Piazza Maggiore: The Heart of Bologna
Discover the vibrant atmosphere of Piazza Maggiore, Bologna’s historic plaza, surrounded by stunning architecture and lively cafés.
Piazza Maggiore is the vibrant heart of Bologna, Italy, where history, culture, and community converge. This iconic square is surrounded by stunning medieval architecture and bustling cafés, making it a must-visit for any traveler.
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 witness the square come alive.
- Don't miss the local street performers and artists who often showcase their talents in the square.
- Try the gelato from one of the nearby shops; it's a popular treat among locals and tourists.
- Bring a camera; the sunset over the square provides a stunning backdrop for photographs.
- Check the local events calendar, as Piazza Maggiore hosts various cultural events and markets throughout the year.
Getting There
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Car
If you are traveling by car, use a GPS navigation system and enter 'Piazza Maggiore, 40124 Bologna BO'. There are several parking options near the square, such as the 'Parking Piazza 8 Agosto' or 'Parking Riva di Reno'. Expect to pay around €2-€3 per hour for parking. Once parked, it's a short 5-10 minute walk to Piazza Maggiore.
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Train
For those coming from other cities in Emilia-Romagna, take a train to Bologna Centrale. From Bologna Centrale, exit the station and head towards the bus terminal. You can catch bus number 30 or 11 which will take you to the city center. The journey takes about 15 minutes. Alternatively, it’s a pleasant 20-25 minute walk from the train station to Piazza Maggiore.
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Bus
If you are using local public transportation, check for local bus routes that lead to the city center. Routes 25, 26, and 39 connect various neighborhoods to Piazza Maggiore. The bus fare is approximately €1.50, and tickets can be purchased at kiosks or on the bus (note: exact change may be required).
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Taxi
For a more direct route, consider taking a taxi. Taxis are readily available throughout Bologna. The average fare from Bologna Centrale to Piazza Maggiore is around €10-€15 depending on traffic. Taxis can be hailed on the street or booked via a local taxi app.
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Walking
If you are already in the historic center of Bologna, walking to Piazza Maggiore is a delightful option. The square is centrally located and can be reached from various landmarks, such as the Two Towers ('Le Due Torri'). It’s approximately a 10-minute walk from either landmark, allowing you to enjoy the charming streets of Bologna along the way.
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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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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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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