Private Guided Visit of Florence Santa Maria Novella Basilica and its Officina Profumo Farmaceutica

Explore Florence’s Historic Santa Maria Novella Basilica and Its Hidden Pharmacy

This private guided tour offers a deep dive into one of Florence’s most beautiful Renaissance churches, Santa Maria Novella, along with its centuries-old Officina Profumo Farmaceutica, the world’s oldest pharmacy still in operation. Priced at $119.85 per person, and lasting approximately 1 hour and 30 minutes, this tour provides an enriching experience suitable for those interested in art, history, and traditional pharmacy craftsmanship. The tour departs from Florence’s Santa Maria Novella square, with a guide leading your small group through the church’s stunning interiors, historic cloisters, and the original pharmacy building.

While the tour is praised for its knowledgeable guides and impressive art collection, it’s important to note that some reviews mention a limited focus on the pharmacy, especially regarding the duration spent there. Still, if you’re eager to glimpse Florence’s religious, artistic, and medicinal heritage in one visit, this tour offers a well-rounded glimpse in just under two hours.

Key Points

• Private tour of Florence’s Santa Maria Novella Basilica and pharmacy
• Duration: approximately 1 hour and 30 minutes
• Price: $119.85 per person, with group discounts available
• Highlights include Renaissance art, frescoes by Paolo Uccello, and the historic Green Cloister
• The original pharmacy, established in 1612, still operates today, creating perfumes and medicinal products
• Meet outside the basilica in Florence’s Santa Maria Novella square
• Tour includes earphones for groups larger than 7 people

The Exterior of Santa Maria Novella and Its Setting

The tour begins outside the Santa Maria Novella Basilica, characterized by its striking multi-colored marble facade that faces a quaint square. This eye-catching exterior hints at the artistic value inside and sets the tone for a visit filled with Renaissance masterpieces. The basilica’s architecture and its location in a lively Florence neighborhood make it an inviting starting point for exploring the city’s religious and artistic treasures.

Participants gather at the main entrance, ready to explore the church that dates back to the early 13th century, when it was founded by Dominican friars. The exterior remains a symbol of Florence’s wealth during the Renaissance, with its decorative marblework drawing admiration from travelers.

Highlights of the Basilica’s Renaissance Art Collection

Inside Santa Maria Novella, the guide discusses the founding of the church by Dominican friars and points out some of the most important artworks. Expect to see frescoes by Filippino Lippi and Ghirlandaio, as well as the “Trinity” by Masaccio, a pivotal piece in early Renaissance painting. The “Crucifix” by Giotto also adorns the church, offering a glimpse into the religious art that flourished here.

The guide shares insights about the stories behind these artworks, emphasizing their significance in art history and their role in inspiring Florence’s artistic culture. This part of the tour is particularly appreciated for the expert commentary that helps visitors understand the importance of each piece.

Discover the Green Cloister and Paolo Uccello’s Frescoes

A highlight of the tour is the Green Cloister, known for its frescoes painted by Paolo Uccello, which feature a dominant green earth tone. The cloister provides a peaceful space to appreciate religious scenes while enjoying the vivid murals that have endured for centuries. The detailed fresco work demonstrates Uccello’s skill and contrasts beautifully with the more ornate art inside the basilica.

This area allows visitors to step into a quiet corner of Florence’s religious architecture, providing a moment of calm amid the busy city streets. The frescoes’ preservation and beauty make this stop a memorable part of the experience.

Exploring the Historic Officina Profumo Farmaceutica di Santa Maria Novella

After the basilica visit, the tour leads to the Officina Profumo Farmaceutica, established in 1612 under the influence of Cosimo I de’ Medici and his successors. This medicinal workshop originally cultivated plants and herbs to produce ointments, balms, and essences used for healing and disinfecting, dating back to the 14th century.

Today, the pharmacy remains in its original building, with vaulted ceilings and its walls decorated with frescoes. It still produces perfumes, soaps, and medicinal products using old recipes, offering a rare glimpse into Florence’s historic pharmaceutical practices. Visitors have the opportunity to admire these traditional processes and the authentic interior, which retains its ancient charm.

The Duration and Pacing of the Pharmacy Visit

While the initial reviews praise the pharmacy’s interior and historic significance, some mention that the time allocated may feel limited, with the pharmacy tour being somewhat rushed. The 30-minute visit focuses on the workshop’s history and the current production of perfumes and remedies, but it may not satisfy those wanting an in-depth explanation of every process.

Despite this, the pharmacy’s original architecture and preserved frescoes remain a notable feature of the tour, making it an essential stop to understand Florence’s long-standing tradition of medicinal and aromatic craftsmanship.

Logistics: Meeting Point and Group Size

The tour departs from outside the main entrance of Santa Maria Novella in Florence’s central square. It is a private activity, meaning only your group participates, which enhances the personalized experience. For larger groups, earphones are provided to ensure clear communication, making the tour comfortable and engaging.

The meeting point is conveniently located near public transportation, simplifying access for visitors staying in Florence. The entire activity concludes back at the starting point, allowing for easy continuation of sightseeing or shopping.

The Expertise of the Guides and Visitor Experience

The tour features a local professional guide, whose knowledgeable commentary enhances understanding of the basilica’s art and history. Multiple reviews commend guides like Andrea and Laura for their competence, attentiveness, and ability to answer questions.

While most visitors find the guides welcoming and informative, some reviews mention that the pharmacy segment can feel rushed or less detailed than expected. The overall experience is characterized by friendly guidance and an intimate atmosphere.

Pacing, Crowds, and Overall Atmosphere

With a duration of about 90 minutes, the tour maintains a steady pace that allows you to see key highlights without feeling overwhelmed. The small group setting ensures an interactive experience, and the quiet ambiance of the cloisters and pharmacy enhances the sense of discovery.

The tour is most suitable for those interested in art, history, and traditional pharmacy practices, but visitors should be aware that the pharmacy visit might be brief for those seeking more detailed insights.

Practical Details: Booking, Cost, and Accessibility

The tour price is $119.85 per person, with the admission tickets for the basilica payable on the spot (adults $7.50, children 11-17 $5, under 10 free). Booking typically occurs about 39 days in advance, indicating good demand for this experience.

The activity is most travelers can participate, and confirmation is received immediately upon booking. The tour is not suitable for those seeking hotel pickup or drop-off, as it focuses on the city center.

Who Will Benefit Most From This Tour?

This private tour is ideal for visitors eager to combine art, history, and traditional pharmacy in a short, well-organized visit. It caters to art lovers, history enthusiasts, and those curious about Florence’s medicinal traditions. The small group setting and expert guides make it particularly appealing for those who appreciate a more personalized experience.

Florence’s Santa Maria Novella Basilica and Pharmacy: A Worthwhile Experience

In summary, this 1.5-hour private tour offers a comprehensive look at Florence’s Santa Maria Novella Basilica and its historic pharmacy. The artworks, such as Ghirlandaio’s frescoes and Masaccio’s Trinity, are significant highlights, while the Green Cloister provides a peaceful retreat with Uccello’s frescoes.

The pharmacy visit adds a unique dimension, revealing Florence’s long-standing tradition of medicinal and aromatic craftsmanship. Although some may find the pharmacy segment somewhat brief, the preserved interior architecture and historic production methods make it worthwhile.

This tour balances art, history, and medicinal heritage in a personalized format that suits those with specific interests in Florence’s religious and cultural development.

Frequently Asked Questions

Is this tour suitable for children?
Yes, children under 10 participate for free, and the tour’s focus on art and history makes it suitable for families with older children.

How long does the tour last?
The tour lasts approximately 1 hour and 30 minutes.

Are tickets for the basilica included?
No, basilica admission tickets (around $7.50) are paid separately on-site.

Is the tour private or group-based?
This is a private tour, with only your group participating.

Can I book this tour last minute?
Booking is usually made about 39 days in advance, so last-minute reservation might be difficult but not impossible depending on availability.

What languages are guides available in?
The information provided does not specify languages, but the tour is led by a local professional guide.

Is accessibility an issue?
There is no specific mention of accessibility, but the tour is conducted in the city center, likely accessible to most visitors.

What should I wear or bring?
Comfortable shoes are recommended for walking and standing inside the basilica and cloisters.

Can I cancel this tour?
Yes, free cancellation is available up to 24 hours in advance with a full refund.

How do I find the meeting point?
Meet outside the main entrance of Santa Maria Novella in Florence’s square, easily accessible by public transport.