The Majestic Campanile di Giotto: A Towering Marvel in Florence
Discover the Campanile di Giotto, a Gothic architectural landmark in Florence offering spectacular views and a glimpse into the city's rich history.
The Campanile di Giotto, standing proudly next to the Cathedral of Santa Maria del Fiore, is a true masterpiece of Gothic architecture. Designed by the renowned architect Giotto di Bondone, this striking bell tower reaches an impressive height of 82 meters and boasts a stunning façade decorated with multicolored marble from the Tuscan region. As you approach the tower, you will be captivated by its intricate details, including sculptures and reliefs that reflect the artistic prowess of the time. Climbing the 414 steps to the top is an adventure in itself. As you ascend, you’ll be rewarded with breathtaking views of Florence, including a panoramic sight of the iconic Duomo and the surrounding Tuscan hills. The experience is enhanced by the sense of history that envelops you, as you walk in the footsteps of countless visitors who have marveled at this architectural wonder over the centuries. The best time to visit is early in the morning or later in the afternoon to avoid the crowds, allowing you to savor the beauty of the surroundings in a more intimate setting. The Campanile is not just a bell tower; it serves as a testament to Florence's rich cultural and historical legacy. It is a significant part of the Florence Cathedral complex, which is a UNESCO World Heritage site. After your visit, take some time to explore the Piazza del Duomo, where you can find charming cafés and shops, perfect for soaking up the vibrant atmosphere of Florence. Make sure to have your camera ready, as the views from the top are truly Instagram-worthy, capturing the essence of this enchanting city.
Local tips
- Arrive early to beat the crowds and enjoy a quieter experience when climbing the tower.
- Wear comfortable shoes, as the climb involves many steps.
- Consider purchasing a combined ticket for the cathedral and the tower to save time and money.
- Check the weather forecast before your visit for the best views from the top.
- Bring a camera for stunning photos of Florence from the top of the tower.
A brief summary to Campanile di Giotto
- Cathedral of Santa Maria del Fiore, Piazza del Duomo, Florence, Metropolitan City of Florence, 50122, IT
- +390552302885
- Visit website
- Monday 8:15 am-6:45 pm
- Tuesday 8:15 am-6:45 pm
- Wednesday 8:15 am-6:45 pm
- Thursday 8:15 am-6:45 pm
- Friday 8:15 am-6:45 pm
- Saturday 8:15 am-6:45 pm
- Sunday 8:15 am-6:45 pm
Getting There
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Car
If you are driving from cities such as Siena or Pisa, take the A1 motorway towards Florence. Once you reach the city, follow the signs for 'Centro' to enter the historic center. You will need to park your car as driving within the ZTL (Limited Traffic Zone) is restricted. Recommended parking facilities include the Garage Michelangelo or the Parcheggio Piazza della Libertà, which are about a 15-20 minute walk to the Campanile di Giotto.
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Train
For those traveling from other parts of Tuscany, such as Pisa or Lucca, take a train to Firenze Santa Maria Novella (SMN) station. Once you arrive at SMN, exit the station and walk towards Via Nazionale. Continue straight until you reach Piazza del Duomo, which is approximately a 15-minute walk. The Campanile di Giotto is located adjacent to the Cathedral of Santa Maria del Fiore in this square.
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Bus
If you are coming from nearby towns like Fiesole or Settignano, take a local bus to Florence. The main bus station is located near the train station (Firenze SMN). From there, follow the same walking directions as mentioned above to reach Piazza del Duomo and the Campanile di Giotto.
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Taxi or Ride-Sharing
For a more convenient option, you can take a taxi or a ride-sharing service like Uber to reach Campanile di Giotto. Make sure to provide the address: Cathedral of Santa Maria del Fiore, Piazza del Duomo, 50122 Firenze. This option may incur higher costs, especially from further locations, but it offers door-to-door service.
Attractions Nearby to Campanile di Giotto
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Baptistery of St. John
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The Gates of Paradise
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Loggia del Bigallo
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Piazza del Duomo
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Colonna di San Zanobi, Florence
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Museo della Misericordia di Firenze
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Cathedral of Santa Maria del Fiore
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Crypt of Santa Reparata
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Opera di Santa Maria del Fiore di Firenze
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Eataly Firenze
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Messer Gelato
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Brunelleschi's dome
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Duomo Complex
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Chiesa di Santa Maria Maggiore
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Colonna dell'Abbondanza
Landmarks nearby to Campanile di Giotto
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Giotto's Bell Tower
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The Baptistery of St. John
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Tourist House Duomo
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Fun in Tuscany
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The Florentine
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Equestrian statue of Cosimo I
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Piazza della Signoria
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Bargello National Museum
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Museo Nazionale del Bargello
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Fountain of Neptune
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Alpaca's circle
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Torre di Arnolfo
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Palazzo Vecchio
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Palazzo Gondi
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Loggia dei Lanzi