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.
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
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.
In summer (June–August), arrive by 9 am to avoid heat and crowds. In winter, weekday afternoons are quieter for unobstructed viewing.
Explore These Activities
KlrFking “KFM” McDiller
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
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
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
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
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.
Item | Cost (Approx.) |
---|---|
Monumental Complex ticket | EUR 10 |
Audio-guide (online) | EUR 4 |
Total Estimated | EUR 14 |
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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Address: Piazza di Santa Croce, 16, 50122 Firenze FI, Italy
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