About this experience
Visit the Santa Croce Bascilica, the principal Franciscan church in Florence. Learn about the life of Michelangelo and see the burial places of Michelangelo, Machiavelli, Galileo Galilee, and more.
Highlights
- Visit the temple of the Italian Glories
- See the burial place of several Florentine and Italian masters
- Find frescoes by Giotto and a chapel designed by Brunelleschi
- Admire the works by Donatello and the monument dedicated to Dante
What's included
- Certified guide
- Radio system to hear the guide clearly
- Entrance tickets with reservations
- Wine tasting and appetizers (if option selected)
How to use
- Show Mobile Ticket
- At Redemption Counter
What to expect
Start the tour in the main square, where the famous soccer game played in medieval costumes, the Calcio Storico Florentino takes place every year in June. Your guide will describe in detail all the immense artistic wealth in Santa Croce; frescoes (1380) by Gaddi in the Cappella Maggiore tell the story of "Santa Croce", and beautiful frescoes by Giotto in the Bardi and Peruzzi Chapels show scenes from the life of St. Francis and St. John the Evangelist.
On your way to the left of the entrance, see the memorial of the 19th-century playwright Giovanni Battista Niccolini built as an inspiration for the Statue of Liberty. As you walk through the hallowed walls, learn about the art of Donatello and his crucifix, one of the jewels of the Renaissance, as well as the art of Brunelleschi and the perfect architectural harmony of his Chapel of Fools.
See the monumental cemetery and damaged paintings that were destroyed in the tragic flood of 1966 and have been subsequently restored. After visiting the interior, learn about the exterior which is covered with a polychrome marble façade. Finally, the guide will tour you around the Bell Tower, the Crypt, and the 16 chapels. The tour takes about an hour, and you will have the opportunity to return to anything you might want to see again after the tour ends.
Enhance your experience by upgrading to a wine-tasting option. Join a wine expert to taste different Tuscan wines while enjoying a platter of Tuscan appetizers.
Things to note
- Comfortable shoes
- Passport or ID card
Terms & conditions
Shorts or sleeveless tops are strictly forbidden. Knees and shoulders must be completely covered for both men and women. If you are refused entry due to inappropriate clothing, your tour will not be rescheduled or refunded.
This tour operates in all weather conditions.
Wheelchair and stroller accessible.