Baptistery: Tickets and Tours

The octagonal Baptistery of San Giovanni — most commonly referred to as just “Baptistery” — is one of the most unique buildings in Florence. Named after St. John, the baptistery is almost 900 years old and is embellished with opulent mosaics and marble.

By purchasing Baptistery tickets, you can explore these artworks for yourself and discover the history of the patron saint of Florence.

Up next, you can read more know about visiting the Baptistery, one of the most impressive and historical attractions in Florence.

How much do Baptistery tickets cost?

It is not possible to buy tickets for the baptistery itself. Instead, there are three different passes that you can purchase, which cover several monuments within the Santa Maria del Fiore complex, including the baptistery.

Brunelleschi pass

This pass allows access to the baptistery, Brunelleschi’s Dome, Giotto’s Bell Tower, the museum and Santa Reparata church.

• Adults: €30
• Children (aged 7-14): €12
• Children under 7: Free

Giotto pass

With the Giotto pass, you can visit the baptistery, Giotto’s Bell Tower, the museum and Santa Reparata church.

• Adults: €20
• Children (aged 7-14): €7
• Children under 7: €0

Ghiberti pass

The Ghiberti pass covers the baptistery, museum and Santa Reparata church.

• Adults: €15
• Children (aged 7-14): €5
• Children under 7: Free

All Baptistery tickets are valid for three calendar days from the point of purchase.

What are the most popular Baptistery tours?

Baptistery, cathedral, Duomo museum and bell tower tour

This tour takes you on a whirlwind discovery of Florence's religious past. You'll start in the Duomo which is widely regarded as one of the most important buildings in the city.

From there, you'll travel to the grand, marble baptistery which houses the most intricate mosaic in Florence. Moving on to the Duomo museum, you'll see an abundance of artworks by Donatello, before climbing the bell tower for a remarkable view over the city.

Florence Cathedral and Baptistery guided tour

If you have less time to spare, you may choose to take a tour of the two main churches in Florence instead. On some tours of the cathedral and the baptistery, you'll have the opportunity to climb the dome and see the "birthplace of the Renaissance" in all its splendor.

Your guide will point out artworks, sculptures and frescoes that you may miss alone, and inform you of the history that surrounds them.

Are there any Baptistery combo tickets or tours that include other attractions?

Baptistery tickets and tours always include other religious monuments, such as Duomo and the Giotto’s Bell Tower. You can save money and time by participating in a combined tour.

●    Baptistery, cathedral, Duomo Museum and bell tower tour: Visit the four most symbolic sites in Florence and explore the deep and meaningful history behind each landmark.

●    Florence Cathedral and Baptistery of San Giovanni guided tour: If you have less time to spare, the cathedral and the baptistery are the must-visit destinations for all who travel to the city.

Why should I book Baptistery tickets in advance?

The Baptistery of San Giovanni is one of the most iconic sites in Florence. The religious building is constantly busy and you should purchase Baptistery tickets online in advance to secure a dedicated time slot.

Is visiting the Baptistery worth it?

The Baptistery of San Giovanni is one of the oldest buildings in Florence. Constructed in the 11th and 12th centuries, the baptistery is a fine example of Romanesque architecture.

Evidence of the ancient Romans has been incorporated into the design of the baptistery, including inscriptions that originate from Florentia — the historic city from which Florence was born. The site itself is thought to have been built upon an ancient temple dedicated to Mars — the Roman god of war.

You don't need to enter the Baptistery of San Giovanni to witness its grandeur. Its entrance doors are made of bronze and portray many key moments in religious history through detailed carvings.

Stepping inside the baptistery, the most striking sight is the intricate mosaic that adorns its ceiling and depicts several scenes from the Bible. These include the “Last Judgement” and the stories of John the Baptist. The opulent gold mosaics were completed by many artists over the 13th and 14th centuries, including Coppo di Marcovaldo.

A mosaic of Jesus is the focal point of this gigantic artwork. He is depicted sitting down with the marks of his crucifixion present on his palms and feet.

There is something to see everywhere you look inside the baptistery from the high mosaicked ceilings to the zodiac-decorated marble floor.

Where is the Baptistery in Florence?

The baptistery is located in the center of the city and is easily reachable on foot from most destinations in the heart of Florence.

Alternatively, you can take the Line C2 or C4 bus, both of which travel from Stazione Orti Oricellari. The journey takes four minutes and you'll depart at Stazione Via Panzani, followed by a four-minute walk.

When is the best time to visit the Baptistery?

The Baptistery of San Giovanni opens at 8:15 AM which is the best time to visit if you wish to avoid hoards of tourists. The site closes at 10:15 AM and reopens an hour later, finally closing for the day at 6:30 PM. If you're unable to reach the baptistery early, try heading there in the late afternoon instead.

Which other attractions can be visited in Florence?

• Palazzo Vecchio
• Duomo
• San Lorenzo
• Pitti Palace
• Duomo’s Dome
• Boboli Gardens
• Santa Maria Novella
• Santa Croce
• Signoria Square

Travel tips

• The baptistery is closed on the first Tuesday of every month.
• Wear modest clothing when visiting the baptistery. Those with bare shoulders or legs will not be granted access. Sandals and hats are also prohibited.
• Once you've purchased Baptistery tickets, you'll have three days to visit the sites included in your pass. Take your time touring each landmark as there is a lot to be seen.