Basilica of Santa Maria Novella travel guide

Basilica di Santa Maria Novella, a gem in Firenze, has a rich history that dates back to the mid-13th century.

Originally built by the Dominican Order, it showcases the Gothic-Renaissance architectural style, making it a must-visit destination for art and history lovers.

Over the centuries, the church underwent several renovations, with its facade completed by Leon Battista Alberti in 1470, a masterpiece of Renaissance symmetry and proportion.

The basilica houses numerous art treasures, including masterpieces by Giotto, Masaccio, and Ghirlandaio, demonstrating the artistic legacy of Florence during the Renaissance period.

The church also contains the Spanish Chapel with its beautiful frescoes, and the extraordinary Tornabuoni Chapel, decorated by Ghirlandaio and his workshop.

A visit to Basilica di Santa Maria Novella offers a unique journey through centuries of Italian art and religious history.

The Basilica di Santa Maria Novella is renowned for its exquisite combination of Gothic and Renaissance architectural styles. The façade, designed by Leon Battista Alberti, is a harmonious blend of these two styles, and it is one of the earliest examples of Renaissance architecture. The basilica also houses a wealth of incredible artwork. Among the most notable are Masaccio's 'Trinity', which is considered a masterpiece of early Renaissance art, and Ghirlandaio's fresco cycle in the Tornabuoni Chapel, a stunning depiction of the life of the Virgin Mary and St. John the Baptist. This church also has a unique feature, the Strozzi Chapel, which houses a series of frescoes by Filippino Lippi, a famous Florentine artist.

Inside the basilica, there is the Green Cloister, named for the frescoes that depict scenes from the Old Testament and the lives of Dominican saints. The Spanish Chapel, adorned with Andrea di Bonaiuto’s frescoes, is another distinctive feature. The Basilica's museum is home to numerous medieval and Renaissance works, including Giotto's Crucifix, a magnificent example of 14th-century painting. These unique artistic and architectural features make the Basilica di Santa Maria Novella a must-visit destination for art and architecture lovers.

Discover Basilica of Santa Maria Novella, a prime feature of Firenze, in the vibrant Florence. Basilica of Santa Maria Novella is situated at P. Za di Santa Maria Novella, 18, 50123 Firenze FI, Italy, just a short distance from Cappelle Medicee and Chiesa di Santa Maria Maggiore, making it a perfect addition to your itinerary.

In the vicinity of Basilica of Santa Maria Novella, various dining and shopping options await, alongside a lively atmosphere that captures the essence of local life. This location serves as a perfect starting point or a key highlight during your exploration of Firenze, a city in Italy rich with cultural and adventurous activities.

When planning your trip, timing is key. Discover the best time to visit Firenze to fully enjoy the seasonal charm of Basilica of Santa Maria Novella. Explore travel trips and ideas on this city from the comprehensive Firenze travel guide for an unforgettable adventure.

Basilica of Santa Maria Novella is conveniently accessible by various transportation options in Firenze, Italy. If you're flying in, Florence Airport is approximately 3.3 miles (5.3 km) away from the city center. From there, you can easily reach Basilica of Santa Maria Novella by taxi or shuttle.

For those already in Firenze, buses, taxis, and walking are viable options to reach Basilica of Santa Maria Novella, which is located 0.5 miles (0.7 km) from the city center. Its exact address is P. Za di Santa Maria Novella, 18, 50123 Firenze FI, Italy.

With your transportation plans sorted, get ready for an unforgettable experience at Basilica of Santa Maria Novella!

The best time to explore Basilica di Santa Maria Novella, Firenze (FI) is during the spring (April to June) and fall (September to October) seasons. These periods offer mild and pleasant weather, ideal for sightseeing. Moreover, these are considered off-peak tourist seasons in Florence, meaning that the Basilica is less crowded, allowing visitors to appreciate its beauty in relative peace. Late spring, in particular, holds a special charm as the city comes alive with 'Florence in Bloom,' an event that fills the city with vibrant flowers and foliage. During this time, the Basilica's cloister also hosts a flower market bringing an added layer of charm to your visit. If you're looking for a unique experience, consider visiting on 1st November, All Saints' Day, when special services are held. Plan your visit to avoid the hottest parts of the day, usually between noon and 3 pm, as the Basilica can get quite warm. Lastly, remember to check the Basilica's official website for any changes in visiting hours or unexpected closures.

To truly enjoy your visit to Basilica of Santa Maria Novella, joining a guided tour of this renowned church in Firenze is highly recommended. As one of Italy's most iconic attractions, Basilica of Santa Maria Novella draws visitors from across the globe, often leading to long queues and limited availability.

Booking a tour in advance allows you to skip the lines and ensures a smooth, enjoyable experience. With the biggest selection of tours and tickets in Firenze, you’re sure to find an option that fits your schedule and preferences.

Find the best and most popular tours and tickets to Basilica of Santa Maria Novella starting at just 6.49 EUR below. Enjoy benefits like free cancellation and 24/7 customer support for added convenience.

With everything seamlessly arranged for your trip to Firenze, you can simply pack your bags and look forward to exploring Basilica of Santa Maria Novella.

Keep reading to discover the best options for experiencing this iconic church in Italy.

Upon arriving at Florence Airport, you’ll find 3 reputable rental car companies conveniently situated near the city of Firenze.

Click 'See More' to unlock other affordable car rental options in Firenze.

Choosing the right accommodation near Basilica of Santa Maria Novella from the widest selection of hotels and places to stay in Firenze can truly make all the difference in your trip. Not only will you be within a comfortable distance from Basilica of Santa Maria Novella, but you’ll also enjoy the best rates available, backed by 24/7 customer service and glowing reviews.

To help you make the most of your visit, we’ve curated a handpicked list of top-rated hotels nearby.

Beyond Basilica of Santa Maria Novella, Firenze boasts plenty more landmarks that make every trip unforgettable. From establishment to church, the top attractions in Firenze offer experiences you won’t want to miss.

One of the most notable attractions to visit while in Firenze is Ponte Vecchio, located at Ponte Vecchio, 50125 Firenze FI, Italy. This well-known establishment enhances your time in the city.

Whether you plan a short visit or take time to explore fully, Piazzale Michelangelo is worth seeing when you're in Firenze. It's a popular establishment that’s perfect for rounding out your itinerary. You’ll find it at Piazzale Michelangelo, 50125 Firenze FI, Italy.

For an unforgettable addition to your itinerary, a visit to Cathedral of Santa Maria del Fiore completes any trip to Firenze. This church draws visitors with its unique appeal, making it an essential stop on your journey. Located at Piazza del Duomo, 50122 Firenze FI, Italy, its surroundings offer plenty of reasons to linger a little longer.

The city's top sights offer a wide variety of experiences to make your trip truly memorable. Check out the full list of top attractions in Firenze below to discover even more incredible places to explore.