Pisa Tower Opening Hours
Pisa Tower Opening Hours
Prepare for your Pisa Tower expedition by obtaining details about its opening hours and the best time to visit this popular landmark. Gain valuable insights on how much time you should plan for your visit, and explore the variety of ticket options and top-rated tours to ensure a memorable and smooth experience during your exploration of the UNESCO World Heritage site.
Pisa Tower Opening Hours
November and February from 09:45 am to 5:15 pm
On November 1st from 9,00 am to 6 pm
December and January from 10 am to 5 pm
December 5th to 8th, from 9 am to 6:30 pm
December 21st to January 6th from 10 am to 7 pm
March 1st to March 23rd from 9 am to 6 pm
March 23rd to 29th from 9 am to 7 pm
March 30th and 31st from 8:30 am to 8 pm
April to September from 9 am to 8 pm
June 17th to August 31st from 8:30 am to 10 pm
June 16th from 8:30 am to 5:30 pm
October from 9 am to 7 pm
(with some variations at the start and end of the month that overlap with September/November hours)
Last entry is 30 minutes before closing time.
When is the Best Time to Visit the Pisa Tower?
Choosing the best time to visit Pisa Tower depends on your priorities and preferences. Here’s a breakdown of the pros and cons of different seasons, weekdays and time of day to help you decide:
Spring (March-May)
- Pros: Pleasant weather, fewer crowds compared to summer, blooming flowers.
- Cons: Some rainy days possible, some shops and restaurants may have shorter hours.
Summer (June-August)
- Pros: Warmest weather, long daylight hours, most shops and restaurants open with extended hours.
- Cons: Most crowded time to visit, higher prices for flights and accommodation.
Autumn (September-November)
- Pros: Comfortable temperatures, fewer crowds compared to summer, beautiful fall foliage (especially in nearby countryside).
- Cons: Some businesses may have shorter hours, higher chance of rain than spring.
Winter (December-February)
- Pros: The least crowded time to visit, the lowest prices for flights and accommodation, possibility of festive decorations.
- Cons: Shortest daylight hours, coldest weather, some attractions may have limited hours.
Weekends vs. Weekdays
- Weekends: Expect significantly higher crowds due to local tourism and international visitors. Queues for tickets and entry can be longer, and navigating the tower’s interior might feel more congested.
- Weekdays: Monday to Friday generally offer a calmer experience with fewer crowds. This is especially true early in the week (Monday-Tuesday) and outside peak season (spring and fall).
Time of Day
- Mornings: Ideal for avoiding larger crowds, particularly during peak season. Aim to arrive shortly after opening to beat the influx of tourists.
- Late afternoons: Can be another option for smaller crowds, especially outside peak season. However, remember that closing times vary, so plan accordingly.
- Lunchtime: Often sees peak crowds as tour groups arrive for visits. Consider exploring the surrounding area or enjoying a picnic outside the castle during this time.
Important notes
- At the same time, only a certain number of people is allowed to visit the Leaning Tower. Unfortunately, we were unable to determine the exact number as there are too many contradictory statements in the internet. What is certain, however, is that the number is between just 15 and 45. That’s why you should definitely purchase tickets online in advance to secure your entry beforehand!
- Avoid major holidays and school breaks! Italian national holidays and school breaks attract significantly higher visitor numbers. Check the calendar beforehand to avoid peak congestion.
Weekends vs. Weekdays
- Weekends: Expect significantly higher crowds due to local tourism and international visitors. Queues for tickets and entry can be longer, and navigating the tower’s interior might feel more congested.
- Weekdays: Monday to Friday generally offer a calmer experience with fewer crowds. This is especially true early in the week (Monday-Tuesday) and outside peak season (spring and fall).
Time of Day
- Mornings: Ideal for avoiding larger crowds, particularly during peak season. Aim to arrive shortly after opening to beat the influx of tourists.
- Late afternoons: Can be another option for smaller crowds, especially outside peak season. However, remember that closing times vary, so plan accordingly.
- Lunchtime: Often sees peak crowds as tour groups arrive for visits. Consider exploring the surrounding area or enjoying a picnic outside the castle during this time.
Important notes
- At the same time, only a certain number of people is allowed to visit the Leaning Tower. Unfortunately, we were unable to determine the exact number as there are too many contradictory statements in the internet. What is certain, however, is that the number is between just 15 and 45. That’s why you should definitely purchase tickets online in advance to secure your entry beforehand!
- Avoid major holidays and school breaks! Italian national holidays and school breaks attract significantly higher visitor numbers. Check the calendar beforehand to avoid peak congestion.
How Much Time Should I Plan to Visit the Pisa Tower?
The amount of time you should plan to visit the belfry depends on your pace and interests:
If you plan to climb the tower, it typically takes 30 minutes to complete the ascent, enjoy the view, and descend. Keep in mind that there are 273 steps to climb, so be prepared for some physical exertion.
If you choose not to climb the Tower, you can still take photos from the ground and admire the structure from different angles. This would take less time, around 15 minutes.
When it comes to visiting the entire Piazza del Duomo, including the Leaning Tower, the Cathedral, the Baptistery, the Camposanto Monumentale (Cemetery), the Museo dell’Opera del Duomo (Museum of the Works of the Cathedral) and the Sinopie Museum, the following timing could apply, in which a whole day could easily pass:
Morning
8:30 AM – 10:00 AM: Start your visit with the Leaning Tower of Pisa. If you have pre-booked tickets, you can head straight to the entrance and avoid waiting in line. Climbing the tower takes about 30 minutes, allowing you to enjoy the panoramic views of Pisa.
10:00 AM – 11:00 AM: Next, head to the Pisa Cathedral (Duomo). This magnificent structure is known for its intricate marble facade and leaning baptistery. Explore the interior, marveling at the artworks and the bronze lamp said to have inspired Galileo Galilei.
11:00 AM – 12:00 PM: Visit the Baptistery (Battistero di San Giovanni). This octagonal structure is renowned for its beautiful pulpit sculpted by Nicola Pisano and its echo chamber, where whispering creates a fascinating acoustic effect.
Afternoon
12:00 PM – 1:30 PM: Grab lunch at a nearby restaurant or cafe. There are many options around the Piazza del Duomo, catering to various tastes and budgets.
1:30 PM – 3:00 PM: Explore the Camposanto Monumentale (Cemetery). This historic cemetery features impressive sculptures and sarcophagi, offering a glimpse into Pisa’s artistic heritage.
3:00 PM – 4:00 PM: Visit the Museo dell’Opera del Duomo (Museum of the Works of the Cathedral). This museum houses a collection of sculptures, paintings, and archaeological artifacts originally intended for the Cathedral and Baptistery. Admire works by renowned artists like Nicola and Giovanni Pisano.
4:00 PM – 4:30 PM: Conclude your visit with the Sinopie Museum. This smaller museum showcases preparatory sketches and studies related to the frescoes adorning the Camposanto Monumentale, offering a unique insight into the creative process of the artists.
Book Pisa Tower Tickets & Tours
Compare all Pisa Tower options with our comparison table and pick the best ticket.
Reserved Entrance to Leaning Tower of Pisa & Cathedral
6530 Reviews
From €24.60
GetYourGuide
Climbing the tower is a very different feeling, but it’s worth it.
Pisa: Leaning Tower and Cathedral Skip-the-Line Tickets
1071 Reviews
From €30
GetYourGuide
Wonderful! There was no queue, the view from the top is worth it.
Tickets to the Leaning Tower of Pisa with Audio Guide
3152 Reviews
From €35
Headout
No waiting time, immediate access at the booked time, everything clearly arranged and well signposted.
Avoid long ticket lines; proceed directly to the Leaning Tower at your chosen time slot and unveil the splendor of this iconic landmark with your Pisa Tower Ticket with Reserved Entrance. Enjoy inclusive access to the Pisa Cathedral as well.
“Wonderful! There was no queue, the view from the top is worth it. The climb is a little tiring but in 2 minutes with good breath you will reach the top of the tower. The cathedral is beautiful too. I booked the first time and there really weren’t many people, then it started to get crowded.”
Júlio César – Brazil, November 29, 2023 [Source: GetYourGuide]
Opt for this Pisa Tower ticket if you wish to explore not only the renowned Leaning Tower of Pisa but also the adjacent Cathedral of Santa Maria Assunta. Enjoy skip-the-line entrance to both sites, allowing you to bypass the ticket office line for a seamless experience.
“Wonderful! There was no queue, the view from the top is worth it. The climb is a little tiring but in 2 minutes with good breath you will reach the top of the tower. The cathedral is beautiful too. I booked the first time and there really weren’t many people, then it started to get crowded.” Júlio César – Brazil, November 29, 2023 [Source: GetYourGuide]
Explore the magnificence of the Leaning Tower with this Pisa Tower Ticket, providing entry to the Pisa Monumental Complex, including the iconic Leaning Tower and Cathedral. Elevate your visit with an engaging audio guide, offering intriguing tales and facts.
“No waiting time, immediate access at the booked time, everything clearly arranged and well signposted. About the Leaning Tower of Pisa does not need much to say, who is ever there should not miss the climb and the view.”
Marius Oct, 2023 – [Source: Headout]
Discover the iconic Piazza dei Miracoli on a guided walking tour, exploring its architectural wonders, including the cathedral and baptistery. Opt for the option to climb the Leaning Tower of Pisa, and afterward, independently explore the Sinopie Museum, OPA Museum, and cemetery with included tickets.
“We loved this tour! Our guide was so fun and shared so many fun facts with us about the cathedral, baptistry, and tower. We did the optional tower climb at the end, and I’m so glad we did! This was a great way to explore Pisa in a short amount of time.” Sarah – United States; September 30, 2023 [Source: GetYourGuide]
This unbeatable combo package features one-way transfers between Pisa Central Station and Pisa Airport, along with a Pisa Tower Ticket. Ideal for your Pisa trip, it offers access to the renowned Leaning Tower and Cathedral of Pisa, coupled with a hassle-free and fast transfer.
“Uncomplicated and fast connection between airport and train station, online booking of tickets easy and hassle-free. Everything is fine.”
Anke, Nov, 2023 [Source: Headout]
>> Dive into the fascinating history of the Pisa Tower here.
>> Find out how to get to the Pisa Tower and useful traveler tips on our dedicated page.
