Florence: Santa Croce Church Tour with Entry Ticket

Central Italy, Florence



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.

Florence Santa Croce Guided Tour with Optional Tuscan Wine Tasting

This guided tour explores the Santa Croce church in Florence, ideal for art and history enthusiasts interested in Renaissance culture.

Highlights

  • Visit the temple of Italian Glories
  • See the burial place of several Florentine and Italian masters
  • Discover frescoes by Giotto and a chapel designed by Brunelleschi
  • Admire works by Donatello and the monument dedicated to Dante

Description

Begin the tour in the main square where the historic Calcio Storico Florentino, a medieval soccer game, is played every June. Your guide will share detailed insights about Santa Croce's artistic heritage, including frescoes from 1380 by Gaddi in the Cappella Maggiore depicting the story of Santa Croce. Frescoes by Giotto in the Bardi and Peruzzi Chapels illustrate scenes from the lives of St. Francis and St. John the Evangelist.

To the left of the entrance, view the memorial of 19th-century playwright Giovanni Battista Niccolini, which inspired the Statue of Liberty. Inside, learn about Donatello's Renaissance crucifix and Brunelleschi’s Chapel of Fools, a model of architectural harmony.

Explore the monumental cemetery and see restored paintings damaged during the 1966 flood. Outside, admire the polychrome marble façade. The tour also covers the Bell Tower, the Crypt, and 16 chapels. This one-hour tour allows time to revisit any areas of interest afterward.

Enhance your visit by selecting the wine-tasting upgrade. A wine expert will guide you through a tasting of Tuscan wines paired with a platter of regional appetizers.

Includes

  • Certified guide
  • Radio system to hear the guide clearly
  • Entrance tickets with reservation
  • Wine tasting and appetizers (if option selected)

Excludes

  • Hotel pickup and drop-off
  • Additional food and drinks
  • Transportation to and from the attractions

Important Information

  • Shorts or sleeveless tops are not allowed. Knees and shoulders must be fully covered for all visitors. No refunds or reschedules for denied entry due to inappropriate clothing.
  • The tour operates in all weather conditions.
  • Accessible for wheelchairs and strollers.

Easy Cancellation

Cancel up to 24 hours before the tour for a full refund.

For the best experience, book in advance and wear appropriate clothing to ensure entry. Morning tours offer cooler temperatures and fewer crowds.

Frequently Asked Questions

Inside Santa Croce, you can see frescoes by Giotto, a chapel designed by Brunelleschi, works by Donatello, and monuments dedicated to Dante and other Italian masters.
Santa Croce is the burial place of several famous Florentine and Italian figures, including Michelangelo, Galileo, and Machiavelli.
The tour begins in the main square near Santa Croce Church, close to the historic area where Calcio Storico Florentino is played.
Yes, there is an option to include a Tuscan wine tasting as part of your Florence Santa Croce Church guided tour.
Yes, the tour ticket includes entry to Santa Croce Church in Florence.
Tour durations vary; check the booking details or website for the specific length of the Florence Santa Croce Church tour.
It is recommended to book the Santa Croce Church tour in Florence in advance to secure your preferred date and time.
Calcio Storico Florentino, the medieval football game, is played every June in the square near Santa Croce Church.
Santa Croce Church features Renaissance and Gothic art, including frescoes and sculptures by renowned Italian artists.

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