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Thursday, February 12, 2026
Piazza del Duomo, Florence, Italy
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Florence Duomo Planning: Calm and Accessible

When to go, which route to pick, and how to make the complex accessible and enjoyable.

11/12/2025
12 min read
Daylight aerial of Santa Maria del Fiore with hills behind

Side view

Timing

  • Early morning and late afternoon are quieter.
  • Avoid noon in summer; heat concentrates in queues.

Route Examples

  • Museum → Baptistery → Nave → Dome (classic).
  • Baptistery → Nave → Campanile (if skipping dome).
  • Dome at sunset if slot available.

Accessibility Notes

  • Nave: good access; staff can advise.
  • Dome/Campanile: many steps; consider alternatives.
  • Museum/Baptistery: mostly step‑free.

Seasonal Timing

  • Spring: pleasant, moderate crowds.
  • Summer: heat and queues; go early/late.
  • Autumn: soft light, calmer pace.
  • Winter: shorter days, quieter interiors.

Crowd Heatmap (Rule of Thumb)

  • 10:00–13:00 busiest; book timed entries outside this band when possible.

Checklist

  • Timed entry booked
  • Comfortable shoes
  • Water and light jacket
  • Museum first notes

Bottom line: A little planning makes the experience gentler and richer.

About the Author

Florence Travel Expert

Florence Travel Expert

I put this guide together to make your Duomo day simple, insightful, and full of quiet moments — the kind that stay with you.

Tags

Planning
Accessibility
Timing
Florence

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