Florence: Exclusive First Access to Cathedral and Dome
At a glance
Florence: Exclusive First Access to Cathedral and Dome is a 2h small-group experience in Florence, Italy, operated by Towns of Italy. Travellers rate it 4.8 out of 5 across 71 reviews on Viator and Tripadvisor. Prices start from $164.52 per person, and free cancellation is available. Included: Exclusive access: VIP small group tour of the Cathedral and Brunelleschi's Dome, Amazing with the first light of day and relish the coolness of the early morning hours at dawn, Private English-speaking guide.
Highlights
- Small group of up to 19 people for a more personal experience
- Free cancellation for flexible planning
Quick facts
- Duration
- 2h
- Group
- Small group, up to 19 travellers
- Languages
- English
- Pickup
- Meet at the start point
- Confirmation
- Instant confirmation
- Ticket
- Mobile or paper ticket accepted
- Cancellation
- Free cancellation (see policy)
Overview
No visitor would renounce visiting the Florence Cathedral, rooftop or Baptistery. But… have you ever wondered what these amazing monuments look like at daybreak, quiet and still before crowds of people start entering?
Imagine meeting the person who opens the Duomo’s impressive door, or the Baptistery’s gleaming “Gates of Paradise”, walking inside before anybody else, and seeing the lights go on.
Now you can, thanks to this novel, spectacular, and exclusive early morning Tour, a unique small group tour crafted to offer a privileged viewpoint on the Duomo and Baptistery. Admire these two exceptional landmarks when they wake up, see the doors open for your eyes only and watch the lights go on!
What's included
What's included
- Exclusive access: VIP small group tour of the Cathedral and Brunelleschi's Dome
- Amazing with the first light of day and relish the coolness of the early morning hours at dawn
- Private English-speaking guide
- Climb on top of Brunelleschi’s dome
- Be the one to open the doors, at daybreak, be the only one inside!
Not included
- Hotel Pick up
- Gratuities
Itinerary
-
Stop 1 · 30m
meet the “chiavigero”, the person in charge of opening this jewel case of artistic magnificence. The moment the key turns in the lock, and the doors open, you will start perceiving the interior, still dim and silent. Get ready to be surprised: the next thing the key bearer will do is turn on the lights, firstly those that reveal the amazing frescoed vault. Watch the light slowly illuminate the 3600 square meter masterpiece painted by Vasari and Zuccari. Admire the elaborate, vibrant “Last Judgement” fresco, watch the elders of the Apocalypse, the angels, and the saints come to life before your eyes.
Follow your guide, and gaze at the Duomo’s dazzling clock: painted by Paolo Uccello, it tells time from sunset to sunrise! Listen to its uncanny history and then discover the rest of this beautiful church.
At the end of the visit, time to treat yourself to a tasty Italian breakfast: join the locals at the bar of a historical café and enjoy a delicious espresso, cappuccino, and brioche! -
Stop 2 · 1h
Crown your tour with a memorable viewing of Brunelleschi’s cupola. Access the Duomo again from a privileged entrance, the Porta Canonici open solely for your party, and climb up to the world’s most famous dome. Once on top, relish the extraordinary cityscape, and appreciate learning about Brunelleschi’s talent, the people he worked with, and how he built the cupola. Meantime, enjoy watching Florence, and Florentines, from high above.
Meeting point
Meet Towns of Italy tour leader in front of the main entrance of Florence Cathedral
Good to know
- Public transportation options are available nearby
- Not recommended for travelers with spinal injuries
- Not recommended for travelers with poor cardiovascular health
- Suitable for all physical fitness levels
- We regret to inform that this tour is not suitable for guests with wheelchairs or with impaired mobility
- A dress code is required to enter places of worship and selected museums. No shorts or sleeveless tops allowed. Knees and shoulders MUST be covered for both men and women. You may risk refused entry if you fail to comply with these dress requirements.
- Comfortable shoes suggested
- Please note the number of steps to reach the top of each monument: Terraces: 153 Terraces + Brunelleschi's Dome: 153 + 310
- Due to the security checks, please be informed that for the entrance to the Dome and Terraces, bulky backpacks and bags are not allowed to climb.
- We are sorry to inform you that pets are not permitted on our tours
- Operates in all weather conditions
Cancellation policy
For a full refund, cancel at least 24 hours before the scheduled departure time.
Frequently asked questions
How long does the Florence: Exclusive First Access to Cathedral and Dome take?
The experience lasts about 2h.
How much does it cost?
Prices start from $164.52 per person. The final price depends on the date, time and number of travellers, and is confirmed on Viator before you pay.
What's included?
Exclusive access: VIP small group tour of the Cathedral and Brunelleschi's Dome; Amazing with the first light of day and relish the coolness of the early morning hours at dawn; Private English-speaking guide; Climb on top of Brunelleschi’s dome; Be the one to open the doors, at daybreak, be the only one inside!.
Where does it start?
Meet Towns of Italy tour leader in front of the main entrance of Florence Cathedral
Can I cancel?
For a full refund, cancel at least 24 hours before the scheduled departure time.
Which languages is it offered in?
It is guided in English.
Is it worth it?
Travellers rate it 4.8 out of 5 across 71 reviews on Viator and Tripadvisor, which places it among the top-rated experiences in Florence.
