Why was Arnolfo Tower built?

The tower was built as a lookout point for the city's rulers, with embattlements meant to defend Florence and its city hall from external threats.

Where can I buy Arnolfo Tower tickets?

You can purchase tickets for the Palazzo Vecchio Tower at the entrance of the Palazzo Vecchio complex or <link linkType="internal" newTab="false" url="" id="y3spas7P" shortCodeType="link" relationTo="pages" documentId="680b65717ee59d5e575b5179" text="online" uid="www.tickets-florence.it.palazzo-vecchio" lang="en" />.

Who designed the Arnolfo Tower in Florence, and when was it built?

The Palazzo Vecchio Tower was designed by the renowned architect Arnolfo di Cambio. Construction of the Palazzo Vecchio Tower was completed in 1310.

Where is the Arnolfo Tower located?

The Arnolfo Tower is located at Palazzo Vecchio in Florence, Italy, towering over the complex which is situated in the city's historic center.

Book tickets to Arnolfo Tower at Palazzo Vecchio

From happy customers

Loved by 48 million+

Trustpilot rating: 4.5 out of 5

Jenny

Jan 2026

‌

Beautiful chapel, for me the highlight in Florence. The entrance is super organized, the staff is very nice and helpful. The management of Florence Cathedral should learn a lesson here.

Ananda

Portugal

Oct 2025

‌

I loved it and it was very easy to find the people with the ticket. We had no trouble finding the people with the ticket

Erin

United States

Oct 2025

‌

+1 more

This experience was seamless and easy to navigate. The guide walked us right to the gallery and directed us to the appropriate line, which moved quickly. The gallery itself was wonderful - obviously The David is a must see if you are in Florence, but there are many other religious artifacts, as well (pieces of frescoes from churches, and paintings galore). The gallery of plaster casts of statues was amazing. Highly recommend.

Marina

France

Oct 2025

‌

Splendid collection of works of art. I was able to see up close the painters I admire such as Pobtormi, Boticelli, caravagio, etc.... Marina REY

Nicolette

Netherlands

Oct 2025

‌

The overwhelming art collection and the size of the museum. What we didn't like is the queue before entering although we had prebooked tickets with timeslot.

Mrs

United Kingdom

Oct 2025

‌

Well worth the visit for the scale and history of the palace. Reception staff etc were friendly and helpful, and it wasn't busy, so plenty of time to absorb the detail.

Theissen

Sep 2025

‌

Great experience. We were a little late, but that wasn't a problem. The view from the Torre is very worthwhile, the climb is sporty.

Longo

Italy

Mar 2026

A wonderful visit. The guide who led us was extremely helpful and knowledgeable, and made us feel at ease. He also gave us suggestions about visits we had already booked. Thank you.

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Why visit Arnolfo Tower?

1/3

Insight on medieval fortification

Designed by Arnolfo di Cambio and completed in 1310, Arnolfo Tower is a prominent part of the larger Palazzo Vecchio complex. It served as a defensive system and lookout post to protect Florence against military attacks.

Panoramic views

The tower stands at 94 meters (308 feet), and the ascent involves climbing 223 steps to reach the top. From this vantage, see the original bells up close, and enjoy stunning vistas of Florence's center, Arno River, and the Tuscan hills.

Multipurpose legacy

Originally a defensively strategic structure, it also served other functions, political – as a prison for influential figures like Savonarola and Cosimo the Elder, and timekeeping – as a clock and bell tower.

Things to know before booking Arnolfo Tower tickets

You require separate/additional tickets to access Arnolfo Tower, the entrance to which is from the second floor of Palazzo Vecchio.
Booking in advance online offers you a dedicated time slot and the ability to skip general ticketing queues.
Although booking just Arnolfo Tower tickets does not give you access to the rest of the Museum, you can still take your time exploring the resplendent Courtyard on the Ground Floor for free.
The 233 steps that you will climb are in addition to the three floors of Palazzo Vecchio Museum below it. The tower is not accessible by wheelchair, and restricted for children under the age of 6 years.

Plan your visit to Arnolfo Tower

Friday to Wednesday: 9am - 7pm

Thursday: 9am - 2pm

Last admission: 1 hour before closing time

Best time to visit

The best time to visit Palazzo Vecchio Tower is during the early morning or late afternoon. By visiting during these times, you can avoid the crowds and enjoy a more serene experience. Additionally, weekdays tend to be less crowded compared to weekends.

Palazzo Vecchio Tower is located in the heart of Florence, Italy. Specifically, it is situated in Piazza della Signoria, which is a central square in the historic center of the city. The tower is easily accessible and can be found within the Palazzo Vecchio complex, from above the second floor.

Arnolfo Tower highlights

Architectural details

Observe the intricate architectural details of the tower, from the ornate arches and decorative moldings to the finely crafted stone carvings. These details showcase the skilled craftsmanship and attention to detail of the era.

Tower's bells

Marvel at the tower's original bells, witnessing the craftsmanship and functionality of these historic instruments. Learn about their significance in marking time, announcing events, and communicating with the city's inhabitants throughout history.

Historical chambers

Step into the tower's historical chambers and explore the rich history of Florence. Discover a prison cell in the clouds — the Alberghetto, where political figures like Cosimo the Elder and Girolamo Savonarola were held.

Defensive architecture

Admire the tower's impressive embattlements, characterized by sturdy stone walls, lookout posts, crenellations, and decorative elements. The design style reflects the strategic considerations of Medieval towns.

Sweeping views

At the top, you are rewarded with breathtaking panoramic views of Florence. Take in the picturesque sight of the city's red-tiled roofs, the winding Arno River, and the stunning landscapes that surround Florence.

Palazzo Vecchio complex

Bask in the glory of the larger Palazzo Vecchio complex, which houses the tower. Explore the town hall's grand halls, ornate salons, and hidden passages, delving into the heart of Florentine governance and history.

Artistic treasures

Discover artistic treasures within the tower, including exquisite sculptures, paintings, and decorative art. Admire the craftsmanship of renowned artists, and appreciate the fusion of art and architecture that permeates this historical landmark.

History of Arnolfo Tower

Palazzo Vecchio's watchtower, completed in 1310 and designed by architect Arnolfo di Cambio, has a rich and multifaceted history. Originally a defensive structure, it protected Florence and served as a strategic post for the ruling government.

Over the years, it also functioned as a prison and a bell tower. The solid stone walls, battlements, and intricate decorative elements showcase medieval architecture. Hidden chambers, secret passages, and lesser-known corners reveal the tower's intriguing past.

Adorned with artistic treasures such as frescoes, sculptures, and decorative artworks, the tower exemplifies Florence's cultural and artistic heritage. While not individually listed as a UNESCO World Heritage Site, the tower is part of the Historic Centre of Florence, a designated UNESCO site.

Arnolfo Tower today

The tower holds immense importance and fame as a historic and architectural landmark. With its solid stone walls, decorative elements, and medieval charm, it continues to inspire architects and visitors alike. Today, it stands as a symbol of Italian Gothic architecture above the skyline, attracting thousands of visitors annually. Its panoramic views, cultural events, and vibrant atmosphere make it a must-visit destination, where the rich history and artistic heritage of Florence come to life.

Palazzo Vecchio history

Skip the queues and scale the 95-meter tower, once a Medici prison, now your window to Florence’s 360° vistas.

Everything you get: Get a fast-track entry to climb 230+ medieval steps to the 95-meter watchtower to get views of the famous Brunelleschi's Dome and the Arno river.
Why choose this: This experience lets you have direct access to the tower, bypassing a 30-minute long queue at the site. On your way up encounter historic guard walkways and prison cells that once held Cosimo de' Medici.

Inclusions #

Skip-the-line entry to Arnolfo Tower

Exclusions #

Museum exhibits and chambers

What to bring

Bring a valid photo ID to match the name on your booking if requested at the entrance.

What’s not allowed

Large bags, suitcases, and oversized luggage are not allowed inside the museums for security reasons.
Pets are not permitted, except for registered service animals.

Accessibility

Steep staircases, such as the 223 steps in the Arnolfo Tower, make it not suitable for guests with mobility issues.

Additional information

Please note that the entrance to the tower is within Palazzo Vecchio on the second floor, near the Hall of Lilies chamber.
You will need to go through mandatory security checks at the tower entrance.

These tickets can't be cancelled or rescheduled.

Tip: Keep an eye out for the Terrace of Saturn in the Room of Elements, which features a ceiling fresco metaphorically representing Saturn.
This experience is wheelchair and pram/stroller accessible.
You may be asked to enter via the security check line on busy days.

Inclusions #

Guided tour of Palazzo Vecchio Museum
English, Spanish, Italian, French, or German-speaking guide
Small group of up to 14 people
Fast-track entry
Radio headsets for more than 6 people

Exclusions #

Tips

You can cancel these tickets up to 24 hours before the experience begins and get a full refund.

Skip the queues and scale the 95-meter tower, once a Medici prison, now your window to Florence’s 360° vistas.

Everything you get: Get a fast-track entry to climb 230+ medieval steps to the 95-meter watchtower to get views of the famous Brunelleschi's Dome and the Arno river.
Why choose this: This experience lets you have direct access to the tower, bypassing a 30-minute long queue at the site. On your way up encounter historic guard walkways and prison cells that once held Cosimo de' Medici.

Inclusions #

Skip-the-line entry to Arnolfo Tower

Exclusions #

Museum exhibits and chambers

What to bring

Bring a valid photo ID to match the name on your booking if requested at the entrance.

What’s not allowed

Large bags, suitcases, and oversized luggage are not allowed inside the museums for security reasons.
Pets are not permitted, except for registered service animals.

Accessibility

Steep staircases, such as the 223 steps in the Arnolfo Tower, make it not suitable for guests with mobility issues.

Additional information

Please note that the entrance to the tower is within Palazzo Vecchio on the second floor, near the Hall of Lilies chamber.
You will need to go through mandatory security checks at the tower entrance.

These tickets can't be cancelled or rescheduled.

Tip: Keep an eye out for the Terrace of Saturn in the Room of Elements, which features a ceiling fresco metaphorically representing Saturn.
This experience is wheelchair and pram/stroller accessible.
You may be asked to enter via the security check line on busy days.

Inclusions #

Guided tour of Palazzo Vecchio Museum
English, Spanish, Italian, French, or German-speaking guide
Small group of up to 14 people
Fast-track entry
Radio headsets for more than 6 people

Exclusions #

Tips

You can cancel these tickets up to 24 hours before the experience begins and get a full refund.

From happy customers

Top things to do in Florence

Why visit Arnolfo Tower?

Insight on medieval fortification

Panoramic views

Multipurpose legacy

Things to know before booking Arnolfo Tower tickets

Quick facts about Palazzo Vecchio Tower

Official name

Address

Date of opening

Architect

Architectural style

UNESCO World Heritage Site

Plan your visit to Arnolfo Tower

Arnolfo Tower highlights

Architectural details

Tower's bells

Historical chambers

Defensive architecture

Sweeping views

Palazzo Vecchio complex

Artistic treasures

History of Arnolfo Tower

Frequently asked questions about Palazzo Vecchio's Arnolfo Tower

More reads

Secret passages

History

Guided tours

What to bring

What’s not allowed

Accessibility

Additional information

What to bring

What’s not allowed

Accessibility

Additional information

Arnolfo Tower Skip-the-Line Tickets

Palazzo Vecchio Small-Group Guided Tour