Frequently Asked Questions
Is it true that the Florence Cathedral is free?
Yes, entry to the main floor of the Cathedral (the Duomo) is free. However, the queue is often the longest in Florence, with waiting times of 2 or more hours in the sun. Furthermore, a free entry does NOT include the Dome climb, the Bell Tower, the Baptistery, or the Museum. To see the famous parts of the Duomo, you must purchase a complete pass or a guided tour of the Cathedral.
Does my ticket include the Dome climb?
Brunelleschi Pass is the only one that includes the step climb to the top of the Dome.
This “All-Access” ticket allows you to independently visit the monuments in the complex within the 3-day validity period (validity starts at midnight on the day selected during the purchase).
Do I need to book a specific time for the Dome climb?
Yes. Unlike the other monuments, the Brunelleschi Dome climb requires a mandatory timed reservation. These slots are strictly limited for safety and often sell out 2–3 weeks in advance. If you arrive in Florence without a pre-booked Dome reservation, you will likely only be able to see it from the ground. Always book early to secure your climb.
Which is better: Climbing the Dome or the Bell Tower?
Climb the Dome if you want to see the famous Last Judgment frescoes up close and stand on the highest point in the city.
Climb Giotto’s Bell Tower if you want the best photos OF the Dome itself. Pro Tip: The Dome climb is narrower and more claustrophobic; the Bell Tower climb has several “breathing room” levels on the way up.
The Brunelleschi Pass allows you to do both!
What is the dress code for the Duomo?
The Duomo is an active place of worship. You will be denied entry—even with a paid ticket—if you do not follow the dress code: Shoulders and knees must be covered. No tank tops, no short skirts, and no hats. We recommend carrying a light scarf in your bag to quickly cover up before you reach the front of the line.
Duomo Complex
The main attraction at the Duomo Complex is the Cathedral of Santa Maria del Fiore. However, the complex also includes more monuments, which you can visit with the Brunelleschi Pass.
The Brunelleschi’s Dome, the Giotto’s Bell Tower, the Baptistry of San Giovanni, the Opera del Duomo Museum and the Crypt of Santa Reparata complete the complex.
The Cattedrale di Santa Maria del Fiore, better known as the Duomo, is a symbol of Renaissance genius and Florentine pride. Its exterior is faced with brilliant polychrome marble panels in shades of green, pink, and white. The 19th-century Gothic façade by De Fabris complements the 13th-century building.
Find out why the Duomo complex is on the UNESCO World Heritage List with the Cathedral Guided Tour ticket.
In 1418, Filippo Brunelleschi was the winner to be the superintendent of the cupola project. The self-supporting-technique revolutionized Renaissance architecture and engineering and eliminated centering.
The dome is also composed of two concentric shells, an inner shell visible from the interior and a lighter, external shell that provides protection and the finished profile. The space between the two shells contains the stairway leading to the top.
Get your Florence Duomo Ticket to have access to a reserved area of the dome, typically closed to the general public.
The Baptistery of San Giovanni stands directly in front of the Duomo, and is Florence’s oldest religious monument that acted as the city’s Cathedral in the 11th century. This captivating octagonal building is a characteristic example of the Tuscan Romanesque style.
The Baptistery is globally famous for its three magnificent bronze doors, sculpted by Lorenzo Ghiberti. Michelangelo was so struck by its beauty and gilded detail that he famously dubbed it the “Gates of Paradise” (Porta del Paradiso).
Get your Florence Cathedral & Baptistery Guided Tour Ticket to get to know all the details of this artistic heritage of one of the world’s lauded religious areas.
Beneath the towering Duomo lies the fascinating Crypt of Santa Reparata. This archaeological site offers a unique opportunity to walk through the foundations of the city’s religious history. The ancient church was eventually covered by the massive construction of the current Florence Cathedral. Named for Santa Reparata as an early virgin martyr and co-patron saint of Florence.
Get here your Premium Skip the Line Ticket to visit the Crypt.
Piazza del Duomo, 50122 Firenze Florence, Italy
Cathedral
From Monday to Saturday 10:15 am – 3:45 pm
Sundays & Religious Celebrations closed, due to worship
Dome
From Monday to Friday 8:15 am – 6:45 pm
Saturday 8:15 am – 4:30 pm
Sunday & Public Holidays 12:45 pm – 4:30 pm
Baptistery
Open every day 8:30 am – 7:30 pm
Museum
Open every day 8:30 am – 7:00 pm
Closed every first Tuesday of the month
Bell Tower
Open every day 8:15 am – 6:45 pm
*The Bell Tower will be closed for maintenance from November 9 to 13, 2026
Santa Reparata
From Monday to Saturday 10:15 am – 4:00 pm
Sunday & Religious Celebrations 1:30 pm – 4:00 pm
Please note that the cancellation policy depends on the ticket selected. When you buy the Premium Skip The Line Ticket Brunelleschi Dome & Cathedral rescheduling or cancellation is not possible. However, when you opt for the Cathedral & Baptistery Guided Tour + Audio Guide or the Cathedral: Guided Tour the cancellation is for free until 24 hours before you visit.
In any case, we recommend arriving at the entrance at least 15 minutes before your scheduled slot.
The Cathedral is wheelchair accessible, however, the Dome is only accessible by stairs, no lift available.