Private Guided Tour of Florence Basilicas and Their Cloisters

Florence, the cradle of the Renaissance, beckons visitors to enjoy its rich artistic and architectural heritage. A private guided tour of the city’s renowned basilicas and their tranquil cloisters offers a unique opportunity to uncover the stories that lie within these sacred spaces. From the masterpieces at Santa Maria Novella to the legendary figures interred at Santa Croce, this journey promises to captivate the senses and ignite the imagination. Prepare to be transported through the centuries as you discover the hidden gems that have made Florence a perennial favorite among discerning travelers.

Key Points

• A private guided tour that offers in-depth exploration of Florence’s iconic basilicas, including Santa Maria Novella, San Lorenzo, and Santa Croce.
• Opportunity to discover the remarkable Renaissance art and architecture within these sacred spaces, such as Giotto’s Crucifix and Brunelleschi’s Old Sacristy.
• Insights into the profound influence of the Medici family on the city’s religious and cultural heritage, including their tombs at the Basilica of San Lorenzo.
• Immersive experience with a personalized tour limited to one group, allowing for a deeper understanding of the sites and their significance.
• Exploration of the serene cloisters and tranquil spaces adjoining the basilicas, providing a peaceful respite from the bustling city.

Tour Overview and Highlights

This private guided tour of Florence’s iconic basilicas and piazzas offers visitors a unique opportunity to explore the city’s renowned religious and architectural masterpieces.

Highlights include admiring Giotto’s Crucifix at Santa Maria Novella, discovering Brunelleschi’s Old Sacristy at San Lorenzo, and visiting the tombs of Michelangelo, Galileo, and Machiavelli at Santa Croce.

The tour also showcases significant sites like the Piazza del Duomo and Piazza della Signoria, providing insights into the Medici legacy.

Limited to your group, this personalized experience allows you to fully learn about Florence’s artistic and historical wonders.

Tour Details

The tour takes place in Florence, Italy and lasts approximately 3 hours.

It begins at 10:00 am in the Basilica of Santa Maria Novella. Guests will explore other iconic sites like the Basilica di San Lorenzo, Piazza del Duomo, Piazza della Signoria, and end at the Basilica of Santa Croce.

Admission fees vary, with adults paying up to €8.00 and children under 10 free at certain sites. The tour includes a local professional guide and earphones for groups over 7 participants.

It is not wheelchair accessible but is located near public transportation. Free cancellation is available up to 24 hours before the tour.

Basilica of Santa Maria Novella

The Basilica of Santa Maria Novella, located at the heart of Florence, serves as the first stop on this captivating tour.

Visitors will be awestruck by the Renaissance façade and the remarkable artworks within, including Giotto’s Crucifix, Masaccio’s Trinity, and frescoes by Lippi and Ghirlandaio.

The highlight of this stop is the exploration of the Green Cloister, a serene space adorned with stunning 15th-century frescoes.

The tour guide’s expert insights will elevate the experience, allowing guests to fully appreciate the rich history and artistic significance of this iconic Florentine landmark.

• Admire the Renaissance façade
• Explore Giotto’s Crucifix and Masaccio’s Trinity
• Marvel at the frescoes by Lippi and Ghirlandaio
• Discover the tranquil beauty of the Green Cloister

Basilica Di San Lorenzo

Next, the tour moves to the iconic Basilica di San Lorenzo, a sacred site deeply intertwined with the legacy of the Medici family. Here, visitors explore Brunelleschi’s Old Sacristy and the Cloister of the Canons. The basilica also houses the Medici tombs, a highlight for many.

Feature	Description
Medici Tombs	Resting place of prominent Medici family members
Old Sacristy	Designed by Brunelleschi, an architectural masterpiece
Cloister of the Canons	Peaceful cloistered courtyard
Medici Legacy	The basilica’s close ties to the influential Medici dynasty

The tour then continues to the nearby Piazza del Duomo and Piazza della Signoria, providing a well-rounded exploration of Florence’s iconic landmarks.

Piazza Del Duomo

After exploring the Medici legacy at the Basilica di San Lorenzo, the tour proceeds to the iconic Piazza del Duomo.

The group is greeted by the towering Cathedral, its magnificent dome designed by Brunelleschi, the ornate Baptistery, and Giotto’s soaring Campanile.

This historic square represents the religious and civic heart of Florence, where:

• Locals and visitors alike are captivated by the harmonious blend of architectural styles.
• The grandeur of the structures inspires awe and reverence.
• The square serves as a gathering place for cultural events and celebrations.
• The sense of timelessness and connection to Florence’s illustrious past is palpable.

Piazza Della Signoria

Leaving the grandeur of the Piazza del Duomo behind, the group makes its way to the historical Piazza della Signoria.

This central square is associated with the powerful Medici family, who once governed Florence. The Piazza is home to impressive statues, including Michelangelo’s David replica and Cellini’s Perseus.

The Loggia dei Lanzi displays classical sculptures, while the Palazzo Vecchio stands as a symbol of civic power.

This lively public space has witnessed many important political events throughout Florence’s history.

The group takes a moment to absorb the atmosphere before continuing their journey to the Basilica of Santa Croce.

Basilica of Santa Croce

As the tour continues, the group arrives at the Basilica of Santa Croce, one of the largest Franciscan churches in the world.

The interior is adorned with magnificent frescoes and features the tombs of some of Italy’s most illustrious figures, including Michelangelo, Galileo, and Machiavelli.

The group marvels at the beauty and significance of this historic site, taking in the captivating atmosphere:

• The Basilica’s remarkable architecture and artistic masterpieces.
• The tombs of renowned Italian intellectuals and artists.
• The church’s role in the Franciscan tradition and Florentine history.
• The emotional and spiritual resonance of this hallowed space.

Inclusions and Logistics

The tour includes a local professional guide to lead the group through the basilicas and provide in-depth commentary on the art and history. For larger groups over 7 participants, earphones are provided to ensure everyone can hear the guide clearly. Hotel pickup and drop-off are also included for added convenience. The tour can be easily canceled up to 24 hours before the scheduled start time, providing flexibility. However, the tour is not wheelchair accessible, though it is located near public transportation options.

Inclusion	Details
Local Professional Guide	Provides in-depth commentary
Earphones	For groups over 7 participants
Hotel Pickup and Drop-off	For added convenience
Free Cancellation	Up to 24 hours before tour

Frequently Asked Questions

Can I Book This Tour With a Larger Group?

Yes, the tour can accommodate larger groups. The tour itinerary and inclusions remain the same, but the tour provider offers earphones for groups over 7 participants to ensure a personalized experience for all attendees.

Do We Need to Bring Our Own Headphones for the Audio Devices?

Earphones are provided for groups over 7 participants on this tour. This ensures all members can hear the guide’s commentary clearly as you explore the iconic basilicas and cloisters of Florence. No need to bring your own headphones.

Is There an Option to Customize the Tour Itinerary?

The tour typically follows a set itinerary, but some customization may be possible. Travelers should inquire with the tour provider about any flexibility to adjust the order or duration of visits to the included sites.

Are Children’s Ticket Prices the Same for All Basilicas?

The ticket prices for children vary across the different basilicas. At Santa Croce and Santa Maria Novella, children under 10 can enter for free, while those aged 11-16 receive discounted admission. However, San Lorenzo offers free entry for all children under 11.

Is There a Dress Code or Any Special Requirements to Enter the Basilicas?

There is a modest dress code to enter the basilicas in Florence. Visitors are asked to cover their shoulders and wear pants/skirts that extend below the knee. No shorts or sleeveless tops are permitted.

The Sum Up

This private guided tour of Florence’s renowned basilicas and their tranquil cloisters offers an immersive experience, showcasing the city’s rich history and artistic masterpieces. From the Basilica of Santa Maria Novella to the Basilica of Santa Croce, this three-hour journey provides an in-depth exploration of Florence’s iconic landmarks and the legendary figures who left their mark on this captivating city.