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Basilica of Santa Croce Tickets
Headout is a brand trusted by millions of guests worldwide offering curated experiences to enjoy this attraction. This is not the venue's website.
Learn about the legacy of Florence’s great minds with a guided tour of the world's largest Franciscan church.
- Everything you get: Explore Basilica di Santa Croce, the largest Franciscan church known for its Gothic architecture—a landmark blending history and faith. See the tombs of Michelangelo, Machiavelli, and Galileo while your expert guide shares the stories behind Renaissance masterpieces housed within.
- Why choose this: Maximize your visit with a 1.5-hour guided tour, uncovering art, history, and the final resting places of Florence’s greatest minds—all in one immersive experience.
Learn about the legacy of Florence’s great minds with a guided tour of the world's largest Franciscan church.
- Everything you get: Explore Basilica di Santa Croce, the largest Franciscan church known for its Gothic architecture—a landmark blending history and faith. See the tombs of Michelangelo, Machiavelli, and Galileo while your expert guide shares the stories behind Renaissance masterpieces housed within.
- Why choose this: Maximize your visit with a 1.5-hour guided tour, uncovering art, history, and the final resting places of Florence’s greatest minds—all in one immersive experience.
Inclusions
- 1.5-hour guided tour of Santa Croce
- English or Italian-speaking guide
- Entry tickets
- Headphones (more than 7 participants)
- Remember to dress modestly, covering your shoulders and legs, to respect the sacred atmosphere.
- While flash photography isn’t allowed inside, you may be able to capture souvenir moments in designated areas.
- Pets are not allowed in the complex.
- Certain areas, like the basilica and cloisters, are accessible for wheelchair users.
- You can cancel these tickets up to 24 hours before the experience begins and get a full refund.
Save 20-30 minutes of standing in ticketing lines with fast-track entry to Santa Croce, resting place of Michelangelo, Galileo & more.
- Everything you get: Step inside without delay and explore Santa Croce’s monumental heritage. Marvel at its frescoed chapels, visit the tombs of Michelangelo and Galileo, and take in architectural gems like the Pazzi Chapel and the Medici Chapel—all at your own pace.
- Why choose this: Save your time and energy for exploration by skipping the ticket queue and journeying through the world’s largest Franciscan church at your pace.
- Upgrades: Upgrade your ticket to include an audio guide available in 5 languages for an artistically enhanced experience of the complex.
Save 20-30 minutes of standing in ticketing lines with fast-track entry to Santa Croce, resting place of Michelangelo, Galileo & more.
- Everything you get: Step inside without delay and explore Santa Croce’s monumental heritage. Marvel at its frescoed chapels, visit the tombs of Michelangelo and Galileo, and take in architectural gems like the Pazzi Chapel and the Medici Chapel—all at your own pace.
- Why choose this: Save your time and energy for exploration by skipping the ticket queue and journeying through the world’s largest Franciscan church at your pace.
- Upgrades: Upgrade your ticket to include an audio guide available in 5 languages for an artistically enhanced experience of the complex.
Inclusions
- Skip the line entry to Santa Croce Basilica
- Access to the Medici Chapel, the Pazzi Chapel and the cloisters
- An Audio guide available in 5 languages
- Visitors should dress modestly, covering their shoulders and legs.
- Remember to keep your mobile phones on silent mode as a mark of respect to the religious site.
- Flash photography is not allowed inside the complex premises, however, souvenir photography may be allowed.
- Keep in mind that pets are denied entry to the complex.
- Certain sections of the complex can be accessible to wheelchair users such as the basilica and the cloisters.
- These tickets can't be cancelled or rescheduled.
Combos
Combo (Save 5%): Florence Hop-On Hop-Off Bus Tour + Santa Croce Basilica Complex Tickets
from €40
€38
5% off
- Combine a 24-hour hop-on hop-off tour of Florence with skip-the-line access to Santa Croce Basilica, maximizing both experience and value.
- Navigate the Cradle of Renaissance freely with a 24-hour bus pass; immerse in its rich Renaissance charm across 2 routes and 20+ stops.
- Enjoy multi-lingual audio guides, free Wi-Fi, and an interactive map app. Don’t miss the historic park of Villa Cora and the artisanal marvels near Santa Maria del Fiore Cathedral.
- Bypass queues to enter Santa Croce. Discover art by Giotto, wander through serene cloisters, and pay respects at the tombs of Michelangelo and Galileo.
- Marvel at Santa Croce's Medici Chapel and Sala del Pozzo featuring a vaulted ceiling and octagonal columns, a testament to Florence's golden age.
- Combine a 24-hour hop-on hop-off tour of Florence with skip-the-line access to Santa Croce Basilica, maximizing both experience and value.
- Navigate the Cradle of Renaissance freely with a 24-hour bus pass; immerse in its rich Renaissance charm across 2 routes and 20+ stops.
- Enjoy multi-lingual audio guides, free Wi-Fi, and an interactive map app. Don’t miss the historic park of Villa Cora and the artisanal marvels near Santa Maria del Fiore Cathedral.
- Bypass queues to enter Santa Croce. Discover art by Giotto, wander through serene cloisters, and pay respects at the tombs of Michelangelo and Galileo.
- Marvel at Santa Croce's Medici Chapel and Sala del Pozzo featuring a vaulted ceiling and octagonal columns, a testament to Florence's golden age.
Inclusions
City Sightseeing: Hop-On Hop-Off Tour of Florence
- 24-hour hop-on hop-off bus pass
- Access to 2 routes
- Audio guide in 8 languages
- Free Wi-Fi
- Onboard assistance
- Free 'Sightseeing' app with interactive map
Santa Croce Basilica Complex
- Skip-the-line entry to Santa Croce Basilica
- Access to cloisters, Pazzi Chapel, and Last Supper
- Access to Medici Chapel, Old Sacristy, and Sala del Pozzo
Line A:
- First bus from Santa Maria Novella Train Station: 9:20am.
- Last bus: 6:30pm.
- Frequency: Every 25 mins.
- Popular Stops: Porta Romana, Teatro Verdi.
Line B:
- First bus from Galileo: 10:15am.
- Last bus: 5:15pm.
- Frequency: Every 60 mins.
- Popular Stops: San Domenico, Piazzale Michelangelo.
Please click here for the detailed route map and boarding points.
City Sightseeing: Hop-On Hop-Off Tour of Florence
- Tip: If you visit Calcio Museum at stop #6 on Line B, you could learn all about the history of Italy's national football team!
- Download the app ‘Sightseeing Experience’ to make the best use of the interactive map that shows you the position of the buses in real-time.
- Audio guide available in English, Italian, Spanish, Chinese, French, German, Russian, and Portuguese.
- Facilities: Wheelchair Accessibility, Free WiFi.
Santa Croce Basilica Complex
- Tip: Seek out the tombs of Michelangelo, Galileo Galilei, and other prominent Italian personalities. Many of the tombs are marked with inscriptions or statues, making them easier to locate.
- Facilities: Wheelchair Accessibility, Restroom.
- Guide dogs are allowed on this experience.
- The audio guide is available in English, French, Spanish, Italian, and German.
- Note that the following are not allowed on this tour: pets, food and beverages, smoking, flash photography, tripod, and large bags.
- Strict Dress Code: It is required to wear clothing that covers the knees and shoulders. It is not allowed to wear shorts.
- These tickets can't be cancelled or rescheduled.
FlorenceBasilica of Santa Croce
Top things to do in Florence
Why visit Basilica of Santa Croce?
- World's largest Franciscan church: Santa Croce is the world's largest active Franciscan church, measuring 115 meters in length and 38 meters in width. Experience serenity and spirituality amidst this vast complex.
- Famous tombs: The chapel is the final resting place of luminaries like Michelangelo, Galileo, and Machiavelli, an insight into cultural and intellectual history of Italy.
- Stendhal's syndrome: Walk into the birthplace of Stendhal's Syndrome originated in 1817 when the French poet was overwhelmed by art's beauty, coining the term for the euphoria experienced due to mesmerizing art or places of extraordinary charm.
- Unique Crucifix: The Refectory houses a distinct representation of Crucifixion in the form of a Lignum Vitae, a tree-like cross, adding to the basilica's diverse artistic offerings.
- Gothic architecture: Admire the elegant Gothic design of the basilica, a masterpiece by Arnolfo di Cambio.
- Nearby attractions: Conveniently explore other Florence landmarks from this central location, including Florence Cathedral, Uffizi Gallery, Piazza della Signoria, Palazzo Vecchio, and Piazza Santa Croce.
Your Basilica of Santa Croce Tickets Explained
If You're Short on Time
Go for: Skip-the-Line Tickets
Duration: Flexible
Guided Access: Optional Audio Guide
- Bypass the queues and make the most of your time exploring iconic artworks at the Santa Croce Basilica. Stroll through the aisle lined with octagonal columns, and discover the ancient cenacle.
- Enhance your experience with an optional audio guide.
Recommended tickets:
Skip-the-Line Tickets to Santa Croce Basilica Complex with Optional Audio Guide
If You want to Explore Beyond
Go for: Combo Tickets
Duration: 24-hour HOHO tour
Guided Access: Multi-lingual audio guides available
- Combine a 24-hour hop-on hop-off tour of Florence. Visit various stops, enjoy the rich Renaissance charm & explore the "Cradle of Renaissance" freely.
- Bypass queues to enter Santa Croce, discover its art and history, and explore the tombs of famous figures like Michelangelo and Galileo.
Recommended Tickets:
Combo (Save 5%): 24-Hour Hop-On Hop-Off Tour of Florence + Santa Croce Basilica Complex Tickets
Highlights of Basilica of Santa Croce
Santa Croce's Chapels
Aristocratic families commissioned legendary artists to adorn these Renaissance chapels. The 14th-century frescoes survived the test of time, revealing a tapestry of stories and artistry.
Giotto's Legacy
Giotto's frescoes in the Bardi Chapel is a vivid photobook through the life of St. Francis. Giotto's vibrant strokes and emotive faces transcend centuries, offering a peek into the artist's expression and history.
Pazzi Chapel
The harmonious Pazzi Chapel was designed by Filippo Brunelleschi, the father of Renaissance architecture. Glazed terra cotta roundels by Luca della Robbia decorate its walls, depicting the Pazzi family's intriguing and notorious history.
Peruzzi Chapel
Giotto's first work in Santa Croce, the Peruzzi Chapel, unveils stories of St. John. Secco frescoes, though aged, offer a historical window. Painted on dried plaster, they lack durability but hold historical charm which inspired even Michelangelo and Masaccio.
Baroncelli Chapel
Built in 1328, the Baroncelli Chapel stands preserved in glory. Taddeo Gaddi's attractive frescoes grace its walls depicting the tale of the Virgin Mary. While a beautiful altar, stained glass window, and ceiling cupola adds depth.
Donatello’s Artworks
Three grand sculptures by Donatello influenced Michelangelo and reshaped art. A pioneer against Gothic norms, Donatello's embrace of Greco-Roman elements breathed life into his works. His sculptures transcend flat depictions, capturing raw human emotion and experience.
Temple of Italian Glories
Pay homage to over 300 celebrity tombs, from Michelangelo's marble tale to Galileo's celestial rest, a tribute rivaled only by St. Denis in Paris. Take astroll through legendary history; some floor tombs are so ancient, you tread lightly.
Museo dell’Opera di Santa Croce
Housed in the former Refectory, this treasure trove of Florentine school works dates back to 1900. The Arno River's 1966 flood inflicted scars, yet restoration breathed life back. Since 1975, the museum welcomes you.
Tombs at Basilica of Santa Croce
Michelangelo's Tomb
Designed by Giorgio Vasari, it symbolizes sculpture, architecture, and painting, honoring Michelangelo's immense influence.
Galileo's Tomb
Designed by Giovanni Batista Foggini, it marks the return of the astronomer, exiled and later celebrated for his visionary discoveries.
Lorenzo Ghiberti's Tomb
The creator of the iconic Baptistery doors rests here, with an emblematic eagle marking his final abode.
Machiavelli's Tomb
Paying tribute to the political thinker, Machiavelli's tomb stands as a nod to his profound insights into the art of governance.
Dante Alighieri's Memorial
An honorary tomb for Dante, Italy's poetic luminary, reflects his profound influence on Florentine culture.
Rossini's Tribute
Gioachino Rossini, known as the "Italian Mozart," finds homage here, where his melodies resonate through time.
Santa Croce's Poetic Honor
A tribute to Leonardo Bruni, a Renaissance humanist, historian, and poet. His tomb stands as a testament to his contributions to literature and thought.
Plan Your Visit to Basilica of Santa Croce
Timings
Location
Facilities
Rules
Visitor tips
Dine
Stay
Nearby
Monday - Saturday: 9:30 AM - 5:30 PM
Sunday: 12:30 PM - 5:45 PM
Last admission: 5 PM
Special timings: Epiphany (6 January), Assumption (15 August), All Saints (1 November), Immaculate Conception (8 December): 12:30 PM - 5:45 PM
Closed on: New Year's Day (1 January), Easter, Feast of St. Anthony of Padua (13 June), Feast of St. Francis of Assisi (4 October), Christmas Day (25 December), Boxing Day (26 December)
Best time to visit
April to June and September to October are the peak months in Florence, the weather is pleasant. The best time to visit Santa Croce Basilica is in the early morning or late afternoon to avoid the crowds. Weekdays are generally less crowded than weekends, providing a quieter and more enjoyable experience.
Address: Piazza di Santa Croce, 16, 50122 Firenze FI, Italy
Find on Maps
Getting there
- By train: Arriving at Santa Maria Novella station, take a leisurely 20-minute walk through Florence's historic heart to reach the Santa Croce complex.
- By car: Exit the motorway at FIRENZE SUD, the nearest exit to the Santa Croce complex. Santa Croce lies in restricted traffic Zone Area B. Park at Sant'Ambrogio or Beccaria car parks. If you plan to enter the restricted traffic zone, register your car on SAS.
- By bus: Take the bus to "Piazza Santa Croce" bus stop. From there, a short stroll brings you to the Santa Croce complex.
- Wi-Fi Connectivity: Stay connected throughout your visit with available Wi-Fi, making sharing and exploring seamless.
- Vending Machines: Take a break with conveniently placed vending machines offering refreshments.
- Changing Tables: Families with young ones can make use of changing tables, ensuring convenience for parents and children.
- Audio Guides: Immerse yourself in history with informative audio guides, enhancing your understanding of the complex's significance.
- Dante App: "Experience Dante's world with the free 'In Tuscany with Dante' app, see what inspired his Divine Comedy, from medieval Florence to the enchanting Tuscan countryside.
- Bookshop: Browse a curated selection of books and souvenirs, a perfect way to carry a piece of Santa Croce's charm home.
- Guided Tours: Dive deeper into history with expert-led guided tours, enriching your exploration of the complex.
- Appropriate attire: Modest clothing covering shoulders and legs is required. Free disposable kimonos provided.
- Silent reverence: Observe silence and respectful behavior during your visit.
- Preservation: Refrain from touching artworks, monuments, and consuming food or drinks on the premises.
- Photography: Take non-flash photos for personal use only, without tripods.
- Mobile use: Use phones silently for photography or accessing the official SANTA CROCE App.
- Pet policy: Only guide dogs accompanying visually or hearing-impaired visitors allowed.
- Smoke-free zone: No smoking indoors or outdoors throughout the complex.
- Luggage & bags: Avoid bringing luggage or large bags during your visit for convenience and to respect the space available.
- Visitors with disabilities: Visitors with hearing or visual impairments are advised to keep a declaration form with them if accompanied by a guide dog, as only guide dogs are allowed.
- Advance booking: For a seamless experience, book your entry ticket to the Basilica of Santa Croce online in advance. This ensures your entry on your preferred date and time.
- Off-Peak hours & combined tickets: To fully enjoy your visit and avoid crowds, consider coming during off-peak hours. Additionally, purchasing a combined ticket that includes entrance to the nearby Museo dell'Opera di Santa Croce can provide a more comprehensive experience.
- Plan sunset hour visits: The basilica's apse area features beautiful stained glass windows that create a vibrant display of colors and light. SO plan around sunsets to see this illusion in its prime.
- La Cucina Del Ghianda: The restaurant offers traditional Tuscan dishes at reasonable prices in a great atmosphere, making it perfect for a value-packed meal.
- Santarpia Santarpia: Florence's top pizza spot, specializing in high-quality Napoleatano-style pizza, and has quickly become a local favorite.
- Macelleria A Firenze Luca Menoni: A unique dining atop a butcher shop, serving traditional dishes like bollito with top-notch ingredients.
- L’Trippaio Di Sant’Ambrogio: The place is known for the best lampredotto and trippa sandwiches in Florence, making it an ideal budget-friendly lunch spot.
- Panificio Chicco Di Grano: An institution in Sant’Ambrogio market, serves a variety of delicious treats from sandwiches to pastries.
- Note Di Vino: Note Di Vino in the Santa Croce area offers great views, affordable wine, and delicious meat boards, making it a perfect spot for wine and appetizers.
- Piazza della Signoria: Absorb Renaissance history in this square with Palazzo Vecchio and striking sculptures.
- Uffizi Gallery: Admire art masterpieces by Botticelli, Leonardo da Vinci, and Michelangelo at the gallery.
- Ponte Vecchio: Traverse the medieval bridge lined with historic shops over Arno River.
- Palazzo Pitti: Roam through Renaissance gardens and opulent rooms in this palace turned museum.
- Duomo Florence: Behold Florence Cathedral's intricate architecture and iconic Brunelleschi's Dome.
- Piazzale Michelangelo: Climb for panoramic views of Florence's skyline and Tuscan landscape.
- Boboli Gardens: Find serenity amidst sculptures and fountains in these lush gardens.
Frequently Asked Questions About Basilica of Santa Croce Tickets
How much do Basilica of Santa Croce tickets cost?
Ticket prices vary based on factors like tour options and discounts. The basic skip-the-line ticket options start from € 9.
Can I purchase Basilica of Santa Croce tickets online?
For sure! Buying Basilica of Santa Croce tickets online from authorized platforms offers convenience and a seamless entry experience.
Can I secure advanced tickets for Basilica of Santa Croce?
Indeed! Pre-booking your tickets online is recommended to ensure a smooth visit without waiting in lines.
What is the best way to buy Basilica of Santa Croce tickets?
The ultimate way to secure your Basilica of Santa Croce tickets is booking online.
Advance Booking: Plan ahead and skip the lines, ensuring a hassle-free entry.
Convenience: Purchase tickets from the comfort of your own space, anytime.
Discounts: Unlock exclusive online deals, saving you money on your visit.
What is included in the Basilica of Santa Croce ticket?
Tickets usually grant access to the monumental complex, chapels, frescoes, and other attractions within the Basilica.
Do Basilica of Santa Croce tickets include skip-the-line access?
Yes, many ticket options include skip-the-line benefits for a hassle-free entry. Please check the specific ticket details for more information.
What is the cancelation policy for Basilica of Santa Croce tickets?
Refer to the ticket details on cancelation policies, which might vary based on the type of ticket purchased. Usually tickets are cancellable within a certain time frame.
Where is Basilica of Santa Croce located?
Basilica of Santa Croce is centrally located in Florence, Italy, nestled in one of its oldest and most characteristic neighborhoods. It's a prominent landmark that you can easily find in the heart of the city.
What are the opening hours of Basilica of Santa Croce?
The general opening hours are 9:30 AM - 5:30 PM from Monday to Saturday.
How can I reach Basilica of Santa Croce easily?
The monumental complex is centrally located in Florence. Walking or public transportation are recommended to reach your destination easily.
Is there a dress code for visiting Basilica of Santa Croce?
Yes, out of respect for the sacredness, dress modestly, covering shoulders and legs. Free kimonos are provided, just in case.
How long does it take to explore Basilica of Santa Croce?
Plan for around 1-2 hours to immerse yourself in the beauty and history of this remarkable complex.
Are there audio guides available?
Yes, multilingual audio guides can be an informative companion during your exploration, enhancing your understanding of the artwork.
Can I take photos inside Santa Croce?
Yes, you can take photos for personal use, but remember to avoid using flash or tripod to preserve the artworks.
Are there any visitor guidelines I should be aware of?
Dress modestly, maintain silence, and avoid touching artworks. Respectful behavior enhances the experience for all.
Is visiting Basilica of Santa Croce worth it?
Without a question! Exploring Basilica of Santa Croce rewards you with breathtaking art, historic ambiance, and a deep connection to Florence's cultural legacy. It's an enriching experience that's truly worth every moment.