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Italy/Things to Do in Florence, solo trip

Basilica di Santo Spirito (solo trip)

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How Solo-Friendly is Basilica di Santo Spirito?

88%Solo-Friendly
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What makes it 88% Solo-Friendly: The quiet nave, €2 art route, and downloadable audio guide give a solo traveler rich, inexpensive art time; ramps and wide aisles make moving alone straightforward.

Google
Reviews4.6/ 5
(from 4,737 reviews)
ROCKY'S ITALY: Florence - Inside Brunelleschi’s Basilica of Santo Spirito (Part 2)
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ROCKY'S ITALY: Florence - Inside Brunelleschi’s Basilica of Santo Spirito (Part 2)
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Positives:

  • Tranquil Atmosphere: Low visitor numbers let you admire art in peace.
  • Accessible Layout: Wide aisles and a ramp entrance suit solo walkers.

Challenges:

  • Limited Lighting: Low-light interior may challenge photography without flash.
  • Uneven Floors: Stone floors and cloister steps can be slippery when wet.
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🏖️ Explore Basilica di Santo Spirito with a local guide: GetYourGuide's 10 BEST Activities and Tours around Basilica di Santo Spirito. Local guides know the hidden gems you'd otherwise miss, read what other travelers experienced, and book easily.

What is Basilica di Santo Spirito?

  • A 15th-century Augustinian basilica in Florence’s Oltrarno district conceived by Filippo Brunelleschi and executed by his workshop
  • A prime example of early Renaissance architecture featuring a single vast nave, slender pilasters, and a barrel-vaulted ceiling
  • An art-filled interior housing masterpieces such as Michelangelo’s wooden crucifix and altarpieces by Filippino Lippi and Botticini

What is so special about Basilica di Santo Spirito for solo trip?

  1. Admire Brunelleschi’s Renaissance architecture in solitude
  2. Study Michelangelo’s wooden Crucifix up close
  3. Take the €2 tour for hidden cloister and refectory art
  4. Sketch or journal quietly on a nave pew
  5. Enjoy candlelit Vespers for a peaceful experience

Recommended visit duration: 2-3 hours

Why 2-3 hours visit duration is ideal for solo trip: Covers free church visit, the €2 Augustinian Tour, and time to sketch or reflect in the piazza.

(View Basilica di Santo Spirito on Map)

Solo-Friendly Activities in Basilica di Santo Spirito

Explore the Main Nave:

Walk through Brunelleschi’s vaulted nave and side chapels.

Tip: No entry fee; photograph column details but avoid flash.

Join the Augustinian Tour:

Visit the Sacristy, cloister, and refectory with Michelangelo’s Crucifix.

Tip: Buy the €2 ticket at the turnstile; tours run daily except Wednesday; use the Rambl app for audio commentary.

Sketch or Journal in Silence:

Sit on a nave pew to draw the arches or write travel notes.

Tip: Bring a small sketchbook; step outside for coffee in Piazza Santo Spirito afterward.

Attend Evening Vespers:

Experience a short candlelit service for a moment of calm.

Tip: Check the basilica website for Vespers and Mass times before you go.

How to Make the Most of Your Visit to Basilica di Santo Spirito

  1. Download the Audio Guide: Install the Rambl app before arrival for free on-site commentary.
  2. Buy Tour Ticket Early: Head to the turnstile on arrival to secure your spot on the Augustinian Tour.
🏖️ Tour Basilica di Santo Spirito like a local: GetYourGuide's Top 10 Activities and Tours in Basilica di Santo Spirito. Local experts uncover hidden treasures you'd never find alone, browse authentic traveler reviews, and book your perfect adventure hassle-free.

Reviews of Basilica di Santo Spirito

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Carol G

Carol G

Oct 2025

Stayed in a nearby apartment and still miss these church bells now that I am home. The history and architecture is definitely worth a visit but attending Mass here was a game changer. Plus, there is a bonus Michelangelo treasure and beautiful cloister garden. Don't let the simple, austere fascade fool you. This place is special.

Jonathan Taylor

Jonathan Taylor

Sep 2025

Nice, quiet church with beautiful architecture. Not too crowded, which made it a peaceful stop during my visit to Florence. Worth a quick look if you're nearby

Özgür Kaya

Özgür Kaya

Jul 2025

It is not as popular as many other places but I think the most original church in Florence is Santo Spirito. It has an incredible atmosphere. There is an intertwined altar section/altar/mihrab inside. It is worth seeing just for that. It had a very different design. I was very impressed. The house was right in the center of the church. Moreover, it was free. There is also a statue of Jesus made by...

Seokjin Ham

Seokjin Ham

May 2025

Built in the early 15th century on the site of an Augustinian monastery destroyed by fire, the basilica was designed by Renaissance master Filippo Brunelleschi. He began the design in 1434, though construction did not begin in earnest until after his death in 1446, with his pupils completing the church in 1487. The exterior remains unfinished, clad in simple gray stone, reflecting the fact that Br...

Brad

Brad

Apr 2024

This is a large Augustinian church with a history dating back nearly a thousand years. However, the building that you see today was designed by Filippo Brunelleschi (1428-1446). The main body of the church is free to visit but a 2 Euro entry fee required to access the cloister and sacristy where the crucifix by Michelangelo is to be seen. The basilica exterior is subtle and unassuming. The interi...

When is the best time to visit Basilica di Santo Spirito (Florence, Italy)?

In summer, arrive before 10 AM to avoid heat in the unairconditioned interior. In winter, wear a light jacket as stone floors can feel chilly.

✈️ Ready to go? Check the latest flight deals to Florence on Trip.com

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Typical Budget for Solo Traveler (1 Adult)

ItemCost (Approx.)
Church entryEUR 0
Augustinian Tour ticketEUR 2
Coffee in piazzaEUR 3
Total EstimatedEUR 5

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 Santo Spirito

Address: Piazza Santo Spirito, 30, 50125 Firenze FI, Italy

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About Basilica di Santo Spirito

Opening Hours

Monday:10:00 AM – 1:00 PM, 3:00 – 6:00 PM
Tuesday:10:00 AM – 1:00 PM, 3:00 – 6:00 PM
Wednesday:Closed
Thursday:10:00 AM – 1:00 PM, 3:00 – 6:00 PM
Friday:10:00 AM – 1:00 PM, 3:00 – 6:00 PM
Saturday:10:00 AM – 1:00 PM, 3:00 – 6:00 PM
Sunday:11:30 AM – 1:30 PM, 3:00 – 6:00 PM

Hours may vary during holidays, special events, and peak seasons. Please check the official website for the most up-to-date information.

Website

Official Website

Phone Number

+39 055 210030

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