We only have on day in Florence, and our reservation of the Uffizi Gallery was made for 2pm. These three churches open at around 1 and close at about 5. So we will only really have time for one or maybe two, without missing out on too much of the Uffizi. Those reservations can't be changed btw, I've tried. So my real question is, which one/s should we see? Which are the nicest inside? I have heard the Duomo isn't that spectacular. Any other advise would be appreciated as well. Thank you.
Posted by
Cartersville, GA, USA
101 posts
Personal opinion here, of course. But you MUSt see the Duomo, if only for a minute and then give some time to Santa Croce (it has become my favorite over my numerous trips to Florence). The Duomo interior isn't that spectacular, but it is still the Duomo, if you see my meaning. Santa Croce houses the tombs of illustrious Florentines (I have a special affinity for Michelangelo and Galileo), fine frescoes, and the Pazzi Chapel (Brunelleschi). Considering that San Lorenzo is completely on the other side of Florence (maybe 10 minutes' walk beyond the Duomo), logistics alone could help you make the decision. Santa Croce is not far from the Uffizi, and you will likely pass by the Duomo no matter which way you get around the city. That said, if by San Lorenzo you actually meant the Medici Chapels, then that is a different story and well worth your time for the wonderful tombs sculpted by Michelangelo for various members of the Medici clan. But it is still very out of the way from the Uffizi's location right at the river.
Posted by
San Antonio, TX
134 posts
This is a very subjective subject. I think you can see all three. The Duomo is a quick in and out. The best part of the Duomo is the exterior (maybe not the facade according to your taste). The Pazzi Chapel is at Santa Croce and I think it is a must see. At San Lorenzo, I was quite taken with the Old Sanctuary, for some of the same reasons I like the Pazzi Chapel. I found the Medici chapel (which is attached to San Lorenzo) over the top.
Posted by
Seattle, WA, USA
7737 posts
Don't worry about seeing the interior of the Duomo, as pointed out above. Go by and see the facade at any time. And I would put the Accademia/David above all those.
Posted by
OP
Brisbane
15 posts
Unfortunately the Medici Chapels are closed on that day. Otherwise it would have been a no brainer. And I am going to the academia in the morning. If the Duomo doesn't take long then hopefully I'll be able to see all three. Thank you.