Brunelleschi’s Dome is one of the most iconic landmarks in Florence and a true masterpiece of Renaissance architecture.
Sitting atop the Santa Maria del Fiore Cathedral, this massive dome was designed by Filippo Brunelleschi and has amazed the world since the 15th century.
At the time of its construction, it was the largest dome in the world—and to this day, it remains the largest masonry vault ever built.
More than just an engineering feat, it’s a symbol of Florence and a must-see for anyone visiting the city.
In this article, you’ll find everything you need to know before booking your Brunelleschi’s Dome tickets, including ticket options, climbing tips, opening hours, and the best time to visit.
Top Tickets
# Self-guided Cathedral entry + Dome climb
# Gudied Cathedral entry + Dome climb
# Full complex accessSince Brunelleschi’s Dome is a popular tourist attraction, it is best to book your tickets as soon as your dates are finalized.
Know before buying Brunelleschi Dome tickets
- To climb the Dome, you must buy the Brunelleschi Dome ticket and select a time slot when booking.
- Opening hours
- Monday to Friday: 8:15 am to 6:45 pm
- Saturday: 8:15 am to 4:30 pm
- Sundays & religious holidays: 12:45 pm to 4:30 pm
- You will need to climb 463 steps — there’s no elevator. The climb is not recommended for people with:
- Heart problems
- Claustrophobia
- Vertigo
- Pregnant women
- Bags and backpacks (medium/large) must be stored before your climb at the free cloakroom in Piazza Duomo 38/r.
- Entrance is through Porta della Mandorla (on the north side of the Cathedral). Get Directions
- Arrive at the entrance 10 minutes early. A maximum delay of 5 minutes is allowed for entry.
When & where to buy tickets for Brunelleschi’s Dome
Since Brunelleschi’s Dome is an integral part of Santa Maria del Fiore Cathedral, you can book Dome tickets only in combination with the cathedral entry tickets.
You can book the tickets online in advance or at the cathedral’s entrance. We think booking online is the smarter choice.
Online tickets are often cheaper than buying them at the gate. Plus, they help you skip the long lines at the ticket counter, saving you time and energy.
When you book early, you can also choose your preferred time slot, which is great during busy seasons.
Once you book, you will get a confirmation email with your ticket. Printing the ticket is unnecessary. On the day of your visit, show the e-ticket on your phone and enter.
Note: For foreign guests, it is necessary to provide passport and visa information during check-in.
Brunelleschi’s Dome ticket price
Entry tickets for Brunelleschi’s Dome and Cathedral Complex cost €59 for all visitors aged seven and above.
A guided tour of the Duomo complex with a Dome climb costs €72 per person.
Entry to the Cathedral is always free, while a ticket is required to visit the other monuments.
Brunelleschi’s Dome and Cathedral tickets
You can explore Brunelleschi’s Dome and Florence Cathedral in several ways. Choose the experience that suits you best:
- Self-Guided Tour: Explore the Cathedral and Dome at your own pace with the help of an audio guide.
- Guided Cathedral Tour + Dome Climb: Join a 2-hour guided tour of the Cathedral with a local expert, then climb the Dome on your own afterwards.
- Full Complex Access: Discover the Cathedral, Brunelleschi’s Dome, and Giotto’s Bell Tower—a great option to see all the main highlights.
- Cathedral and Complex (No Dome): Visit the Cathedral and other parts of the complex like the Baptistery and Crypt, but skip the Dome climb.
Each option gives you a different way to experience the beauty and history of this iconic site.
However, all the tickets are valid for three calendar days from the date selected during purchase, offering flexibility in planning visits to the various monuments.
Unlock Florence with one card: Skip the lines, save money, and explore more with the Florence Card. Get fast-track access to top attractions like the Uffizi Gallery, Accademia Gallery, and Brunelleschi’s Dome—all with one pass.
How to enter Florence Cathedral and find the Dome
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The main entrance for visitors is located at Porta dei Cornacchini, which faces Piazza del Duomo. This entrance is clearly marked on the map and is where free access to the Cathedral begins. You don’t need a ticket to enter the main part of the Cathedral here—just make sure you follow the dress code. If you want someone to guide you, then of course you must book a tour.
Once you explore the Cathedral, the entrance is separate to climb Brunelleschi’s Dome (Cupola).
You’ll need to go to the Porta della Mandorla, which is on the north side of the Cathedral, along Via dei Servi. This is the only access point for the dome climb, so make sure you arrive at the correct entrance about 10 minutes before your reserved time.
From here, you’ll begin your 463-step ascent to the top—there’s no elevator, so be prepared for the climb. Also remember to drop off any large bags or backpacks at the luggage storage located nearby at Piazza Duomo 38/r, just a short walk from the Dome entrance.
Dress code for Santa Maria del Fiore
To enter the Cathedral, you must dress respectfully, as it’s a place of worship. Please cover your shoulders and legs—no shorts, tank tops, sandals, or hats are allowed inside. Also, large bags or luggage are not permitted.
Accessible entrance: If you use a wheelchair or have trouble walking, there is a special entrance on the right side of the Cathedral.
Cloakrooms at the Opera di Santa Maria del Fiore
There are two cloakrooms available for visitors:
- Large Cloakroom – Located at Piazza Duomo 38/red
- Small Cloakroom – Located at Piazza Duomo 9
If you plan to climb the Dome or Bell Tower, or visit the Baptistery and Santa Reparata (with Brunelleschi, Giotto, or Ghiberti Pass), you must store your bags in the Large Cloakroom.
You can use the Small Cloakroom instead if you’re only visiting the Museum. More rules for cloakrooms
Brunelleschi Dome timings
Brunelleschi’s Dome is open to visitors from Monday to Friday between 8:15 am and 6:45 pm. The dome closes earlier on Saturdays, with visiting hours from 8:15 am to 4:30 pm.
If you plan to visit on a Sunday or religious holiday, you can enter the dome between 12:45 pm and 4:30 pm.
How long does it take to climb Brunelleschi’s Dome?
The climb to the top of Brunelleschi’s Dome involves 463 steps and usually takes about 20 to 25 minutes, depending on your pace and the crowd on the stairs.
Once at the top, most visitors spend around 15 to 20 minutes enjoying the breathtaking panoramic views of Florence and taking photos.
The descent takes another 15 to 20 minutes.
In addition to the climb, be prepared for some queuing time before entry. Depending on the day and season, this can range from 20 minutes to an hour.
Best time to visit the Brunelleschi Dome
It is best to climb Brunelleschi’s Dome first thing in the morning. It’s less crowded, the stairs are easier to manage without a big group ahead of you, and the morning views over Florence are beautiful and peaceful.
Some people think about timing their climb with sunset, but that’s not the best idea. You won’t get the full view of the sunset from the Dome itself. Instead, we recommend going to Piazza Michelangelo in the evening—you’ll get an amazing view of the sunset over the city with the Duomo in the picture, which is even more magical.
FAQs about Brunelleschi’s Dome
Planning to climb Brunelleschi’s Dome at Florence Cathedral? Here are some of the most commonly asked questions to help you prepare for your visit.
How many steps are there in Brunelleschi’s Dome climb?
To reach the top of Brunelleschi’s Dome, you’ll need to climb 463 steps. The staircase is narrow and steep, and most visitors can do it in 20-25 minutes.
Is there a lift to the top of Brunelleschi’s Dome?
No, there is no elevator available. The only way to reach the top is by climbing all 463 steps.
Do I need to carry an ID when visiting Brunelleschi’s Dome?
Yes, all visitors are required to show a valid ID at the entrance. If you’re a foreign guest, you must also provide passport and visa information during check-in or ticket collection.
Who painted the inside of the Florence Cathedral Dome?
The magnificent frescoes inside the dome were designed by Giorgio Vasari in 1572. After his death, Federico Zuccari completed the work.
Where is Florence Cathedral located?
The Florence Cathedral, also known as Santa Maria del Fiore, is located in the heart of the city at: Address: Piazza del Duomo, 50122 Firenze FI, Italy. Get Directions
Is there parking near Florence Cathedral?
There is no on-site parking at the Cathedral, but several parking garages are nearby. It’s a good idea to check parking options in advance, especially during busy hours.
Is Brunelleschi’s Dome accessible for people with limited mobility?
Unfortunately, the Dome climb is not suitable for visitors with mobility issues or those using a wheelchair, due to the number of steps and tight spaces.
