport marble pieces without damage.
Challenges faced
Constructing the Florence Cathedral's Dome posed challenges due to the absence of a known method. Brunelleschi's innovative solution involved building two domes – an inner and an outer one. This approach created a lighter, more stable structure, preventing the dome from collapsing over time.
Architecture & Design of Brunelleschi’s Dome
Design
Brunelleschi’s Dome, world's largest ever masonry dome, does'nt have a supporting structure. Instead, it is a double shell structure made of sandstone and marble comprising two domes - one nested inside the other made of bricks arranged in a herringbone pattern. See large frescoes of The Last Judgement painted beneath the dome on the inside by Federico Zuccari and Giorgio Vasari.
Combining engineering & aesthetics
Brunelleschi's innovative engineering and aesthetic fusion birthed the Dome's beauty. He decided to use bricks instead of stone because they were lighter and easier to form. The use of golden proportion adds balance and harmony with each architectural element adding to the stability of the dome as it stands tall without any buttresses or supporting structures.
Influence of the Dome
The Dome marked the beginning of the Renaissance style of architecture — one that beautifully blends the old and the new. Future architectural and building projects, such as the St. Peter's Basilica in Rome and the United States Capitol, incorporated the dome in their designs, which eventually defined the Renaissance period.
Plan your climb to the Florence Cathedral Dome
Opening hours
Tips
- Monday to Friday: 8:15 AM to 7:30 PM
- Saturday: 8:15 AM to 5:30 PM
- Sunday: 12:45 PM to 5:30 PM
- Last admission: Forty minutes before closing time.
- Closed on: New Year’s Day, Easter, St. John the Baptist (24 June), Assumption (15 August), Christmas, Boxing Day (26 December), and other religious holidays
Best time to climb
The narrow stairs and passageways to the Dome's top can lead to long queues. The best times to climb Brunelleschi’s Dome are early in the morning or just before closing when the sky changes colors. Opt for weekdays to avoid crowds and maximize your time at the Dome.
Detailed Florence Cathedral hours
- Book your tickets online and well in advance to avoid the risk of tickets getting sold out. Especially in summers, Italy's peak season.
- If visiting during summer, book morning or late afternoon climbs to avoid peak heat and tourist crowds.
- Due to limited ventilation, climbing in the summer can get hot, so plan accordingly. Dress light, but in accordance with the dress code.
- Wear comfortable footwear because you’ll have to walk and climb a lot.
- Take your time during the climb, take breaks in between, especially in the narrow and steep sections towards the end.
- Before the climb, store large items at the cloakroom near the Opera del Duomo museum.
- If you've reserved a time slot, adhere to it, as only a few people can climb at once. Respect your chosen time to avoid disruptions.
- The climb involves 463 steps and no elevator. Ensure you're physically fit, especially if you have heart problems, vertigo, or claustrophobia.
- If you've pre-purchased tickets online, bypass the ticket line and head straight to the Dome entrance via the Porta della Mandorla.
Frequently asked questions about Florence Duomo Dome tickets
How much does a Florence Duomo Dome ticket cost?
The cost of Florence Duomo Dome tickets can vary based on several factors, including the type of ticket, inclusions, and additional services. Standard tickets typically start from around €15. There may be variations in prices for different categories, such as reduced fees for students with valid ID, free admission for children under 7, priests, religious individuals, people with disabilities, and their companions. Prices may also differ for skip-the-line tickets, guided tours, and packages that include access to other attractions within the Duomo complex.
Where can I buy Florence Duomo Dome tickets?
You can buy Brunelleschi’s Dome tickets online via trusted authorized platforms. It's advisable to buy tickets in advance, especially during peak seasons, to secure your preferred time slot and avoid long queues at the entrance.
Can I visit Brunelleschi's Dome with Duomo Florence tickets?
Yes, you can visit Brunelleschi's Dome with your Duomo Florence tickets. However, it's always best to check the specific details of the ticket you plan to purchase to ensure it includes access to all the areas you want to visit.
Are there different types of tickets available?
Yes, there are different types of tickets available for the Florence Duomo Dome. These include skip-the-line access, guided tours, and combo tickets with multiple attractions in one package. Our popular options are:
Florence Cathedral Tickets with Optional Dome & Bell Tower Climb
Florence Cathedral VIP Guided Tour with Dome Climb & Secret Terrace Visit
Combo (Save 5%): Uffizi Gallery + Accademia Gallery + Florence Cathedral Square Tickets
Can I choose a specific time slot when purchasing tickets?
Yes, when purchasing tickets for the Florence Duomo Dome, you can choose a specific time slot for your climb up the Dome. It's important to note that you must strictly adhere to the chosen time slot. Due to the popularity of the climb, tickets can sell out quickly, so it's advisable to book well in advance to secure your preferred time. This allows for a more organized and efficient experience, ensuring that visitors can enjoy the climb without unnecessary delays.
What is included in a standard Florence Duomo Dome ticket?
A standard ticket typically includes access to the climb of Brunelleschi's Dome. Depending on the type of ticket, additional inclusions such as guided tours, access to the Baptistery, Bell Tower, or museum may be offered.
Can I purchase tickets on the same day of my visit?
While we do take pride in being able to source last-minute Dome tickets, it is recommended to book in advance, particularly during busy periods, to secure your preferred time slot and avoid long queues.
Why is the Florence Cathedral Dome so important?
Brunelleschi’s Dome symbolizes the Renaissance period in Florence and inspired several artists and architects to think differently. It is also considered a masterpiece for its stunning frescoes and intricate details. Additionally, the dome played an important role in the religious and cultural history of Florence, as it was built to demonstrate the city's power and wealth and to serve as the centerpiece of the city's religious life.
Who designed Brunelleschi's Dome?
Italian architect and engineer Filippo Brunelleschi designed Brunelleschi’s Dome. A prominent figure during the Renaissance period, he is also credited with contributing to the development of linear perspective in painting and for designing the Basilica of San Lorenzo and the Pazzi Chapel.
When was Brunelleschi's Dome completed?
Brunelleschi’s Dome was completed in 1436. It took 16 years to finish its construction
What materials were used to construct the Florence Duomo dome?
The dome was constructed using brick and marble. The dome's outer shell is made of bricks, while the inner dome is made of sandstone and marble.
How tall is Brunelleschi's Dome?
The Dome is more than 116 meters tall.
What is the diameter of Brunelleschi's Dome?
The diameter of Brunelleschi’s Dome is 45.5 meters.
Why is the Florence Duomo Dome significant in architectural history?
Brunelleschi’s Dome is significant in architectural history because it was the first ever octagon-shaped dome to be constructed without any temporary support beneath it. The largest masonry dome ever built at the time, its construction marked the beginning of the Renaissance, as it demonstrated new techniques and perspectives in architecture.
Where is Brunelleschi's Dome located?
Brunelleschi's Dome is located at the top the Duomo cathedral in Florence.
What are the timings of Brunelleschi's Dome?
The Brunelleschi's Dome is open from Monday to Friday 8:15 AM to 7:30 PM. On Saturday, it is open from 8:15 AM to 5:30 PM while its Sunday timings are from 12:45 PM to 5:30 PM.
How many steps are there to reach the top of the Brunelleschi's Dome?
There are 463 steps to reach the top of the Brunelleschi's Dome.
What views can be seen from the top of the Brunelleschi's Dome?
Enjoy breathtaking panoramic views of the city of Florence and its various landmarks, including landmarks such as the Palazzo Vecchio, the Arno River, and the surrounding Tuscan hills, from the top of the dome.
Is there an age limit for climbing the Brunelleschi's Dome?
No. There is no age limit for climbing Brunelleschi’s Dome. But we recommend exercising precaution if you’re traveling with toddlers or infants as the stairs and passageways leading to the Dome are quite narrow and complex.
Are there any restrictions or limitations for visiting the Brunelleschi's Dome?
The climb is not recommended for those suffering from dizziness, heart condition, and claustrophobia. Also, make sure you dress appropriately. Your shoulders and knees should be covered.
What is the unique design feature of the Brunelleschi's Dome?
Brunelleschi’s Dome was built without a temporary support structure. Instead, the Dome consisted of two layers with the bricks laid in a herringbone pattern to prevent them from falling off the wall as they approached an incline.
Is Brunelleschi's Dome a religious site?
Yes. The Brunelleschi’s Dome is a religious site as it is a part of the Florence Cathedral complex. It was built as a dome to cover the cathedral's crossing, where the nave and transept intersect, and serves as a prominent symbol of Florence and the Catholic Church.
Is there a dress code to enter the Florence Cathedral Dome?
Yes. Visitors are required to wear appropriate clothing following the Duomo Florence dress code that covers their knees and shoulders.
