Breathtaking views here! This is probably the most picturesque place in all of Florence. The detailed art and architecture of the church is just incredible--as is the scale of the building. Definitely enjoy the shops and restaurants within the immediate area. So delightful! read more

Some tourist destinations are just friggin' worth it. Yes, this piazza is among the most crowded in Europe, but the breathtaking duomo and surrounding snacks are oh-so worth it! There aren't really many main hubs in the world that have taken my breath away, but Piazza del Duomo sure has. Plus, you can get that fun instagram with the replica of the David before you march to Accademia Museum to see it in real life. Might as well, I mean you are in Florence, you lucky duck! read more

Left me with the impression as one of the most beautiful and interesting piazzas I saw in Italy or ever. Bellezza! No words or pictures can do it justice. It was always crowded and we cant even be mad. I could sit there all day admiring it. Lucky that this Duomo was a reason for my smiles and that I was fortunate to feast my eyes upon it. read more

Unfortunately, the day we were here there was some sort of event going on so the square was clogged with bleachers and scaffolding. This forced the huge crowds of people into a very small area around the edges of parts of the square. Still, the square was an incredible place. Of course, it's dominated by Florence Cathedral - an incredibly beautiful (and huge) church. It also includes an impressive statue of Dante and a number of shops and cafes housed in very old and beautiful buildings. We spent a fair amount of time here just relaxing and taking in the beautiful views. read more

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One of my favorite piazza's - and in Florence Italy that is saying much. The baroque is music playing, you don't even know where it is coming from. it is crowded and full of people lining up in every direction to see the Duomo. The golden doors - though you have to go to another museum to see the originals, these are fantastic replicates. It is very confusing on how to get your tickets. I encourage all that visit Florence (Firenze) to get a the Firenze pass - which can be picked up at several locations, gives you 72 hour access with "skip line" privelages at the Duomo and pretty much every museum you dream to visit, including Uffizi. Worth it! No lines! And you set your own schedule. read more

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Duomo is my best place in the whole of Italy! Very beautifully created and stand out in the skyline! Whenever the word "Renaissance" comes up, it will always be the Duomo for me. We were debating between climbing the Duomo or Giotto's Bell tower, but ended up climbing Duomo because of the Fresco on the dome. While climbing, you get really close to the Fresco which is beyond words. You can see the exterior of the Dome once you are on the top and also see Giotto's Bell tower. The red roof of Florence are very pretty too! The hike up is not that stressful and the line moves slow, so you can get enough breaks on the way up. We were up and down in about an hour, including time for taking pictures on the top! Buy the ticket online in advance and start very early in the morning to avoid long lines. Visited May 2015 read more

Beautiful, stunning and breathtaking! But you know what's more heart-stopping, literally? The 467 narrow, confined spiral stairs to the top of the dome. It definitely wasn't fun going up, but once you get there, you're greeted with some of the most spectacular views you'll ever see and a cornucopia of "it's so worth it!" in every language known to man. read more

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To the top of the cupola we go! If you are afraid of heights, it's better to not know what you're getting into when you step into the line for the Duomo. There is no better structure than the Duomo to test your faith, love, stamina, and bravery than to climb it if you are deathly afraid of heights. Hats off to my mother who conquered the cupola. It was a bonding experience and one not to be missed in Florence. The view at the top (the whole city of Florence and the Giotto's campanile) is breath taking and rewarding. Needless to say, the whole experience is excellent training for the Amazing Race! There is no elevator, just 463 steep steps which wind around endlessly. You will get dizzy and tired. The fact that there are people going up and down on the same staircase is helpful. The flow of traffic is drastically slowed down and it gives people a moment to breathe. The small crevices are a godsend when you just need to take a moment and sit. If you are in relatively good health, you can do this climb as long as you don't quit and keep moving. At times the climb will seem endless but eventually it ends. Give yourself at least 40 minutes to slowly make it to the top. Throughout the climb, you will pass several stages and floors. Some have the most gorgeous mosaics and some have building equipment that show you how the church was built. It's a history lesson and tourist attraction all rolled into one. Don't forget to take a good look at Giorgio Vasari's fresco Last Judgment. Oh man, if you didn't fear the devil before, the fresco might just change your mind. ***** Per la parte superiore della cupola andiamo ! Se avete paura delle altezze , è meglio non sapere cosa si sta entrando quando si entra nella linea per il Duomo. Non è la struttura migliore rispetto al Duomo per testare la vostra fede , amore , resistenza e coraggio che a salire se siete mortale paura delle altezze . Tanto di cappello a mia madre che ha conquistato la cupola . E 'stata una esperienza di legame e uno da non perdere a Firenze . La vista verso l'alto ( l'intera città di Firenze e il campanile di Giotto ) è mozzafiato e gratificante . Inutile dire che l'intera esperienza è un eccellente allenamento per la Amazing Race ! C'è un ascensore , a soli 463 ripidi gradini che si snodano intorno all'infinito . Otterrete stordito e stanco . Il fatto che ci sono persone che vanno su e giù sulla stessa scala è stata utile . Il flusso di traffico è drasticamente rallentato e si dà alle persone un attimo per respirare . Le piccole fessure sono una manna dal cielo quando hai solo bisogno di prendere un attimo e sedersi . Se siete in salute relativamente buona , si può fare questa salita finché non si chiude e continuare a muoversi . A volte la salita sembrerà interminabile , ma alla fine si finisce . Datevi almeno 40 minuti per fare lentamente verso l'alto . Per tutta la salita , si passa diverse fasi e pavimenti . Alcuni hanno i mosaici più belli e alcuni hanno attrezzature edili che mostrano come è stata costruita la chiesa . E ' una lezione di storia e di attrazione turistica , tutto in uno . Non dimenticate di prendere una buona occhiata a affresco Giudizio Universale di Giorgio Vasari . Oh uomo, se non hai paura del diavolo prima , l'affresco potrebbe anche cambiare idea . read more

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FIRENZE! Whether you are here for a few hours or for months, the first thing you have to do is to walk to this grand plaza where the famous Duomo is. No matter how many times you have seen the photos, I can bet that you will be stunned by the Duomo's magnificence in scale and details! Paralleled by only the nearby Piazza della Signoria, this piazza is the most festive square in central Florence. Aside from being such a photogenic square, Piazza del Duomo is great for people-watching as well. Don't worry about buying the food next to this popular tourist attraction; at least in Florence, even the "tourist traps" are delicious. In fact, this is where you can find one of the best gelatos I had in Italy - Edoardo. Don't bother preparing yourself because no matter how much you brace yourself for this marvel, you will be marveled nevertheless. Go ahead, and remember to catch your breath when you see the Duomo peeking out! --- tl;dr version: 1) Must-go, 1st thing for all Florence visitors 2) Most festive square with Piazza Della Signoria in central Florence 3) Even in midst of the famous Duomo, food is still good! read more

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Oh wow, where to begin...Italy is full of wondrous sites and cities from antiquity and Florence is no different, maybe better on a smaller scale than Rome , but it's all subjective at this point. What is not an issue of "must see" is the Duomo both inside and out, above and below. Absolutely gorgeous facade all the way around. Ok, here's the choice you will have to make i.e. lines. I was there in low season in 19' and it's was about 30 minutes to get in the ground level main chapel. Then if you want to go up in the bell tower or the Dome themselves, get your tickets in advance on the Duomos website. I chose to go up to the dome....347 stairs, steep ones too, but the payoff is one beautiful view. Florence is awesome, just go, but here's a little secret, seriously, keep it under your hat. Go over the Thanksgiving holiday. Short lines everywhere I went all over Italy. The weather was a perfect 50-65ish degrees. Don't go in the summer. read more

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Visited 16 June, 2017: Magnificent! Not to be missed - which is impossible, really. Incredible in it's sheer size and scale, makes one feel humble. Queues are punishingly long during peak season, so get a Firenze Card and book your visit across at the tourist info line read more

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Always a lively piazza. Marvel at the amazing & oh so beautiful architecture. People watch, chill with a gelato, enjoy (or not) one of the street performers. Scavenger hunt...go find the bull's head on the side of the Duomo, the marble circle where the gold ball (technical term) was struck by lightning & fell off the dome. Find Dante's plaque. Test your Bible story knowledge on the Baptistry doors. Google all of the items for a history lesson or two. Benches line all around the piazza, if you're lucky enough to get a seat. Several restaurants with outdoor seating (seasonal) to enjoy a meal with a view (or just wine, lots of wine). Bella, Bella, Bella! read more

You could not write a bad review about these majestic works of art even if you wanted too. This Duomo is one of my favorite (the other being the gothic Duomo of Milan). Entry is free but there is a ticket to go upstairs which also gives you a fabulous pano view of Florence (I, myself prefer the Piazza Michelangelo because it includes the Duomo). read more

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You'll undoubtedly find yourself here time and again, en route to another location or here for the sheer awe and joy of taking in the Duomo, belltower and baptistry, as well as the famous bronze doors. Lovely early in the day before it's crowded, fine midday, and a must-see as the sun sets, to feel connected with the locals and tourists alike. No need to tour the interior, as the exterior is the highlight of these buildings. read more

Piazza del Duomo - Quiet early in the day - Public Plazas Near Me - Florence, FI

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In a nutshell...its a ginormous church in the middle of a ginormous outdoor shopping mall. Cigarette smokers treat the entire piazza like a giant ashtry...y'all disgust me. read more

Piazza del Duomo (aka: Cathedral Square) is one of the prettiest squares in Florence and located in the heart of the Florence's historic center. You'll find the Florence Cathedral in the Piazza del Duomo along with the Cupola del Brunelleschi, the Giotto's Campanile, the Florence Baptistery, and the Opera del Duomo Museum. You will also find the Loggia del Bigallo, the Arcivescovile, and Canonici's palace in the Piazza del Duomo. TIP: Stop by Gelateria Edoardo (located at the south east corner of Piazza del Duomo) for the most amazing gelato. Stroll in the Piazza del Duomo with your cones of gelato and people watch and take pictures. read more

This piazza holds one of the most BEAUTIFUL duomo's I've encountered in my 8 week stay in Florence. The church is so gorgeous; I went on a walking tour in June 2014 and our tour guide said that each statue on the Duomo is made separately and then placed strategically on the church. Just the amount of detail put into this building is amazing. You can walk inside (if you can stand waiting in the long line) and go on the roof, but there is a 10 euro fee. Besides the gorgeous church, there are PLENTY of restaurants, tourist shops, cafes, currency exchange centers, and retail shopping in this location. If you haven't already, the BEST gelato place in this area is Edoardo's; if you are standing right in front of the door of the Duomo, walk to your right and go all the way straight past the church (which will be on your left) and walk until you smell those homemade fresh cones.. it is hard to miss! This place gets incredibly packed in the afternoon and early evening hours so come here if you want a perfect picture of the Duomo without being trampled on. I've been here around 2am before and it's as gorgeous still, with people sitting in front of the church with a drink in their hands or enjoying late-night gelato. read more

This place is a must see, so add it to your itinerary when you visit Florence, Italy. You can see the duomo in movies and tv shows, but it does not compare to actually being here. See it from afar and see it up close. Go inside. See it at night. So beautiful, no matter the time of day. read more

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Beautiful! I recommend seeing it, but I would stay away from the restaurants close to it. They seem to be lure for tourists. The food & wine at the place I went to was horrible. I wish I remembered the name of the place. read more

This is gorgeous .. the pictures can not due it justice but I'm glad I took some to refresh my memory. We came here on a tour and it's a must see in Florence read more

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This place is gorgeous. I was lucky to stay at a hotel nearby - came by around noon and the place was CRAZY packed. Decided to hit up the leather market and grab lunch elsewhere before trying to hit this place up. Came back around 4pm and the lines were super short! WOOT!! It took about 15 min to get it, however, to get in, I had to tie a scarf around my waist (I should really remember by now, covered shoulders and shorts up to my knees to get into a church!). Either way, got in and just basked in the beauty of it all. Definitely worth a visit! read more

Piazza del Duomo - Good morning!! - Public Plazas Near Me - Florence, FI

Great central location and food all around. But St Peters in Rome is more interesting and more history in my opinion. Since I had been to the top of St Peters I saved my legs and the stairs here. As others have stated I am sure the view is wonderful. But there are other great spots around town for a beautiful view over looking the city. We chose the later and enjoyed our visit. read more

If you are in Florence, you're bound to come across the Duomo! This plaza is where all the action is at and packed with visitors/tourists. It is where you'll see a gorgeous view of the Duomo and plenty of photo opportunities. We were lucky that Tuesday, as the Duomo (cathedral) was FREE for visitors that day. I'm not really sure why, but I'm guessing maybe it was due to All Saints Day happening that same week. This Duomo reminded me very much of the one we saw in Siena as well. read more

Could not wait to get out of this piazza. The Duomo is unique. I didn't go inside. Maybe that is what makes it a big deal. The piazza was so crazily crowded that I just wanted to leave. I kept ending up cutting through since the top of the Duomo is such a landmark. That one the saving grace of this piazza. A landmark to get around the city. read more

Our hotel Perseo is conveniently located within steps from this major major attraction so we were fortunate to be able to walk by it s f admire the beautiful architecture multiple times daily on our way touring this wonderful city. We did not get to go inside for seeing the lines just turned us away. However the exterior is just as charming and memorable. I think the best time to view it is at night and could not resist taking another shot walking by perhaps from a difference angle. read more

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I'm sure if you're reading this review, by now, you'll know that the Duomo is a must see. It would be like going to Rome and not seeing the Colosseum. So, yes - you should go! So I'll just cut to the chase - here are some things you need to know: 1. The duomo itself is free (which means this doesn't include any of the good stuff - no climbing the cupola, no crypt. If you want to visit the other attractions, you can get a combined ticket for 10 Euros) 2. Dress code is enforced. Ladies, this means no bare shoulders or bare knees. They will NOT let you in! So if you're visiting during a hot summer month, it might be best to carry around a cardigan and just make sure your skirt/dress is past your knee. 3. If you did get the combined ticket, the Santa Reparata (crypt) is right downstairs. read more

Cattedrale di Santa Maria del Fiore or Il Duomo is very beautiful and was the main church of Firenze located in the Piazza del Duomo. I'll keep it simple once again... Bring a good camera. Be prepared for lots of tour groups and people. Wear comfortable shoes. Leave that giant backpack at home. Drink water. And just take it all in. read more

A historical experience. The building itself is stunning and the views you get from climbing to the top are breathtaking. With that being said it is quite a hike to the top so make sure you wear comfortable shoes and are prepared for some serious climbing. The spaces can also be somewhat small and tight at times so beware of that. read more

Piazza del Duomo - Public Plazas Near Me - Florence, FI

Florence is one of my florence cities in Italy. It is the home of truffles and the magificant world famous Duomo. The Duomo should be your first stop once you arrive. It is free to for entree and near by to the Piazza della Signoria, which is located in a central plaza with local shops and restaurants to eat. There is not parking area. Most ppl will get dropped off or walk towards the area. I would recommend you spend some time to embrace the Duomo from afar. I won't forget the moment absorbing the beauty of the church. You can't compare to anything on this early. Pls warn the area will be crowded with visitors. However, it's still worth coming by. Also out of respect for the cathodic charts, you are required to cover your shoulders, legs, and arms. This is a strict policy and highly enforced. Bring a scarf or a light jacket during the summer. Walking into the Duomo was amazing. Make sure you observe the intricate statues, carvings, ornate decorations, and authentic Italian architects. You can spend about 60-90 mins hanging out at the plaza and the duomo! Enjoy! read more

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We traveled from Vincenza to Florence. Florence was my favorite part of the trip! We stayed in a beautiful Airbnb apartments right up the street from the Duomo! Great shopping, beautiful sights! Really love the statues! The only downfall was after coming from Vicenza, where the wine was cheaper, and Venice, where the food was delicious, Florence restaurants appeared 'touristy.' We ate at a restaurant across from the Duomo, and it was the worse meal I'd had while in Italy! Tip: Don't shop in the name brand section! The local shops have really great deals, and you'll get styles that are unique! read more

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We didn't get ticket to go in this time, but from the outside, this is a real masterpiece. Awesome more for its artistic than spiritual inspiration. Beautiful at night when it's quiet and some street musicians play soothing music. read more

Piazza del Duomo - Public Plazas Near Me - Florence, FI

Wonderful place to visit in Firenze and lots to see here. I would argue that this is probably one of the only major things to see in this city but that's not true. I'm not a super religious person but I still appreciated the Duomo and loved that there were several dining and shopping options in the area for us. read more

The Duomo is a must-see in Florence. Even if you don't have time to go inside (I didn't), seeing the outside of it is amazing. The details of the exterior are beautiful! Around the Duomo are a lot of restaurants and a few vendors selling souvenirs. read more

Wow! We walked around the corner our first night and wasn't expecting to see the Cathedral Santa Maria Fiores, the Duomo and the Bell Tower but it gave us such a wow factor. There hasn't been an occasion where all of us were like "whoa" at the same time. This building in itself is impressive! The building looks like it's painted and pulled out of a book. But upon closer inspection, it is all made out of green and white marble with such intricate details it's crazy! The night view was spectacular with the light shining on the building. The Cathedral is free to visit - which was not as impressive as some of the other cathedrals I've been in in Spain and France. We paid for time reservations for the Duomo (and you should cause they were sold out for the day) - this was like a 400+ step climb up stairs and winding spiral staircases at the top with the arch dome above your head. The interior ceiling of the Duomo was painted with heaven and hell and it's so gorgeous! The views from the top of the Duomo of the city was amazing! Panoramic view of the city and the bell tower! The climb up the bell tower is also paid and reserved but they aren't as strict on time as the Duomo. The climb is exactly 414 steps and has a great view of the Duomo from the other side. The bell tower was windy up top but they have levels to sit and hang out after every level, whereas the Duomo was a straight shot up. Well worth it to get the views of Florence! read more

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Rick steves has a free audiotour with a map to walk you through the history here, its free on itunes I was very very surprised to see this. I had never seen pictures of it before and was quite impressed with both the size and the unique design. The white stone and dark metallic green contrast very nicely with each other. It added a lot to the atmosphere of the square and felt very Italian. read more

The dome is a masterpiece of master Brunelleschi off course but there are some much more to Florence then this amazing cathedral. Tho most tourists prefer to go up to the top of the dome I recommend going up the bell tower, the view is way cooler from up there. But you need to be in shape because it's like over 300 steep steps to the top! Lol! read more

Piazza del Duomo - Firenze my "passione" - Public Plazas Near Me - Florence, FI

What can I say about Duomo. The most impressive structure I've seen. If in Florence a must see.

Location: In the heart of Florence. The place: I loved this piazza for two reasons - first, the Duomo. I could stand there all day just looking up at this magnificent piece of architecture. Secondly, many local artists gather here to sell their art while simultaneously creating new pieces (water colors, sketches etc.). The piazza also has restaurants and shops. Obviously it's very touristy so my suggestion would be to eat and shop elsewhere so that you don't overpay. However, some of the local artists that work on the right side of the church are very good, so it's worth stopping buy to see what they have to offer. There are a LOT of tourists here though, so choose your time of day accordingly. read more

If you're planning a trip to the Duomo in Florence, I'm sure you'll already know a bit about the history and have seen all the details in the guidebooks. I'll use this review to strongly suggest that you bring a pair of binoculars! Vasari's "Last Judgment" fresco on the ceiling is spectacular. There is a lot going on and you'll miss a lot if you don't have binoculars. You'll see a pretty detailed (and sometimes gruesome) scene of people ascending into Heaven and those left behind being taken to Hell. You'll see things you may be surprised to see ... like the devil dragging one man to Hell by the testicles, and one naked man falling into Hell with his legs up, exposing an orifice one would not normally expect to see on the ceiling of a church! The other way to get a closer look at the fresco is to take a trip to the top of the dome via a narrow winding stairway. I did that at St. Peters in Rome and once was enough for me, so I was happy with the binoculars. You'll find a good pair of binoculars essential in many of the larger cathedrals on your trip. Trust me! read more

Five stars for the architecture featured in the piazza but I have to subtract one star for the crowds. Of all the historical landmarks in Italy we visited this piazza was my least favorite because of the crowds. So many people, I actually felt claustrophobic despite the open air and space. Obviously you'll find yourself there when you go see the Duomo, there's really no way around the Piazza, just prepare yourselves for the crowds of people, thats all. read more