Best Piazza Santa Croce Holy Cross Square Tours & Trips

This well-known Florence public square is named after Basilica Santa Croce, which is located along Piazza Santa Croce and is the biggest Franciscan church in the world with 16 chapels. The public plaza also contains 15th Century Palazzo Cocchi-Serristori, 17th Century Palazzo dell'Antella, a marble sculpture of Dante and 19th Century baroque fountain. Piazza Santa Croce hosts many events including the annual Calcio Fiorentino sports games.

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9-Day Treasures of Europe Tour from London with Vegetarian Food Option: Belgium, Germany, Switzerland, Italy, Vatican, France

Most Meals Included

Daily breakfast

More Free Time

9-Day Treasures of Europe Tour from London with Vegetarian Food Option: Belgium, Germany, Switzerland, Italy, Vatican, France

4.6 ~~( 4 reviews )~~

Tour Code: 439222

Start / End City

Brussels, London, Paris

Duration

9.0 Days

City & Attractions

Brussels, Lucerne, Swiss Alps +29 more

Languages

English Live, Hindi Live

Group Size

Max. 50 travelers

Tour Audience

Primarily English-Speaking Travelers

Operator

Star Tours

From

$2,580.00

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8-Day Discovery of Italy Tour from Rome with Airport Transfers: Florence, Bologna and Venice | Hop-On Hop-Off | Vatican Museums: Skip the Line

Daily breakfast

Select Meals Included

8-Day Discovery of Italy Tour from Rome with Airport Transfers: Florence, Bologna and Venice | Hop-On Hop-Off | Vatican Museums: Skip the Line

4.4 ~~( 8 reviews )~~

Tour Code: 735819

Start / End City

Rome

Duration

8.0 Days

City & Attractions

Rome, Assisi, Siena +12 more

Languages

English Live

Group Size

Max. 54 travelers

Save 10%

From ~~$2,756.48~~

$2,480.83

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8-Day Best of Italy Tour From Rome: Siena, Tuscany, Florence, Venice and Vatican | UNESCO World Heritage

Select Meals Included

High Value Tour

8-Day Best of Italy Tour From Rome: Siena, Tuscany, Florence, Venice and Vatican | UNESCO World Heritage

4.0 ~~( 1 reviews )~~

Tour Code: 202735

Start / End City

Rome

Duration

8.0 Days

City & Attractions

Rome, Siena, Assisi +18 more

Languages

English Live, French Live, Portuguese Live +1 more

Group Size

Max. 55 travelers

Tour Audience

Primarily English-Speaking Travelers

From

$1,657.34

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10-Day 5 Countries London to Rome Highlights Tour: Paris, Lucerne, Venice, Florence and Vatican

Shared Room Available

Daily breakfast

Free eSIM

Local Specialty Meal

10-Day 5 Countries London to Rome Highlights Tour: Paris, Lucerne, Venice, Florence and Vatican

5.0

Tour Code: 716214

Start / End City

London, Rome

Duration

10.0 Days

City & Attractions

London, Dover, Paris +16 more

Languages

English Live

Group Size

Max. 50 travelers

Tour Audience

Primarily English-Speaking Travelers

Operator

The Travel Corporation (TTC)

Save 5%

From ~~$2,346.40~~

$2,229.08

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8-Day Italian Intermezzo Winter Tour from Milan: Venice, Florence and Rome | Classic Group | 2 Countries and 7 Cities | 7 Breakfasts & 3 Dinners

Shared Room Available

Daily breakfast

Local Specialty Meal

8-Day Italian Intermezzo Winter Tour from Milan: Venice, Florence and Rome | Classic Group | 2 Countries and 7 Cities | 7 Breakfasts & 3 Dinners

5.0

Tour Code: 730533

Start / End City

Milan, Rome

Duration

8.0 Days

City & Attractions

Milan, Venice, Pisa +17 more

Languages

English Live

Group Size

Max. 40 travelers

Tour Audience

Primarily English-Speaking Travelers

Operator

The Travel Corporation (TTC)

From

$2,924.78

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Best Time to Visit Piazza Santa Croce Holy Cross Square

Autumn in Piazza di Santa Croce offers mild, pleasant weather with temperatures averaging 18-22°C (64-72°F) in September, gradually cooling to 12-16°C (54-61°F) by November. Crisp air and golden light enhance the square’s Renaissance charm, making it ideal for admiring the Basilica of Santa Croce, where Michelangelo and Galileo are buried. Cafes around the piazza invite leisurely stops, while fall foliage frames the equestrian statue of Dante. Nearby, the artisan workshops of Via dei Calzaiuoli remain lively, and outdoor markets buzz with seasonal energy, creating a scenic and cultural stroll through Florence’s historic heart.

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In winter, Piazza di Santa Croce enjoys cool temperatures averaging 6°C (43°F), with occasional frosty mornings and mild afternoons. Though quieter than in peak seasons, the square exudes charm beneath crisp skies, especially when illuminated for the holiday season. Nearby, the Basilica di Santa Croce hosts classical concerts and seasonal art exhibits, while local cafés tempt visitors with steaming hot chocolate and panoramic views. Just a short walk away, the Uffizi Gallery and Mercato Centrale remain vibrant winter attractions, offering warmth, culture, and authentic Tuscan flavors. The festive atmosphere, softened by golden holiday lights and a relaxed pace, makes exploring Florence’s historic heart especially enchanting.

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In spring, Piazza di Santa Croce enjoys mild temperatures, ranging from 12°C (54°F) to 18°C (64°F), with blooming linden trees and clear skies enhancing its historic charm. The square comes alive with outdoor café seating, street performers, and cultural events, including the traditional Calcio Storico previews. Nearby artisans in leather markets reopen storefronts, while visitors explore the Basilica di Santa Croce’s Renaissance tombs and pay homage to Michelangelo and Galileo. Perfect for leisurely strolls and open-air ambiance.

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Summer at Piazza di Santa Croce in Florence brings vibrant energy under clear blue skies - with daytime temperatures around 30°C (86°F) and long, sun-drenched evenings perfect for exploring. The historic square buzzes with open-air performances, gelato stops, and alfresco dining at charming cafes, while nearby artisan shops and the iconic Basilica di Santa Croce - final resting place of Michelangelo and Galileo - draw cultural enthusiasts. Strolling through this Renaissance heart - especially during the traditional Calcio Storico matches in June - offers a lively blend of history, cuisine, and authentic Florentine charm.

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Reviews for Piazza Santa Croce Holy Cross Square Tours

Cassian Trelawney

June 09, 2025

8-Day Discovery of Italy Tour from Rome with Airport Transfers: Florence, Bologna and Venice | Hop-On Hop-Off | Vatican Museums: Skip the Line

A Dreamy 8 Days Across Italy

From start to finish, this tour was absolutely magical. The pick-up at Fiumicino airport went smoothly, and the hotels in Rome, Florence, and Venice all felt properly 4-star—clean, comfortable, and in good locations. Florence was my favorite stop, especially seeing the Duomo up close with our local guide who was a total expert in Renaissance history. Venice was equally unforgettable with the walking tour in Piazza San Marco followed by spritz and cicchetti—it felt so authentically Italian. The motorcoach rides were comfortable, and I loved the Tuscan countryside views between cities. The itinerary was busy but very well organized, leaving enough time for some personal wandering. The Vatican "skip the line" pass saved us hours, which was priceless! I would recommend this trip to anyone who wants to see the highlights of Italy in just over a week without stressing about the logistics.

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Anonymous

July 24, 2019

9-Day Treasures of Europe Tour from London with Vegetarian Food Option: Belgium, Germany, Switzerland, Italy, Vatican, France

It is great service and well planned tour . Our tour manager was excellent . I highly recommend this tour .

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FAQs about Piazza Santa Croce Holy Cross Square Tours

Is Piazza di Santa Croce in Florence safe for tourists at night?

Yes, Piazza di Santa Croce is generally safe at night, especially during peak tourist seasons. The area remains well-lit and populated until late. However, remain vigilant for pickpockets in crowded areas and avoid isolated side streets after midnight. Stick to illuminated, busy paths and keep valuables secure.

What is the best time to visit Piazza di Santa Croce to avoid crowds?

Visit early in the morning (7-9 AM) or late afternoon (5-7 PM) to avoid peak crowds. Midday and evenings draw large groups due to the basilica and street performers. Weekdays are quieter than weekends. Combining your visit with nearby Santa Croce Basilica during opening hours maximizes your experience with fewer people.

How do I get from Florence Airport to Piazza di Santa Croce using public transit?

Take the Volainbus or Terravision shuttle from Florence Airport (FLR) to Santa Maria Novella train station (20 mins). From there, walk 15 minutes south via Via Panzani or take bus 6 or 14 from the station stop to Santa Croce. Taxis are available but cost €20–25.

Are there authentic local restaurants near Piazza di Santa Croce worth visiting?

Yes, try Trattoria Mario or La Giostra for traditional Tuscan dishes like ribollita and bistecca alla fiorentina. Both are within a 5-minute walk and popular with locals. Avoid restaurants directly facing the piazza with multilingual menus - they’re often overpriced. Reserve ahead, especially at La Giostra, which offers refined regional cuisine in a historic setting.