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A display of perfume bottles and boxes on a wooden counter. 1
A church interior with high vaulted ceilings, stained glass windows, and rows of pews. 2
A fresco with figures in historical attire, architectural arches, and a landscape background. 3
A church facade with frescoes, a wooden door, and a stone archway. 4
An ornate bar with a checkered floor and gold accents. 5
By Behind Italy
Free cancellation available
Price is $212 per adult* *Get a lower price by selecting multiple travelers
See tickets

Features

  • Free cancellation available
  • 1h 30m
  • Mobile voucher
  • Instant confirmation
  • Multiple languages

Overview

  • What makes this tour truly unique is the connection it reveals between two of Florence’s most fascinating yet often overlooked landmarks. Rather than simply visiting the Basilica of Santa Maria Novella and the historic Officina Profumo-Farmaceutica, you'll discover how art, faith, science, medicine, and perfumery became intertwined through the legacy of the Dominican friars. From Renaissance masterpieces and sacred symbolism to herbal remedies, fragrances, and centuries of Florentine craftsmanship, this experience uncovers a side of Florence that most travelers never see. Perfect for visitors seeking authentic stories, hidden gems, and a deeper understanding of the city beyond its most famous attractions.

Activity location

  • Basilica of Santa Maria Novella
    • Piazza di Santa Maria Novella 18
    • 50123, Florence, Italy

Meeting/Redemption Point

  • Santa Maria Novella
    • Firenze, Toscana, Italy

Check availability

Florence: Art and Perfume at Santa Maria Novella

  • Earn $12.70
  • Activity duration is 1 hour and 30 minutes1h 30m
    1h 30m
  • English
Starting time: 2:00PM
Price details
$211.72 x 2 Adults$423.44
Total
Price is $423.44
Until Mon, Oct 26

Private option

  • Earn $12.70
  • Activity duration is 1 hour and 30 minutes1h 30m
    1h 30m
  • English
Starting time: 2:00PM
Price details
$211.72 x 2 Adults$423.44
Total
Price is $423.44
Until Mon, Oct 26

What's included, what's not

  • Inclusions
    Guided visit of the Basilica of Santa Maria Novella
  • Inclusions
    Introduction to Dominican history, Renaissance art, and Florentine perfume heritage
  • Inclusions
    Licensed tour guide
  • Inclusions
    Visit to the historic Officina Profumo-Farmaceutica di Santa Maria Novella
  • Inclusions
    Small-group or private experience, depending on the option selected
  • Inclusions
    Entrance tickets to the Basilica of Santa Maria Novella

Know before you book

    • Public transportation options are available nearby
    • Not recommended for travelers with spinal injuries
    • Not recommended for pregnant travelers
    • Not recommended for travelers with poor cardiovascular health
    • Travelers should have at least a moderate level of physical fitness
    • Wear comfortable shoes; shoulders and knees must be covered.
    • Hotel pickup and drop-off Transportation to and from the meeting point Food and drinks Personal expenses Shopping at the Officina Profumo-Farmaceutica di Santa Maria Novella Perfume-making workshop Gratuities

Activity itinerary

Basilica of Santa Maria Novella

  • 1h
  • Admission ticket included
Meet your private guide in Piazza Santa Maria Novella and admire the basilica's elegant Renaissance façade. Step inside this remarkable Dominican church and discover its artistic treasures, including Masaccio's famous Holy Trinity. Explore stunning frescoes, hidden portraits, noble family emblems, and fascinating symbols as your guide reveals the stories behind Florence's artistic, cultural, and religious heritage. Learn how this historic landmark helped shape the city's identity through centuries of art, faith, and innovation.

Officina Profumo-Farmaceutica di Santa Maria Novella

  • 30m
  • Admission ticket included
Visit the historic Santa Maria Novella Pharmacy, one of Florence’s hidden gems, and immerse yourself in a world of exquisite fragrances, herbal remedies, and centuries-old traditions. Discover how Dominican friars transformed their knowledge of medicinal plants into a renowned legacy of perfumes, essences, and wellness products. As you explore its elegant rooms and beautifully preserved interiors, learn how this iconic institution became a symbol of Florentine craftsmanship, beauty, and sensory excellence that continues to captivate visitors from around the world.

Location

Activity location

  • LOB_ACTIVITIESLOB_ACTIVITIES
    Basilica of Santa Maria Novella
    • Piazza di Santa Maria Novella 18
    • 50123, Florence, Italy

Meeting/Redemption Point

  • PEOPLEPEOPLE
    Santa Maria Novella
    • Firenze, Toscana, Italy

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