Piazza Maggiore Tours and Activities

Bologna which includes a square or plaza, a city and heritage architecture
Bologna showing heritage architecture and a city
Piazza Maggiore
Bologna showing heritage architecture and a city
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 center 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 meters) 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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Best Lodging Options Near Piazza Maggiore

The Social Hub Bologna

The Social Hub Bologna

4 out of 5
Via Aristotile Fioravanti 27, Bologna, BO
The Social Hub Bologna
Royal Hotel Carlton

Royal Hotel Carlton

4 out of 5
Via Montebello 8, Bologna, BO
Royal Hotel Carlton
Starhotels Excelsior

Starhotels Excelsior

4 out of 5
Viale Pietro Pietramellara 51, Bologna, BO
Starhotels Excelsior
Hotel Internazionale

Hotel Internazionale

4 out of 5
Via Indipendenza 60, Bologna, BO
Hotel Internazionale
Hotel Palace

Hotel Palace

3 out of 5
Via Monte Grappa, 9/2, Bologna, BO
Hotel Palace
UNA Hotels Bologna Centro

UNA Hotels Bologna Centro

4 out of 5
Via Pietramellara 41/43, Bologna, BO
UNA Hotels Bologna Centro
Art Hotel Orologio

Art Hotel Orologio

4 out of 5
Piazzetta Giorgio Guazzaloca 10 C, Bologna, BO
Art Hotel Orologio
 Phi Hotel Bologna

Phi Hotel Bologna

4.5 out of 5
Via De' Fusari, 9, Bologna, BO
Phi Hotel Bologna
Art Hotel Commercianti

Art Hotel Commercianti

4 out of 5
Via De'Pignattari, 11, Bologna, BO
Art Hotel Commercianti
Lowest nightly price found within the past 24 hours based on a 1 night stay for 2 adults. Prices and availability subject to change. Additional terms may apply.

Things to do near Piazza Maggiore

Piazza Maggiore in Bologna is a vibrant hub offering a delightful mix of activities such as shopping, leisurely walks, and theatre performances. Visitors can enjoy stunning sights like the Basilica di San Petronio and the Palazzo dei Banchi, making it a perfect spot for sightseeing. The lively atmosphere and rich history of the area invite tourists to explore the charming streets and indulge in local culture.

Shopping

The Mercato di Mezzo o Quadrilatero is a vibrant public market located 161m from Piazza Maggiore, perfect for local delicacies. Nearby, Galleria Cavour offers a family-friendly shopping experience with entertainment options. Mercato Delle Erbe, just 483m away, features a bustling atmosphere for fresh produce and gifts.

Recreation

Experience the energetic atmosphere at Land Rover Arena, just 1.1km from Piazza Maggiore, perfect for sports enthusiasts. Enjoy the cultural vibes at Philharmonic Academy, located 644m away, where music fills the air. For a taste of luxury, unwind at Villa Torchi, a serene country club 6.4km away.

Adventure

Experience the thrill of motorsport at Autodromo Internazionale Enzo e Dino Ferrari, located 33.8km from Piazza Maggiore. For a lively atmosphere, join the Cento Carnival of Europe, 27.4km away. Alternatively, unleash your competitive side at Bologna Paintball, situated 16.4km from the piazza.

Nightlife

The nightlife in Piazza Maggiore is vibrant and inviting. Enjoy a romantic evening at Teatro Duse, or immerse yourself in family-friendly entertainment at Museo della Specola. For a cultural experience, Teatro Auditorium Manzoni offers captivating performances, all within a short stroll from the square.

Find the best attractions near Piazza Maggiore

Within and around Piazza Maggiore in Bologna, visitors can immerse themselves in rich culture by exploring historic palaces, churches, and vibrant streets. Key attractions include the iconic Bologna Towers and the historical centre, offering a family-friendly experience. Don't miss the chance to stroll through Piazza Maggiore itself, a lively hub that captures the essence of this charming Italian city.

  • Basilica of San Petronio: This magnificent church is a symbol of Bologna's rich history and culture, featuring stunning Gothic architecture and intricate frescoes. It's an essential stop for anyone interested in art and spirituality.
  • Fountain of Neptune: A historic fountain adorned with an impressive statue of Neptune, this landmark is a gathering place for locals and tourists alike. Its intricate design and cultural significance make it a must-see while exploring the area.
  • Via Indipendenza: This bustling street is the heart of Bologna's shopping and dining scene, offering a vibrant atmosphere filled with cafés, boutiques, and local shops. Strolling here provides a taste of the city's lively urban vibe.

Best time to go to Piazza Maggiore

Visitor numbers around Piazza Maggiore is generally unchanged in popularity throughout the year. The best time to visit Piazza Maggiore is dependant on what kind of holiday you are seeking. July is its hottest month on average. At this time, visitor numbers are slightly low and weather is sunny with light rain. January is its coolest month on average. At this time, visitor numbers are average and weather is mostly sunny with light rain.

calendar iconCalendar Monthtemperature iconTemperaturerain iconPrecipitationmostly cloudy iconCloudinessoccupation rate iconOccupancyprice iconPricing
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 January, February, or August for the lowest hotel rates. Enjoy free attractions like the Fountain of Neptune and Basilica Santo Stefano. Book your hotel about a month in advance, and check Expedia for last-minute deals, particularly on Mondays, which tend to be cheaper. Use Expedia’s search tool to compare prices and refine options for eco-friendly accommodations. Combine your hotel with flights and activities for extra savings.

  • 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: Expedia’s search tool enables you to specify your budget, desired location, and additional preferences. You can arrange your search results to display prices from lowest to highest, making it easy to find the most affordable hotels right away. Additionally, you have the option to refine your choices by hotel type. For instance, selecting the "Eco-certified" filter will showcase sustainable and environmentally friendly hotels that are available for booking.
  • Consider bundling your trip: You can potentially save some money by combining your hotel stay near Piazza Maggiore with your flights and activities through an Expedia package.