Tips for Climbing the Duomo in Florence (Cupola)
Climbing to the top of Brunelleschi’s Dome isn’t just another tourist attraction—it’s one of the most unforgettable experiences in Florence. The views are breathtaking and the journey to the top? Let’s just say it’s a little more intense than most guidebooks let on.
If you’re planning to make the climb, this guide walks you through everything you need to know—from ticket rules and entrance locations to what to wear, when to go, and what to expect along the way.
The idea of writing tips for climbing the Duomo in Florence came after I had the brilliant idea to climb the Duomo in July at midday without bringing water.
On the same day, I also climbed the Giotto Bell Tower, and by the end of the day, my legs and heart were aching so much that I went straight back to my hotel.
One of the smartest things I did was booking my tickets in advance—maybe even a month in advance. It allowed me to skip the long lines and save valuable time.
When you book, you’ll choose a time slot, and you’ll need to arrive at the designated entrance time—being late could mean missing your chance to climb.
However, even with this foresight, I still made a few crucial mistakes that totally ruined my experience, and I don’t want anyone else to suffer the same fate.
Here are some tips for the Dome climb to ensure a safe and enjoyable experience:
New Ticket Rules in 2025: Bring Your ID
As of March 1, 2025, the Brunelleschi Pass is nominative, meaning your full name and nationality must be entered when you purchase the ticket. On arrival, staff will check your ID to match the information on the ticket—so don’t forget your passport or a valid form of ID.
Also keep in mind that you can only purchase up to 10 tickets per order online. If you’re traveling with a larger group, a special request is required.
Tips for Climbing the Duomo in Florence
Before climbing the Duomo in Florence considering:
Check the entry: Enter through the Porta della Mandorla (also known as the Almond Gate) on the north side of the cathedral. Be sure to arrive at least 10–15 minutes early to find the entrance and check in. The 463-step climb to the top of Filippo Brunelleschi’s Dome begins here—and note, there is no elevator.
Health and Physical Condition:
Additional Tips: No Bathrooms Along the Route: Once you begin the climb, there are no restroom facilities. The nearest bathrooms are at the Opera del Duomo Museum, so be sure to go before your time slot.
Avoid the hottest months: Prefer the early hours of the morning or the late afternoon to avoid the heat and long lines.
Leave bulky items: Backpacks and heavy objects are not allowed inside. If you have any belongings that you cannot carry with you, you can leave them at the luggage storage facility. Grande Guardaroba: situato in Piazza Duomo n.38/r
Respect the rules: Eating and smoking are prohibited inside the Dome.
Be patient: You may find queues, especially during high season.
During the climb:
It’s also where staff often pause climbers to allow people coming down to pass. Take this opportunity to rest, catch your breath, and enjoy the artwork—you’ll need the break before tackling the steepest stretch of stairs.
of the Cathedral). Visitors are required to climb 463 steps.
What to avoid – When Climbing the Duomo in Florence
How to get there
Duomo Florence Opening Hours 2025
Dome (Cupola)
- Monday to Friday: 8:15 AM – 6:45 PM (last entry slot)
- Saturday: 8:15 AM – 4:30 PM (last entry slot)
- Sunday & Public Holidays: 12:45 PM – 4:30 PM (last entry slot)
Museum
- Open Daily: 8:30 AM – 7:00 PM
- Closed: First Tuesday of every month
Giotto’s Bell Tower
- Open Daily: 8:15 AM – 6:45 PM (last entry slot)
Note: - Visitors with the Giotto Pass must access the Bell Tower at the exact start time of the reserved slot selected during ticket purchase.
- Brunelleschi Pass holders may visit the Bell Tower on any of the three valid days of their ticket without time-slot booking.
Baptistery
- Open Daily: 8:30 AM – 7:30 PM
Note: - On the first Sunday of each month, the Baptistery closes early at 1:30 PM.
- Please be aware that the vault mosaics are currently under restoration and are not visible.
Cathedral
- Monday to Saturday: 10:15 AM – 3:45 PM
- Closed on Sundays and during religious celebrations.
- Closed: May 24, 2025
Santa Reparata
- Monday to Saturday: 10:15 AM – 4:00 PM
- Sunday & Religious Celebrations: 1:30 PM – 4:00 PM
- Closed: May 25, 2025
Note: - Visitors with the Ghiberti Pass must enter at the beginning of the time-slot chosen during purchase.
- Brunelleschi and Giotto Pass holders may access Santa Reparata anytime during the 3-day validity, without reserving a time slot.
General Information
- The entire monumental complex is closed on Easter Sunday, December 25, and January 1.
- Tickets are non-modifiable once issued.
Ticket Office (Piazza San Giovanni no. 7):
- Monday to Saturday: 8:00 AM – 7:15 PM
- Sunday: 10:15 AM – 5:45 PM
Note: Only electronic payments are accepted at the ticket office.
Florence cathedral official website : L’Opera di Santa Maria del Fiore
FAQ About Tips for Climbing the Duomo in Florence
Is it difficult to climb the Duomo? Depends…
The difficulty of climbing Brunelleschi’s Dome depends on several factors, including physical fitness, age, and climatic conditions.
What makes the climb challenging:
- Number of steps: There are 463 steps to climb on a relatively narrow spiral staircase. It requires considerable physical effort.
- Confined spaces: In some places, the staircase is narrow, and the environment can feel closed, especially for those with claustrophobia.
- Height difference: The height difference is considerable, and the slope of the stairs can be tiring, especially for those not used to intense physical exercise.
- Heat: In the warmer months, it can boil inside the Dome, increasing fatigue.
How long does it take to climb Brunelleschi’s Dome?
The time needed to climb Brunelleschi’s Dome can vary based on several factors:
- Physical condition: Those trained and used to doing physical exercise will take less time than those not.
- Crowding: In high season or peak times, the ascent may be slower due to the presence of many people.
- Break: Some visitors prefer to take breaks on the way up to admire the view or catch their breath.
Generally, the time required for the ascent can be between 20 and 45 minutes. This time includes both ascent and descent.
Factors that can influence the weather:
- Number of steps: On a relatively narrow spiral staircase, there are 463 steps to climb.
- Stair slope: The slope of the staircase, especially in the last sections, can make the climb more tiring.
- Temperature and humidity: Fatigue may be more significant on particularly hot or humid days.
- Stair slope: The last part of the climb is the hardest. The curved stairs become steeper and more narrow, and the floor slopes in places, making it even more tiring. Take your time and use the handrails when you can—it’s a real workout.
When is the best time to climb Brunelleschi’s Dome?
The best time to climb Brunelleschi’s Dome depends significantly on your preferences and weather conditions. However, some factors must be considered to make your experience more enjoyable.
- Early morning: Climbing the Florence Duomo early in the morning (immediately after opening) will allow you to avoid the crowds and enjoy a softer, more evocative light. Additionally, temperatures will generally be more relaxed, making climbing less strenuous.
- Late afternoon: Another good option is to go up late afternoon when sunlight declines and temperatures are milder. You will be able to admire a breathtaking sunset over the city.
- Avoid the central hours of the day: In the hottest hours, especially in summer, the climb can become tiring due to the heat and humidity.
Why avoid the central hours of the day?
- Heat: High temperatures can cause dehydration and fatigue.
- Complete: In the middle of the day, the Dome is usually more crowded, making the climb slower and less pleasant.
- Bright light: Direct sunlight can make it difficult to admire the details of Santa Maria del Fiore and the Bell Tower.
Is it worth climbing Brunelleschi’s Dome? Absolutely yes!
If you want an unforgettable experience in Florence, climbing Filippo Brunelleschi’s Dome is necessary. Here’s why:
- Breathtaking panorama: From the top of Brunelleschi’s Dome, you’ll enjoy a 360-degree view of Florence. It’s a view that truly takes your breath away. And if you want to see the dome itself in all its glory, consider climbing Bell Tower too—the view from there is just as stunning, offering a perfect view of Brunelleschi’s famous dome.
- A memorable experience: The Dome climb is an experience you’ll never forget—it stays with you. Every photo you see afterward brings it all rushing back: your heart racing, eyes wide, and maybe even a tear slipping down as you remember that breathtaking view over Florence.
Is it worth climbing Filippo Brunelleschi’s Dome? Absolutely yes!
By following these tips for climbing the Duomo in Florence, you’ll be able to enjoy the journey, avoid common mistakes, and turn it into a truly unforgettable experience.
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