Exclusive Florence Duomo and Secret Terraces Tour

Discover Florence's Duomo with our small group, skip the line tour with hidden terrace access

Travel Flexibly 5 / 5 See All 1 Reviews · 1.50h · Florence, Italy

Looking to explore the Duomo and visit the terraces but worry about waiting in long lines and missing out on tickets? On this skip the line tour you'll join a passionate guide who will delve deep into the history and architecture of this iconic monument. Your tour of the Florence Cathedral will be topped off with a visit to the restricted North and South Terraces. Only organized groups are given access to this area of the Duomo, so don't miss out on this once-in-a-lifetime experience!

  • Meeting point at Museo del Duomo
  • Piazza del Duomo
  • Florence Duomo
  • The Last Judgement
  • North Terrace
  • South Terrace
  • Giotto's Bell Tower
  • End in Piazza del Duomo

Your adventure begins in front of the Museo dell’Opera del Duomo, where you’ll find your expert guide, along with your small group of fellow travel-lovers. After admiring the Cathedral’s intricate facade, enjoy a quick and seamless entry into the Florence Duomo with your skip-the-line tickets.

Once inside, your knowledgeable guide will explain the fascinating history and architecture of Florence’s most iconic landmark. Admire the spectacular stained glass windows, marble details, and breathtaking frescoes that adorn the Duomo’s interior. As you marvel at the stunning artwork throughout the Cathedral, your guide will provide captivating details about the artists behind each masterpiece.

Finally, follow your passionate guide up to the Duomo’s North and South Terraces, an area that is not typically open to the public. Gaze out at a magnificent view of Florence as your guide continues to explain more about the Duomo’s impressive architecture.

Following your memorable tour, you’re free to continue exploring the historic Piazza del Duomo on your own!

Florence Cathedral and Terraces Small Group Tour Description

Your 1.5-hour tour includes:

  • Professional, local guide

  • Skip-the-line entry tickets to the Duomo and Terraces

  • Guided visit through the ornate Florence Cathedral

  • Visit both the exclusive North and South Terraces

  • Learn about the architecture and history of the Florence Duomo

  • Small group of 19 participants max

Meet Your Passionate Guide

Your enchanting journey through the ornate Florence Cathedral begins in front of the Museo del Duomo. Located in the heart of the lively Piazza del Duomo, marvel at the gothic Cathedral’s intricate facade before meeting your expert guide and intimate group of fellow travelers. Your tour only allows for 19 participants at most, so you’ll enjoy a very personalized experience with plenty of time to chat with your knowledgeable guide.

Marvel at the Duomo’s Interior

Follow your guide through the Duomo’s main entrance as you breeze through the long queue with your skip-the-line priority tickets. Once inside, gaze in amazement at the captivating, stained glass windows and awe-inspiring frescoes that line the walls of the Duomo’s interior. As you explore the Florence Cathedral, your enthusiastic guide will share more details about its rich history and impressive architecture.

Throughout your tour, your knowledgeable guide will lead you to many stunning artworks, with the most prominent being Giorgio Vasari’s The Last Judgement. The immaculate fresco covers the cupola’s entire ceiling and is the Duomo’s most iconic painting.

Entrance into any religious site requires a strict dress code. Knees and shoulders MUST be covered for both men and women. The company will not be held responsible for refused entry due to unsuitable dress.

Learn about Florence Cathedral's Rich History

Florence Cathedral, formally known as the Cattedrale di Santa Maria del Fiore, is a masterpiece of Italian Gothic architecture. Construction began in 1296 under the design of Arnolfo di Cambio and was completed in 1436 with the dome engineered by Filippo Brunelleschi. The cathedral's construction was a testament to the wealth and power of Florence during the Renaissance period. Its grandeur and architectural innovations continue to inspire awe and admiration to this day.

Take in the View from the Duomo’s Terraces

After an immersive tour of the Duomo’s magnificent interior, it’s time to admire the Florence Cathedral from a new vantage point. With your passionate guide leading the way, climb up the Duomo’s narrow staircase as you make your way to the jaw-dropping Duomo Terraces! Normally closed to the public, you’ll enjoy exclusive access to both the North and South Terraces.

Take in the mesmerizing views of Florence’s cityscape from each terrace while your thoughtful guide continues to share fascinating details about the Duomo’s rich history.

Once you’re finished admiring a birds-eye-view of the city, your guide will walk you back outside where you’re free to continue exploring with your included Giotto Pass, which provides access to the entire Duomo Complex in Florence, including the Cathedral, Baptistery, Giotto's Bell Tower, the Opera del Duomo Museum, and the archaeological site beneath the cathedral.

What you get with this tour
Passionate English-speaking guide
Skip the line Duomo tickets
Skip the line Terraces tickets
Florence Cathedral
Exclusive North and South Terrace access
Group size of 19
Tour guide gratuities
Hotel pick up
Wheelchair accessible
Tripadvisor Logo

See what people are saying

1 total reviews

Leave a review
5.0/5 (based on 1 reviews)
5 stars
4 stars
3 stars
2 stars
1 stars
08 May 2024
C
Reviewed by
Claire Bowerman

Marco was a wonderful guide, knowledgeable and entertaining. A very informative tour of the duomo followed by a very exciting walk along the terraces above. Strongly recommend.

Frequently Asked Questions

What to bring?

We suggest wearing comfortable shoes and clothes.

What to bring?

We suggest wearing comfortable shoes and clothes.

Is this tour run by The Tour Guy?

Yes, this tour is run by The Tour Guy.

What if I have concerns about my mobility on this tour?

Unfortunately, due to terrace access, this tour is not suitable for guests with disabilities, claustrophobia, heart diseases, or those who suffer from vertigo. This tour is also not suitable for pregnant woman.

What happens if it rains?

Not to worry, we run our Florence Cathedral tours rain or shine! If it is raining while on the Terrace, please pay extra attention as the ground may become slippery when wet.

Is there a dress code to enter the religious sites on this tour?

We ask both men and women to cover knees and shoulders, otherwise the Florence Cathedral will 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.

How comprehensive is this tour?

This is a very comprehensive tour of the Florence Cathedral and both of the Terraces, though this visit does not include entry to the Cathedral’s Dome. However, you will get to experience all the most important elements of the Cathedral and Terraces.

Does the Duomo ever experience sudden closures? 

While the Florence Duomo typically does not experience sudden closures, unforeseen events may occasionally arise. In such cases, we will promptly inform you and offer alternative dates or provide a refund.

Can I bring my kids?

Yes, children of all ages are welcome on this tour. Please keep in mind, minors must be accompanied by parents at all times for safety reasons.

Does this tour include hotel pickup?

No hotel pickup is included on this tour. You’ll meet your guide at the designated meeting point, just outside of the Museo del Duomo.

Where does this tour end?

This tour ends outside the Florence Cathedral. You’re welcome to stay as long as you’d like and explore more of the Piazza del Duomo.

Start From: $102.60

available days discounted days

Free 24-hr cancellation on group tours! Learn more

Reserve Now $102.60 / per person
$102.60 / per person
You may also like
Skip the Line

Skip the Line

Florence in a Day Combo Tour with David and Uffizi

Explore Accademia Gallery, Ponte Vecchio, Florence Duomo, Uffizi Gallery, and so much more

Skip the Line

Skip the Line

Florence Walking Tour with Statue of David

Uncover the best of Florence at the Duomo and Ponte Vecchio, and skip the line at Accademia

Florence Duomo Skip-the-Line Tour with Dome Climb

Florence Duomo Skip-the-Line Tour with Dome Climb

Explore the breathtaking cathedral and take in captivating views from Brunelleschi’s Cupola!

Skip the Line

Skip the Line

Statue of David Evening Tour

Skip the line to see Michelangelo's David on a later tour of the Accademia Gallery with fewer crowds

Day Trip

Day Trip

Tuscany Wine Tour from Florence to Siena & Chianti

Enjoy a luxury Tuscany day trip to visit Siena and San Gimignano then taste food and wine in Chianti

Guided Tour

Guided Tour

Florence Local Food Tour in Santo Spirito

Get an authentic taste of Florence’s exquisite food and wine in a lively local neighborhood

Skip the Line

Skip the Line

Skip the Line Uffizi Gallery Tour

See Botticelli, Caravaggio, and Michelangelo's masterpieces in Florence's famous Uffizi Gallery

New Tour

New Tour

Florence Duomo Skip-the-Line Tour

Explore the iconic cathedral with an expert guide and visit the fascinating Misericordia Museum

Skip the Line

Skip the Line

Complete Florence Duomo Tour with Dome Climb

View this charming city from the terraces of Brunelleschi’s famous dome after touring the cathedral

New Tour

New Tour

Cinque Terre Day Trip from Florence with Boat Ride

Visit these iconic fishing villages the easy way on this tour to the beautiful Italian Riviera

New tour

New tour

Pisa and The Leaning Tower Half Day Tour from Florence

Explore the City famous for its Piazza dei Miracoli and enjoy skip-the-line access with this tour

New Tour

New Tour

Florence Accademia Gallery Express Guided Tour

Skip the line, marvel at renowned masterpieces and see Michelangelo’s iconic David statue!

Skip the Line

Skip the Line

Florence Private Walking Tour with Michelangelo's David

Explore the famous sites of Florence, with Ponte Vecchio, Duomo, and skip-the-line Accademia entry

New Tour

New Tour

Skip the Line Duomo Terraces Tour with Dome Climb

Admire the Florence Cathedral, climb to the top of Brunelleschi’s Dome, and enjoy breathtaking views

New Tour

New Tour

Tuscany Wine Tour by Vespa from Florence

Taste the food and wine of Chianti as you ride through the Tuscan countryside on a vintage scooter

Skip the Line

Skip the Line

Private Siena Walking Tour

Explore this charming Tuscan city with an engaging local guide to see the Duomo, San Domenico & more

Skip the Line

Skip the Line

Uffizi Private Tour in Florence

Skip the line to see Birth of Venus, Medusa, Doni Tondo, and more with your own private art guide

Pisa & Cinque Terre Day Trip From Florence

Pisa & Cinque Terre Day Trip From Florence

Explore the charming towns of Monterosso and Manarola, embark on a coastal hike, and tour Pisa

New Tour

New Tour

Florence in a Half Day by Bike Tour

Take a ride through the city's hidden gems from Ponte Vecchio to the Oltrarno neighborhood

Vintage FIAT 500 Tour from Florence​

Vintage FIAT 500 Tour from Florence​

Vintage FIAT 500 Self-Drive Tuscany Tour from Florence

Get behind the wheel of an iconic Italian car, cruising to the Tuscan countryside

New Tour

New Tour

Pisa and Lucca Day Trip from Florence

Book a stress-free trip to see the Leaning Tower of Pisa and Lucca's medieval walls in a day

New Tour

New Tour

Oltrarno Local Food Tour in Florence

Take a break from the crowds and eat like a local in the lively neighborhood of Oltrarno

New Tour

New Tour

Chianti Vineyards Tour and Wine Tastings from Florence

See two luxurious wine estates, taste local wine, and sample delicious produce on this half day tour

New Tour

New Tour

Tuscany in a Day Tour from Florence

Visit Siena, dine at a Chianti vineyard, explore San Gimignano, and see the Leaning Tower of Pisa!

New Tour

New Tour

Cinque Terre Hiking Tour from La Spezia

Walk clifftop trails to discover vineyards, epic views, and famous villages on Italy's magical coast

New Tour

New Tour

Cinque Terre Tour with Locally Produced Limoncino Tasting from La Spezia

Explore the Beaches and Picturesque Peaks in a Small Group

New Tour

New Tour

Authentic Tuscan Cooking Class in Florence with San Lorenzo Market

Create delicious pasta, tiramisu, and more with market-fresh ingredients and an expert local chef

New Tour

New Tour

Semi-Private Cinque Terre Day Trip & Vineyard Tour from Florence

Discover the best of Cinque Terre with seafood lunch, wine tasting, and transportation included

New Tour

New Tour

Florentine Gondola Boat Tour

Sip wine on the Arno River and cruise by Ponte Vecchio, Uffizi, and more on a classic Barchetto boat

New Tour

New Tour

Tuscany Wineland Safari from Florence

Get off the beaten track to explore vineyards, castles, food, and Chianti wine on this 4x4 day tour

New Tour

New Tour

Tuscany Wine Making Experience and Gourmet Dinner from Florence

Dine like Tuscan royalty and create your own Chianti wine blend on this small group VIP evening tour

New Tour

New Tour

Pizza and Gelato Making Cooking Class in Florence

Create the authentic food of Italy with an expert pizzaiolo chef, homemade lunch, and wine

Skip the Line

Skip the Line

Kid-Friendly Private Florence Walking Tour: David & Gelato

Bring the fun to Florence on this family walking tour that includes a merry-go-round and papermaking

Private Tour

Private Tour

Private Wine Day in the Chianti Hills from Florence

Enjoy an intimate day trip tasting wine and organic food from local farms and vineyards in Tuscany

Private Tour

Private Tour

Private Pisa Day Trip from Florence with Lunch in Vinci

Discover Tuscany on this VIP private tour, with Leaning Tower of Pisa, Da Vinci Museum, and more!

Private Tour

Private Tour

Orvieto, Civita di Bagnoregio & Winery Private Day Trip from Rome

Escape the city on a memorable journey through Umbria’s historic towns to taste fine local wines

Private Tour

Private Tour

Livorno Shore Excursion: Florence & Pisa

Maximize your day ashore on this jam-packed private tour with Leaning Tower, David, and more!

Private Tour

Private Tour

Tuscany Shore Excursion: Chianti Wine Country and San Gimignano

A Chianti Wine Tasting Excursion

Brunello di Montalcino Helicopter Tour from Rome or Florence

Brunello di Montalcino Helicopter Tour from Rome or Florence

Soar above Tuscany on an exclusive VIP tour, complete with private wine tastings and a gourmet lunch

New Tour

New Tour

San Lorenzo Market Tour and Wine Tasting in Florence

Eat your way through Florence’s historic market, enjoy a wine tasting, and try real Italian gelato!

New Tour

New Tour

Tuscany Winery Tour and Gourmet Bites in Montalcino

Pair irresistible wine with delicious gourmet bites after strolling through picturesque vineyards

New Tour

New Tour

Brunello di Montalcino Winery Tour & Tasting

Sip wine and stroll through vineyards alongside an expert guide in the hills of Montalcino

New Tour

New Tour

Tuscany Day Trip from Rome with Vineyard Lunch and Wine Tasting

Wander through the medieval towns of Montepulciano and Pienza and enjoy a 3-course meal!

500 tour from Florence​
Up to 20% off

500 tour from Florence​

Private Vintage FIAT 500 Chianti Tour with Driver from Florence

Cruise through the hills of Tuscany in style and dine at a Tuscan villa on this exclusive experience

Val d’Orcia Day Trip with Two Wine Tastings from Florence

Val d’Orcia Day Trip with Two Wine Tastings from Florence

Sip on Brunello in Montalcino, wander through Pienza, and savor pecorino cheese in Montelpuciano

New Tour

New Tour

Tuscan Countryside Vespa Tour from Florence

Cruise to the rolling hills of Tuscany and taste local food and wine!

E-Bike Tour Through Florence and Tuscan Countryside
Up to 20% off

E-Bike Tour Through Florence and Tuscan Countryside

Ride along Tuscany’s majestic rolling hills, visit a medieval village, and sample local delicacies!

New Tour

New Tour

Early Morning Duomo Tour with Exclusive Entry and Brunelleschi's Dome

Be among the first of the day to enter Florence cathedral on this VIP experience

New Tour

New Tour

Pizza and Gelato Cooking Class in a Tuscany Farmhouse in Florence

Pick fresh ingredients and learn to make authentic, Italian cuisine on an unforgettable day trip!

Three-Day Chianti Vineyard Wine & Spa Getaway

Three-Day Chianti Vineyard Wine & Spa Getaway

Rejuvenate at the rustic Borgo Casa al Vento while learning the secrets of Tuscan wine and cuisine

Palazzo Vecchio Small Group Skip the Line Guided Tour

Palazzo Vecchio Small Group Skip the Line Guided Tour

Roam through the lavish apartments and halls that were home to the iconic Medici family in Florence

New tour

New tour

Authentic 4-Course Meal at a Local’s Home in Florence

Watch your host’s cooking demo from her own kitchen, then enjoy a family lunch or dinner together!