I have reservations for seeing St. Mark's Basillica but didn't see anywhere to reserve for seeing the bell tower. Is there somewhere to do that ahead or do you just get the tickets when you're there? Thanks for any help!
Posted by
Wiesbaden, Germany
791 posts
I could be mistaken but don't think you can actually reserve a spot there. The line moves pretty quick though as they take you up in the elevator in groups at time. The views are definitely worth it. Interesting fact; the original tower actually toppled over unexpectedly back in 1912. The Venetians rebuilt it to the exact specifications on the exact same spot. They'd been doing extensive work on the base the past few years to strengthen it.
Posted by
Green Bay
21274 posts
For an equally good view, take the vaporetto across to San Giogio Maggiori. No lines, lower cost, and the view across the harbor to San Marco and the Riva is apectacular.
Posted by
Knoxville, TN, USA
7209 posts
If you're going to the top of the Bell Tower try to arrive at the top just a few minutes before noon if you'd like to hear the bells in concert up close and personal...
Posted by
Nashua, NH, USA
9 posts
When i was there last ('06) i did not need a reservation. There is an elevator in the tower so they shuttle you up and down pretty quickly. I highly recommend going up. Especially around noon to hear all the churches in Venice chime in at the same time
Posted by
Honolulu/Seattle, HI/WA, USA
2787 posts
More information about the bell tower (The Campanile) is on Page 79 of RS 2012 Venice Guide Book and it sure does not give much of "how to do" there.
It does mention that there is a lift and the lines move quickly.