I am trying to plan our Florence itinerary and would like to know how long it would take, on the average, to climb the 414 steps of the Campanile. We are in our mid-50s so unfortunately will not be sprinting up.

We are about your age & just did it (again) in 2006. Maybe 45 minutes? I don't remember exactly. We stopped whenever we felt like it (there are spots where you can peek out and see views as you climb.)

All I know is that it was worth every step...especially if you can time it so that you can spend some time at the top watching the sunset.

Have a cappuccino or two before the climb, and you'll be fine!

I was just a bit younger than you are now when I climbed it a few years ago. I stopped several times (and, boy, were those rests nice) so I think it took me no more than an hour.

But I strongly recommend going up first thing in the morning. There was no one in line when I went up around 8:30 in the morning, so I could rest & enjoy the view whenever I wanted - including the area where you can see the inside of the dome which is supposed to only be a stop on the way back down - but I was able to stop on my way up since there were only two other people there. In addition to being crowded, it must be an awfully hot climb later in the day.

But first thing in the morning, it's a great climb.

I've climbed it several times. The outside temperature is always a factor--warm/hot makes it more difficult. There is a way station to stop at and catch your breath but it takes about 15-20 mins to get to the top. Don't short change yourself once on top however as the views are magnificent, especially of the dome and its construction--a birds eye view. You also must factor in any waiting time in line prior to entry. We usually duck in whenever the line is short. Enjoy. Paul

I went in the late afternoon on a Tuesday. I waited in line about 20 minutes and then the walk up took me about 15 minutes. Where something lightweight. It gets hot and stuffy the higher up you go.