Florence’s Cathedral—formally known as Santa Maria del Fiore—is one of the most breathtaking sights in all of Italy. Commonly called the Duomo, this monumental complex sits at the heart of the city and includes several landmarks: the cathedral itself, Giotto’s Bell Tower, the Baptistery, and the crypt of Santa Reparata. But its most striking feature is Brunelleschi’s Dome—the massive red-tiled cupola that defines the city skyline and crowns the cathedral.
Climbing to the top of the Dome offers spectacular views of Florence and an unforgettable close-up of Renaissance engineering. To help preserve this architectural wonder and improve the experience for all visitors, new entry rules will take effect starting March 1, 2025. These changes are especially important for those planning to climb the Dome, so it’s worth understanding what’s new before you book.
Whether it’s your first time or a return visit, here’s everything you need to know about the updated Brunelleschi Pass, new entry procedures, and how to prepare for a smooth experience.
What’s New in 2025?
Starting March 1, 2025, two key changes will apply to visitors using the Brunelleschi Pass to access the Dome:
- Named Tickets Are Now Mandatory
When purchasing the Brunelleschi Pass online, you’ll be required to provide the first name, last name, and nationality of every person climbing the Dome. These details will be printed directly on the ticket and cannot be changed after purchase.
- Name Checks at the Entrance
At the entrance to the Dome, staff from Opera di Santa Maria del Fiore will now check the names on the ticket against an ID. This policy is intended to improve the overall visitor experience and prevent the resale of tickets.
What Is the Brunelleschi Pass?
The Brunelleschi Pass is an all-access ticket to the main monuments in Piazza del Duomo. It includes:
- Brunelleschi’s Dome (Cupola)
- Giotto’s Bell Tower
- The Baptistery of San Giovanni
- Santa Reparata (the remains of the ancient cathedral)
- The Opera del Duomo Museum
The pass is valid for 3 consecutive calendar days and includes one entry per site.
A reserved time slot is required for the Dome climb—and once booked, it cannot be changed or canceled.
For the other monuments, you can visit freely within the three-day window, during their respective opening hours.
How to Prepare for Your Visit
- Book early: Time slots for the Dome can fill up fast, especially in peak seasons. Plan ahead and book your preferred date and time.
- Bring ID: Make sure each visitor carries a valid photo ID that matches the name on the ticket.
- Double-check details: Since ticket names can’t be changed after purchase, confirm all spelling before finalizing your booking.
- Travel light: Climbing the Dome means navigating narrow staircases and over 450 steps—there’s no elevator. Wear comfortable shoes and leave bulky bags behind.
- Don’t forget your camera: The panoramic views from the top are worth the climb!
Final Thoughts
The Duomo is more than just Florence’s skyline centerpiece—it’s the heart of the city’s religious and architectural history. And while the entire complex is remarkable, climbing Brunelleschi’s Dome remains a once-in-a-lifetime experience. The new entry rules aim to make that experience smoother, safer, and more enjoyable for every visitor.
To make the most of your visit, consider joining one of our expert-led tours. You’ll skip the guesswork, gain rich historical context, and explore the Duomo complex—from the ground to the top of the Dome—with confidence and insight.
Book your Duomo tour with Walks in Europe and enjoy Florence with the clarity only a local guide can offer!