Basilica di San Lorenzo (couple trip)
How Couple-Friendly is Basilica di San Lorenzo?
What makes it 85% Couple-Friendly: Couples can enjoy quiet time together under Brunelleschi’s nave, stroll the shady cloister, and view Michelangelo statues, creating a romantic yet culturally rich stop that fits easily into a day.
Positives:
- Historic layers: Three architectural eras merge in one site for varied discovery.
- Quiet corners: Secluded cloister spots offer moments for private conversation.
- Photogenic details: Marble reliefs and gray brick facades create striking photo backdrops.
Challenges:
- Separate tickets: Different areas like the chapels and library require extra tickets.
- Tight staircases: The library and crypt have narrow stairways that can feel cramped.
What is Basilica di San Lorenzo?
- A landmark Renaissance church in Florence commissioned by the Medici family, showcasing Filippo Brunelleschi’s Old Sacristy and Michelangelo’s New Sacristy
- The principal burial site of the Medici dynasty, containing sculptural tombs and monuments crafted by leading Renaissance artists
- Home to the Laurentian Library designed by Michelangelo, with a two-story vestibule and reading hall housing over ten thousand ancient manuscripts
What is so special about Basilica di San Lorenzo for couple trip?
- Self-guided audio app unlocks art at your own pace
- Hand-in-hand strolls under Brunelleschi’s arches
- Michelangelo’s statues in the intimate Medici mausoleum
- Renaissance library climb for ancient Medici manuscripts
Recommended visit duration: 1-2 hours
Why 1-2 hours visit duration is ideal for couple trip: Couples can explore church, sacristies and cloisters without rushing.
Couple-Friendly Activities in Basilica di San Lorenzo
Use the Basilica audio-guide:
Listen on your phone to key works in the church using the free app.
Tip: Download the app before you arrive and carry headphones.
Stroll through the cloisters:
Walk hand-in-hand under Brunelleschi’s arches in the shaded courtyard.
Tip: Visit in the morning light for soft shadows and fewer crowds.
Explore the Old Sacristy:
Admire Brunelleschi’s cubic room and Donatello’s marble reliefs.
Tip: Look up to spot hidden decorations on the ceiling corners.
Visit the New Sacristy:
See Michelangelo’s statues in the Medici mausoleum behind the church.
Tip: Book a timed ticket online to skip the on-site queue.
Climb to the Laurentian Library:
Ascend Michelangelo’s staircase to view 10,000 ancient Medici books.
Tip: Combine library and basilica tickets to save time and money.
How to Make the Most of Your Visit to Basilica di San Lorenzo
- Pre-book combo tickets: Buy basilica and chapel tickets online to skip lines and save.
- Arrive early: Visit right at opening time to avoid crowds in the cloisters.
- Use public transport: Take tram line T1 to the San Lorenzo stop to avoid parking hassles.
Reviews of Basilica di San Lorenzo
Quing_刘妈妈
📍 Basilica di San Lorenzo – Florence, Italy 🇮🇹 We didn’t go inside, but the square outside is lively and full of atmosphere 🚶♂️🚶♀️. People stroll through, browse the market stalls 🛍️, and enjoy cafés ☕ around the basilica. The unfinished façade looks plain compared to other Florentine churches, but it’s still an interesting landmark to see while walking the area. A vibrant spot for soaking...
Patrick Villacorta
May 2025. We were not able to explore much but were able to attend Sunday Mass. It was also the first Church we entered in Italy so it was a nice intro to the beauty that awaited us.
Mark Pabst
Pretty disappointing I thought. For 9 euros I was expecting something pretty spectacular but it is nothing exceptional. I thought the courtyard was the best part. The basement isn't a crypt but a museum of altar pieces and robes. There is a toilet in the bookstore (off the courtyard) that costs 1 euro but it only takes 1 and 2 euro coins. Just duck under the turnstile to get in. Trivia - The...
Ege Aynur
The Basilica di San Lorenzo (Basilica of St. Lawrence) is one of the largest churches of Florence, Italy, situated at the centre of the main market district of the city, and it is the burial place of all the principal members of the Medici family from Cosimo il Vecchio to Cosimo III. It is one of several churches that claim to be the oldest in Florence, having been consecrated in 393 AD,[1] at whi...
Quentin Muron
A very beautiful basilica, both the main building and the crypt which hosts a small museum of sorts. Some stunning murals and sculptures. Not too crowded.
When is the best time to visit Basilica di San Lorenzo (Florence, Italy)?
In summer, join the evening opening to see Michelangelo’s counter-façade by torchlight. Reserve in advance.
Explore These Activities
Typical Budget for a Couple (2 Adults)
| Item | Cost (Approx.) |
|---|---|
| Basilica complex ticket | EUR 18 |
| Medici Chapels ticket | EUR 18 |
| Laurentian Library ticket | EUR 8 |
| Total Estimated | EUR 44 |
Note: All prices are indicative and may vary. Please check directly with the venue for the most accurate and up-to-date information.
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Map of Basilica di San Lorenzo
Address: Piazza di San Lorenzo, 9, 50123 Firenze FI, Italy
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About Basilica di San Lorenzo
Opening Hours
Hours may vary during holidays, special events, and peak seasons. Please check the official website for the most up-to-date information.
Website
Official WebsitePhone Number
+39 055 214042Explore Popular Things to Do
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