• Awakening the Duomo
  • Private Awakening the Duomo
  • Private Awakening the Duomo
  • Private Awakening the Duomo
  • Private Awakening the Duomo
Private

Private Florence Cathedral tour with early access to Cathedral and dome

Visit one of the world’s most stunning monuments before everyone else is allowed in and take in the wonder of Florence’s magical Duomo - without the crowds!

 

About this tour:

Duration
2 hours 30 minutes
Languages
English
French
German
Italian
Spanish
Live tour guide
Our expert guides selected for you
Personalized attention
Experiences designed for your needs
Free cancellation

Flexible reservation

Highlights
  • Early access and a VIP tour of the Duomo
  • Witness the doors opening first thing in the morning by the chiavigero
  • See the lights go on and illuminate the artworks
  • Climb to the Cathedral’s terraces and Brunelleschi’s dome
  • Enjoy a tasty Italian breakfast at a local bar

Get early access to the UNESCO World Heritage site of Florence’s Duomo as you’re there first thing in the morning. Before breakfast (which is included, by the way), you’ll open the doors with the chiavigero and see the lights come on, illuminating the many treasured artworks inside.

Be the first one through the doors of the Cathedral

Florence’s Cathedral is one of the most recognisable in the world. So imagine meeting the person who opens the Duomo’s door and walking inside before anyone else and seeing the lights go on and having it all to yourself. Now you can, thanks to the Awakening tour. You’ll meet the “chiavigero” as the city wakes up, then the lights will be switched on and you’ll be truly amazed by what you see!

Admire the stunning artwork of Florence Cathedral

Follow your expert guide into the 3,600 square meter frescoed vault where you’ll see masterpieces painted by Zuccari and Vasari. Then, it’s onto the Duomo’s dazzling clock painted by Paolo Uccello, which tells the time from sunset to sunrise. Your guide will walk you through the history not just of the clock, but the rest of this beautiful church. 

Get superb views of the city from atop Brunelleschi’s dome

At the end of your visit to the Cathedral’s interior, you’ll stop for a tasty Italian breakfast at a local cafe. However, that’s not the end of the tour. You’ll crown the experience with a walk up to Brunelleschi’s dome. The Porta Canonicci are opened only for your party. Climb up and enjoy the most exquisite views of the city that birthed the Renaissance. And of course, your guide will tell you everything you need to know about the dome as you look down on Florence from above. It’s an awe-inspiring experience you will cherish forever.

 

Important Information

  • Please note that from 1st May 2023 controls at the entrance to the Dome and Terraces will be strengthened, and bulky backpacks and bags will no longer be allowed to climb.

  • We regret to inform that this tour is not suitable for guests with wheelchairs or with impaired mobility.
  • A dress code is required to enter places of worship and selected museums. No shorts or sleeveless tops allowed. Knees and shoulders MUST be covered for both men and women. You may risk refused entry if you fail to comply with these dress requirements.
  • Comfortable shoes suggested.
  • The itinerary inside the Duomo and Brunelleschi Cupola may slightly vary depending on restrictions decided by the museum board. The inclusions and the tour quality will always be preserved. Due to the presence of narrow stairs, this tour is not suitable for those with heart problems and/or claustrophobic.
  • Please note the number of steps to reach the top of each monument:

Terraces: 153

Terraces + Brunelleschi's Dome: 153 + 310

 

Rain Policy

This tour runs on rain or shine.

Included

Exclusive access: VIP tour of the Cathedral
Be the one to open the doors, at daybreak, be the only one inside!
See the lights go on and illuminate the artwork
Private dedicated guide
Climb to the top of Brunelleschi’s dome (skip the line)
Italian breakfast: coffee, cappuccino and pastries

Meeting Point

  • Meet our tour leader in front of the main entrance of Florence Cathedral.

Starting from

€276,00

price per person
based on a group of 4