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Italy/Things to Do in Florence, solo trip

Basilica of Santa Croce in Florence (solo trip)

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How Solo-Friendly is Basilica of Santa Croce in Florence?

90%Solo-Friendly
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What makes it 90% Solo-Friendly: A solo traveler can wander at their own pace among tombs and Giotto frescoes, rent an audio guide, use free Wi-Fi and attend quiet Mass; the main drawback is heavy visitor traffic that can hinder contemplation.

Google
Reviews4.7/ 5
(from 38,998 reviews)
Santa Croce Basilica - Tombs of Michelangelo, Galileo, Dante, and Machiavelli in Florence, Italy
24 min
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Santa Croce Basilica - Tombs of Michelangelo, Galileo, Dante, and Machiavelli in Florence, Italy
9.1K views • 2 years ago

Positives:

  • Quiet reflection: Daily Mass at 6 pm offers free entry and a serene atmosphere.
  • Self-guided freedom: Free Wi-Fi and the official app let you follow themed routes at your own pace.

Challenges:

  • Dress code: Shoulders and knees must be covered; free disposable robes are available.
  • Photography limits: Tripods and flash are prohibited; use a handheld camera or smartphone.
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What is Basilica of Santa Croce in Florence?

  • A Neo-Gothic Franciscan basilica in Florence, Italy, featuring Giotto frescoes and a 19th-century polychrome marble façade
  • An architectural blueprint for subsequent European Catholic churches, blending soaring Gothic vaults with Renaissance chapels and cloisters
  • A pantheon of Italy’s great figures, housing tombs of Michelangelo, Galileo and Machiavelli

What is so special about Basilica of Santa Croce in Florence for solo trip?

  1. Trace the tombs of Italy’s greatest artists at your own pace
  2. Explore Giotto’s frescoes and Brunelleschi’s chapel without a group
  3. Use free Wi-Fi and the app for a customized self-guided tour
  4. Attend the evening Mass for a peaceful, cost-free interlude
  5. Enjoy inclusive entry to the Opera Museum and cloisters

Recommended visit duration: 0.5-1 hour

Why 0.5-1 hour visit duration is ideal for solo trip: Allows time to explore the church, cloisters and Pazzi Chapel at your own pace

(View Basilica of Santa Croce in Florence on Map)

Solo-Friendly Activities in Basilica of Santa Croce in Florence

Locate the tombs of Michelangelo and Galileo:

Find the marble tombs lining the nave dedicated to Italy’s masters.

Tip: Use the audio-guide or app to hear the stories behind each tomb.

Admire Giotto’s frescoes in the Bardi Chapel:

View the cycle depicting Scenes from the Lives of St. Francis.

Tip: Stand a few steps back to take in the entire fresco sequence.

Explore the Pazzi Chapel:

Step into Brunelleschi’s architectural gem attached to the cloisters.

Tip: Check the Museum opening hours on arrival—entry is included in your ticket.

Visit the Opera Museum:

See Cimabue’s 1280 Crucifix and exhibits on the 1966 flood.

Tip: Follow the chronological displays for a clear narrative.

Attend the 6 pm Mass:

Experience a quiet moment amid the basilica’s art.

Tip: Enter through the reserved door near the main entrance—no ticket needed.

When is the best time to visit Basilica of Santa Croce in Florence (Florence, Italy)?

In summer (June–August), arrive by 9 am to avoid heat and crowds. In winter, weekday afternoons are quieter for unobstructed viewing.

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

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Reviews of Basilica of Santa Croce in Florence (Florence)

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KlrFking “KFM” McDiller

KlrFking “KFM” McDiller

Sep 2025

Love Santa Croce, the history here is amazing. We were here in the morning during the week day and there was no line at all. There is a large courtyard on the river side of the Basilica with a few other small museums to explore.

Patrick Villacorta

Patrick Villacorta

Aug 2025

May 2025. Seems to be one of the major Church destinations in Florence. A little further out from the core tourist destinations. Paid to enter and was able to also visit the cloisters. Personally, like for some of the churches in Florence, I appreciated the exterior more than the interior. The attached piazza is nice.

Kshira Saagar

Kshira Saagar

Aug 2025

This is a beautiful basilica and a must visit location to admire the pantheon of Italian who’s who. Not only does one get to see the real tombs of the likes of Michelangelo, Galileo, Machiavelli and more, but you also admire one of the oldest cathedrals built in Florence. Definitely get the audio guide if you are doing a self guided tour and listen in to the interesting stories and descriptions ...

Benjamin Dibble

Benjamin Dibble

Jun 2025

A beautiful basilica with the tombs of some very famous artists. You have to wear appropriate outfits to gain entry, basically just make sure you have long shorts and your arms are covered, you can purchase a shawl or they have shawls insider purchase. The basilica itself is very tranquil and calm, and also very cool on a hot day! They also have various chapels and gardens to explore, with public...

sarosh saeed

sarosh saeed

Jun 2025

It is a Great example of renaissance architecture. But the church is basically a cemetery. Or a cemetery in a church. One has to walk all over the graves to move around. The chapel is fine. The museum is just a namesake. Only a painting or two exist. It's all electronic screens.

Typical Budget for Solo Traveler (1 Adult)

ItemCost (Approx.)
Monumental Complex ticketEUR 10
Audio-guide (online)EUR 4
Total EstimatedEUR 14

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

How to Make the Most of Your Visit to Basilica of Santa Croce in Florence

  1. Book tickets online: Reserve your Monumental Complex ticket on the official site to skip the line.
  2. Pre-purchase audio-guide: Rent the €4 online audio-guide before arrival to avoid the onsite deposit.
  3. Choose weekdays: Visit Monday–Friday mornings for smaller crowds and better photo opportunities.
🚗 Planning to explore multiple Florence attractions? A rental car often costs less than daily taxi trips. Check Trip.com for deals. New users save up to 8% OFF.

Map of Basilica of Santa Croce in Florence

Address: Piazza di Santa Croce, 16, 50122 Firenze FI, Italy

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About Basilica of Santa Croce in Florence

Opening Hours

Monday:9:30 AM – 5:30 PM
Tuesday:9:30 AM – 5:30 PM
Wednesday:9:30 AM – 5:30 PM
Thursday:9:30 AM – 5:30 PM
Friday:9:30 AM – 5:30 PM
Saturday:9:30 AM – 5:30 PM
Sunday:12:30 – 5:45 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

+39 055 200 8789

Average price

US$ 16
Book on GetYourGuide

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Average price

US$ 16
Book on GetYourGuide
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