Complete Florence Duomo Tour with Dome Climb and Secret Terraces
View this charming city from the hidden terraces of Brunelleschi’s dome after touring the cathedral
Looking for a VIP Duomo experience? How about gazing out over Florence from the top of its most famous building? This small group tour lets you skip the line and explore all corners of this incredible cathedral with an expert local guide, including secret terraces that were off-limits for centuries. You’ll also be treated to a true once-in-a-lifetime experience, as you climb the Duomo’s famous dome for a simply perfect view across Florence.
What You Get With This Tour
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Expert, English-speaking guide
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Skip-the-line Florence Duomo tickets
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Special access to Secret Terraces and Circular Room
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Dome climb to the Cupola
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Guide tips
Tour Itinerary
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1
Your tour begins at Piazza del Duomo
Meet your guide in Florence's main square, right in front of the massive cathedral with its rust-colored dome. Your skip-the-line tickets let you walk straight past the crowds and through the cathedral doors. -
2
Cathedral of Florence
Inside, white marble columns stretch toward the ceiling, where frescoes of the Last Judgement cover the dome above. Your guide shares the drama behind the cathedral's façade—a centuries-long saga involving the Medici family and feuding architects. -
3
Exclusive Circular Room and Secret Terraces
You'll access areas most visitors never see. First, the Circular Room where 16th-century statues are stored, then onto hidden terraces that were closed off for hundreds of years. From here, the Duomo's architectural details are right in front of you. -
4
Brunelleschi's Dome
Your guide explains how Filippo Brunelleschi built this nearly 500-foot-high dome without flying buttresses—those external supports you see on other European cathedrals. It's an engineering marvel that stumped architects for decades. -
5
Dome climb
As you climb the 463 steps, you'll pass close enough to touch the walls painted by Giorgio Vasari in the 1570s. The narrow passages wind upward between the dome's inner and outer shells. -
6
Your tour finishes at the top of the Cupola
At the summit, Florence spreads out below you in every direction—terracotta rooftops, the Arno River, and hills in the distance. Stay as long as you want to take it all in.
Additional Information
Good to know:
Accessibility: Unfortunately, this tour is not wheelchair accessible. This tour involves climbing very steep steps and is not recommended for people with mobility issues or severe vertigo.
Dress Code: Both men and women must cover their knees and shoulders for Duomo entry. Access to the Cupola/Terraces will be denied if you are wearing high heels, flip-flops, slippers, clogs, or similar footwear.
Weather Advisory: We run our Duomo tours rain or shine; in case of rain please be very careful while climbing to the Terrace.
Check-in: Arrive 15 minutes early for check-in at the meeting point so the group can depart on time.
Your 1.5-hour tour includes:
Expert English-speaking guide
Skip-the-Line Florence Duomo tickets
Special access to the Secret Terraces and Exclusive Circular Room
Dome climb to the top of the cupola
Maximum group size of 20
What to bring:
Comfortable walking shoes
Covering for knees and shoulders
Water
Camera
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Customer Reviews
Great work by Lisa our guide - clear and informed explanations of the buildings, history and views - well done and much appreciated
The stairs were narrow but manageable. Once at the top I forgot the effort and enjoyed the city view for a a while.
My tour was great and loved learning about different things about the duomo. The only thing is that it’s titled as plural Terraces and just did one. Cosimo was great and very friendly and interactive
Everything went smoothly thanks to Riccardo who managed the timing well. Entry felt easy and the group stayed comfortable.
Frequently Asked Questions
What to bring?
Some water and comfortable shoes! Since this is a religious site, you'll also need clothing that covers your shoulders and knees.
What to bring?
Some water and comfortable shoes! Since this is a religious site, you'll also need clothing that covers your shoulders and knees.
Is there a dress code to enter the religious sites on this tour?
We ask both men and women to cover their knees and shoulders, otherwise, the Duomo might refuse entry. We understand the summers in Florence can be hot, so a great alternative is to bring a shawl/scarf/sweater with you. That way you can cover your knees and shoulders when necessary. Access to the Cupola and the Terraces will be denied in case you wear high heels, flip-flops, slippers, clogs, or similar footwear.
What if I have concerns about my mobility?
This is a walking tour, and the steps to reach the top of the dome are very steep. We wouldn't recommend this tour for people with mobility issues or severe vertigo. If you have concerns about your mobility, consider a Private Florence Tour as this can be more easily tailored to your needs.
Is this tour run by The Tour Guy?
This tour is run by one of our trusted and vetted partners in Florence.
What happens if it rains?
We run our Duomo tours rain or shine. In case of rain please be very careful while climbing to the Terrace.
Is lunch included in the price of the tour?
No, lunch is not included in this tour.
Does this tour include hotel pickup?
No, hotel pickup is included on this tour. You’ll meet your guide at the designated meeting point in No, hotel pickup is included on this tour. You’ll meet your guide at the designated meeting point in Via Cavour 12, Florence.
