Florence: Cathedral & Brunelleschi’s Dome Ticket & Audio App

History

The Florence Cathedral (Cattedrale di Santa Maria del Fiore), begun in 1296 and completed in 1436, is a masterpiece of Gothic and Renaissance architecture, part of the UNESCO-listed Piazza del Duomo. Its crowning glory, Brunelleschi’s Dome, engineered by Filippo Brunelleschi, was a groundbreaking feat, remaining the largest masonry dome ever built. The adjacent Giotto’s Bell Tower, designed in 1334, and the Baptistery, with its 11th-century mosaics, reflect Florence’s medieval prosperity.

The Opera del Duomo Museum houses treasures like Michelangelo’s Pietà, while the Santa Reparata Crypt reveals the cathedral’s ancient foundations. These sites, central to Florence’s artistic and religious legacy, showcase the city’s pivotal role in the Renaissance, drawing millions to their architectural and historical splendor.

Highlights

• Climb Brunelleschi’s Dome for panoramic views of Florence with reserved entry.
• Explore the Cathedral, Baptistery, Giotto’s Bell Tower, and Opera del Duomo Museum.
• Admire Vasari and Zuccari’s Last Judgment frescoes inside the Dome.
• Use a multilingual audio app crafted by art historians for in-depth insights.
• Enjoy a 3-day pass for flexible exploration of the Florence Duomo Complex.

Full Description

Embark on a 3-day journey through Florence’s Duomo Complex with this comprehensive pass, offering reserved entry to Brunelleschi’s Dome and access to the Cathedral, Baptistery, Giotto’s Bell Tower, Opera del Duomo Museum, and Santa Reparata Crypt. Begin with the Dome’s 463-step climb (no elevator), marveling at Vasari and Zuccari’s Last Judgment frescoes and panoramic city views. A multilingual audio guide app, available in 15 languages, enriches your experience with expert commentary on the complex’s history and art.

Explore the Cathedral’s Gothic interior, the Baptistery’s mosaic-covered vault (under restoration), and the Crypt’s ancient ruins. The Opera del Duomo Museum showcases Renaissance artifacts, while Giotto’s Bell Tower offers another stunning viewpoint. The pass’s skip-the-line feature via express security check streamlines entry, though a 15–30-minute security wait may occur. Instructions for the audio app are sent via WhatsApp 24 hours prior, ensuring a seamless, self-guided tour.

With flexibility to visit non-Dome sites within 72 hours, this pass is ideal for savoring Florence’s cultural landmarks at your own pace. Note that the Baptistery’s restoration and the Bell Tower’s closure (November 10–14, 2025) may affect access, but the pass remains a gateway to Florence’s Renaissance legacy.

Why Choose This Attraction?

This 3-day pass offers unparalleled access to Florence’s UNESCO-listed Duomo Complex, perfect for art and history enthusiasts eager to explore Brunelleschi’s Dome and other iconic sites. The skip-the-line feature and audio app, crafted by art historians, save time and provide rich context, making the experience both convenient and immersive.

Despite occasional app issues, the pass’s flexibility, wheelchair accessibility (except the Dome and Bell Tower), and free cancellation up to 24 hours in advance ensure a tailored, inclusive visit. The breathtaking views and historical depth make this a must-do in Florence.

What’s Included

• Reserved entrance ticket to Brunelleschi’s Dome.
• 3-day pass to the Florence Duomo Complex (Cathedral, Baptistery, Giotto’s Bell Tower, Opera del Duomo Museum, Santa Reparata Crypt).
• Multilingual audio guide app (English, French, Italian, Spanish, German, Russian, Chinese, Japanese, Dutch, Korean, Polish, Portuguese, Turkish, Greek, Croatian).
• On-site assistance by local staff (at Porta della Mandorla).
• Booking fee.

Pricing

From $69 per person

Meeting Point

Arrive 15 minutes before your reserved Dome entry time at Porta della Mandorla (Almond Door), Piazza del Duomo 15r, opposite the Lindt chocolate shop. Look for staff in a bright yellow jacket with the activity provider’s name. [Open in Google Maps]

How to Get There

• By train: From Florence’s Santa Maria Novella station, the Duomo is a 10-minute walk through the historic center.
• By bus: Bus lines C1 or C2 stop at Via Panzani, a 5-minute walk to Piazza del Duomo.
• By car: Park at Parcheggio Sant’Ambrogio, a 10-minute walk to the meeting point.
• On foot: From Piazza della Signoria, the Duomo is a 5-minute walk via Via dei Calzaiuoli.

Good to Know

What to Bring

• Passport or ID card for entry verification.
• Headphones for the audio guide app.
• Smartphone with the downloaded audio app and internet access.

Know Before You Go

• Free cancellation up to 24 hours in advance for a full refund.
• The 3-day pass starts on the booked Dome climb date; other sites can be visited within 72 hours.
• Audio app instructions are sent via WhatsApp 24 hours prior; download the app in advance.
• Security checks may take 15–30 minutes during peak times.
• No bags or backpacks are allowed; use the free luggage storage at Piazza del Duomo.
• The Dome’s 463 steps and Bell Tower are not accessible for motor disabilities; other sites are wheelchair accessible.
• Shoulders and knees must be covered for the Cathedral, Baptistery, and Crypt.
• The Baptistery closes at 2:00 PM on the first Sunday of each month; the Bell Tower is closed November 10–14, 2025.
• The Cathedral and Crypt are closed on Sundays and for unannounced liturgical reasons.
• The Opera del Duomo Museum is closed the first Tuesday of each month.

Reviews

• It was easy to find a provider and get tickets. We were able to see everything we wanted!
• The check-in experience was simple and straightforward. The app did not work, so that was really disappointing.
• Fabulous – easy to find the rep and to download the audio. Fascinating building and the view from the cupola is breathtaking (according to my husband and son – it’s 460 steps up and heights aren’t for everybody!).