Torre Garisenda
Bologna's iconic medieval towers, symbols of power and history, offering stunning city views and a glimpse into Italy's past.

Highlights
Must-see attractions

Social
From TikTok & Reddit
Best Time
Fewer crowds for photos
Torre Garisenda
Best Time
Fewer crowds for photos

Highlights
Must-see attractions
Bologna's iconic medieval towers, symbols of power and history, offering stunning city views and a glimpse into Italy's past.
"Le Due Torri are impossible to miss and even harder to stop staring at. They are not just symbols of Bologna; they are Bologna."
📸 Exterior Photos are Key
Even with restoration, the Garisenda's lean is captivating. Capture it from various angles on the ground!
👟 Climb Asinelli for Views
The 498 steps are a workout, but the panoramic city views from Torre Asinelli are worth every step. :athletic_shoe:
Highlights
Discover the most iconic attractions and experiences

Torre Garisenda's Dramatic Lean
Piazza di Porta Ravegnana
Witness the iconic, dramatically leaning tower, a symbol of Bologna's medieval past and engineering marvel.

Torre Asinelli's Panoramic Views
Piazza di Porta Ravegnana
Climb the 498 steps for unparalleled 360-degree views of Bologna's terracotta rooftops.

The Two Towers Ensemble
Piazza di Porta Ravegnana
Marvel at the imposing presence of both towers, a testament to Bologna's rich history and architectural heritage.
Plans like a pro.
Thinks like you
Planning Your Visit
Understand the Garisenda's Status
Plan Your Visit Around Asinelli
Best Times
Insider Tips
from TikTok, Instagram & Reddit
📸 Exterior Photos are Key
Even with restoration, the Garisenda's lean is captivating. Capture it from various angles on the ground!
👟 Climb Asinelli for Views
The 498 steps are a workout, but the panoramic city views from Torre Asinelli are worth every step. :athletic_shoe:
Bologna's leaning tower at risk of falling to be stabilised by 2028
The twin towers of Bologna in Italy.
🎟️ Book Asinelli Tickets Ahead
Tickets for Torre Asinelli can sell out. Book online in advance to guarantee your visit. :admission_tickets:
🚶♂️ Explore the Piazza
The surrounding Piazza di Porta Ravegnana is vibrant. Enjoy the atmosphere and street performers. :musical_score:
The Two Towers of Bologna, the Asinelli and the Garisenda (which is now in danger of collapse)
Tips
from all over the internet
📸 Exterior Photos are Key
Even with restoration, the Garisenda's lean is captivating. Capture it from various angles on the ground!
👟 Climb Asinelli for Views
The 498 steps are a workout, but the panoramic city views from Torre Asinelli are worth every step. :athletic_shoe:
🎟️ Book Asinelli Tickets Ahead
Tickets for Torre Asinelli can sell out. Book online in advance to guarantee your visit. :admission_tickets:
🚶♂️ Explore the Piazza
The surrounding Piazza di Porta Ravegnana is vibrant. Enjoy the atmosphere and street performers. :musical_score:
What Travellers Say
Reviews Summary
Visitors are captivated by the iconic presence and historical significance of Bologna's Two Towers. The dramatic lean of Torre Garisenda is a major draw, even during its restoration. Torre Asinelli's climb offers rewarding panoramic views, though the 498 steps can be challenging. The towers are considered essential landmarks that embody the spirit of Bologna.
"The two towers in the heart of Bologna highlights the importance of preserving history. One of the towers is leaning, probably more than the one in Pisa (I saw that in a YouTube Video), and visibly one can see the leaning in comparison with the other tower. Currently, restoration work is going on and so they are not open to public. However, you can see and click photos from the road."
nikhil raj
"The Two Towers of Bologna (Le Due Torri) – A must-see landmark in Bologna! Standing tall in the heart of the city, the towers are not only impressive but also full of history. Walking around them gives you a true sense of medieval Bologna. Truly iconic and worth the visit!"
Lovely S P.
"Impressive historical landmarks in the heart of Bologna. The taller tower, Asinelli, offers a breathtaking panoramic view if you're up for the 498-step climb. The smaller, Garisenda, leans dramatically and adds to the charm. A must-see for anyone visiting the city!"
Akınalp Fidan
What People Like
What People Dislike
Frequently Asked Questions
🚇 🗺️ Getting There
The Two Towers (Le Due Torri) are located in the heart of Bologna at Piazza di Porta Ravegnana. They are easily accessible on foot from most central Bologna hotels and attractions. If arriving by public transport, numerous bus lines stop nearby. For those driving, parking can be challenging in the city center, so consider using a parking garage outside the ZTL (limited traffic zone) and walking or taking a bus.
Currently, Torre Garisenda is closed to the public due to ongoing stabilization work. Restoration efforts are expected to continue until late 2028. Visitors can still admire its iconic lean from the exterior.
Yes, Torre Asinelli is generally open for climbing, offering spectacular views of Bologna. However, it's essential to check the official website for current opening hours and to book tickets in advance, as they often sell out quickly.
From Bologna Centrale train station, you can walk to the towers, which takes about 15-20 minutes. Alternatively, several bus lines (e.g., 30, 36, 38, 39, 44, 52, 61, 62, 87, 91, 92, 93, 94, 96, 253) stop near Piazza di Porta Ravegnana. Taxis are also readily available.
While direct guided tours of the towers themselves might be limited due to access restrictions for Garisenda, many city walking tours of Bologna include a stop at Piazza di Porta Ravegnana to discuss the history and significance of Le Due Torri. You can often find these tours advertised online or at local tourist information points.
🎫 🎫 Tickets & Entry
Ticket prices for climbing Torre Asinelli can vary, but typically range from €5 to €10 per person. It's always best to check the official ticketing website for the most up-to-date pricing and any potential discounts.
Yes, booking tickets for Torre Asinelli in advance is highly recommended, especially during peak tourist seasons and weekends. Tickets are often sold with timed entry slots, and they can sell out quickly.
Opening hours for Torre Asinelli can vary seasonally and may be affected by special events or maintenance. It's crucial to consult the official website for the most accurate and current opening times before your visit. Generally, they are open during daylight hours.
No, viewing Torre Garisenda from the exterior in Piazza di Porta Ravegnana is free of charge. You can walk around the piazza and take photos of its impressive lean without any admission fee.
Climbing Torre Asinelli involves ascending 498 narrow steps. While there are no strict age restrictions, it may not be suitable for individuals with mobility issues, heart conditions, or severe claustrophobia. Children should be accompanied by an adult. Always check the official website for any specific health advisories.
📸 📸 Photography
The best photo opportunities for Torre Garisenda are from Piazza di Porta Ravegnana itself. Experiment with different angles to emphasize its lean, especially from across the piazza. The surrounding medieval architecture also provides a great backdrop.
For photography, early mornings or late afternoons offer the best light, with softer shadows and a warmer glow on the brickwork. Golden hour just before sunset can be particularly magical. Weekdays are generally less crowded, allowing for more unobstructed shots.
Drone usage in city centers like Bologna is typically heavily regulated due to privacy and safety concerns. It is highly unlikely that you will be permitted to fly a drone near the towers without special permits. Always check local drone regulations before flying.
The most iconic viewpoint is directly from Piazza di Porta Ravegnana, where you can frame both towers together. For a slightly different perspective, try walking a block or two away down the surrounding streets, looking back towards the piazza to capture the towers rising above the rooftops.
A wide-angle lens is useful for capturing the full height and lean of the towers from close up. A standard zoom lens (24-70mm equivalent) is versatile for various shots. Consider a tripod for low-light photography or to ensure sharp images, especially if you plan to capture the towers at dusk or dawn.
🎫 🏛️ History & Significance
Torre Garisenda began to lean shortly after its construction in the 12th century due to issues with its foundation. The soil beneath it was unstable, causing it to tilt significantly. It's now a famous symbol of Bologna's medieval past and a testament to ongoing preservation efforts.
The Two Towers, Torre Garisenda and Torre Asinelli, were built by wealthy Bolognese families in the 12th century as symbols of their power and prestige. They also served defensive purposes, acting as watchtowers and strongholds during times of conflict.
Both towers were constructed in the 12th century. Torre Asinelli was completed around 1109, and Torre Garisenda was completed shortly after, around 1119. They are among the oldest surviving medieval towers in Italy.
Torre Asinelli stands at approximately 97.2 meters (319 feet), making it the taller of the two. Torre Garisenda is significantly shorter, standing at about 47 meters (154 feet), and its lean adds to its dramatic appearance.
'Le Due Torri' is Italian for 'The Two Towers'. This is the common name used to refer to both Torre Garisenda and Torre Asinelli collectively, as they are the most famous landmarks in Bologna and stand side-by-side.
For Different Travelers
Tailored advice for your travel style
👨👩👧 Families with Kids
Consider making the visit part of a broader exploration of Bologna's historic center. The surrounding piazza is often lively, providing space for children to move around. Pack snacks and water, as the climb can be tiring. The sheer scale and history of the towers can spark imagination and make for memorable family photos.
🚶 Budget Travelers
If you wish to climb Torre Asinelli, factor in the ticket cost, which is generally affordable. Booking in advance can sometimes offer slight discounts or guarantee entry. Exploring Bologna on foot is also a budget-friendly way to reach the towers from most accommodations, saving on transportation costs. Many of Bologna's other historical sites are also free to view from the outside.
📸 Photography Enthusiasts
For Torre Asinelli, focus on capturing the climb itself – the textures of the ancient brickwork, the narrow staircases, and the anticipation building with each step. The panoramic views from the top are, of course, a prime subject, offering sweeping vistas of Bologna's unique urban landscape. Experiment with different times of day to catch the best light, from the soft glow of sunrise to the dramatic shadows of sunset.
Deep Dives
In-depth insights and expert knowledge
The Garisenda's Precarious Lean
While you can no longer ascend Torre Garisenda, its exterior presence is a powerful reminder of Bologna's rich history and the challenges of preserving ancient structures. The visible tilt, often compared to the Leaning Tower of Pisa but arguably more pronounced, makes it a captivating sight for visitors. Photographers often find unique angles to capture its precarious angle against the sky.
Understanding the ongoing restoration efforts adds another layer to appreciating Torre Garisenda. It highlights the city's commitment to safeguarding its heritage for future generations. Even from the ground, the tower's presence is commanding, drawing the eye and sparking curiosity about its centuries-old story.
Conquering Torre Asinelli: A Climb to Remember
Reaching the top rewards climbers with an unparalleled 360-degree vista of Bologna's terracotta rooftops, the surrounding Apennine Mountains, and on clear days, even the Adriatic Sea. It's a perspective that truly immerses you in the city's layout and history. Many visitors describe the climb as challenging but incredibly rewarding, with the views being a significant highlight of their Bologna trip.
To ensure you can experience this iconic climb, it's crucial to book your tickets well in advance through the official website. Slots are limited and tend to sell out, especially during peak tourist seasons. Wearing comfortable shoes is also highly recommended for the strenuous climb. :athleticshoe: :admissiontickets:
The Two Towers as Symbols of Bologna
Beyond their historical and architectural significance, the towers embody the spirit of Bologna itself – resilient, enduring, and with a unique character. Torre Garisenda's famous lean, a result of early construction issues, adds a touch of dramatic flair, while Torre Asinelli's height and sturdiness represent strength. Together, they form an unforgettable landmark that draws visitors from around the globe.
Even with Garisenda's current restoration, the visual impact of the two towers standing side-by-side remains profound. They serve as a constant reminder of the city's deep historical roots and its ongoing efforts to preserve its invaluable heritage. A visit to Bologna is incomplete without experiencing the grandeur of Le Due Torri.
Social
from TikTok, Instagram & Reddit