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.

Located in the dynamic Florence, the popular Basilica of Santa Maria Novella is easy to find and can be explored during a short weekend escape in the beautiful city of Firenze or as a stop on your countrywide road trip through Italy.

Firenze is a perfect holiday destination for those who crave a mix of history, culture, and modern amenities. With its distinct architecture, famous museums, and delicious culinary scene, Firenze offers something for everyone.

Take a stroll through the charming streets and alleys to discover hidden gems and enjoy the local atmosphere. Visit this popular landmark in Firenze and immerse yourself in the city's rich history and culture at top attractions, including the remarkable Ponte Vecchio, Piazzale Michelangelo, Cathedral of Santa Maria del Fiore, Piazza della Signoria, and Uffizi Gallery.

Whether you're looking to indulge in shopping or explore the nightlife, Firenze has it all. Don't forget to sample the delicious cuisine, from traditional dishes to modern fusion.

Experience the best of both worlds in Firenze, a place where the past meets the present, and you'll create unforgettable memories that will last a lifetime.

Click the travel guides below to learn more and get ready to make unforgettable memories in Italy!

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 Firenze. 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. You can also rent a car and drive to Basilica of Santa Maria Novella, providing flexibility to explore at your leisure. Its exact address is P. Za di Santa Maria Novella, 18, 50123 Firenze FI, Italy, 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 tour that features this popular minor basilica in Firenze is highly recommended. As one of Italy's most iconic attractions, Basilica of Santa Maria Novella draws visitors from around the world. Booking a tour in advance allows you to skip the lines and ensures a smooth, enjoyable experience.

Find the best and most popular tours and tickets to Basilica of Santa Maria Novella starting at just 6.49 EUR below.

With a rental car, discovering the popular Basilica of Santa Maria Novella and Italy's captivating landscapes becomes a breeze, allowing you to explore at your own pace. Upon arrival, international travelers can choose from 3 reputable rental car companies near Florence Airport and the city of Firenze, making transportation seamless and efficient.

Rental car companies in Italy cater to a variety of preferences, offering vehicles ranging from compact and midsize to premium, estate, and even camper vans or convertibles. To select the perfect ride, consider your itinerary and specific travel plans in Firenze and beyond.

Conveniently explore Basilica of Santa Maria Novella and plenty more captivating attractions in Firenze by staying at a top-rated hotel in the center of the city. With comfortable accommodations and easy access to Basilica of Santa Maria Novella and other notable landmarks, wake up well-rested every day, ready to explore all that Firenze has to offer.

Discover the best hotels for visiting Basilica of Santa Maria Novella below.

Aside from Basilica of Santa Maria Novella, Firenze is home to numerous other top attractions waiting to be explored. From museums and architectural masterpieces to sculptures and natural wonders, the city offers a diverse range of sights to behold. For the ultimate sightseeing tour around Firenze, there are a number of attractions every itinerary should include, namely Ponte Vecchio, Piazzale Michelangelo, and Cathedral of Santa Maria del Fiore.

Ponte Vecchio is a bucket-list establishment and top attraction in Firenze, drawing numerous travelers and locals every year. As evident by its average rating of 4.7 out of 5 stars in 110,000 reviews, this attraction is a popular place to visit for anyone with time to spend in the city. The exact address of Ponte Vecchio is Ponte Vecchio, 50125 Firenze FI, Italy.

Another appreciated attraction in Firenze is Piazzale Michelangelo. Like Ponte Vecchio, this is one of the most popular sites to visit in the city. With an impressive average rating of 4.8 out of 5 stars among 77,000 visitors, it’s also one of the highest-rated. The exact address of this establishment is Piazzale Michelangelo, 50125 Firenze FI, Italy.

Cathedral of Santa Maria del Fiore is also a clear favorite among travelers seeking to experience the uniqueness of Firenze. This church and top attraction in Firenze has been rated an average of 4.8 out of 5 stars by 76,000 visitors. This attraction is located at the address of Piazza del Duomo, 50122 Firenze FI, Italy.

Check out our full list of top attractions in the city of Firenze below.