Piazza Santa Croce Florence
Florence's grand Piazza Santa Croce, home to a magnificent basilica and vibrant markets, steeped in history and tradition.

Highlights
Must-see attractions

Social
From TikTok & Reddit
Best Time
Fewer crowds, peaceful atmosphere
Piazza Santa Croce Florence
Best Time
Fewer crowds, peaceful atmosphere

Highlights
Must-see attractions
Florence's grand Piazza Santa Croce, home to a magnificent basilica and vibrant markets, steeped in history and tradition.
"A must-visit for its historical weight and lively atmosphere, especially the Basilica and its famous tombs."
🎯 Explore the Leather School
Visit the historic leather school inside the Santa Croce convent for artisan crafts.
📅 Check Market Dates
The artisan market is only on the 3rd Sunday of the month.
Highlights
Discover the most iconic attractions and experiences

Basilica di Santa Croce
Piazza Santa Croce
The 'Temple of Italian Glories,' housing tombs of Michelangelo, Galileo, and Machiavelli.

Calcio Storico Fiorentino
Piazza Santa Croce
Witness this intense, historic Florentine sport played in medieval costumes.

Leather Market
Piazza Santa Croce
Explore artisanal leather goods and local crafts at this vibrant outdoor market.
Planning Your Visit
Timing Your Visit to Piazza Santa Croce
Navigating Florence's Unique Address System
Best Times
Insider Tips
from TikTok, Instagram & Reddit
🎯 Explore the Leather School
Visit the historic leather school inside the Santa Croce convent for artisan crafts.
📅 Check Market Dates
The artisan market is only on the 3rd Sunday of the month.
🎭 Experience Calcio Storico
Catch the intense historical football matches in June for a unique spectacle.
🏛️ Visit Famous Tombs
See the resting places of Renaissance greats like Michelangelo and Galileo.
Tips
from all over the internet
🎯 Explore the Leather School
Visit the historic leather school inside the Santa Croce convent for artisan crafts.
📅 Check Market Dates
The artisan market is only on the 3rd Sunday of the month.
🎭 Experience Calcio Storico
Catch the intense historical football matches in June for a unique spectacle.
🏛️ Visit Famous Tombs
See the resting places of Renaissance greats like Michelangelo and Galileo.
🚶♀️ Navigate Red Numbers
Remember red numbers for shops/businesses, black for residences.
What Travellers Say
Reviews Summary
Visitors consistently praise Piazza Santa Croce for its historical significance, particularly the Basilica housing famous Italian figures. The vibrant markets and the unique spectacle of Calcio Storico are also major draws. Some find the piazza can get very crowded, and navigating the area during events requires patience.
What People Like
What People Dislike
Frequently Asked Questions
🚇 🗺️ Getting There
Piazza Santa Croce is easily accessible on foot from most central Florence locations. If coming from further afield, you can take a local bus to stops near the piazza. Taxis are also available, but be aware that hailing them might not work as expected; it's often better to find a taxi stand.
Absolutely! Piazza Santa Croce is located in the heart of Florence, making it very walkable from other major attractions like the Duomo or Ponte Vecchio. Enjoy the stroll through the charming streets.
From Florence Santa Maria Novella (SMN) train station, Piazza Santa Croce is about a 15-20 minute walk. Alternatively, you can take a local bus (e.g., lines 14 or C1) that stops nearby.
Parking in central Florence is challenging and often restricted. It's highly recommended to use public transport or walk. If you must drive, look for paid parking garages like the one at the Mercato Sant'Ambrogio, which is a short walk away.
Ride-sharing services like Uber operate in Florence, but their availability and ease of use can vary. It's generally more reliable to use local taxis or public buses for consistent transport.
🎫 🎫 Tickets & Entry
The piazza itself is a public square and is free to enter. However, if you wish to visit the Basilica di Santa Croce, you will need to purchase an admission ticket.
Piazza Santa Croce is a public space and is generally accessible at all times. The Basilica di Santa Croce has specific opening hours, typically from morning to late afternoon, which can vary seasonally.
Ticket prices for the Basilica di Santa Croce can vary, but typically range from €8-€15. It's advisable to check the official website for the most current pricing and to book in advance, especially during peak season.
Yes, purchasing tickets online in advance is highly recommended to save time and guarantee entry, especially during busy periods. Look for the official ticketing portal or reputable tour operators.
While not common, sometimes special events or local holidays might offer free entry or reduced prices. It's best to check the Basilica's official website for any announcements regarding free admission days.
📸 📸 Photography
For iconic shots, position yourself in the center of the piazza looking towards the Basilica. The surrounding loggias offer great framing opportunities. For a unique perspective, consider the top floor of La Rinascente mall for views including the Duomo.
Photography is generally allowed inside the Basilica di Santa Croce, but often without flash to protect the artwork and frescoes. Always check for signage or ask a staff member if you're unsure.
Early morning or late afternoon offers the best light for photography. The golden hour before sunset casts a beautiful warm glow on the buildings, creating a magical atmosphere.
Yes, drone photography is strictly prohibited in most historic city centers in Italy, including Florence, due to privacy and safety regulations. Always adhere to local laws.
A versatile lens like a 24-70mm is great for capturing both the grandeur of the Basilica and details within the piazza. A wide-angle lens can be useful for capturing the full expanse of the square.
🎫 🛍️ Shopping & Markets
The vibrant artisan market in Piazza Santa Croce takes place every third Sunday of the month. It's a fantastic spot for unique finds.
You can find a variety of artisanal goods, including handmade leather products, ceramics, textiles, local food items, and vintage treasures.
Yes, Piazza Santa Croce is renowned for its leather goods. You can find many shops selling high-quality leather bags, wallets, and jackets. The historic leather school within the convent is also a must-visit.
Prices vary depending on the quality and craftsmanship. While you can find more budget-friendly options, investing in well-made, genuine leather will be more expensive but offer better durability. Haggling might be possible in some stalls.
Beyond the market, numerous shops around the piazza offer a wide range of Florentine souvenirs, from ceramics and art prints to local food products and leather items.
🎫 ⚽ Calcio Storico
Calcio Storico Fiorentino is an ancient, highly physical team sport originating in 16th-century Florence. It's played in traditional medieval costumes and is known for its intensity.
The matches are traditionally held in June, culminating in a final match played in Piazza Santa Croce. The piazza is transformed into a sandy arena for the event.
Tickets for Calcio Storico can be purchased through official channels or local ticketing agents. They tend to sell out quickly, so booking in advance is essential.
Expect a very rough and tumble game with elements of rugby and wrestling. It's a passionate display of Florentine pride, often accompanied by a historical parade (Corteo Storico) beforehand.
Due to its intense and sometimes violent nature, Calcio Storico might not be suitable for very young children or those sensitive to physical altercations. It's more of an adult spectacle.
For Different Travelers
Tailored advice for your travel style
👨👩👧 Families with Kids
For a more active experience, consider timing your visit with the Calcio Storico if your children are old enough to appreciate the spectacle (though be mindful of its intensity). Simply exploring the vast piazza and enjoying gelato is also a great way to keep younger ones happy. Look for street performers who often entertain crowds in the square.
💰 Budget Travelers
While the Basilica di Santa Croce has an entrance fee, consider if it aligns with your budget and interests. For a taste of local life, grab a panino from a nearby shop rather than dining at a sit-down restaurant in the piazza. Walking to the piazza from other parts of Florence also saves on transportation costs.
💖 Couples
Visiting the Basilica di Santa Croce together can be a profound experience, reflecting on the legacies of great artists and thinkers. If your visit coincides with the artisan market, it's a lovely opportunity to find a unique keepsake together. For a truly memorable experience, consider attending a Calcio Storico match for a dose of thrilling Florentine culture.
Deep Dives
In-depth insights and expert knowledge
The Basilica di Santa Croce: A Pantheon of Italian Geniuses
The architecture itself is a masterpiece of Gothic design, with soaring vaulted ceilings and stunning frescoes by artists like Giotto. Don't miss the Pazzi Chapel, a serene Renaissance masterpiece designed by Brunelleschi, and the Sacred Vestments Chapel, which contains frescoes by Agnolo Gaddi. The sheer weight of history and artistic brilliance within these walls is palpable, making it a profound experience for any visitor.
To truly appreciate the Basilica, consider taking a guided tour or using an audio guide. This will provide context for the art, the history, and the significance of the individuals interred here. The Museo dell'Opera di Santa Croce, located within the complex, also offers further insights into the church's rich past and artistic heritage.
Piazza Santa Croce: A Hub of Florentine Life and Tradition
Beyond its architectural splendor, the piazza is famous for hosting vibrant events. The Calcio Storico Fiorentino, a brutal and ancient form of football, is played here every June, transforming the square into a sandy arena for a spectacle of Florentine pride and tradition. On the third Sunday of each month, the piazza comes alive with a bustling artisan market, offering everything from handmade leather goods to local delicacies, making it a prime spot for shopping and experiencing local culture.
For visitors, the piazza offers a fantastic opportunity to soak in the Florentine atmosphere. Enjoy a coffee at one of the cafes, watch street performers, or simply sit and admire the grandeur. It's a dynamic space that truly embodies the spirit of Florence, blending historical significance with contemporary life.
The Art of Leather Craftsmanship in Florence
Visiting the leather school offers a unique glimpse into the meticulous process of creating high-quality leather goods. You can watch skilled artisans at work, handcrafting everything from elegant bags and wallets to belts and jackets. This is an excellent place to purchase authentic, handcrafted items directly from the makers, ensuring quality and supporting traditional crafts.
While the market in Piazza Santa Croce offers a wider variety of leather products, the shops and the school itself provide a more curated experience. When shopping for leather, look for genuine materials, good stitching, and quality hardware. Be prepared for prices that reflect the craftsmanship involved, but know that you're investing in a piece of Florentine artistry.
Social
from TikTok, Instagram & Reddit