Arnolfo Tower, perched atop the Palazzo Vecchio in the heart of Florence, offers one of the most stunning panoramic views of the city. But fair warning: it’s not a spot for the faint-hearted. To reach the top, you’ll need to climb 223 steps—and that’s after ascending the stairs to the tower itself. Is it worth it? For us, it absolutely was! Here, I’ll share our experience and all you need to know to visit this iconic landmark.
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What You Need to Know Before Visiting Arnolfo Tower
After nearly two decades of living in Florence, I finally got the chance to climb the iconic Arnolfo Tower—a long-standing dream come true.
Despite visiting the Palazzo Vecchio countless times, the timing had never worked out: sometimes tickets were sold out, bad weather closed the tower, or I had small children in tow (the tower is only accessible to kids aged six and up).
Finally, on a bright December Sunday in 2024, with the festive Christmas spirit filling the streets of Florence, I made my way to the top with my daughters, Gaia and Aurora.
Planning is essential—secure your tickets in advance to avoid disappointment.
Tickets for Arnolfo Tower
Access to the Arnolfo Tower requires a separate ticket from the Palazzo Vecchio museum entrance. Below are the ticket prices and a link to purchase online directly from the official vendor:
| Category | Price (in Euros) | Online Tickets |
|---|---|---|
| Adult (Museum, standard) | €12.50 | Buy here |
| Youth (18-25, Museum, standard) | €10.00 | Buy here |
| Adult (Museum, special exhibition) | €17.50 | Buy here |
| Youth (18-25, Museum, special) | €15.00 | Buy here |
| Adult (Arnolfo Tower) | €12.50 | Buy here |
| Youth (18-25, Arnolfo Tower) | €10.00 | Buy here |
| Children (under 18) | Free | Buy here |
| Fiorentino Card (Florence residents) | €10.00/year | Buy here |
| Firenzecard (72 hours) | €85.00 | Buy here |
Note: Online purchases include a booking fee.
On the first Sunday of each month, residents of Florence’s metropolitan area can visit for free—though advance reservations are not available. Arrive early to secure your spot!
Still looking for accommodation? Check out our hotel recommendations in Florence
Guided Tours of Palazzo Vecchio and Arnolfo Tower
You can book a guided tour that includes access to both Palazzo Vecchio and Arnolfo Tower, with a English-speaking guide. Check out this option on platforms like Get Your Guide for an immersive experience.
Opening Hours: Arnolfo Tower and Palazzo Vecchio
Palazzo Vecchio Museum
- Monday, Tuesday, Wednesday, Friday, Saturday, Sunday: 09:00–19:00
- Thursday: 09:00–14:00
Arnolfo Tower
- Monday, Tuesday, Wednesday, Friday, Saturday, Sunday: 09:00–17:00
- Thursday: 09:00–14:00
Important Notes:
- Arrive 15 minutes early.
- The tower closes in case of rain, but you can still visit the Medieval Walkway.
- Ticket sales close one hour before the site closes.
Our Experience at Arnolfo Tower
We visited Arnolfo Tower on December 1, 2024. As the first Sunday of the month, many public museums in Florence offered free entry. While the tower’s free access is reserved for local residents on this day, other landmarks like the Uffizi Gallery are open to all visitors without charge.
We arrived at the ticket office around 11 AM and secured the last available tickets for a 4 PM entry—a perfect time in winter to catch the magical sunset over the city. Clear blue skies made the view even more breathtaking. While waiting, we explored Palazzo Vecchio, but that’s a story for another time.
The Climb to Arnolfo Tower
The climb was manageable, with wide staircases and well-maintained steps.
We paused along the way for photos and a quick rest, marveling at how tiny people looked from above.
The View from the Top
From the summit, we soaked in unparalleled views of Florence’s most iconic landmarks:
Every angle offered a new perspective of the city, and we cherished the moment.
Arnolfo Tower: A Historic Symbol of Florence
Standing 95 meters tall, Arnolfo Tower is an architectural marvel.
Built as part of the Palazzo Vecchio between 1299 and the early 1300s, it’s attributed to the famed architect Arnolfo di Cambio. The tower not only symbolizes the power of Florence’s government but also served a defensive role with its fortified walls and watchtower.
The climb transports you back in time, with highlights like the “Alberghetto,” a small historic cell where notable figures like Cosimo the Elder and Girolamo Savonarola were once imprisoned.
At the top, the final watch level offers a spectacular panoramic view of Florence—a true feast for the eyes.
The upper part of the tower houses two bell cells. Among the bells, the “Martinella” stands out, historically used to summon Florentines, along with the midday bell and the bell of warnings.
At the very top, there is a replica of an ancient flag featuring the Marzocco lion with the Florentine lily. The original is preserved inside the palace.
Another fascinating detail is the tower’s clock. Its mechanism was crafted by Bavarian artisan Georg Ledel in 1667, and the clock face was restored in the 20th century.
For those passionate about history, architecture, or simply breathtaking views, Arnolfo Tower is a must-visit destination in Florence.
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