Piazza Maggiore: The Heart of Bologna
Explore the vibrant Piazza Maggiore in Bologna, where history meets culture in the heart of Italy's culinary capital.
Piazza Maggiore is the vibrant centerpiece of Bologna, Italy, blending history, architecture, and culture. As the city's largest square, it is surrounded by stunning medieval structures and bustling cafes, offering a perfect spot for tourists to soak in the local atmosphere and history.
A brief summary to Piazza Maggiore
- Piazza Maggiore, Bologna, Metropolitan City of Bologna, IT
- Visit website
Local tips
- Visit early in the morning to enjoy a quieter experience and capture stunning photos without the crowds.
- Don't miss the opportunity to try gelato from one of the nearby gelaterias; it's a local favorite.
- Check the local events calendar for concerts or festivals happening in the piazza during your visit.
- Take a moment to sit on the steps of the Basilica di San Petronio and enjoy the lively atmosphere.
Getting There
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Car
If you're driving to Piazza Maggiore in Bologna, you can start from the A14 motorway. Take the exit for Bologna and follow signs for 'Centro'. Once you're in the city, look for parking options such as Parcheggio Piazza 8 Agosto or Parcheggio Riva Reno. After parking, it's a short walk to Piazza Maggiore. Head towards the city center, following Via Indipendenza, which will lead you directly to the square.
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Train
If you're traveling by train, take a train to Bologna Centrale Station. Upon arrival at the station, exit and follow the signs to the bus terminal or tram stop. You can take the bus (lines 25, 30, or 35) or tram (line T1) towards the city center. Get off at the stop 'Piazza Maggiore' or 'Rizzoli'. The piazza is just a short walk from there. Follow the signs or ask locals for directions if needed.
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Bus
For those using the bus, check the local bus routes that service Bologna. You can take buses 21, 27, or 28 that will take you towards the city center. Get off at 'Piazza Maggiore' stop. Once you disembark, you'll find yourself in the heart of Bologna, just a few steps away from the beautiful square, surrounded by historic buildings.
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Walking
If you're already in Bologna and want to walk to Piazza Maggiore, it's quite easy. From the city center, head towards Via Indipendenza, which is a major pedestrian street. Continue straight until you reach the square, which is approximately a 10-15 minute walk from the main central area. Look out for local shops and cafes along the way, making your journey enjoyable.
Discover more about Piazza Maggiore
Iconic landmarks you can’t miss
Bologna Welcome - Official Tourist Office (IAT)
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Palazzo d'Accursio
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Palazzo dei Notai
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Piazza del Nettuno
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Basilica di San Petronio
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Via Pescherie Vecchie
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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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Piazza De' Celestini
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Statue of Luigi Galvani
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Il Quadrilatero
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Cosmopolitan Central Rooms
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Piazzetta Prendiparte
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Torre Prendiparte (Sky Experience)
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Unmissable attractions to see
Palazzo del Podestà, Bologna
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Torre dell’Arengo
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Collezioni Comunali d'Arte
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Fontana del Nettuno
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Torre Lambertini
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Palazzo dei Banchi
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Sala di Palazzo d'Accursio
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Palazzo Re Enzo
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Torre dell'Orologio
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Osteria del Sole
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Vicolo Ranocchi
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Archaeological Museum of Bologna
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Santuario di Santa Maria della Vita
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Biblioteca Salaborsa
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Drogheria Gilberto
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Essential places to dine
051 Osteria
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Zerocinquantello Osteria - Bologna Centro (Mercato di Mezzo)
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Zerocinquantino
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Osteria Angolo degli Orefici
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Botanica Lab Cucina
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Eataly Bologna Ambasciatori
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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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Da Cesari
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Markets, malls and hidden boutiques
Desigual
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Zameer ali
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La Coroncina Di Coralba Sancini E C. Sas
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Galleria Cavour 1959
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Back Door
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Dev
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Gucci - Bologna Galleria
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FR Boutique Uomo [Folli Follie - Ratti]
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EMPORIO ARMANI Bologna Store
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FR Boutique Donna [Folli Follie - Ratti]
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Happy Shopping
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Montblanc Boutique Bologna
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Pinko Boutique Bologna
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Prada Bologna
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Vintage55 Bologna
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Essential bars & hidden hideouts
Bebi Bar
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NU Lounge Bar
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Celtic Druid Irish Pub
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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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Ruggine
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Black & white Bologna Vintage American bar
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Fun Cool Oh!
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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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