Overview
Explore Florentine art and architecture on a tour that gets you past the typical long lines at the Accademia Gallery and the Duomo. You'll breeze past the long line to marvel at Michelangelo’s statue of David, granting you incredible insight into the mind of a master.
After, you’ll stop at Piazza del Duomo outside the Baptistery and check out the incredible bronze-cast doors by Lorenzo Ghiberti, coined the "Gates of Paradise" by Michelangelo. Continue on to the jewel of Florence, the Cathedral of Santa Maria del Fiore, with a special skip-the-line entrance up to the terraces—an exclusive space rarely visited by the general public.
You’re welcome to continue your journey up to the top of Florence by climbing to the top of the dome to soak up even more spectacular views of the city. With all entrance fees included, an expert guide, and a small group of just 18 guests max for a more intimate experience, there’s no better way to see Florence’s top attractions.
- Recommended by 98% of travelers
- Badge of Excellence
- Free cancellation up to 24 hours before
- Mobile ticket
What's included
Special access to the Duomo Terraces
Skip the line tickets to the Accademia Gallery
Expert English-speaking guide
Skip the line access to climb the dome
Headsets (when needed)
Gratuities
Hotel Pick-Up/Drop-Off
Meeting and pickup
Travelers meet at the meeting point.
Meeting point
The tour meets in Piazza San Marco, by the statue in the middle of the square.
This is a centrally-located square adjacent to Via degli Arazzieri and Via Giorgio la Pira, about 1/3 mile north of Santa Maria del Fiore Cathedral. Your guide will be holding a Walks sign.
Good to know
- Please note: the order of the itinerary may vary to avoid the crowds and enhance your experience.
- Please note that the tour meeting time is 15 minutes prior to the start time. No refunds can be provided for late arrivals or no-shows after tour commencement or departure.
- If you cannot join your tour at the last minute (running late, etc), please contact us. We may be able to reschedule your tour with a small amendment fee depending on availability.
- We ask all guests (including children) to bring their ID on the day of their tour.
- Minors under 18 years must be accompanied by an adult to climb the Terraces.
- Guests may be asked to go through security on this tour.
- Only small handbags and backpacks are allowed inside the Duomo.
- Due to the religious nature of the Cathedral, all individuals regardless of gender must cover their shoulders and knees. You can bring extra covering (scarves, etc) to put on just before entering the Cathedral.
- Shoes with heels and flip-flops are prohibited inside the Cathedral.
- This is a walking tour. Guests should be able to walk at a moderate pace without difficulty.
- Tips/gratuities (for your guide) are always appreciated.
What to expect
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Galleria dell'Accademia
1 hour
Meet your local expert guide and small group of 18 people or fewer outside the Accademia. Before the daytime crowds show up or after they've left in the afternoon, you’ll head in to marvel at Michelangelo’s “David” as well as his unfinished sculptures known as “Slaves,” which give incredible insight into the mind of one of history’s greatest artists.
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Piazza del Duomo
30 min
After leaving the museum, you’ll stop at Piazza del Duomo outside the Baptistery and check out the incredible bronze-cast doors by Lorenzo Ghiberti, coined the "Gates of Paradise" by Michelangelo.
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Duomo - Cattedrale di Santa Maria del Fiore
1 hour
You’ll skip lines into the Duomo, where your guide will bring the unbelievable history of its construction to life before heading to the pinnacle of your tour: the once-in-a-lifetime chance to step onto the Duomo’s rooftop terraces, rarely open to the public and offering stunning panoramic views.
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Cupola Del Brunelleschi
45 min
Finally, once the guided tour concludes on the terrace level, you’re welcome to continue your journey up to the top of Florence by climbing to the top of the dome. Starting from this level gives you a head start past the long lines down below, so you’ll be soaking up spectacular views of the city in no time at all.
Cancellation Policy
For a full refund, cancel at least 24 hours before the start time.
Times are local to the experience (Europe/Rome).
Additional Information
- Walks / Devour complies with all local government regulations. Please refer to local government guidelines for the most up-to-date information.
- Mobile or paper ticket accepted
- Up to 15 travelers per booking
- Each booking must include at least one adult.
FAQs about VIP David & Duomo Early Entry Accademia, Skip-the-Line Dome Climb
Can I cancel VIP David & Duomo Early Entry Accademia, Skip-the-Line Dome Climb for free?
Yes. For a full refund, cancel at least 24 hours before the start time.
How long does it take?
It takes about 3 hours 30 min.
Where does it start?
The tour meets in Piazza San Marco, by the statue in the middle of the square.
What's included?
- Special access to the Duomo Terraces
- Skip the line tickets to the Accademia Gallery
- Expert English-speaking guide
- Skip the line access to climb the dome
- Headsets (when needed)
What's not included?
- Gratuities
- Hotel Pick-Up/Drop-Off
Which places does it visit?
It visits Galleria dell'Accademia, Piazza del Duomo, Duomo - Cattedrale di Santa Maria del Fiore, Cupola Del Brunelleschi.
Which languages is it offered in?
It is offered in English.
Is it suitable for children?
Children must be accompanied by an adult.
Operated by Walks - Italy, Spain & Greece
