Spectacular Views from Italy’s Bell Towers

Scenic view of an Italian hillside town with historic buildings, red-tiled roofs, and lush green trees under a hazy blue sky.

While strolling the charming streets and people watching in bustling piazzas are definitely part of the Italian experience, we also recommend experiencing the beautiful towns of Italy from above by climbing the historical bell towers.

Not only do these ascents reward you with breathtaking views and sweeping vistas, but they also offer insight into the architectural and historical significance of each city. Below we have recommended five of the most spectacular bell towers to climb in Italy that will offer panoramic and memorable views and will help you understand each city’s layout while appreciating the historical beauty of each city.

Panoramic view of Orvieto, Italy, featuring the Gothic Orvieto Cathedral, historic stone buildings, and rolling countryside under a bright blue sky.

A panoramic view of a historic Italian hill town with terracotta rooftops, a large stone church, and rolling countryside under a partly cloudy sky.

Torre del Moro, Orvieto

In the enchanting hilltop town of Orvieto, the Torre del Moro stands as a testament to the city’s medieval heritage. Climbing this 47-meter tower is an incredibly memorable experience as you will be rewarded with a breathtaking view of the surrounding Umbria region, dotted with vineyards and olive groves and the dramatic cliffs that surround Orvieto.

View of historic Bergamo Alta, Italy, with terracotta rooftops, gardens, and hillside landscape framed by an ancient stone arch.

Aerial view of Bergamo Alta, Italy, featuring medieval stone tower, historic buildings with terracotta roofs, and a lively piazza with outdoor cafés.

Civic Tower, Bergamo

The Civic Tower, or Campanone, is one of the most iconic structures in Bergamo’s historic Città Alta. Standing at 52 meters and built in the 12th century, visitors are rewarded with a stunning panorama of the surrounding hills and valleys and get a bird’s-eye view of the charming medieval streets and vibrant piazzas below. On clear days, you might even catch a glimpse of the distant Alps, making this climb a memorable experience that captures the beauty of Northern Italy.

Asinelli Tower, Bologna

Bologna is renowned for its towers, and the Asinelli Tower is the tallest of them all, reaching 97 meters. Climbing its 498 steps is no small feat, but the reward is a remarkable view of the city’s famous terracotta rooftops and the stunning architecture that defines its historic center. From the top, enjoy the sprawling, intricate maze of narrow streets and historic buildings that define Bologna.

Panoramic view of Verona, Italy, showing terracotta rooftops, historic towers, and distant hills under a bright blue sky.

Aerial view of Piazza delle Erbe in Verona, Italy, surrounded by historic buildings with terracotta roofs and a tall medieval clock tower.

Torre dei Lamberti, Verona

Verona’s Torre dei Lamberti, standing at 84 meters, is another must-climb tower for those visitors seeking breathtaking views. As you climb, you’ll encounter beautiful frescoes and historical artifacts that tell the story of this stunning city. Once at the top, you’ll be rewarded with stunning panoramic 360-degree views of Verona’s charming streets, the majestic Adige River, and the iconic Juliet’s balcony making for an unforgettable experience in this beautiful city.

Giotto's Bell Tower, Florence

Rising next to the Florence Cathedral, Giotto’s Bell Tower, standing at 82 meters tall, is a stunning masterpiece of Gothic architecture, with a striking façade adorned with colorful marble. The reward at the top is one of a kind, as you are greeted by unparalleled views of Florence’s skyline, dominated by the magnificent dome of the Duomo. The perspective gained from this height allows you to fully appreciate the intricate layout of Florence, from its historic squares to the winding Arno River.

Climbing these towers in Italy is an experience unlike any other, offering not only stunning views but also a deeper appreciation for the rich history and culture of each city and a unique perspective on the landscape below. From the rolling hills of Orvieto to the vibrant streets of Bologna, the views you can enjoy from these heights are truly unforgettable and promise to be a memorable part of your Italian adventure. So, embrace the climb and savor the spectacular vistas that await!