Florence: Attraction Tickets and Tours

Explore the many fantastic attractions in Florence, one of the most breathtaking and historic cities in the world Packed with incredible art and architecture, the city is visually stunning, and there is a wide variety of things to see and do.

Regardless of whether you're a believer yourself, you'll appreciate the complex architecture and precise artworks of the city's religious monuments, including Brunelleschi's Dome.

You can also learn about the history of Florence by exploring the landmarks associated with the powerful Medici family.

Duomo

One of the most recognizable landmarks in the city, the Duomo Cathedral sits in the heart of Florence. Also known by its full name — the Basilica of Santa Maria del Fiore — Duomo is one of the largest churches in the world. The building is constructed of marble and brick, and was consecrated in 1436.

The church took 140 years to build and was redesigned several times, by a collection of architects, before finalizing the neo-Gothic facade that exists today. When visiting Duomo, you can wander its colossal interior and learn about the rich culture and religion in Florence.

Duomo's Dome

Some will find it hard to believe that Duomo's Dome was created by someone with no formal architectural experience. After winning a competition to finish the neglected Duomo in 1418, Brunelleschi designed and executed the colossal dome in 16 short years.

If you're searching for a place to visit in Florence, look no further. A journey up the dome allows you to see Vasari's magnificent "Last Judgment" fresco up close. Once you reach the viewing platform on top of the dome, you'll be blessed with sweeping views of Florence and the rolling Tuscan hills beyond.

Palazzo Vecchio

Palazzo Vecchio is the Florence city hall, which sits a stone's throw from the iconic Duomo. Originally constructed in the 13th century, the landmark was redesigned in the 15th century by Filippo Brunelleschi — the architect of Duomo's Dome.

Today, Palazzo Vecchio houses a museum with a collection of Renaissance art and artifacts, which visitors can take a tour of. Those who travel to Palazzo Vecchio can also witness the remains of the ancient Roman site, which the city hall was built upon. Palazzo Vecchio is crowned by its grave medieval tower, which served as a prison for Cosimo de' Medici.

Pitti Palace

Pitti Palace was originally commissioned by Luca Pitti — a successful banker, who was consequently one of the wealthiest men in Florence. Over the years, it fell into the hands of the renowned Medici family and served as the home of Cosimo de' Medici, and his wife Eleonora.

Situated on the south side of the River Arno, the palace has been transformed into four museums. Those who buy tickets to enter the building can view the Medici family's personal collection of paintings or see the evolution of Florentine fashion. There are many other sights to behold, including the Palatine Chapel Gallery.

Boboli Gardens

If you're looking for grand, manicured gardens filled with historic monuments, you can't miss seeing Boboli Gardens. While its flowers are impressive, its many fountains, statues and grottoes are the reason why thousands of visitors flock to the green haven every year.

Located directly behind Pitti Palace, the garden's main attraction is its artificial grotto created by Buontalenti and decorated with unusual sculptures, which resemble stalactites. Other sights to see as you stroll the grounds include the “Fountain of Neptune” and the “Lemon House.”

Baptistery

One of the oldest buildings in the city, the Baptistery of San Giovanni is noted for its octagonal shape and grand sets of bronze doors. The baptistery sits directly in front of Duomo and was completed in 1128.

The exterior of the building is covered in intricate marble carvings, depicting scenes from the life of St. John the Baptist. Inside, the baptistery is equally impressive, with a soaring ceiling and exquisite stained glass windows.

Visitors can also see the font where baptisms were once conducted. Despite being a solemn place of worship, the baptistery is one of the main attractions in Florence.

Santa Croce

Nestled in the heart of Florence, Santa Croce is home to a wealth of historical and cultural treasures. The Gothic landmark is the largest Franciscan church in the world and its interior is adorned with extraordinary frescoes by Giotto, among other artists.

Santa Croce contains a wealth of artworks from the Renaissance period, including statues by Donatello. Visitors can take a tour to explore the tombs of some of Italy's most famous figures, such as Michelangelo, Machiavelli and Galilei.

Santa Maria Novella

Like many other churches in Florence, Santa Maria Novella is brimming with intricate frescoes and detailed carvings. The landmark sits in the main district of the city and features work by Lippi, and Vasari, as well as several other artists.

The church was founded by the Dominican order of the Catholic church in the 13th century and became a hub for art and religion. Alongside the main basilica, visitors can step into the Spanish Chapel, which is a former chapter house. The chapel is adorned in vibrant frescoes including those of St. Dominic and Jesus Christ.

Signoria Square

Signoria Square is home to a number of remarkable monuments and attractions in Florence. One of the most notable buildings on the L-shaped square is the Palazzo Vecchio — the city hall. Visitors can also step inside the Uffizi Gallery, which was designed by Vasari. The gallery showcases masterpieces by Botticelli, Raffaello and Michelangelo to name a few.

The Loggia Della Signoria and Palazzo Uguccioni also sit on the square. Over the years, Signoria Square has hosted several significant historical events, including the burning of Girolamo Savonarola at the stake in 1498.

San Lorenzo

The Basilica of San Lorenzo was consecrated in 393, making it one of the oldest churches in Florence. For many years, it was the official cathedral of the city, and later, the church of the Medici family.

San Lorenzo's "Medici Chapel" now houses the remains of almost 50 members of the influential family. It is among the best places to visit to dive deeper into the Medici family tree.

As well as being the burial ground of Florence's elite, the basilica is the dwelling of a number of important works of art, including sculptures by Donatello.