Basilica of Santa Maria Novella (with baby)
How Baby-Friendly is Basilica of Santa Maria Novella?
What makes it 40% Baby-Friendly: Babies enter free, but no nursing room, no changing table, many stairs, and folded stroller required, so parents must carry the infant and plan diaper changes elsewhere.
Positives:
- Free baby admission: Infants under 2 enter free with adult ticket holders.
- Calm cloister space: The Green Cloister offers a quiet spot for feeding or soothing your baby.
- Nearby pharmacy museum: Officina Profumo-Farmaceutica entry is free and stroller-friendly.
Challenges:
- No changing facilities: There are no baby-changing tables; bring a portable mat or use nearby cafés.
- Stroller restrictions: Narrow aisles and stairs make large strollers cumbersome; use a baby carrier.
What is Basilica of Santa Maria Novella?
- A 14th-century Dominican church that stands as a hallmark of Gothic architecture in Florence, featuring Leon Battista Alberti’s geometric marble façade
- A repository of major fresco cycles by Renaissance masters such as Masaccio, Giotto, and Ghirlandaio, illustrating biblical narratives and saints’ lives
- A complex of chapels, cloisters, and a vaulted nave that harmoniously blends medieval structure with early Renaissance spatial innovations
What is so special about Basilica of Santa Maria Novella for with baby?
- Free entry for babies under 2
- Art highlights: Tornabuoni and Spanish Chapel frescoes
- Calm courtyards ideal for baby breaks
- Historic pharmacy with free entry
- Gelato stops right outside
Note: Basilica of Santa Maria Novella is 40% Baby-Friendly. You may want to consider other Baby-Friendly Things to Do in Florence for a more suitable experience.
Recommended visit duration: 1-2 hours
Why 1-2 hours visit duration is ideal for with baby: A shorter visit helps avoid tiring the baby and lets adults see main frescoes comfortably.
Baby-Friendly Activities in Basilica of Santa Maria Novella
Admire Tornabuoni Chapel frescoes:
See Ghirlandaio’s detailed fresco cycle depicting daily life.
Tip: Carry your baby in a sling to move easily through the narrow aisle.
Explore the Green Cloister:
Enjoy Paolo Uccello’s Flood fresco in a calm courtyard.
Tip: Fold your stroller before entering and keep the baby close to you.
Visit the historic pharmacy:
Browse 17th-century apothecary artifacts and sample free scents.
Tip: Keep baby in a carrier to safely view displays at counter height.
How to Make the Most of Your Visit to Basilica of Santa Maria Novella
- Buy skip-the-line tickets: Reserve online to avoid queues and reduce waiting with your baby.
- Visit at opening: Arrive at opening time to enjoy cooler temperatures and minimal crowds.
- Use a baby carrier: A sling lets you navigate narrow passages and stairs safely.
Reviews of Basilica of Santa Maria Novella
Terry Moriarty
Stunning building from the outside. But I was a little underwhelmed inside. Apart from the fresco which was the was the highlight.If you want to climb the bell tower or the dome and go down the crypt you have to pay extra. Check well in advance if you want to climb the dome.It does get busy.
Jonathan Phan
This basilica is a quiet powerhouse of Florentine art and architecture. From the moment you step inside, you’re surrounded by centuries of layered detail—frescoes by Ghirlandaio, Masaccio’s perspective-shifting Trinity, and Giotto’s monumental cross all in one space. It’s less crowded than the Duomo or Uffizi, which makes it easier to take your time and really absorb what’s around you. The cloiste...
Patrick Villacorta
May 2025. Seems to be one of the major church destinations in Florence. Conveniently located near the train station. Another case of me liking the exterior more. The interior is still worth visiting though.
MIM RAMINTHON
Hidden gem in Bergamo. One of the most beautiful churches I’ve ever visited. Incredible art, detailed interiors, and a quiet atmosphere. Don’t miss the wooden choir stalls!
Ion Scripliuc
A hidden gem in the heart of Florence! Santa Maria Novella might not get as much attention as the Duomo, but it’s just as stunning. The facade is beautiful, and the inside is full of incredible art and peaceful cloisters. The frescoes by Ghirlandaio and the Spanish Chapel are true highlights—so detailed and rich in history. It’s usually less crowded, so you can really take your time and enjoy the ...
When is the best time to visit Basilica of Santa Maria Novella (Florence, Italy)?
Summer afternoons can be hot inside; bring a breathable baby cover. Winters feel cold on marble floors; dress baby in layers. Spring and autumn mornings offer milder temperatures and fewer crowds.
Explore These Activities
Typical Budget for a Family of 3 (2 Adults + 1 Baby)
| Item | Cost (Approx.) |
|---|---|
| Adult tickets (2) | EUR 15 |
| Gelato break | EUR 5 |
| Total Estimated | EUR 20 |
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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Map of Basilica of Santa Maria Novella
Address: P.za di Santa Maria Novella, 18, 50123 Firenze FI, Italy
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About Basilica of Santa Maria Novella
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 219257Explore Popular Things to Do
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