Basilica of Santa Maria Novella (with kids)
How Kids-Friendly is Basilica of Santa Maria Novella?
What makes it 71% Kids-Friendly: Children under 12 enter free and weekend scavenger or friar-life activities keep them engaged, yet they must stay quiet and cannot touch anything, and there are no play areas or snacks inside.
Positives:
- Compact layout: The basilica is easy to navigate on foot, so kids won't get lost.
- Varied visual highlights: Different chapels and cloisters offer fresh scenes to maintain children’s interest.
Challenges:
- Quiet environment: Children must speak softly and avoid running in the nave to respect worshippers.
- Limited stroller access: Narrow passages make open strollers difficult; bring a baby carrier or fold your stroller.
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 kids?
- Interactive scavenger hunt engages kids in Renaissance art.
- Spanish Chapel’s vivid frescoes captivate young eyes.
- Green Cloister provides a safe play area mid-visit.
- Gelato on the piazza rewards the family after touring.
- Compact layout keeps the group together and on schedule.
Recommended visit duration: 1-2 hours
Why 1-2 hours visit duration is ideal for with kids: Enough time to see the main frescoes, explore the chapels, and give kids a gelato break without rushing.
Kids-Friendly Activities in Basilica of Santa Maria Novella
Art Scavenger Hunt:
Kids hunt for specific fresco details like the skeleton in Masaccio’s Trinity and the four continents in the pharmacy ceiling.
Tip: Print a simple list before you go or ask at the ticket desk for a kids’ activity sheet.
Visit the Spanish Chapel:
See Andrea di Bonaiuto’s colorful fresco cycle depicting medieval life.
Tip: Point out the bright blues and reds to keep younger children engaged.
Explore the Green Cloister:
Let kids wander the open courtyard under covered arches.
Tip: Head here mid-visit for a quiet break away from the main nave.
Gelato Break on the Piazza:
Reward kids with artisan gelato just outside the basilica.
Tip: Try the nearby Beccaria gelateria and let children pick their favorite flavors.
How to Make the Most of Your Visit to Basilica of Santa Maria Novella
- Buy tickets online: Reserve timed-entry tickets in advance to skip the line.
- Visit at opening: Arrive when the basilica opens to enjoy quieter rooms and cooler temperatures.
- Use a foldable stroller: Keep your stroller folded at all times inside to navigate narrow aisles easily.
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 mornings are cooler and less crowded, winter visits may coincide with services—check opening times. On rainy days pack non-slip shoes for cloisters.
Explore These Activities
Typical Budget for a Family of 4 (2 Adults + 2 Kids)
| Item | Cost (Approx.) |
|---|---|
| Entry tickets (2 adults + 1 child aged 12) | EUR 20 |
| Gelato for family | EUR 10 |
| Total Estimated | EUR 30 |
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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