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- Florence Cathedral
- Baptistery of St. John
- Brunelleschi's Dome
- Santa Reparata Florence
- Opera del Duomo Museum
- Giotto's Bell Tower
- Piazza del Duomo
- History
- Architecture
- Inside
- Duomo Rooftop
- Plan Your Visit
- Skip the Line Tours
- Guided Tours
- Timings
- Directions
- Rules
- Entrances
- Facts
- Mass schedule
- Dress code
- Uffizi Gallery
- Accademia Gallery Tickets
- Pitti Palace and Boboli Gardens
- Palazzo Vecchio
- Florence To Chianti Tours
- Florence To Cinque Terre Tours
- Bargello National Museum
- Medici Chapel
- Florence To Pisa Tours
- Florence To Siena Tours
- Florence To Tuscany Tours
- Boboli Gardens
- Hzero - The Miniature Railway
- San Marco Museum
- Basilica of Santa Croce
- Brancacci Chapel
Florence Baptistery tickets & tours
Take a tour of the Cathedral Square with the chance to climb the iconic Giotto's Bell Tower and Brunelleschi's Dome.
- Get the best of both worlds! The expertise of a guide at the Cathedral, Baptistery, and Opera Museum – and the freedom to explore each site yourself.
- Gain a deeper appreciation, from the octagonal San Giovanni's Baptistery to the vividly tiled Giotto's Bell Tower, in the language of your choice.
- Elevate your experience with dome and bell tower access. Be met by sweeping views of Florentine landmarks, like Accademia Gallery.
- Marvel at the intricate details of the Florence Cathedral, from the stunning marble façade matching the tower, to the ornate frescoes inside.
Take a tour of the Cathedral Square with the chance to climb the iconic Giotto's Bell Tower and Brunelleschi's Dome.
- Get the best of both worlds! The expertise of a guide at the Cathedral, Baptistery, and Opera Museum – and the freedom to explore each site yourself.
- Gain a deeper appreciation, from the octagonal San Giovanni's Baptistery to the vividly tiled Giotto's Bell Tower, in the language of your choice.
- Elevate your experience with dome and bell tower access. Be met by sweeping views of Florentine landmarks, like Accademia Gallery.
- Marvel at the intricate details of the Florence Cathedral, from the stunning marble façade matching the tower, to the ornate frescoes inside.
Inclusions
- Guided tour of the Florence Cathedral Complex with entry
- Expert English, Italian, German, Spanish or French-speaking guide (as per option selected)
- Access to Santa Maria del Fiore Cathedral, the Crypt of Santa Reparata, Opera del Duomo Museum, & St. John's Baptistery
- Access to Giotto's Bell Tower (if selected)
- Access to Brunelleschi's Dome (if selected)
Exclusions
- Access to the Secret Terraces
- 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.
- Strict dress code: Clothing that covers the knees and shoulders. Sandals/flip-flops, hats, and sunglasses must be removed before entry.
- The Dome and Bell Tower are not accessible by wheelchair and not recommended for guests with mobility issues, back problems, or heart conditions.
- 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.
- Guide dogs (with relevant certification) are welcome at the venue.
- You can cancel these tickets up to 24 hours before the experience begins and get a full refund.
Tailor your Florence Cathedral Square visit with multiple fast-track ticket options!
- Uncover sculptures in the Opera Museum, marble mosaics in the Baptistery, and an ancient church in the Crypt of Santa Reparata.
- With a ticket upgrade, you can climb Giotto’s Bell Tower, absorbing unparalleled vistas of Florence – an exclusive experience.
- Yet another upgrade lets you ascend the dome of Brunelleschi to get a closer look at the Last Judgement frescoes by Vasari and Zuccari.
- Guess what? You can visit the Opera Museum and Baptistery up to 72 hours after your chosen date!
Tailor your Florence Cathedral Square visit with multiple fast-track ticket options!
- Uncover sculptures in the Opera Museum, marble mosaics in the Baptistery, and an ancient church in the Crypt of Santa Reparata.
- With a ticket upgrade, you can climb Giotto’s Bell Tower, absorbing unparalleled vistas of Florence – an exclusive experience.
- Yet another upgrade lets you ascend the dome of Brunelleschi to get a closer look at the Last Judgement frescoes by Vasari and Zuccari.
- Guess what? You can visit the Opera Museum and Baptistery up to 72 hours after your chosen date!
Inclusions
- Entry to the Florence Cathedral Complex
- Access to Santa Maria del Fiore Cathedral, the Crypt of Santa Reparata, Opera del Duomo Museum, & St. John's Baptistery
- Access to Giotto's Bell Tower (if selected)
- Access to Brunelleschi's Dome (if selected)
Exclusions
- Access to the Secret Terraces
- Live guide
- 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’!
- Strict dress code: Clothing that covers the knees and shoulders. Sandals/flip-flops, hats, and sunglasses must be removed before entry.
- The Dome and Bell Tower are not accessible by wheelchair and not recommended for guests with mobility issues, back problems, or heart conditions.
- While entry to Santa Maria del Fiore Cathedral is free, you require tickets to access the rest of the complex.
- The tickets are valid for 3 consecutive days from the date of visit. However, access to the Crypt of Santa Reparata, Brunelleschi's Dome, & Giotto's Bell Tower is timed and must be visited on the date and time selected during checkout.
- The doors to the Cathedral close at 3:45pm and remain closed on Sundays and religious holidays. Plan your visit accordingly.
- Unfortunately, due to restoration works, the mosaics in the vault of the Baptistery are not visible.
- These tickets can't be cancelled or rescheduled.
Here's a win-win for you – seamless hosted entry and an immersive self-led exploration of the Florence Cathedral complex.
- Tune into accounts of how a goldsmith built the world's largest brick dome, if you select the multilingual audio guide seasoned with art history.
- Step into the medieval era as you venture below the cathedral into Santa Reparata Crypt, where ancient stone carvings and altars await.
- Upgrade to savor the terracotta cityscape from atop Giotto's Bell Tower and Brunelleschi's Dome!
Here's a win-win for you – seamless hosted entry and an immersive self-led exploration of the Florence Cathedral complex.
- Tune into accounts of how a goldsmith built the world's largest brick dome, if you select the multilingual audio guide seasoned with art history.
- Step into the medieval era as you venture below the cathedral into Santa Reparata Crypt, where ancient stone carvings and altars await.
- Upgrade to savor the terracotta cityscape from atop Giotto's Bell Tower and Brunelleschi's Dome!
Inclusions
- Hosted entry to the Florence Cathedral Complex
- Access to Santa Maria del Fiore Cathedral, the Crypt of Santa Reparata, Opera del Duomo Museum, & St. John's Baptistery
- Access to Giotto's Bell Tower (if selected)
- Access to Brunelleschi's Dome (if selected)
- Audio guide app in English, French, Italian, Spanish, German, Russian, Japanese, & Chinese (if selected)
Exclusions
- Live guide
- Earphones
- Tip: In the Crypt of Santa Reparata, keep an eye on the floor! Don’t miss the majestic peacock and Solomonic knots among the geometric mosaics.
- Strict dress code: Clothing that covers the knees and shoulders. Sandals/flip-flops, hats, and sunglasses must be removed before entry.
- The Dome and Bell Tower are not accessible by wheelchair and not recommended for guests with mobility issues, back problems, or heart conditions.
- The tickets are valid for 3 consecutive days from the date of visit. However, Dome access is timed and must be visited on the date and time selected during checkout.
- Guide dogs (with relevant certification) are welcome at the venue.
- The doors to the Cathedral close at 3:45pm and remain closed on Sundays and religious holidays. Plan your visit accordingly.
- These tickets can't be cancelled or rescheduled.
Combo (Save 9%): Florence Cathedral + Pitti Palace & Boboli Gardens Tickets
from €47.80
€43.54
9% off
- 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.
- 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 Baptistery | Quick facts
- Location: Piazza del Duomo in Florence, Italy
- Construction start: 11th century
- Construction completion: 12th century
- Materials used: Marble and stone
- Height: 29 meters (95 feet)
- Diameter: 24 meters (78 feet)
- Notable features: Famous bronze doors by Andrea Pisano and Lorenzo Ghiberti; unique echo acoustics.
Why visit the Florence Baptistery?
- Historical significance: The Florence Baptistery, also known as the Baptistery of Saint John, is one of the oldest buildings in Florence.
- Romanesque architecture: The Baptistery is renowned for its exquisite Romanesque architecture and beautiful mosaic.
- Unique acoustics: The Baptistery is known for its acoustics that allow visitors to experience an echo effect, which has been studied by scholars for centuries.
- Bronze doors: The bronze doors are one of the stand-out features of the Baptistery. Created by Andrea Pisano in the 14th century, and Lorenzo Ghiberti in the early 15th century, they feature intricate reliefs.
- Spiritual significance: The Baptistery of St. John has been used for the baptisms of many famous figures, including Dante Alighieri. Over the centuries, it has played an essential role in Florence's religious and cultural life.
Plan your visit to the Baptistery of St. John
Timings
Location
Monday - Sunday: 8:30 am - 7:30 pm
First Sunday of the month: 8:30 am - 1:30 pm
Last admission: 30 minutes before closing
Closed on: 1 January, Easter, 8 September, Christmas Eve and day
Best Time to Visit: The best time to visit the Baptistery of St. John is during the early morning hours or later in the evening to avoid the mid-day rush. Additionally, it would be better to visit during weekdays rather than weekends as it can get crowded on weekends.
Detailed Duomo opening hours
Address: Piazza del Duomo, 50122 Firenze FI, Italy
The Baptistery is located in the historic center of the city. The area is easily accessible by foot, bus, or tram. Visitors can also reach the area by taxi or private car, although parking in the city center can be difficult.
Getting to the Duomo FlorenceHighlights of the Florence Baptistery
Architecture & Design
The Baptistery of San Giovanni is a magnificent building that showcases some of the finest examples of Romanesque architecture. Its octagonal shape, which is unusual for a baptistery, was influenced by the baptistery in Ravenna. The exterior of the building is made of white Carrara marble and is adorned with intricate sculptures, including a replica of the famous Gates of Paradise by Lorenzo Ghiberti. The interior of the building is equally impressive, with its stunning mosaic floors, domed ceilings, and stained glass windows.
Bronze Doors
The Baptistery is renowned for its three sets of bronze doors, which are considered to be among the greatest masterpieces of Renaissance art. Of the three sets, the east doors created by Lorenzo Ghiberti in the 15th century are the most prominent of them all. Also known as the Gates of Paradise, these gates feature intricate scenes from the Old Testament. The north and south doors, created by Andrea Pisano and Ghiberti respectively, feature relief sculptures depicting various biblical scenes.
Mosaics
The mosaics of the Baptistery of St. John, created over several centuries, are some of the most beautiful and intricate examples of Romanesque art in the world. They cover the entire interior of the dome, vaults, and walls of the baptistery. The Byzantine-style mosaics depict scenes from the Bible, such as the Last Judgement and the life of St. John the Baptist. The mosaics were created by some of the most skilled craftsmen of the time. The use of gold and vibrant colors creates a mesmerizing effect.
Acoustics
The Baptistery's design creates exceptional acoustics thanks to its circular shape and the dome which allows for natural amplification. Inside, even the softest whispers can be heard clearly across the space. The marble walls and floors add to the reflection of the sound waves. Musicians and singers have performed in the baptistery for centuries, and the acoustics are so extraordinary that it is still used as a concert hall today.
History of the Florence Baptistery
The construction of the Baptistery of St John dates back to the 4th or 5th century and is believed to have been constructed on the site of an ancient Roman temple.
Over the centuries, it has undergone several renovations and restorations, with the most significant being the renovation carried out in the 12th and 13th centuries. The Baptistery has played a significant role in the religious and cultural life of Florence and continues to be a revered destination for visitors from all over the world.
History of the Florence CatheralFrequently asked questions about Florence Baptistery tickets
How much does an admission ticket to the Florence Baptistery cost?
The admission ticket to the Florence Baptistery is included in the Florence Cathedral Tickets with Optional Dome & Bell Tower Climb, which starts from €15. This comprehensive ticket grants entry to various attractions, including Santa Maria del Fiore Cathedral, the Crypt of Santa Reparata, Opera del Duomo Museum & Baptistery, with optional access to Brunelleschi's Dome and Giotto's Bell Tower. The prices may however, vary with the inclusions like guided tours, exclusive access and more. Check particular ticket details for the most accurate information.
Where can I buy Florence Baptistery tickets?
Tickets for the Florence Baptistery can be purchased at the venue or online. It is recommended that you purchase tickets online to avoid long lines and ensure availability.
Do I need tickets to visit Florence Baptistery?
Yes, you need tickets to visit the Florence Baptistery. The tickets can be purchased online or at the ticket office at the venue.
Can I visit Florence Baptistery with Duomo Florence tickets?
Yes, entrance to the Florence Baptistery is included in the Duomo Complex ticket, which also includes access to the Florence Cathedral, Brunelleschi's Dome, Giotto's Bell Tower, and the Crypt of Santa Reparata.
What are the opening hours of the Florence Baptistery?
The Florence Baptistery is open from Monday to Sunday, with hours from 8:30 am to 7:30 pm. On the first Sunday of the month, the opening hours are from 8:30 am to 1:30 pm. Please note that the last admission is 30 minutes before closing time. The Baptistery is closed on 1 January, Easter, 8 September, Christmas Eve, and Christmas Day.
Where is the Florence Baptistery located?
The Baptistery of St John is located in Piazza del Duomo, next to the Florence Cathedral in Florence, Italy.
When was the Florence Baptistery built?
The Baptistery of St John was built in the early 11th century.
What is the significance of the Florence Baptistery?
The Baptistery is considered one of the greatest architectural and cultural treasures of Florence. It is an important religious site for the people of the city and has been used for baptisms for centuries. It is also considered a masterpiece of Italian Renaissance architecture, inspiring many other buildings throughout the world.
What is the shape of the Florence Baptistery?
The Baptistery of San Giovanni is octagonal in shape, which is unusual for a baptistery.
Is the Florence Baptistery still in use today?
Yes, the Baptistery of San Giovanni is still in use today and is still used for baptisms.
What are the famous features of the Florence Baptistery?
The Baptistery is known for its impressive architecture, intricate sculptures, stunning mosaics, and bronze doors, especially the Gates of Paradise by Lorenzo Ghiberti.
Is there a dress code for visiting the Florence Baptistery?
Yes, there is a dress code for visiting the Florence Baptistery. Visitors are required to dress modestly, ensuring that their shoulders and knees are covered. Revealing or provocative clothing is to be avoided. Additionally, appropriate footwear should be worn, and hats or head coverings are not allowed inside the Baptistery. Following these dress code guidelines is essential for entry into this historical site.
Is Florence Baptistery wheelchair accessible?
Yes, the Florence Baptistery is wheelchair accessible. The Baptistery has a ramp at the entrance to accommodate those with motor disabilities. Inside, there is a Touchable path available. Additionally, the Opera del Duomo Museum, which is associated with the Baptistery, is fully accessible and equipped with lifts that facilitate access to the three floors of the exhibition and the terrace. This ensures that visitors with mobility challenges can explore and enjoy these historical sites.
Why is the Florence Baptistery a must-visit?
The Baptistery of San Giovanni is a must-visit for those interested in Italian Renaissance art and architecture. It is considered one of the greatest masterpieces of the Renaissance and is an important example of the architectural style and artistic achievements of the period.
