Start with a one-hour guided tour of the Cupola. The guide will talk you through the exterior view of the Cupola, but the only way to see the inside of the Dome up close and enjoy the extraordinary view of Florence is to climb its 463 steps.
On your way up, discover the design of the Cupola and how it was built by Brunelleschi in 1418, find out why the corridors are so narrow and admire Giorgio Vasari's frescoes of the Last Judgment. Look down and on the base, just above the drum, you'll see the balcony started, but never finished, in 1507; hear about the fascinating story of the balcony and the unfinished eighth side from the guide. Once you climb to the top of the Cupola, get enchanted by the panoramic view of the city in front of your eyes. The guide will talk about the history and art of Duomo Square and answer any of your questions about Florence Cathedral.
Later in the afternoon, meet the guide in front of the Hard Rock Cafe to start the walking tour. Receive insight into the history of this Renaissance city and how the incredible cultural movement of the Renaissance transformed not only Florence but eventually the rest of Europe. Begin with Piazza Della Republica, the main square of Florence, before heading straight to Piazza del Duomo.
Whilst passing the Duomo Square, the guide will lead you straight through the old buildings and some of the historical landmarks of Florence to Palazzo Vecchio, where you will see the Sculpture of David by Michelangelo. Afterward, as you walk past the Palazzo Vecchio, the guide will talk you through the Uffizi Gallery, one of the greatest museums of the world, before you reach the most famous old bridge of Florence known as Ponte Vecchio.
Your next stop is at Palazzo Pitti, one of the largest architectural monuments by Filippo Brunelleschi in Florence. As you walk through the narrow roads of this ancient city with lots of hidden treasures, the guide will answer all the curious secrets of the city. Finally, the guide will talk you through the artists, architects, thinkers, and political figures who led to the Renaissance, before your last stop to La Strega Nocciola for delicious gelato.