If you wish to have a better view of Bologna, then pay the additional fee and go up the tower. Be warned that the stairway is narrow making it difficult for anyone to pass you if they are coming in the opposite direction. There are a few spots that is wider or has a room where you could rest for a while. As for the stairs, there is just one pole in the middle to hang on to for balance. The view from the top is good but not much better than from a lower level viewing site. If you buy your ticket at the basilica, you can get a refund if after the first few steps you find that you are claustrophobic or cannot manage the stairs. However if you buy your ticket from the red bus company, i5 is not refundable.