Day 4 in Florence was all about exploring two of the city’s most iconic landmarks—Santa Maria del Fiore (also known as Il Duomo) and the Church of Santa Croce. These two churches are steeped in history and are must-visits for anyone coming to Florence.
First up was Santa Maria del Fiore (Il Duomo), Florence’s famous cathedral. You can’t miss this architectural masterpiece with its stunning red-tiled dome designed by Filippo Brunelleschi. The Duomo is free to enter, but a word of advice: get there early! The line to get in can be long, but it’s totally worth the wait. The line moves pretty quick once the church opens at 10:15am, so don’t be put off by the long line if there is one. The interior is as beautiful as the exterior, with intricate frescoes, stained glass, and marble floors.
If you’re feeling adventurous, tickets are required to climb Giotto’s Campanile (the bell tower) and you can purchase them HERE. You’ll be rewarded with sweeping views of the city and the surrounding Tuscan hills. The climb consists of 414 and there is no life, so it is a bit challenging, but the view at the top is unforgettable!
Next, I made my way to the Church of Santa Croce, which also requires a small entrance fee but is totally worth every penny. Known as the Temple of the Italian Glories, this church is the final resting place of several prominent figures from Italian history, including Michelangelo, Galileo Galilei, and Niccolò Machiavelli. Walking through the church feels like stepping into a hall of fame for Renaissance greats. The basilica itself is stunning, with its Gothic architecture and magnificent frescoes by Giotto. The tombs and monuments are truly works of art, making this a special place where history and artistry converge.
Both Il Duomo and Santa Croce offer a deep dive into Florence’s rich religious, artistic, and cultural history. If you’re in Florence, you simply can’t miss these two landmarks—they’ll give you a real appreciation for the incredible history and talent that flourished here during the Renaissance.
