Torre dei Lamberti

Rising from the Palazzo della Ragione between Piazza delle Erbe and Piazza dei Signori, the Torre dei Lamberti is the tallest tower in Verona at 84 metres. It was begun in the twelfth century, was still unfinished in 1300, and reached its present height in the fifteenth century, when the octagonal bell chamber was added during restoration work in the mid-1400s. Its two great bells still mark the hours. The reason to go up is the view: from the terraces near the top you look straight down into Piazza delle Erbe and out over a sea of terracotta roofs, church towers and the bends of the Adige river, with the Arena to the south and the hills of San Pietro and the Lessini mountains to the north. On a clear day you can follow the line of the Alps. It is the best way to understand how the old town fits together before you explore it on foot.

How it works: the tower is entered from the courtyard of the Palazzo della Ragione, the Mercato Vecchio, off Piazza dei Signori. It is open every day except 25 December and 1 January, from mid-morning to early evening, with slightly longer hours at weekends. You can climb all 368 steps or take a lift most of the way, paying a small extra charge on site for the lift. Entry is included in the VeronaCard, and the tourist office recommends booking ahead by email or phone, especially at weekends.

What you will see: the climb, or the lift ride, brings you to a first terrace, and a final flight of stairs leads up to the bell chamber level with its wide open arches and the best views. Pick out the Arena, the river bends, Castel San Pietro on its hill and the domes and towers of the churches; it is easy to spend half an hour up here with a camera.

Good to know: the tower is not accessible to visitors with mobility difficulties, because even with the lift there are stairs to climb. Animals are not allowed inside, except assistance dogs. Go in the late afternoon for warm light on the rooftops, and avoid the hour when the bells ring if you are sensitive to noise.