About the Duomo
Florence Cathedral (Duomo di Firenze) is topped by Brunelleschi's revolutionary dome - the largest brick dome ever constructed. Built 1420-1436 without scaffolding using ingenious techniques, it remains an engineering wonder. The cathedral complex includes Giotto's Bell Tower and the Baptistery with Ghiberti's golden "Gates of Paradise." Pair this stop with the Florence guide and the wider Italy overview.
⏰ Hours
- Cathedral: Mon-Fri 10 AM - 5 PM (free)
- Dome climb: Mon-Fri 8:30 AM - 7 PM, Sat 8:30 AM - 5 PM
- Book ahead: Dome tickets sell out weeks in advance
💰 Costs
- Duomo Pass: €18 (cathedral, dome, baptistery, bell tower, museum)
- Dome only: €18 (most popular)
- Guided tour: €40-60 including skip access
✨ Highlights
- 🏛️ Dome climb: 463 steps to breathtaking views
- 🎨 Vasari frescoes: Last Judgment inside dome
- 🚪 Gates of Paradise: Ghiberti's bronze Baptistery doors
- 🎨 Duomo Museum: Original artwork including Michelangelo's Pietà
📝 Tips
- Book 2-4 weeks ahead on duomo.firenze.it
- Climb early: Morning is cooler, less crowded
- Not for claustrophobics: Narrow staircases between walls
- No elevator: All 463 steps by foot