Basilica di San Lorenzo (solo trip)
How Solo-Friendly is Basilica di San Lorenzo?
What makes it 90% Solo-Friendly: A solo traveler can buy a single €9 ticket, use the free audio app, and explore world-famous art safely and efficiently in 1-2 hours without needing extra services or company.
Positives:
- Free audio guide: English commentary available in the official app for self-paced tours.
- Central location: Steps from San Lorenzo market and 5 min walk to Duomo and tram stops.
Challenges:
- No on-site lockers: Ask at Santa Maria Novella station or use luggage lockers nearby.
- Steep stairs: Crypt and library have narrow, uneven steps not suitable for all mobility levels.
- Limited refreshments: No café inside; bring water or stop at a nearby bar.
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 solo trip?
- Trace Medici history through Michelangelo sculptures and tombs
- Explore Brunelleschi’s Renaissance architecture at your own pace
- Use the free audio-guide app for detailed English commentary
- See cloisters, sacristies and crypt with a €9 ticket
- Add Medici Chapels entry (€9) to complete the full collection
Recommended visit duration: 1-2 hours
Why 1-2 hours visit duration is ideal for solo trip: Covers the church, cloisters, Old Sacristy and crypt at a relaxed solo pace
Solo-Friendly Activities in Basilica di San Lorenzo
Use the free audio-guide app:
Listen to expert commentary on Michelangelo’s and Brunelleschi’s works.
Tip: Download the app before entering to avoid museum Wi-Fi issues.
Explore the Old Sacristy:
See Donatello’s reliefs in Brunelleschi’s perfect cube room.
Tip: Enter early to photograph without crowds.
Visit Michelangelo’s New Sacristy:
Admire nine sculpted figures on Medici tombs.
Tip: Buy the separate Cappelle Medicee ticket (€9) in advance.
Walk the cloisters:
Stroll under Brunelleschi’s arches in the shaded courtyard.
Tip: Pause by the central well for a quiet rest spot.
Descend to the Medici crypt:
Discover early Medici burials in a hushed underground space.
Tip: Bring a lightweight jacket; the crypt is cooler year-round.
How to Make the Most of Your Visit to Basilica di San Lorenzo
- Pre-book tickets: Reserve your basilica and Medici Chapels tickets online to skip the line.
- Arrive at opening: Enter at 10:00 to enjoy quieter galleries and photo opportunities.
- Charge your phone: Carry a small power bank to keep the audio-guide app running all visit.
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 evening openings (€16 + €1 booking) to view the counter-façade by dusk. In winter, visit right at 10:00 for calmer cloisters and shorter lines.
Explore These Activities
Typical Budget for Solo Traveler (1 Adult)
| Item | Cost (Approx.) |
|---|---|
| Basilica complex ticket | EUR 9 |
| Cappelle Medicee (Medici Chapels) ticket | EUR 9 |
| 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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