Fontana del Nettuno: A Symbol of Bologna
Discover Bologna's iconic Fountain of Neptune, a Renaissance masterpiece symbolizing papal power and artistic innovation in the heart of the city.
The Fountain of Neptune, or Fontana del Nettuno, is a monumental 16th-century civic fountain in Bologna, Italy, standing in Piazza del Nettuno next to Piazza Maggiore. Designed by Tommaso Laureti and sculpted by Giambologna, it represents Neptune, the Roman god of the sea, and is a significant example of Mannerist art, symbolizing papal power and Bologna itself.
A brief summary to Neptune's Fountain
- Piazza del Nettuno, Bologna, Metropolitan City of Bologna, 40124, IT
- +390516583111
- Visit website
- Monday 12 am-12 am
- Tuesday 12 am-12 am
- Wednesday 12 am-12 am
- Thursday 12 am-12 am
- Friday 12 am-12 am
- Saturday 12 am-12 am
- Sunday 12 am-12 am
Local tips
- Take a stroll around the fountain to admire the intricate details of the sculptures and the overall Mannerist design.
- Visit the fountain during the day to fully appreciate the bronze and marble artistry, and again at night when it's beautifully illuminated.
- Look for the hidden detail related to Neptune's thumb, which, from a certain angle, was rumored to be Giambologna's cheeky revenge against the church.
- Join the local students and walk around the fountain counter-clockwise twice before an exam for good luck.
Getting There
-
Walking
The Fountain of Neptune is located in the heart of Bologna's historical center, next to Piazza Maggiore. From Piazza Maggiore, simply walk towards the northern side to Piazza del Nettuno, where the fountain is prominently located. The walk is short and straightforward, taking only a few minutes.
-
Public Transport
If arriving by train at Bologna Centrale Station, take a bus from the station to Piazza Minghetti, which is a 1-minute walk to Piazza del Nettuno. Several bus lines connect the train station to the city center. A single bus ticket costs approximately €1.50. Alternatively, you can walk from the train station to the fountain in about 15-20 minutes.
-
Taxi
From Bologna Centrale Station, a taxi ride to the Fountain of Neptune takes approximately 3 minutes and costs between €6-€8. Taxis are readily available outside the train station. Ride-sharing services like Uber are also an option.
-
Car
Driving to the Fountain of Neptune is not recommended due to the Limited Traffic Zone (ZTL) in Bologna's city center. Parking is challenging and restricted. It is best to park outside the ZTL and walk or take public transport to the fountain. Several car parks are available outside the city center, such as Parcheggio VIII Agosto and Parcheggio Riva Reno. Parking fees vary, but expect to pay around €1.80-€2.40 per hour in the city center.
Discover more about Neptune's Fountain
Iconic landmarks you can’t miss
Piazza del Nettuno, 3
0.1 km
Explore the lively atmosphere of Piazza del Nettuno, Bologna's iconic square with a stunning fountain and rich cultural heritage, perfect for tourists.
Via dell'Indipendenza, 1
0.1 km
Discover Bologna's Via dell'Indipendenza: a vibrant street with historic architecture, charming shops, and delightful eateries in the heart of Italy.
Palazzo dei Notai
0.1 km
Explore the historical splendor of Palazzo dei Notai, a cultural gem in Bologna that showcases the city's rich legal heritage and stunning architecture.
Basilica di San Petronio
0.2 km
Explore the Basilica di San Petronio in Bologna, an architectural marvel with stunning art and rich history located in the vibrant heart of the city.
Oratorio dei Battuti
0.2 km
Discover the serene Oratorio dei Battuti in Bologna, a hidden treasure filled with stunning Renaissance frescoes and rich spiritual history.
Cattedrale Metropolitana di San Pietro
0.2 km
Discover the stunning Cattedrale Metropolitana di San Pietro in Bologna, a masterpiece of architecture and a vital part of the city's rich cultural heritage.
Piazza De' Celestini
0.2 km
Experience the serene atmosphere and rich history of Piazza De' Celestini, a hidden gem in Bologna that captures the essence of Italian culture.
Piazzetta Prendiparte
0.2 km
Explore Piazzetta Prendiparte, a beautiful town square in Bologna filled with history, culture, and local charm.
Torre Prendiparte (Sky Experience)
0.2 km
Discover the breathtaking views and rich history of Torre Prendiparte, Bologna's hidden gem and a must-visit tourist attraction.
Palazzo Fava
0.2 km
Explore Palazzo Fava in Bologna, where art and history converge in a breathtaking setting filled with exquisite frescoes and rich cultural heritage.
Museo Civico Medievale
0.2 km
Explore the Museo Civico Medievale in Bologna, a captivating museum showcasing medieval art and history in a magnificent historic palace.
Hotel Palace Bologna
0.2 km
Discover comfort and convenience at Hotel Palace Bologna, your ideal base for exploring the rich culture and history of this enchanting Italian city.
Biblioteca Comunale dell'Archiginnasio
0.3 km
Discover Bologna's literary heritage at the stunning Biblioteca Comunale dell'Archiginnasio, a must-visit library adorned with remarkable architecture and rich history.
Archiginnasio Municipal Library
0.3 km
Explore the Archiginnasio Municipal Library in Bologna, where history, architecture, and literature converge in a breathtaking setting.
Teatro Anatomico
0.3 km
Explore the fascinating Teatro Anatomico in Bologna, where science and art converge, revealing the secrets of anatomy and the history of medicine.
Unmissable attractions to see
Neptune's Fountain
0.0 km
Discover the enchanting Neptune's Fountain, a historical landmark in Bologna, Italy, showcasing exquisite art and rich cultural heritage.
Piazza del Nettuno
0.0 km
Explore the historic Piazza del Nettuno in Bologna, a vibrant town square featuring the iconic Fountain of Neptune and a lively cultural atmosphere.
Bar Vittorio Emanuele
0.0 km
Experience the heart of Bologna at Bar Vittorio Emanuele, where authentic Italian coffee and vibrant culture come together in a charming atmosphere.
Palazzo Re Enzo
0.0 km
Explore the historical Palazzo Re Enzo in Bologna, a magnificent landmark rich in history and architectural beauty, situated in the vibrant Piazza del Nettuno.
Lampione dei Neonati
0.0 km
Discover the enchanting Lampione dei Neonati in Bologna, a cultural gem illuminating the vibrant Piazza del Nettuno with its artistic charm.
Collezioni Comunali d'Arte
0.0 km
Discover Bologna's rich artistic heritage at Collezioni Comunali d'Arte, where centuries of masterpieces await your exploration.
Palazzo d'Accursio
0.0 km
Discover the artistic and historical richness of Palazzo d'Accursio, a stunning museum in Bologna's vibrant Piazza Maggiore.
Sala di Palazzo d'Accursio
0.0 km
Discover the rich heritage and stunning artistry of Sala di Palazzo d'Accursio, a must-visit historical attraction in Bologna's vibrant heart.
Torre dell’Arengo
0.0 km
Discover the rich history of Bologna at Torre dell’Arengo, an iconic medieval tower offering stunning views and a glimpse into the past.
Telefono senza fili
0.0 km
Explore Telefono senza fili, a historical landmark in Bologna's Piazza Maggiore, where history, culture, and stunning architecture converge for an unforgettable experience.
Voltone
0.0 km
Experience the captivating beauty of Voltone, a hidden gem in Bologna, where history and culture come alive amidst stunning scenery.
Palazzo del Podestà, Bologna
0.0 km
Explore the magnificent Palazzo del Podestà, a historical gem in Bologna's vibrant Piazza Maggiore, showcasing medieval architecture and rich cultural heritage.
Libreria Giannino Stoppani
0.1 km
Explore the enchanting world of children's literature at Libreria Giannino Stoppani, Bologna's beloved bookshop for young readers and families.
Bologna Welcome - Official Tourist Office (IAT)
0.1 km
Explore Bologna with ease at Bologna Welcome, the official tourist office providing essential resources and local insights for an unforgettable visit.
Bar La Linea
0.1 km
Experience Bologna's café culture at Bar La Linea, where rich coffee and delightful pastries come together in the heart of the city.
Essential places to dine
051 Osteria
0.1 km
Experience authentic Bolognese flavors at 051 Osteria, where every dish tells a story in this cozy bistro dedicated to small plates.
Ristorante da Nello al Montegrappa
0.1 km
Experience authentic Italian cuisine at Ristorante da Nello al Montegrappa in Bologna - where tradition meets taste.
Zerocinquantello Osteria - Bologna Centro (Mercato di Mezzo)
0.1 km
Experience authentic Italian cuisine at Zerocinquantello Osteria in Bologna Centro, where every dish tells a story.
Osteria Angolo degli Orefici
0.1 km
Experience authentic Italian cuisine at Osteria Angolo degli Orefici in Bologna - where tradition meets modernity in every delicious dish.
Botanica Lab Cucina
0.1 km
Experience innovative vegan cuisine at Botanica Lab Cucina in Bologna - where sustainability meets flavor in every dish.
Zerocinquantino
0.2 km
Experience authentic Italian flavors at Zerocinquantino, Bologna's premier destination for small plates and local delicacies.
Ca' Pelletti - Altabella
0.2 km
Discover authentic Italian flavors at Ca' Pelletti in Bologna – where tradition meets taste in every dish.
Eataly Bologna Ambasciatori
0.2 km
Discover authentic Italian flavors at Eataly Bologna Ambasciatori - your gateway to Italy's rich culinary traditions.
I Carracci
0.2 km
Experience the essence of Italian fine dining at I Carracci in Bologna - where tradition meets innovation in every bite.
Trattoria Osteria Buca Manzoni
0.3 km
Discover authentic Bolognese flavors at Trattoria Osteria Buca Manzoni - where tradition meets taste in the heart of Bologna.
Taverna del Postiglione
0.3 km
Discover authentic Italian flavors at Taverna del Postiglione in Bologna - a true gem for food lovers seeking traditional cuisine.
Sfoglia Rina
0.3 km
Discover authentic Italian cuisine at Sfoglia Rina in Bologna - home to exquisite homemade pasta and delightful breakfast options.
Ristorante Ciacco
0.3 km
Experience authentic Italian cuisine with a focus on seafood at Ristorante Ciacco in Bologna's vibrant culinary scene.
Bottega Portici - 2 Torri
0.3 km
Experience authentic Italian cuisine at Bottega Portici - where tradition meets flavor in Bologna's historic center.
La Prosciutteria Bologna
0.3 km
Discover authentic Italian flavors at La Prosciutteria Bologna with delicious cold cuts, fine wines, and delightful small plates in a charming atmosphere.
Markets, malls and hidden boutiques
Zameer ali
0.1 km
Explore Zameer Ali Gift Shop in Bologna for unique souvenirs and local crafts that embody the rich culture of Italy.
La Coroncina Di Coralba Sancini E C. Sas
0.1 km
Discover Bologna's charm at La Coroncina, where unique gifts and local crafts await your exploration.
Desigual
0.1 km
Explore the colorful world of Desigual in Bologna, where unique fashion meets artistic creativity for men and women.
Back Door
0.2 km
Explore Bologna’s unique fashion at Back Door, where stylish clothing and shoes meet exceptional service in a chic setting.
Happy Shopping
0.2 km
Explore Happy Shopping in Bologna, a charming souvenir store offering a delightful selection of local crafts and culinary treats.
Galleria Cavour 1959
0.2 km
Explore Galleria Cavour in Bologna, where luxury meets contemporary fashion in an elegant shopping destination.
Market
0.2 km
Discover Bologna's Market Gift Shop, where local craftsmanship meets unique souvenirs, perfect for remembering your Italian adventure.
Danigi S.R.L. Boutique
0.2 km
Explore the exquisite craftsmanship of Danigi S.R.L. Boutique in Bologna, where unique leather goods embody Italian artistry and tradition.
Dev
0.2 km
Discover the allure of Italian fashion at Dev Boutique, Bologna's premier destination for stylish clothing, leather goods, and accessories.
Vintage55 Bologna
0.2 km
Discover unique vintage clothing at Vintage55 Bologna, a must-visit destination for fashion enthusiasts in the heart of Italy's cultural gem.
FR Boutique Uomo [Folli Follie - Ratti]
0.3 km
Explore FR Boutique Uomo for exquisite men's clothing and accessories in the heart of Bologna, where style meets sophistication.
![FR Boutique Uomo [Folli Follie - Ratti]](https://evendo-location-media.s3.amazonaws.com/ShoppingImages/6e54260e-76d2-48c0-b8d4-0a076df8c2a5)
Gucci - Bologna Galleria
0.3 km
Explore the luxurious world of Gucci in Bologna's Galleria Cavour, where elegance and style come together in a premier shopping destination.
FR Boutique Donna [Folli Follie - Ratti]
0.3 km
Discover Bologna's fashion treasures at FR Boutique Donna, where style meets elegance in a charming atmosphere.
![FR Boutique Donna [Folli Follie - Ratti]](https://evendo-location-media.s3.amazonaws.com/ShoppingImages/fdad3e55-ecfe-48d2-bdde-90292e9bdf76)
EMPORIO ARMANI Bologna Store
0.3 km
Experience the elegance of Italian fashion at Emporio Armani Bologna, where style meets sophistication in a stunning boutique setting.
Montblanc Boutique Bologna
0.3 km
Discover luxury and timeless elegance at Montblanc Boutique Bologna, the ultimate shopping destination for exquisite jewelry and leather goods.
Essential bars & hidden hideouts
Bebi Bar
0.1 km
Experience the heart of Bologna at Bebi Bar, where cozy ambiance meets delightful drinks in a perfect blend of local charm.
Celtic Druid Irish Pub
0.2 km
Discover the authentic taste of Ireland at Celtic Druid Irish Pub in Bologna, where great food and lively atmosphere await every tourist.
NU Lounge Bar
0.2 km
Experience the vibrant atmosphere and tropical cocktails at NU Lounge Bar, Bologna's premier Tiki and cocktail destination.
Caffè Ristretto
0.3 km
Discover the vibrant cocktail culture of Bologna at Caffè Ristretto, where innovative drinks meet a lively atmosphere.
Roxy Bar
0.3 km
Experience the vibrant atmosphere of Roxy Bar in the heart of Bologna, where great drinks and local culture come together.
Le Mercanzie Lounge Bar
0.3 km
Discover Bologna's nightlife at Le Mercanzie Lounge Bar, where innovative cocktails and a lively atmosphere await you in the heart of the city.
Fun Cool Oh!
0.4 km
Experience Bologna's nightlife at Fun Cool Oh!, a vibrant bar and pub offering a unique blend of drinks, music, and lively atmosphere.
Brek Cocktail Bar
0.4 km
Experience Bologna's vibrant nightlife at Brek Cocktail Bar, where innovative cocktails meet a welcoming atmosphere in the heart of the city.
Bar Senza Nome
0.4 km
Experience Bologna's nightlife at Bar Senza Nome, a unique bar offering creative cocktails and a welcoming atmosphere for all.
Il Mistico, Cocktail & Wine
0.4 km
Experience the vibrant atmosphere of Il Mistico, Bologna’s premier cocktail and wine bar, perfect for unwinding and enjoying exquisite drinks.
Black & white Bologna Vintage American bar
0.4 km
Discover the vintage charm of Black & White Bologna, a unique American bar in the heart of Bologna, offering delightful drinks and a nostalgic atmosphere.
Ruggine
0.4 km
Discover Ruggine, a unique cocktail bar in Bologna offering exquisite drinks, delicious food, and an inviting atmosphere for a memorable night out.
Bar Volare
0.5 km
Discover the vibrant nightlife of Bologna at Bar Volare, where exquisite cocktails and live music create unforgettable evenings.
Cluricaune Irish Pub
0.5 km
Discover the vibrant atmosphere of Cluricaune Irish Pub in Bologna, where Irish culture meets Italian flair through hearty dishes and lively entertainment.
Donkey
0.5 km
Discover the vibrant nightlife of Bologna at Donkey, a stylish cocktail bar and nightclub offering exquisite drinks and lively entertainment.
