Cathedral of Santa Maria del fiore luggage storage

Anyone interested in history, art, and architecture should absolutely visit Florence’s Cathedral of Santa Maria del Fiore. Its iconic red-tiled dome and stunning interior make it one of the most impressive cathedrals in the world, let alone Italy. 

The cathedral’s stellar location also makes it an ideal stop during any trip to Florence, with many other of the city’s best attractions located nearby. Jumping around Florence's historic city center makes it important to plan your visit ahead. Luckily, there are plenty of luggage storage options nearby, including one right outside the Cathedral. 

About Santa Maria del Fiore

The Cathedral of Santa Maria del Fiore, also known as the Florence Cathedral or Duomo, is a Gothic-style cathedral located in the heart of Florence’s tourist district. Designed by architect Arnolfo di Cambio in the late 13th century, construction took nearly a century and a half to complete. The cathedral's best-known feature is its iconic red-tiled dome, which was designed by Filippo Brunelleschi and is considered a masterpiece of Renaissance architecture. The cathedral's interior is perhaps the most impressive, with intricate frescoes, sculptures, and stained glass windows adorning the walls and ceilings. 

Visitors can also climb to the top of the cathedral's dome for breathtaking views (and Instagram opportunities) of Florence’s city center. The cathedral is surrounded by a large piazza where visitors can take in the beauty of the building's façade and admire the bronze doors of the Baptistery. 

There aren’t storage lockers available at the Cathedral of Santa Maria del Fiore for visitors to store their bags. However, there are luggage storage options available near the Cathedral of Santa Maria del Fiore, including secure storage service from Bounce. There are other locations nearby, usually partnered with local shops and businesses. 

Top attractions near Cathedral of Santa Maria del Fiore

There are many of France's popular tourist attractions near the Cathedral of Santa Maria del Fiore. You’ll easily be able to fill up an entire day of sightseeing near the cathedral, so find a place to drop the bags so you can get around easier.

Uffizi Gallery luggage storage

One of the most renowned art museums in the world, the Uffizi Gallery is home to an extensive collection of Renaissance artwork, including works by Botticelli, Michelangelo, and Leonardo da Vinci. You really can't visit Florence without stopping in here, even if you only have a passing interest in art.

The Uffizi has a cloakroom for guests to use free of charge. You can store things like your umbrella, a small bag, or coat here since bags are not permitted in the gallery. If you have any large bags or suitcases, trust them with a Bounce left luggage facility before you explore the museum. You'll be glad to know they're safe while you immerse yourself in centuries of exquisite art.

Ponte Vecchio luggage storage

This historic bridge spans the Arno River and is famous for its shops selling gold and jewelry, in case you want an expensive souvenir. It's also a popular spot for photos thanks to its beautiful views of the river and the city. And because this bridge is so popular, it's a good idea to check your bags with Bounce before you cross. During the peak summer season, it can be really tricky to maneuver around all the people.

Palazzo Vecchio luggage storage

This medieval palace in the heart of Florence gives some serious Game of Thrones vibes. It’s now a museum that showcases the city's rich history and art. It's recommended that you find luggage storage prior to visiting the palace.

Mercato Centrale luggage storage

A bustling indoor market that offers a wide variety of fresh food, drinks, and souvenirs. It's a great place to grab a quick bite to eat or fill your bag with local products to take home. The gelato is highly recommended. And with any bustling market, carrying heavy bags is a drag. Don't battle with your suitcase as you navigate the stalls. Instead, find a luggage storage option before you take on the market.

Boboli Gardens luggage storage

A massive park located behind the Pitti Palace, Boboli Gardens features beautiful landscaping, sculptures, and stunning views of the city. It’s a great place to get some steps in or even take a picnic. You can find a storage point near the park to help you travel light while you get those steps in.

Transport options at Santa Maria del Fiore

The Cathedral of Santa Maria del Fiore is located in the historic district of Florence and is easily accessible. 

Santa Maria Novella train station luggage storage

If you're arriving by train, Florence's main train station, Santa Maria Novella, is located just a short walk away from the cathedral. From the train station, you can walk or take a taxi, bus, or tram to the cathedral. This is one of the nearest luggage storage points to the Cathedral, and a convenient place to drop the bags, especially if you can't check in at your hotel just yet. There are other train stations in Florence, so check the schedules.

By car

If you're driving into Florence, it's important to note that the historic center is a limited traffic zone, so it may not be possible to drive directly to the cathedral. It's best to park your car outside the city center and then take public transportation or walk to the cathedral. Leaving your luggage in the car is not recommended, so finding a place to store luggage is important. 

By foot

Overall, the best way to get to the Cathedral of Santa Maria del Fiore is by public transportation or on foot, as the historic center of Florence is pedestrian-friendly, and many of its streets are closed to traffic. You’ll want to explore this part of Florence on foot anyway! Walking around the city center only takes a few hours, and it's delightful.

Local tips and insider info

• Book tickets in advance. The cathedral is one of the most popular tourist attractions in Florence, so it's almost always very busy, especially during peak season and on weekends. To avoid long lines, it's a good idea to book your tickets in advance online or through a travel agency.
• Plan your visit. The cathedral is open daily from 10 am to 5 pm, but it's a good idea to check the opening hours in advance, as they may vary depending on the season. Also, note that the cathedral may be closed for religious ceremonies or events, so it's best to check the schedule in advance. Planning ahead also involves finding a secure luggage storage service near the cathedral!
• Hire a tour guide. This may sound like overkill, but it can really make your visit well worth it. The cathedral is filled with beautiful artwork and architecture, but it can be overwhelming to navigate without a guide. Consider hiring a licensed guide who can provide historical and cultural insights to enhance your visit.
• Climb to the top of the Cathedral's dome. The cathedral's incredible dome offers one of the best views in all of Florence. It's a bit of a hike, but the views are well worth the effort.

Conclusion

The Cathedral of Santa Maria del Fiore is always going to be a highlight of any trip to Florence, but there are also a few worthwhile spots nearby to hit. The Uffizi Gallery and Santa Maria Novella Station both have luggage storage locations to make your outing even more convenient!