GemmaFlorence is a city where art flows through every street, piazza, and building. For art lovers, its churches are more than places of worship—they are open-air museums, holding centuries of masterpieces from the Renaissance and beyond. From frescoes that tell sacred stories to sculptures that leave you breathless, Florence’s churches are an essential part of exploring the city. If you want to experience the soul of Florence through its art, here are 10 churches you truly need to see.
1. Santa Maria del Fiore (The Duomo)
No visit to Florence is complete without stepping inside the iconic Duomo. From my own personal experience, the sheer scale of the cathedral and the intricate details of its interior are overwhelming in the best way.
The dome, designed by Filippo Brunelleschi, is a masterpiece of engineering and art. Inside, you’ll find Giorgio Vasari’s stunning frescoes depicting the Last Judgment. The cathedral’s marble façade, decorated with pink, green, and white marble, is a feast for the eyes, while the adjacent Baptistery of San Giovanni houses Lorenzo Ghiberti’s famous bronze doors, often called the “Gates of Paradise.”
Things to do: Climb the dome for a panoramic view of Florence, explore the crypt, and don’t miss the Baptistery.
2. Santa Croce
Santa Croce is more than a church—it is a pantheon of famous Italians. The tombs of Michelangelo, Galileo, and Machiavelli are here, surrounded by frescoes by Giotto. The combination of art, history, and architecture makes it a must-see for any art lover.
The leather school nearby is also worth a visit, offering a glimpse into Florence’s traditional craftsmanship. The church’s neo-Gothic exterior contrasts beautifully with its richly decorated interior, where the frescoes vividly narrate the lives of saints.
Things to do: Explore the tombs, admire the frescoes, and visit the leather school nearby.
3. San Lorenzo
San Lorenzo is an essential stop for anyone interested in Renaissance art. The church is closely associated with the Medici family, Florence’s most powerful dynasty, and houses works by Donatello, including his delicate bronze pulpits.
The Medici Chapels, attached to the church, are breathtaking. Michelangelo designed the New Sacristy, and the sculptures there convey an intensity and beauty that are unforgettable. From my own personal experience, standing before Michelangelo’s statues here is one of the most moving moments you can have in Florence.
Things to do: Visit the Medici Chapels, explore the Laurentian Library, and admire Donatello’s sculptures.
4. Santa Maria Novella
Located near the main train station, Santa Maria Novella is an often-overlooked gem. Its façade, one of the earliest Renaissance works in Florence, immediately catches your attention. Inside, you’ll find Masaccio’s Trinity, an early example of linear perspective, which art students often study.
The church also houses works by Domenico Ghirlandaio and Filippino Lippi. The combination of Gothic architecture with Renaissance art makes it a fascinating place to explore. The cloisters and frescoed chapels provide quiet spaces for reflection amid the art.
Things to do: Study Masaccio’s Trinity, explore the chapels, and enjoy the peaceful cloisters.
5. Orsanmichele
Orsanmichele started as a grain market and was transformed into a church in the 14th century. Its exterior niches display statues of Florence’s patron saints, created by some of the city’s most famous sculptors, including Donatello, Ghiberti, and Verrocchio.
Inside, the church contains a remarkable collection of sculptures and paintings. From my own personal experience, seeing Donatello’s St. George inside its original setting gives a deeper appreciation of the artistic mastery involved.
Things to do: Examine the exterior statues, explore the interior museum, and enjoy the contrast between its civic and religious history.
6. Santo Spirito
Santo Spirito, located in the Oltrarno district, is a peaceful retreat for art lovers. The church’s simple exterior hides a wealth of art inside. The sacristy contains works by Michelangelo, while the main chapel features a crucifix by Brunelleschi.
The square in front of the church is lively and full of cafés, making it a perfect spot to rest after admiring the art. Santo Spirito combines Renaissance elegance with a local, everyday charm that feels unique to Florence.
Things to do: Admire Michelangelo’s works, explore the quiet interior, and enjoy the lively piazza outside.
7. Santa Trinita
Santa Trinita is one of Florence’s oldest churches, and its art collection spans several centuries. The Sassetti Chapel, decorated by Ghirlandaio, tells the story of Francesco Sassetti, a wealthy banker, through a series of frescoes that are vibrant and detailed.
The church also houses works by Botticelli, including the famous “Madonna of the Girdle.” The combination of Gothic and Renaissance elements makes Santa Trinita a visually captivating experience.
Things to do: Explore the Sassetti Chapel, admire Botticelli’s works, and notice the blending of architectural styles.
8. San Miniato al Monte
Perched on a hill overlooking Florence, San Miniato al Monte is as much about the view as it is about the art inside. The Romanesque architecture and intricate mosaics create a serene atmosphere. The church’s façade is adorned with geometric patterns, while the interior contains frescoes, sculptures, and a remarkable crypt.
From my own personal experience, watching the sunset over Florence from the steps of San Miniato is an unforgettable experience. It’s a place where art, architecture, and the natural beauty of the city come together perfectly.
Things to do: Explore the crypt, admire the mosaics, and enjoy the panoramic views.
9. Santa Felicita
Santa Felicita is a smaller church but filled with treasures. The Brancacci Chapel inside is home to Masaccio’s frescoes, which are considered a cornerstone of Renaissance art. The storytelling in the frescoes, combined with their innovative use of perspective, makes this chapel a must-see.
The church’s location along the Arno River offers a peaceful walk before or after your visit. The combination of art and serene surroundings creates a reflective experience that lingers in your memory.
Things to do: Study the Brancacci Chapel, enjoy the riverside walk, and take in the quiet beauty of the church.
10. San Marco
San Marco is famous for housing the works of Fra Angelico. His frescoes, located in the monks’ cells, are deeply spiritual and full of delicate color and light. The monastery itself is an architectural gem, offering a calm retreat from the bustle of Florence.
From my own personal experience, seeing Fra Angelico’s frescoes in person brings a sense of peace and reverence that photos cannot capture. The combination of contemplative spaces and extraordinary art makes San Marco an essential stop for anyone passionate about Renaissance masterpieces.
Things to do: Explore the frescoed cells, visit the museum, and enjoy the tranquil atmosphere of the monastery.
Florence’s churches are more than historical sites—they are living galleries, each offering a unique story through its art and architecture. Exploring them allows you to connect with centuries of creativity and devotion. Whether you are climbing the Duomo, admiring Masaccio’s innovative frescoes, or watching the sunset from San Miniato, these churches provide experiences you will remember forever.
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.