Florence isn’t just the cradle of the Renaissance—it’s a living museum, with every street, square, and corner holding stories of incredible art, architecture, and history. And while museums like the Uffizi and Accademia get most of the spotlight, the real gems often lie within Florence’s churches. If you love art, history, or simply marveling at beauty that makes you pause in awe, the churches in Florence are a must-explore. From grand cathedrals with soaring domes to quiet chapels with hidden masterpieces, there’s something for every art lover.
From my own personal experience, wandering through these churches is like stepping into a time machine. Each one tells its own story, and every fresco, sculpture, or stained glass window invites you to linger, reflect, and admire. Let me guide you through ten churches you truly need to see on your Florence adventure.
1. Santa Maria del Fiore (The Florence Cathedral)
When you think of Florence, the iconic red dome of Santa Maria del Fiore—or the Duomo—probably comes to mind first. Designed by Filippo Brunelleschi, this cathedral isn’t just a place of worship; it’s a masterpiece of engineering and artistry.
Art lovers will be captivated by the cathedral’s interior, including Giorgio Vasari’s stunning fresco, The Last Judgment, which covers the massive dome. The cathedral’s marble façade is an artwork in itself, with its green, white, and pink stones forming intricate patterns that demand a closer look.
Climbing the dome is a must for anyone visiting Florence. The ascent gives you a chance to study the fresco details up close and rewards you with breathtaking panoramic views of the city. From my own personal experience, seeing the city from the top at sunset is a moment you’ll never forget.
2. Santa Croce
Known as the “Temple of the Italian Glories,” Santa Croce is not only a stunning church but also the final resting place of some of Florence’s most famous figures, including Michelangelo, Galileo, and Machiavelli.
For art lovers, the real treasure here lies in the frescoes by Giotto, which depict the life of St. Francis with such vivid detail that you can almost feel the stories coming to life. The chapels throughout the church also house incredible works by renowned artists, making it a must-see destination.
If you enjoy architecture as much as art, take a moment to appreciate the church’s neo-Gothic façade. Its intricate carvings, spires, and statues showcase the craftsmanship of a time when every stone told a story. Walking through Santa Croce feels like walking through the pages of a living history book.
3. San Lorenzo
San Lorenzo is often overlooked by casual tourists, but for art lovers, it’s a treasure trove. This church was closely linked to the powerful Medici family, who commissioned some of the finest works of Renaissance art in Florence.
Inside, you’ll find beautiful works by Donatello and Filippo Brunelleschi’s pioneering architectural designs. The Medici Chapels are particularly breathtaking, filled with sculptures by Michelangelo that exude power and emotion.
One of the most fascinating aspects of San Lorenzo is the contrast between its austere interior and the grandeur of its chapels. This mix of simplicity and opulence allows you to focus on the art itself, rather than being distracted by overwhelming décor. Exploring San Lorenzo feels like uncovering a hidden side of Florence that many visitors miss.
4. Santa Maria Novella
Santa Maria Novella is one of Florence’s oldest churches, and it’s a stunning blend of Gothic and Renaissance architecture. Its façade, with its geometric patterns and intricate details, is a perfect introduction to the treasures inside.
Step inside, and you’ll find works by Masaccio, Ghirlandaio, and Filippino Lippi. The Trinity fresco by Masaccio is particularly noteworthy—it’s considered a masterpiece of perspective and a turning point in Renaissance art.
The church also houses beautiful stained glass windows that filter sunlight in a way that makes the colors of the frescoes and marble gleam even more vividly. Based on my overall experience, spending time in Santa Maria Novella allows you to slow down and truly appreciate the evolution of Renaissance art.
5. Orsanmichele
Orsanmichele is a church with a unique story—it started as a grain market before being transformed into a sacred space. Today, it’s famous for its impressive sculptures adorning the exterior niches, created by masters like Donatello, Ghiberti, and Verrocchio.
Inside, you’ll find beautiful frescoes and a rich history that reflects Florence’s commercial and artistic growth during the Renaissance. Art lovers will appreciate the combination of architecture, sculpture, and painting in one place.
Orsanmichele also provides a fascinating glimpse into Florence’s civic life. The statues on the façade were commissioned by guilds, each representing a different profession, making it a fascinating intersection of art, history, and society.
6. Santo Spirito
Santo Spirito is a gem that many visitors miss because it’s a little off the beaten path, but it’s worth the detour. Designed by Brunelleschi, the church’s architecture emphasizes harmony, proportion, and clarity, allowing the art inside to shine.
Inside, you’ll find works by Michelangelo and other Renaissance masters, including striking altarpieces and sculptures. The church’s serene atmosphere makes it a perfect spot for reflection, away from the crowds.
From my own personal experience, walking into Santo Spirito feels like discovering a quiet secret in a city famous for its bustling streets and crowded landmarks. The combination of calm, art, and architecture creates an experience you won’t forget.
7. San Miniato al Monte
Perched on a hill overlooking Florence, San Miniato al Monte is as impressive outside as it is inside. The Romanesque façade, with its geometric patterns and green-and-white marble, is striking against the Florentine skyline.
Inside, the church is adorned with mosaics and frescoes that showcase Florence’s artistic evolution. The crypt houses the remains of San Miniato, a martyred saint, adding a spiritual layer to the visit.
The real highlight, though, is the view. From the terrace outside, you can see the entire city spread out below, making it a perfect spot for photography or simply soaking in Florence’s beauty. Art lovers will also appreciate the attention to detail in every carving, mosaic, and fresco.
8. Santa Trinita
Santa Trinita may not be as famous as the Duomo or Santa Croce, but it’s a must-see for anyone who appreciates art. The church houses works by Ghirlandaio, Botticelli, and other Renaissance masters.
The Sassetti Chapel, in particular, is a highlight, with frescoes depicting biblical scenes in stunning detail. The delicate use of color, perspective, and emotion in these works makes the chapel a must-visit for art lovers.
What makes Santa Trinita special is its combination of elegance and intimacy. You can take your time exploring the chapels, study the artwork up close, and really connect with the stories being told.
9. San Marco
San Marco is more than just a church—it’s part of a larger convent complex that houses some of the most important works by Fra Angelico. Walking through the corridors, you’ll find frescoes that are both serene and powerful, capturing the spiritual devotion of the time.
The church itself is beautifully proportioned, with clean lines and an emphasis on light. The combination of architecture and art creates a peaceful atmosphere that makes it easy to linger and take in every detail.
From my own personal experience, visiting San Marco feels like stepping into a meditative space where art and faith coexist in perfect harmony. The frescoes in the monks’ cells are particularly moving, showing Fra Angelico’s ability to convey emotion and narrative through color and composition.
10. Santa Felicita
Santa Felicita is one of the oldest churches in Florence, and it’s often overlooked by tourists. However, it’s a hidden gem with stunning art and architecture that any art lover will appreciate.
The Brancacci Chapel is the highlight here, housing frescoes by Masaccio and Masolino. These works are crucial in understanding the development of Renaissance art, particularly the use of perspective and human emotion.
The church also offers a quieter experience compared to some of the larger, more famous churches. You can take your time to study the artwork, appreciate the architecture, and reflect on the history contained within the walls.
Exploring these ten churches is more than just sightseeing—it’s a journey through Florence’s artistic and spiritual heritage. Each church has its own story, its own masterpieces, and its own unique atmosphere. From the grandeur of Santa Maria del Fiore to the intimate serenity of Santo Spirito, these churches are destinations that you truly need to see to understand Florence’s magic.
If you love art, architecture, and history, Florence’s churches will leave you inspired, amazed, and sometimes even a little speechless. They’re not just places to visit—they’re experiences that stay with you long after you leave the city.
Based on my overall experience, taking the time to explore Florence’s churches adds a layer of richness to your trip that you simply cannot get from museums alone. So when you plan your visit, make sure to include these ten must-see churches. You’ll be rewarded with beauty, history, and artistry at every turn.

I’m Gemma, a passionate lifestyle blogger sharing my creative world with you. Gemitaliano.com is my little corner of the internet, glad you’re here.

