Audio Guide of Campanone or Civic Tower

The Civic Tower is usually open from Tuesday to Sunday. In high season (March-October), opening hours are 10:00 am to 6:00 pm, and in winter (November-February) from 10:00 am to 5:00 pm, but we always recommend checking the official Bergamo tourism website for the latest updates. Access is via Old Square, in the upper part of Bergamo.

Admission to the Civic Tower costs approximately €5 for adults. Discounts are available for children and students. Tickets can be purchased directly at the ticket office at the entrance to the tower. For detailed pricing information and possible online sales, you can check the tickets section on the Bergamo Museums website.

Normally, a visit to go up the Civic Tower and enjoy the views will take between 30 and 45 minutes. If you stop to read the information panels or take photographs, it may last a little longer. It is not a visit that requires much time, but it is definitely worthwhile.

The Campanone, or Civic Tower, is an iconic symbol of Bergamo, especially for its "ringing of 100 bells" every night at 10:00 pm, which in the past signaled the closing of the city gates. Its origins date back to the 11th century, and it has served as a defensive tower, prison, and civic bell tower, reflecting the city's rich medieval history and communal autonomy.

The best time to visit the Civic Tower is early in the morning or late in the afternoon to avoid the busiest hours and enjoy softer light for photographs. As for the time of year, spring and autumn offer pleasant temperatures and clearer skies. Weekdays are usually less crowded than weekends.

Yes, the Civic Tower is accessible for people with reduced mobility, as it has a lift that goes to the top, making the impressive views easier to enjoy for all visitors. For any specific questions about accessibility, it is recommended to contact the museum or the Bergamo tourist office directly.

Once you come down from the Campanone, you are in the heart of Old Square, which makes it easy to explore the Basilica of Saint Mary Major, Colleoni Chapel, and the Cathedral. You can also stroll through the cobbled streets of Upper Town, visit the Donizetti Museum, or walk to the Bergamo Fortress for more panoramic views. The funicular down to Lower Town is also very close by.

To make the most of your visit, I recommend taking the lift to save energy and, once at the top, taking your time to admire the 360-degree views of Bergamo and the Alps. Be sure to bring your camera because the panoramas are spectacular. If you can, plan your visit close to 10:00 pm to hear the famous 100 bell tolls, although this would require an evening visit and checking the closing time.