Giotto's Bell Tower

Spectacular views of Florence from a masterful tower in the Piazza del Duomo akin the Duomo cathedral. You need to make reservations, and earlier in the morning is better during the summer. We got there for a 10.30am appointment in late June and it was already very hot. The climb up the tower is not for the infirm...there are several narrow passages and the steps are numerous to reach the top. The views are worthwhile if you can make it. You get a great view of Brunelleschi's cupola, not to mention 360 degrees of the city.

Giotto’s Bell Tower stands beside the Cathedral of Santa Maria del Fiore with the same marble colors but a personality of its own. The sharp lines, patterned panels, and stacked Gothic arches give it a clean, vertical elegance that shows why Florence trusted Giotto with the original design. He only lived to see the first level finished, but Andrea Pisano and Francesco Talenti carried the project forward, completing the tower in 1359 while keeping his vision intact. The climb, 414 steps, moves through narrow stone passages into wide, bright loggias, each opening a little more to the city. The terrace at the top delivers some of the best views in Florence, with Brunelleschi’s dome sitting almost eye-level and the hills wrapping around the skyline. A small historical quirk waits at the top: the Apostolica bell, cast in 1401. It served the cathedral for centuries before falling into neglect, and its restoration in the 1950s was famously difficult. The bronze restorer Bruno Bearzi even described it as the most challenging “patient” he ever had.

Giotto's Bell Tower is an architectural masterpiece settled in the centre of Florence. It is breathtaking, the colours (white, red and green marble) worked in geometric motifs and stylised flowers. It's construction was challenging and there is also museum near for more details, which is actually included in the giotto tower combo ticket price via official site. I'd recommend buying tickets to actually climb the tower (which has around 400ish steps and the climb is totally worth it! Lovely view of Florence and exploration of the tower inside during your climb. Getting Brunelleschi's Dome tickets on the other hand is a bit tricky as they sell well ahead, so I would suggest buying them lile way ahead especially during peak season.

Worth the hike to the top. As the ticket suggests, we highly recommend that you are in a good-fit condition to make the climb to the top. As you ascend, there are a few platforms to stop on to enjoy the view but keep going until you reach that ACTUAL top. The view is phenomenal. We booked tickets ahead of time for the sunset and it was well worth it.

Giotto’s Bell Tower is an absolute gem in the heart of Florence! The architecture is breathtaking, with its intricate marble panels and vibrant Gothic design that truly stands out against the city skyline. Climbing the tower is a rewarding experience—the views from the top are panoramic and provide a unique perspective of the Duomo, Florence rooftops, and the surrounding hills. The climb is a bit steep and involves quite a few steps, so wear comfortable shoes, but every step is worth it. Don’t forget your camera—there are plenty of spots for incredible photos. The historical and artistic details along the way make it more than just a climb; it’s like walking through a living piece of art history.

A city celebrated as the birthplace of the Renaissance. Renowned for its art, architecture, and cultural heritage, it was home to legendary figures like Leonardo da Vinci, Michelangelo, and Dante Alighieri. The city’s historic center, a UNESCO World Heritage Site, features masterpieces such as the Cathedral of Santa Maria del Fiore (the Duomo), the Uffizi Gallery, and the Ponte Vecchio. Florence’s cobblestone streets, charming piazzas, and world-class museums. Spend at least 1 day to truly enjoy & appreciate the city.

It was fortuitous that my trip to the top was rewarded with the ethereal sound of the bells going off at 4 pm. I took several photos from each level. Not for those who get winded exercising. There were many stone steps and the stairway was narrow. Be sure you are hydrated before the trek.

Giotto’s Bell Tower is one of the highlights of Florence – the architecture is stunning up close, and climbing it is a great experience. The staircase is quite narrow and steep, but manageable if you take your time. The effort is well worth it for the panoramic views over the Duomo and the city! Absolutely must visit!!

Was it wise to immediately do this tour/walk right after the 'Opera' that's next to this? (Not when you're over the hill and lazy... like myself.) Regardless - this is ANOTHER fantastic structure that's so rich with history and meaning and the views at each level get more and more breathtaking. Those 400+ steps are savage and only slightly easier coming back down. (As talented and advanced as the artists and architects were centuries ago - they didn't have the foresight to create a second staircase so we wouldn't have to continually bump into each other coming-and-going in the present day?! Sheesh!) Another official "Amazing!" place to visit, get enriched, kill an hour or so, and burn more than few calories.

The bell tower climb requires you to be able to handle crowds from both directions as there's only one way up and down. I think it's totally worth the efforts, as you can view the cathedral and surroundings from a few different levels.

There are different tiers of a museum pass you need to purchase if you want to climb Giotto's Bell tower. They don't sell tickets separately. The Giotto Pass is the cheapest pass you can get that includes the bell tower. It's €20 and it includes Giotto's Bell Tower, the Baptistery of San Giovanni, the Opera del Duomo Museum and the Basilica of Santa Reparata. You have three days to visit all of the sites. We were really only interested in the bell tower but we ended up visiting the Opera del Duomo Museum, just because we passed by it. We booked Thursday 9 AM tickets and got there at 9:10. I believe there is a half an hour leeway. I'd recommend going early because the earlier it is, the less crowds there are. It took us about 20 minutes to climb up to the top + 10 minutes to walk around/take pics + maybe 15 minutes to head back down. So depending on the crowds (it wasn't crowded when we went), you could probably do the whole climb and be out within an hour. Tip - if you are planning to jam all/most of your duomo activities into one day (it's huge! It's almost like a college campus), I'd recommend hitting the duomo itself first. On our way to the tower, people were already starting to line up for the church an hour before its opening time. We thought about visiting afterwards but when we got it, the line wrapped around the church and was probably 10x as long.

Giotto's Campanile or belltower. Part of a series of structures that make up the Florence Cathedral. Constructed in the mid 1300s. and known for its Gothic architecture and intricate design. Recommend getting your ticket of entry via a combination pass that includes access to other attractions in the area. Giotto Pass or Brunelleschi Pass will include it. When you enter, be prepared to climb 414 stairs but it will all be worth it as you emerge at the top to the most stunning 360 degree views of Florence. Be mindful when climbing as some stairs can be thin and there are also other people going up and down.

Not to be confused with Brunelleschi's Dome, a separate charge with similar views, Giotto's Bell Tower was built in the 13th century and features Florentine Gothic architecture like the cathedral next door. Built of colored marble guests ascend 414 narrow stairs to a terrace with panoramic city views. Expect a wait and be sure to pre-purchase 20 Euro tickets before getting in line.

The tower opens at 8:15 am we wanted to get here early before the heat, lines & crowds. We climbed 463 steps or 92 meters to the top. The old stairs are very narrow with some moving in the opposite direction. There wasn't any water nor restrooms. There was a man at the bottom and another at the top. There were 3 landings to stop, sit & catch our breath. Signs indicated that the tower was monitored by visible cameras. Giotto started building the bell tower in the 1300's but died having only completing the first floor. The bell tower was completed in 1359, after the years of the Black Death plague. He created a feeling of airy lightness created by adding windows onto this elegant Gothic building without sacrificing the classical stringency of the original design. The large projecting terrace on top functions as a panoramic roof.

This had a great view of the city and included the Basilica. Compared to the Duomo, there were slightly less steps to climb, but the foot traffic went both ways so it was a bit harder to maneuver. Note that there's high metal bars at the top for protection which may affect photos. There's a couple of lower points to stop and see the views from before continuing your ascent. You need a ticket to access this, and can use the Bruneschellini Pass (pre purchase beforehand online). Definitely avoid if you're claustrophobic and/or are afraid of heights. Wear comfortable shoes as well.

I did climb 463 steps Designed by Giotto in the early 14th century, this marvel 277-foot high bell tower is part of the renowned Duomo in central Florence's Piazza del Duomo. Although it is known as Giotto's Bell Tower, it actually required three architects to finish. Though I missed my chance to climb Duomo, i did not miss this. 463 steps and some hard work, and I was there at the top. What spectacular views of Florence. Amazing view of Palazzo Vecchio, Piazzale Michelangelo, Santa Croce Church, Palazzo Pitti and most important, superb panorama view of Duomo. I think if given the chance, climb this below the tower, cause you cannot get a spectacular view of the dome from any other place else. The climb can be a real workout, so make sure to pace yourself. There were several places where you could stop to catch your breath and admire the views on the way up to the top. It's well worth the steep climb. Again Entrance to the bell tower is covered by the combo ticket you're required to buy if you want to climb the steps of the Duomo or visit any of the other sites within the square.

The cupola (duomo) climb is better if you have limited time/energy. Usually, visiting the Florence Cathedral is free, but you can purchase a ticket that includes admission to the baptistry, the bell tower (campanile), and the dome (cupola). However, the bell tower and the dome have a timed entry. That's because only a certain number of people can do the climb at a time. Both are quite strenuous, but the cupola is tougher and far more rewarding in my opinion. If you have limited energy, I would pick the cupola. You get higher up and you see way more interesting things along the way. In comparison, the bell tower climb is more of a slog and the view at the top is less impressive.

You can get some of the most breathtaking views of Florence from the top of Campanile di Giotto (aka: Giotto's Bell Tower). Campanile di Giotto is a bell tower located in the Piazza del Duomo that is one of the buildings that make up the Florence Cathedral. There are five levels to the tower and it stands over 277 feet tall. The famous Italian painter and architect, Giotto di Bondone, laid the first stone in 1334, but passed away only three years later after he had completed just the first floor. Andrea da Pontedera, famous for his sculpture work on the panels of the Florence Baptistery, took over the construction in 1343, but passed away 5 years later from the Black Death pandemic. In 1359 the bell tower was finally completed, 25 years after Giotto first started construction, by Tuscan sculptor and architect, Francesco Talenti. The 414 steps were not easy, but there are 3 spots to take breaks at between steps. I would advise to wear comfortable shoes and to bring a bottle of water because there are no water fountains in the tower. Tickets are 6 Euros or 10 Euros if you purchase the combo ticket online that allows you access into all 5 sites of the Florence Cathedral. Please be aware that buying your ticket in advance does not allow you to skip the line so arrive early to avoid a long wait. The narrow staircases can be a bit claustrophobic in the heat so making the climb in the early morning is much more pleasant. Not only is the line for the bell tower is shorter than the line for the Dome, but the bell tower is fifty fewer steps and you get an amazing view of the Dome instead of the bell tower.

The bell tower (campanile) of Giotto is the principal tower of the Duomo cathedral. It is named after Giotto di Bondone, the chief architect of the cathedral succeeding Arnolfo di Cambio. His major focus during his tenure was the creation of a campanile that would be "the most beautiful in all of Italy". Although he began the project in 1334, he died only having completed the first floor. Two more men, Andrea Pisano and Fracesco Talenti oversaw the project before the bell tower was completed in 1359. Like the cathedral, the bell tower is built in the Gothic style and made with the same three colors of marble in various arrangements. The first three levels have different decorations based on a common theme. - The first level is decorated with hexagonal tiles. It tells the story of man and depicts the learning of essential skills and tasks. (W) Creation myth with Adam and Eve and occupations of earliest people post-exile from Eden: herding/livestock farming, music, metalworking, winemaking. (S) Activities of civilized man: astronomy, construction, medicine, horsemanship, weaving, law and mechanics. (E) Navigation, social justice, agriculture, entertainment and architecture. (N) Grammar, dialectic, music, geometry and arithmetic and astrology. - The second level contains diamond-shaped tiles with a blue background. The theme represents celestial and spiritual forces. (W) Planets in Ptolemaic order (Saturn, Jupiter, Mars, the Sun, Venus, Mercury and the Moon). (S) Theological virtues (hope, faith, charity) and cardinal virtues (justice, prudence, temperance and fortitude). (E) The seven "liberal arts": Grammar, logic, rhetoric, arithmetic, geometry, music and astronomy. (N) Literal representations of the seven sacraments (baptism, eucharist, confirmation, reconciliation, anointing of the sick, matrimony, holy orders). - The third level contains niches of life-sized statues of various biblical figures. Admission to the campanile is included in your €18 ticket, which also includes the other sites of the Duomo complex. Keep in mind that you have 72 hours from the time of first use to tour all the Duomo complex sites - if you want to do the dome climb, it is highly encouraged to attempt on a different day. Unlike Brunelleschi's dome, no reservation is required though there is a line to enter the bell tower. This line is usually not very long as it goes by quickly. Difficulty: Out of the three main climbs in Florence (the other two being the dome and Arnolfo Tower in Palazzo Vecchio), this was the easiest climb. While the total amount of steps is 414, the layout of the bell tower is such that there's an opportunity to rest along every level. This is because each level is home to a bell, with seven bells total (one for every musical note). Unlike the other two climbs the dedicated resting areas are quite spacious and each floor offers opportunities to take in the spectacular views of the city. The reward at the top consists of a 360 degree view of the city. Fans of Brunelleschi's dome will appreciate the view of the dome as this provides the single best view of the dome in Florence. This was also considering I had excellent views of the dome from my hotel room as well as the north face of the cathedral, only accessible with purchase of a special guided tour. Metal wires surround the perimeter of the floor but the squares are big enough so as not to obstruct your phone from taking quality images - just make sure you use at least medium-power zoom. I have attached pictures of the dome to this review as reference. Out of the three main climbs this was my personal favorite due to the impressive views of the dome. Rick Steves also recommends this climb over the dome climb for the very same reason along with the lower difficulty level due to more resting opportunities. Though if you are physically able I highly recommend spreading out the three climbs over the course of a multi-day Florence day so you won't wear yourself out too much. I was fortunate enough to do all 3 during my stay in Florence as I'm more sedentary back home and am not used to walking so many steps per day. At least with the amount of walking in Florence I did per day it justified me being able to eat whatever I wanted.

Giotto's Campanile or Bell Tower is located in the Piazza del Duomo. This free standing tower looms over the plaza. Right across from the Florence Cathedral and Baptistery. It is the tallest building here. Amazing detail. I love the white with green trim. I did not go in because the queue was crazy but you can pay the fee to go up the tower. A must see in Florence!

If you think the Duomo is the only place to get a great view of central Florence, then you're highly mistaken. The Campanile di Giotto (aka Giotto's Bell Tower) is another and typically far less crowded than the ever popular Duomo. Designed by Giotto in the 14th century, Campanile di Giotto is a free-standing bell tower on the Piazza del Duomo, right next to the Duomo. The tower features Florentine Gothic architecture with hexagonal panels, lozenges, and statues. The hexagonal panels along all sides of the bottom of the tower tell the history of mankind. The panels are very intricate. The west side features Genesis. The south side features astronomy, medicine, hunting, wool-working, legislation, and flight. The east side features liberal arts (navigation, social justice, agriculture, festivals, and architecture. The north side features painting, grammar, music, poetry, logic, and arithmetic. These hexagonal panels were done by Giotto himself. When Giotto passed away, Andrea Pisano took over and continued Giotto's design. Above these panels are the lozenges and these depict the planets, cardinal virtues, liberal arts, and sacraments. On the next level, there are four niches that feature statues. Finally, the top three levels were completed by Francesco Talenti. These levels have other reliefs, statues, and decorations, as well as the notable large windows. Take time to look at these reliefs and statues; some of them are done by famous artists like Donatello and Andrea Pisano. The 414 steps to the top of the tower are not for the weak of heart, but the views atop are spectacular. Some say the view is even better than the one from the Duomo. Thankfully, there are plenty of levels where you can rest and catch your breath. These levels also offer views of Florence, so you can see out at different vantage points throughout your hike. Sometimes, the winding stairs can be very tight and you may have to press yourself against the wall or wait to ascend/descend. Like I said though, the view is breathtaking, looking out at central Florence. Ticket costs €10, which includes access to the Duomo, Baptistry and other sites.

This was one of the few things we go to do there. We didn't have much time in Florence unfortunately. This was worth the climb though. Stunning views up above. Wish that the wire mesh wasn't there, but we worked around it! We had the Firenze card so we got in pretty quickly. There were thunderstorms that day too so it wasn't too hot! We had a great climb up there.

Well worth the 414 steps to the top! If you are able bodied, and moderately fit, you NEED to climb Giotto's Bell tower. It's 10 Euros to climb and there are a couple (3 or 4) landings where you can stop and take a break. You will probably be sweating by the time you get to the top, but the view is spectacular! Go early in the morning and on a clear day (don't forget your camera!), and you will be able to experience a breathtaking view of the city. This was a must-do on my list for Florence and it was incredibly worth it.

Sunday September 8th...not sure why, but it was FREE today! I believe its normally 10 euro to hike up this thing. I think its funny(maybe not the best choice of words) that they keep FOUR ambulances at the bottom in case anyone has a heart attack and needs to get rushed to the hospital...if you're out of shape, do NOT climb these 400+ steps!

This was stop three after purchasing an all-access Duomo pass for 10 Euros. After lunch, we headed back to climb the Duomo Bell Tower. It was also an intense hike (like the journey up to the Duomo Cupola), but the view was once again worth the effort! We even sang Happy Birthday for my Grandma O at the top :)

Location: Right smack in the center of Florence. The place: The first thing that I did when I got there was to climb up to the cupola (wear comfortable shoes and bring water - it's quite a trek!) on an empty stomach. Then I continued up to the lookout on top of the Duomo. As I looked across the way at the bell tower, it occurred to me that I was totally in the wrong place. What I had intended to do was climb the bell tower - so I could SEE the dome. Oi! So I climbed back down, went across the street and climbed the bell tower. It made for great cardio to start my first day off in Florence. The view of both the Duomo and Florence is spectacular! Make sure to go on a sunny day! Be sure to buy the combo ticket via their official web site - it's a steal at 10 Euro, and includes the Duomo, Baptistery and Campanile. You skip the lines for all three BUT you will have to line up to get inside the church since it's free entry. Also, you don't need to climb both the Duomo and the bell tower unless you're a keener. You can just pick one - the view is great from both, but obviously you get to see the Duomo up close and personal if you climb the tower!

I'm a huge sucker for tall views. By far the best was the World Trade Center back when it was still around. The thing is like about this one is that it's literally 100's of years old, and it's all handmade. The stairs are narrow, and it still costs about 6euro for entry, but that's 2euro cheaper than the Duomo, and it's not as tall as the Duomo. But the line is...well...there is no line. For us, there was only so much tiem that we had to spend in Florence, and I wasn't in the mood to spend it waiting in a line as with all of the other places in Italy. Bring some water with you, it's a mighty long way up to the top of the tower. As for the comments about it being difficult to take pictures through the cage, you could put a small watermelon through that cage. Just secure your camera and take all the pictures your heart desires.

Do not climb this tower unless you are in relatively good shape (sooo many stairs!). Also, if you are at all claustrophobic, agoraphobic, anthropophobic, or afraid of heights, you may want to re-think this climb. There is only one way up and down, and the stairs become very narrow towards the top. You end up passing uncomfortably close to folks going in the opposite direction. The sections of stairs are pretty long and without landings, but there are a few intermittent platforms where you can stop to catch your breath and look out over the city at varying levels. Once you get to the top, the bird's eye view is incredible. I love both looking down at the city (really puts the streets and buildings into perspective!) and up at the dome. That thing is SO HUGE. I recommend getting there early so you don't have to share the experience too intimately with tons of sweaty, out of breath strangers...it's just more pleasant that way!

The Campanile (big bell tower beside the Duomo) is definitely a must-visit in Florence! Access is included with the Firenze Card, but it is worth the wait and climb regardless. Some of the best views in Florence for sure! It's quite a climb but gives you a view of the Dome. I visited a couple of years ago and climbed the Bell Tower rather than the Duomo. I wouldn't recommend doing both unless you're really keen to burn off some extra pasta. Either provide you with spectacular views of Florence and surrounding hills.

Don't get discourage by the line line for the bell tower, it goes fairly quick. Once you get past the ticketing booth in the first floor, you can take your time climbing up the 400+ steps. There are rest stops in between where you can rest and take in the view from the different levels. There are certain areas where it gets a little cozy, but most everyone was friendly to let you up or down first. The view from the top was just amazing. I wanted to climb the Dome, but the view from the bell tower was just as great, maybe even better because you get a view of the Duomo.

I highly recommend climbing the Campanile. Views of the Cathedral and Florence make this worth every penny (and every step). This is a pleasant, easy climb (not like the dark, steep maze of the Duomo). Stairways are wide, and there is plenty of room for people to pass. Take a few minutes at the top to just look around and take in the view.

Great views of Florence. The ticket office is inside of the base of the tower and it costs something like 10 euros (lost my ticket since going). The stairway is narrow. It is about one and a half shoulder widths to start. There are two intermediate terraces to look out as you climb where you can take pictures and rest. The stairway narrows after each terrace ultimately to one shoulder width up a winding staircase where you will have to stop several times to let people get by on their way down. That said, the view is great and it includes the very thing you came to see - the Duomo. The top isn't that crowded and there is enough space to move around the people that are up there.

Florence can't seem to disappoint. It's full of beauty in all directions and Giotto's Bell Tower is a great way to see that all that Florence has to offer. The staircase is rather narrow so be careful, but it's well worth it!

Fabulous views at every level but be warned the climb is very steep and narrow stone steps make it difficult to get up and down easily. You can rest at each level but the final staircase is very narrow so you have to wait for people to come up and down to take your turn. the view is spectacular of the whole of florence and is well worth the climb but the descent is painful on the thighs the next day! so avoid high shoes and stick to trainers to minimise the pain!

Beautifully done even when combining architecture! Giotto's Campanile is part of the complex of buildings that make up Florence Cathedral on the Piazza del Duomo in Florence, Italy. While your in the area take a walk by or even venture to climb the 400+ stairs