We are visiting Florence and have all day July 2 Wednesday and July 3 Thursday. Question about the Duomo. Will there be a line for the cathedral? What do you know about the guided tour? Is there a cost for the tour? Do you reserve ahead? Is the afternoon a better time to visit? I know it will be very hot. I will not climb the Dome. Thank you

In July, there will be a line for everything in Florence. I would get to the Duomo early - as soon as it opens, not in the afternoon. It won't be as hot & it won't be as crowded.

I didn't take a tour so can't help there.

Unless you have medical concerns, I would not rule out climbing the tower. You get amazing views AND it is usually breezier up there than down below!

If you don't want to climb the Dome because it's too strenuous, you might consider the steeple - there is a lift up to the top, and the view is almost as great (plus, you'll have the view of the church and the dome itself).

Duomo always had lines during mid-day, but nothing compared to lines at Uffizi or Accademia.

Since we passed by Duomo all the time, we just walked in one late afternoon when there was no line.

It is few degrees cooler inside the Duomo.

Quokka - can you expand on the "steeple"?

I know that Giotto's campanile is next door, and the view from there is spectacular, but I am faily sure there is no lift. It is also one of the harder climbs that I have done of Italian monuments (Something to do with the pitch of the stairs rather than number).

The steeple sits to the side of the Duomo and offers great views. I agree - the steeple is a good choice

If you haven't already read it, Brunelleschi's Dome by Ross King is great background preparation for a visit to Florence/the Duomo.

I second King's little book. Fascinating.

Buy your combo ticket at the museum and breeze through the line at the Duomo.

In the museum, do climb the two spiral staircases for fabulous views.