Private Tour: Explore Florence's Santa Croce Basilica and Ancient Leather School

Embark on a private tour of Florence’s Santa Croce Basilica, marvel at its Gothic architecture and explore the beautiful Cloisters. Then, visit an ancient Leather School to witness skilled craftsmen preserving century-old techniques.

Duration: 1 hour, 30 minutes
Cancellation: 24 hours
Highlights
  • Basilica of Santa Croce - Santa Croce Basilica is a masterpiece of Gothic architecture with a façade clad in polychrome marble. This is the ancient church in which the Franciscan friars chose to set up and begin treating pelts and leather and meditate in peace in a place that was, at that time, located outside the city walls. We will admire, from…
What's Included
  • Earphones provided for groups over 7
  • Expert local guide included
What's Not Included
  • Admission fees
  • Hotel pickup and drop-off
  • Everything not mentioned as Included
  • Gratuities
Additional Information

Discover the Santa Croce Basilica in Florence, a breathtaking Gothic architectural gem celebrated for its vibrant marble façade. Originally a haven for Franciscan friars, the basilica features extraordinary frescoes by Giotto and Agnolo Gaddi, as well as significant works by Donatello and the tombs of illustrious individuals like Michelangelo and…

Location
Basilica of Santa Croce in Florence
Piazza di Santa Croce
Starting Time: Morning Option at 11:00 am - Afternoon Option at 02.30 pm Meeting with the guide at the entrance of Santa Croce Basilica
Cancellation Policy

For a full refund, cancel at least 24 hours before the scheduled departure time.

Customer Ratings
4.9
(18 Ratings)
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1 star
Juie
Jul 2, 2025
Marta brings the masterful history of Santa Croce to life! - Our walking tour of the Santa Croce Basilica with Marta was an unforgettable experience. As a Florence native with a degree in art restoration, she brought a unique and personal perspective to the tour. Her deep knowledge of the church’s history and artwork made every detail come alive. Marta also guided us through the on-site leather school, where we learned about traditional craftsmanship and purchased beautiful artisan leather goods. Her passion for Florence and its heritage was evident throughout the tour. A truly enriching and memorable experience.
Review provided by Tripadvisor
Shelby
Jun 26, 2025
Loved it! - Andrea was very passionate and knowledgeable of the history and art of the basilica. We will definitely recommend this tour to friends and family!
Review provided by Tripadvisor
Annette_c
Feb 23, 2025
Ilaria was very attentive... - Ilaria was very attentive and knowledgeable. She enhanced our tour tremendously! Your included personal tour of the leather school.
Review provided by Viator
Nancydh9260ta
Nov 12, 2024
Basilica San Croce, learn some history - Laura was great! Very knowledgeable and willing to answer all questions. Leather school NOT at all what we had hoped for. Thought we would be talking and involved with the school staff and skills
Review provided by Tripadvisor
Deb_s
Oct 20, 2024
In-depth tour of Santa Croce Basilica - Our guide was amazing and very knowledgeable. There wasn’t a question she couldn’t answer. Enjoyed the tour very much. I could never have understood what I was seeing to the depth she gave us.
Review provided by Viator
Debdevineone
Aug 26, 2023
Fabulous education. Florentine art, history, politics and culture - Wow, I got so much out of this tour! Totally recommend if you are in any way interested in Florentine history, art, politics and culture. A point to note! The start is not out front of the Basilica as could be indicated on the ticket and website. The wording of the start site says at the entry. If you are not familiar with the location it is easy to think this is at the front facing the Piazza. The entry is at the side of the building. Thankyou for a wonderful experience! I learned much that has added to an already fabulous stay and laid foundation for the remainder of my time in Florence.
Review provided by Tripadvisor
Amye_k
Jun 30, 2023
Santa Croce is a must-see - What a lovely morning tour with Marta! The basilica is full of art, architecture, tombs, and history. Marta was knowledgeable and able to answer our many questions while guiding us through the property. After several group tours, it was a treat to have a guide to ourselves. We are not educated in art history but have a keen interest in it, and Marta provided all of the information in a very approachable way for novices. We loved discussing the works and asking her more about the things we found intriguing. The tour of the basilica and convent was about two hours. We were taken to the leather school at the end, and we had a brief discussion of it. Be aware this is not a detailed tour of the leather school, with the tour’s focus being on the basilica. If you’re interested in going more in-depth at the leather school, you will find the staff there helpful and patient. We spent an additional hour with Francesca while learning about the school and making several purchase selections, many of which were customized before our eyes and gorgeously packaged. .
Review provided by Viator
Jack_p
Oct 18, 2022
A must do tour! - Andreus was very knowledgeable about the church , the monuments, and history. His English was extremely good and he was patient. Excellent tour!
Review provided by Viator
Tudor_w
May 22, 2022
Excellent tour - Andrea was an exceptional tour guide and really brought it all to life. Very knowledgeable and respectful of the exhibits. A very enjoyable tour.
Review provided by Viator
Kingster64
May 30, 2025
Beautiful Basilica - Leathe School is slipping - We've been here multiple times and truly love Florence. As far as the Basilica's they are all excellent. We always got to the leather school but this time it seemed like it lacked much of what they use to have, leather bracelets and other goods they usually have in stock. I do know that the leather belts went from 45 Euro's to 60 which is pretty steep. I know the money goes to the school but abit steep. Hoping next time they have more items to choose from so we can purchase more!!!
Review provided by Tripadvisor
From $34
up to 8 guests
1 - Adult
Cancellation: Free cancellation up to 24 hours before the start of your experience (local time).