Piazza Maggiore

Bologna featuring heritage architecture, a square or plaza and a city
Bologna featuring heritage architecture and a city
Piazza Maggiore
Bologna showing a city and heritage architecture
Bologna showing heritage architecture and a city


Not only has this been the epicentre of Bologna since the 13th century, but it is also one of the largest and oldest squares in all of Italy.

To visit Piazza Maggiore is to experience the essence of Bologna. In the Middle Ages, the city’s citizens gathered in the square to hear decrees, shop and barter for goods, and even witness executions. Today, enjoy the Italian pace of life and see some of Bologna’s most beautiful medieval buildings surrounding the square.

See Bologna’s humble beginnings in Palazzo del Podestà, the oldest building in Piazza Maggiore. Built around 1200, the palace was home to high-ranking city officials. Check out the Torre dell‘Arengo, which houses a massive bell that used to warn the people of Bologna of an emergency.

Above the entryway to the pink Palazzo d’Accursio o Comunale, note the statue of Bologna native Pope Gregory XIII blessing passers-by. Walk through the palace’s courtyard and to the Sala Farnese on the second floor. After you take in the hall’s splendid frescos, admire the equally splendid view of Piazza Maggiore from its windows.

You can’t miss the unfinished façade of the Basilica of San Petronio. Construction began in 1390 on what was intended to be the biggest church in the Christian world. The Pope, however, did not want a church to outsize St. Peter’s Basilica in Rome, so construction dragged on for centuries and was ultimately abandoned. Although it is unfinished, the church is still one of the most arresting sights in Piazza Maggiore — and one of the largest Catholic churches in the world.

In the centre of Piazza Maggiore, find the large Fountain of Neptune. The fountain was built in 1564 by famed Flemish sculptor Giambologna. Despite its practical function, the fountain caused quite a stir because of its nudity. The statue of Neptune, which stands over 10 feet (3 metres) tall, has gained the nickname “Il Gigante” in Bologna.

One of the best ways to experience Piazza Maggiore is to act like a Bolognese native. Sit at an outdoor café to enjoy aperitivotime and watch the city unfold before your eyes.

Plan a trip to see Piazza Maggiore

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Reviews of Piazza Maggiore

4.5
Top destination
5 - Excellent
115
5 - Excellent 56%
4 - Good
87
4 - Good 42%
3 - Okay
4
3 - Okay 2%
2 - Disappointing
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1 - Terrible
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1 - Terrible 0%

4/5 - Good

Glenn

Don't be put off by the beggars - very disappointing

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Things to do near Piazza Maggiore

Piazza Maggiore offers a vibrant mix of activities such as shopping, theatre, and art. Not to be missed is the FICO World Eataly theme park, which showcases Italy's culinary delights. This bustling square is perfect for a city break, allowing visitors to immerse themselves in the rich culture and atmosphere of Bologna while enjoying its numerous cafes and shops.

Shopping

For a delightful shopping experience near Piazza Maggiore, visit Mercato di Mezzo o Quadrilatero, only 62m away, buzzing with local life. Galleria Cavour Shopping Centre, also 62m away, offers a mix of shopping and entertainment. Don't miss Mercato Delle Erbe, a vibrant market just 186m away.

Recreation

Experience the vibrant atmosphere at Unipol Arena, where you can enjoy various sporting events. For a cultural escape, visit the Philharmonic Academy, offering delightful music concerts. For a touch of luxury, unwind at Villa Torchi, a serene private club surrounded by beautiful countryside.

Adventure

Experience the thrill of motor racing at the Autodromo Internazionale Enzo e Dino Ferrari, located 13.0km from Piazza Maggiore. For a fun-filled day, try paintball at Bologna Paintball, situated 8.7km away, or immerse yourself in the vibrant atmosphere of the Cento Carnival of Europe, 10.6km away.

Nightlife

In Bologna, Piazza Maggiore buzzes with nightlife. Enjoy a captivating performance at Teatro Duse, only 249m away, or catch a romantic film at Cinema Lumiere, 435m distant. Don’t miss the enchanting stars at Museo della Specola, a delightful 311m from the piazza.

Find the best attractions near Piazza Maggiore

Piazza Maggiore in Bologna is a cultural gem featuring historic palaces, charming churches, and picturesque streets, making it an ideal destination for those seeking a romantic city experience. Just a short stroll from the piazza, visitors can explore various attractions that showcase the rich history and vibrant atmosphere of the area. Don't miss the opportunity to immerse yourself in the local culture while enjoying the stunning architecture surrounding this iconic square.

  • University of Bologna: As one of the oldest universities in the world, the University of Bologna offers a unique blend of history and modernity. Its beautiful campus is filled with vibrant energy, showcasing both academic excellence and cultural richness.
  • Via Indipendenza: This bustling street is a hub of activity, lined with charming shops, cafes, and eateries. It's the perfect place to experience the lively atmosphere of Bologna while enjoying shopping and local cuisine.
  • Palazzo Re Enzo: Steeped in history, Palazzo Re Enzo is a magnificent palace that reflects Bologna's cultural heritage. Visitors can explore its stunning architecture and learn about its significance in local history.

Best time to go to Piazza Maggiore

The best time to visit Piazza Maggiore can depend on the weather and when visitor numbers rise and fall. The hottest average temperature around Piazza Maggiore falls in July, when visitor numbers are slightly low and weather is sunny with light rain. The coolest average temperature around Piazza Maggiore falls in January, visitor numbers are average and weather is mostly sunny with light rain.

calendarCalendar MonthtemperatureTemperaturerainPrecipitationmostlyCloudinessoccupationOccupancypricePricing
January39.9°F (4.4°C)Light RainMostly SunnyAverageSlightly Low
February42.8°F (6.0°C)Light RainMostly SunnyAverageSlightly Low
March49.1°F (9.5°C)Light RainMostly SunnyAverageSlightly High
April55.9°F (13.3°C)Light RainMostly SunnyAverageAverage
May63.3°F (17.4°C)Light RainMostly SunnySlightly LowSlightly High
June72.9°F (22.7°C)Light RainSunnySlightly LowAverage
July78.4°F (25.8°C)Light RainSunnySlightly LowAverage
August78.1°F (25.6°C)Light RainSunnyAverageSlightly Low
September69.3°F (20.7°C)Light RainMostly SunnySlightly HighSlightly High
October59.9°F (15.5°C)Light RainMostly SunnySlightly HighAverage
November50.4°F (10.2°C)Light RainMostly SunnySlightly HighAverage
December41.7°F (5.4°C)Light RainMostly SunnyAverageAverage

Booking tips and Expedia advantages for Piazza Maggiore

To save money during your visit to Piazza Maggiore, consider travelling in the cheaper months of January to February or August, and book your hotel around a month in advance for the best rates. Mondays tend to be the least expensive days to stay. Use Expedia to compare room rates, look for last-minute deals, and consider package options that combine accommodation with flights and activities. For public transport, explore affordable options like buses and trams to navigate the city easily without overspending.

  • The most and least expensive months on average to stay in a hotel: The cheapest months to stay around Piazza Maggiore are January to February and August, where the prices are slightly lower. This is in comparison to March, May and September, where prices are slightly higher.
  • The best time to book a hotel: Book your hotel around Piazza Maggiore about 1 month out to secure some of the cheapest prices. If you're the spontaneous type, Expedia's last minute deals and discounts are indicated via the green label below the price.
  • The most and least expensive days on average to stay in a hotel: The least expensive day to stay around Piazza Maggiore is Monday. The most expensive day to stay around Piazza Maggiore is Thursday.
  • Find cheap hotels on Expedia: Utilise Expedia’s search tool to refine your options based on your budget, preferred location, and the type of accommodation you desire. To discover the most affordable prices and offers, simply arrange the price filter from lowest to highest.
  • Consider bundling your trip: You can save money by booking an Expedia package that combines your hotel accommodation near Piazza Maggiore with your flights and activities.

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