Basilica di San Lorenzo (with kids)
How Kids-Friendly is Basilica di San Lorenzo?
What makes it 72% Kids-Friendly: Children under 12 enter free and can move around the spacious cloister and crypt, but no interactive displays, seating, or play zones mean many kids tire after about an hour.
Positives:
- Kids enter free: Children under 12 join the basilica complex at no cost with a paying adult.
- Stroller-friendly: A ramp leads into the cloisters and level paths let you push a stroller easily.
- Spacious cloisters: The shaded courtyard offers room for kids to explore between arches.
Challenges:
- Dark crypt: The crypt is dim and narrow; sensitive children may feel uneasy.
- Narrow staircases: Sacristies and the library have tight stairs and small rooms that may tire restless kids.
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 with kids?
- Free entry for children under 12
- Shaded cloisters ideal for safe play
- Medieval treasury and dim crypt add a treasure-hunt feel
- Free audio guide app offers simple, engaging stories
Recommended visit duration: 1-2 hours
Why 1-2 hours visit duration is ideal for with kids: 1-2 hours gives time for cloisters, treasury, and crypt without over-tiring kids.
Kids-Friendly Activities in Basilica di San Lorenzo
Explore the cloisters courtyard:
Wide, shaded courtyard lets kids move safely amid Renaissance arches.
Tip: Let kids spot shapes in the arches and pause under loggias for photos.
Visit the Museo del Tesoro:
See medieval chalices, reliquaries and colorful artifacts.
Tip: Ask children to name colors or guess the uses of each object.
Descend to the crypt:
Dim vaults and tombs create a treasure-hunt atmosphere.
Tip: Limit the visit to 5–10 minutes to avoid unsettling younger kids.
Use the free audio guide app:
Follow simple, story-like commentary at each stop.
Tip: Download the app before arrival and let kids tap to hear fun facts.
How to Make the Most of Your Visit to Basilica di San Lorenzo
- Buy tickets online: Reserve adult tickets online to skip the line at peak times.
- Download audio guide: Install the free Basilica app before arrival for a kid-friendly tour.
- Start in cloisters: Begin in the shaded cloisters to engage kids before moving indoors.
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, arrive by opening at 10 AM to beat heat. In spring and fall, afternoons are quieter. In winter, bring light jackets for the cool cloisters.
Explore These Activities
Typical Budget for a Family of 4 (2 Adults + 2 Kids)
| Item | Cost (Approx.) |
|---|---|
| Adult ticket | EUR 9 |
| Children ticket | EUR 0 |
| Audio guide app | EUR 0 |
| Total Estimated | EUR 18 |
Note: All prices are indicative and may vary. Please check directly with the venue for the most accurate and up-to-date information.
Content Notice: This content combines editorial expertise with AI assistance to ensure comprehensive and up-to-date information. Our team regularly curates and reviews all content for accuracy and relevance. Help Us Improve
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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