The Heart of Bologna: Piazza Maggiore
Discover the charm of Bologna at Piazza Maggiore, a historical plaza surrounded by stunning architecture and vibrant local culture.
Piazza Maggiore is the vibrant heart of Bologna, Italy, where history, culture, and local life converge. This sprawling square is surrounded by stunning medieval architecture, including the Basilica di San Petronio, making it a must-visit for any traveler exploring the city's rich heritage.
A brief summary to Piazza Maggiore
- Piazza Maggiore, Bologna, Metropolitan City of Bologna, IT
- Visit website
Local tips
- Visit early in the morning or late afternoon to avoid crowds and enjoy a quieter atmosphere.
- Don't miss the chance to take a guided tour to learn about the fascinating history of the buildings surrounding the square.
- Bring a camera; the architecture and vibrant street life make for stunning photographs.
- Enjoy local cuisine at one of the nearby trattorias; the area is famous for its Bolognese dishes.
- Check for local events, as there are often concerts and festivals held in the square.
Getting There
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Walking
If you are starting from the Bologna Centrale train station, exit the station and head towards Via dell'Indipendenza. Walk straight along this busy street for about 1 kilometer. You will pass shops and cafes on both sides. Continue until you reach Piazza Maggiore, which is a large open square. Look for the impressive Basilica di San Petronio, which is located on the square’s southern end.
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Public Transport - Bus
From the Bologna Centrale train station, take bus number 25 or 30 from the bus stop located just outside the station. The journey will take approximately 10 minutes. Get off at the stop 'Rizzoli' or 'Piazza Maggiore'. From either stop, it’s just a short walk to reach the square, following signs for 'Piazza Maggiore'.
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Walking from the University District
If you are near the University of Bologna, exit the university and head towards Via Zamboni. Walk straight until you reach Via Rizzoli. Turn left onto Via Rizzoli, and continue walking straight. You will see Piazza Maggiore ahead of you, marked by its grand architecture and the bustling atmosphere.
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Walking from Mercato di Mezzo
If you're at Mercato di Mezzo, exit the market and head southwest on Via Clavature. Continue straight until you reach Piazza Maggiore, which will be on your left. The square is about a 5-minute walk and is easily recognizable by its large open space and historical buildings.
Discover more about Piazza Maggiore
Iconic landmarks you can’t miss
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Basilica di San Petronio
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Oratorio dei Battuti
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Piazza del Nettuno, 3
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Via dell'Indipendenza, 1
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Altabella Tower
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Archiginnasio Municipal Library
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Biblioteca Comunale dell'Archiginnasio
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Piazza De' Celestini
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Teatro Anatomico
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Statue of Luigi Galvani
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Cattedrale Metropolitana di San Pietro
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Il Quadrilatero
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Cosmopolitan Central Rooms
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Portici di Bologna
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Unmissable attractions to see
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Palazzo del Podestà, Bologna
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Signorvino
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Voltone
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Telefono senza fili
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Porta Magna della Basilica di San Petronio
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Torre dell’Arengo
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Collezioni Comunali d'Arte
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Palazzo d'Accursio
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Fontana del Nettuno
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Neptune's Fountain
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La Baita Vecchia Malga
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Bar La Linea
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Torre Lambertini
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Essential places to dine
051 Osteria
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Zerocinquantino
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Ristorante da Nello al Montegrappa
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Taverna del Postiglione
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Ca' Pelletti - Altabella
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Sfoglia Rina
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I Carracci
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Bottega Portici - 2 Torri
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Ca' Pelletti
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Trattoria Osteria Buca Manzoni
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Markets, malls and hidden boutiques
Desigual
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Zameer ali
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Essential bars & hidden hideouts
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Roxy Bar
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Le Mercanzie Lounge Bar
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Caffè Ristretto
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Brek Cocktail Bar
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Cluricaune Irish Pub
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Bar Senza Nome
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Donkey
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Il Mistico, Cocktail & Wine
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Bar Volare
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