Piazza Maggiore
Piazza Maggiore
4.5
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The area
Address
Neighbourhood: Santo Stefano
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We rank these restaurants and attractions by balancing reviews from our members with how close they are to this location.
Restaurants
1,618 within 3 miles
Attractions
533 within 6 miles
See what travellers are saying
- Dianne HSouthampton, United Kingdom31 contributionsWill definitely come back.Stunning. A real must. Very busy, amazing architecture, plenty of cafes to watch the world go by. Be prepared to pay over the odds if you eat or drink in the piazza but you're on holiday 😎Visited March 2023Travelled as a coupleWritten 29 March 2023
- macedonboyGlasgow, United Kingdom179,691 contributionsHistoric SquareThis public square dates back to the 13th century when the municipality acquired land to build a square to reflect the growing importance of Bologna. It’s a traditional European style square and bounded on all four side by some of the most important buildings of the city, including the Basilica of San Petronio, the Palazzo dei Notai, the Palazzo d’Accursio, the Palazzo del Podestà and the Palazzo dei Banchi. There’s also no shortage of cafes to get your caffeine fix. The tourist office is also in this square if you need help.Visited May 2023Written 20 July 2023
- Karen HPreston, United Kingdom171 contributionsTown square with interesting buildingsMain square in Bologna. Most tours start from here and it’s a good place to acclimatise with. Holds the cathedral, council government building (in old palace), library with tribute to 2nd WW resistance fighters, fortress, Neptune fountain. Lovely ancient buildings to see. Have an Aperol Spritz at the Bar Vittorio Emanuele. In June July the square had an outdoor cinema showing Italian and foreign language classic films. Free of charge.Visited July 2023Travelled as a coupleWritten 31 July 2023
- LulaCardonaLisbon, Portugal259 contributionsPiazza Maggiore in BolognaThe Piazza Maggiore, the heart of Bologna, is a place that defies the mere description of a city square. It's not only the epicenter of history, architecture, and culture but also a place where personal memories blend seamlessly with centuries of tradition. Upon our first visit to this magnetic location, the Possieduto, the magnificent Cattedrale di San Petronio, and the grand governmental buildings took us on a historical tour that transcended time. The square is home to some of the city's most iconic landmarks, and its past is etched in every stone and every corner. St. Petronio's facade, one of the largest churches in the world, never fails to impress. Its incomplete façade speaks volumes about Bologna's complex history and the city's free spirit. The nearby Palazzo d'Accursio, with its vibrant frescoes and intricate carvings, paints a picture of the city's past governance and civic pride. But Piazza Maggiore is more than a cluster of historic buildings. It's a living, breathing space where culture, leisure, and everyday life meet. Many an evening we've spent here, watching the nightfall with a glass of wine from the neighboring Signorvino, or enjoying a film under the stars as part of a special exhibition. The square transforms into an open-air cinema, art gallery, and performance space, adapting to the seasons and the city's vibrant cultural calendar. The atmosphere in Piazza Maggiore is lively yet relaxed. Musicians, artists, tourists, and locals intermingle, creating a cosmopolitan vibe that's both welcoming and intriguing. The array of cafes and eateries that border the square offer endless opportunities to sit, relax, and absorb the essence of Bologna. But what makes Piazza Maggiore truly special is the way it embraces you, the way it becomes part of your story. For us, it has been a place of discovery, relaxation, and cultural enrichment. Whether viewing a thought-provoking art exhibition or simply watching the world go by, Piazza Maggiore offers a unique and unforgettable experience. In the end, Piazza Maggiore is not just a historical site or a beautiful setting; it's a symbol of Bologna itself. It's where the past meets the present, where art meets life, and where every visitor finds something uniquely their own. It's a square that never fails to surprise and delight, making every visit a new adventure. It's not just a place we've been to; it's a place we keep returning to, drawn by its allure and the endless possibilities it offers.Visited July 2023Travelled as a coupleWritten 12 August 2023
- Jason SMelbourne, Australia1,693 contributionsLots to see in Public SquareVery large Piazza in the heart of the city. I would recommend this square being your starting point for your visit to Bologna. In this historical square surrounded by centuries old buildings also has cathedral, government offices, statues, water fountains, restaurants and lots more. Being just of the Main Street all main attractions are within a few blocks from this square. Very good to see during the.day and but make sure you visit at night different feel and atmosphere to the square. Loved the Neptune water fountain and the size of the square. Certainly one of the top tours yet attractions in the area to see.Visited February 2023Travelled soloWritten 12 August 2023
- Judy AJersey, United Kingdom76 contributionsBeautifulBeautiful square and a great base. Gets very busy at night time and there was an open air cinema that was well attended. The rows of restaurants were just off the square. The roads around the square are closed to traffic at the weekend which was a nice touch.Visited July 2023Travelled with familyWritten 15 August 2023
- ErkiBearLondon, United Kingdom380 contributionsmake this your first and regular stop during your trip to Bologna!Piazza Maggiore is fantastic! We were lucky enough to be in Bologna at the time of the Portici festival and there was something going on in the square most days and every evening. The square is surrounded by bars and restaurants, has a tourist information office, various museums, the basilica and the road train to San Luca leaves from there so make this your first and regular stop during your trip to Bologna!Visited June 2023Travelled as a coupleWritten 13 October 2023
- mrc282World8,028 contributionsmain square in bolognastart your visit from here for bologna if you are driving, the easiest lot is parcheggio staveco, which is outside of ZTL "danger" zone. then walk 10-15 min to this square. for best view of porticoes, of which the city is known for, i recommend via farini, in the vicinity of piazza santo stefanoVisited October 2023Travelled soloWritten 11 November 2023
- Angelo SHilliard, Ohio3,630 contributionsLiving Room of BolognaLargest Piazza in Bologna dominated by the facade of the Basilica di San Petronio and bounded by the main city hall and clocktower, and two impressive building groups fronted by large porticoes. A couple of different bars to grab a seat and watch the world go by. During the day, street artists and some buskers. At night during the summer, movies on a large screen or street performers.Visited October 2023Travelled as a coupleWritten 23 December 2023
- sueoversizedjordanBologna, Italy13 contributionsDon't miss the details.Sculptures in the piazza are of particular interest. The temporary exhibition took place in the past September 2020 and could happen more. In fact we could meet the Bolognese Nettuno at other cities too, like in Laeken in Belgium (La fontaine de Neptune) but perhaps not the Nereids. They are quite special. Not to mention that the cityscape is amazing. This is thanks to the operation of the city government keeping with Unesco heritage regulations. New buildings and businesses must not interfere with the existing landscape of the city.Visited December 2023Travelled on businessWritten 30 January 2024
These reviews are the subjective opinion of Tripadvisor members and not of TripAdvisor LLC. Tripadvisor performs checks on reviews.
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4.5
10,013 reviews
Excellent
6,329
Very good
3,087
Average
488
Poor
69
Terrible
40
sueoversizedjordan
Bologna, Italy13 contributions
Dec 2023 • Business
Sculptures in the piazza are of particular interest. The temporary exhibition took place in the past September 2020 and could happen more.
In fact we could meet the Bolognese Nettuno at other cities too, like in Laeken in Belgium (La fontaine de Neptune) but perhaps not the Nereids. They are quite special. Not to mention that the cityscape is amazing. This is thanks to the operation of the city government keeping with Unesco heritage regulations. New buildings and businesses must not interfere with the existing landscape of the city.
In fact we could meet the Bolognese Nettuno at other cities too, like in Laeken in Belgium (La fontaine de Neptune) but perhaps not the Nereids. They are quite special. Not to mention that the cityscape is amazing. This is thanks to the operation of the city government keeping with Unesco heritage regulations. New buildings and businesses must not interfere with the existing landscape of the city.
Written 31 January 2024
This review is the subjective opinion of a Tripadvisor member and not of Tripadvisor LLC. Tripadvisor performs checks on reviews as part of our industry-leading trust & safety standards. Read our transparency report to learn more.
Davieland
Auckland, New Zealand630 contributions
Jan 2024 • Family
After a short walk from the station we came to this pretty piazza. Many historic buildings and a wonderful church. This is a must do when in Bologna.
Written 5 January 2024
This review is the subjective opinion of a Tripadvisor member and not of Tripadvisor LLC. Tripadvisor performs checks on reviews as part of our industry-leading trust & safety standards. Read our transparency report to learn more.
Angelo S
Hilliard, OH3,630 contributions
Oct 2023 • Couples
Largest Piazza in Bologna dominated by the facade of the Basilica di San Petronio and bounded by the main city hall and clocktower, and two impressive building groups fronted by large porticoes. A couple of different bars to grab a seat and watch the world go by. During the day, street artists and some buskers. At night during the summer, movies on a large screen or street performers.
Written 23 December 2023
This review is the subjective opinion of a Tripadvisor member and not of Tripadvisor LLC. Tripadvisor performs checks on reviews as part of our industry-leading trust & safety standards. Read our transparency report to learn more.
A'ndrea
York Beach, ME33 contributions
Nov 2023 • Couples
What a beautiful piazza! It is richly steeped in history. Cobblestone streets, quaint shops, church, restaurants, etc. We enjoyed it at Thanksgiving time. Not too busy, good weather. Charming square, not to be missed.
Written 21 November 2023
This review is the subjective opinion of a Tripadvisor member and not of Tripadvisor LLC. Tripadvisor performs checks on reviews as part of our industry-leading trust & safety standards. Read our transparency report to learn more.
mrc282
World8,028 contributions
Oct 2023 • Solo
start your visit from here for bologna
if you are driving, the easiest lot is parcheggio staveco, which is outside of ZTL "danger" zone. then walk 10-15 min to this square.
for best view of porticoes, of which the city is known for, i recommend via farini, in the vicinity of piazza santo stefano
if you are driving, the easiest lot is parcheggio staveco, which is outside of ZTL "danger" zone. then walk 10-15 min to this square.
for best view of porticoes, of which the city is known for, i recommend via farini, in the vicinity of piazza santo stefano
Written 11 November 2023
This review is the subjective opinion of a Tripadvisor member and not of Tripadvisor LLC. Tripadvisor performs checks on reviews as part of our industry-leading trust & safety standards. Read our transparency report to learn more.
Cuisinartisan
Coral Gables, FL67 contributions
Oct 2023 • Solo
The main square of any European city is its calling card. In Bologna if you go to the main square in the evening you’ll find it dark. Just as you’ll find dark its two towers and every other monument in town. And it’s a metaphor for the city overall. Bologna could be a poster child for urban decay and neglect. The vandalism and visual pollution is breathtaking, the disrepair and abandonment of its aging infrastructure is a slap in the face, and the piles of rotting garbage by the ubiquitous oversized dumpsters is galling. How can stewards of one of the oldest European universities and a treasure trove of world art allow it to happen? How can you live in the richest region in Italy and be assaulted by filth and decay and poor attempt at graffiti? The contrast between the renaissance art in the Pinacoteca and the degradation of its surrounding streets is worthy of a third world ghetto. Everyone is clamoring that Venice should be saved. First save Bologna.
Written 29 October 2023
This review is the subjective opinion of a Tripadvisor member and not of Tripadvisor LLC. Tripadvisor performs checks on reviews as part of our industry-leading trust & safety standards. Read our transparency report to learn more.
ErkiBear
London, UK380 contributions
Jun 2023 • Couples
Piazza Maggiore is fantastic! We were lucky enough to be in Bologna at the time of the Portici festival and there was something going on in the square most days and every evening. The square is surrounded by bars and restaurants, has a tourist information office, various museums, the basilica and the road train to San Luca leaves from there so make this your first and regular stop during your trip to Bologna!
Written 13 October 2023
This review is the subjective opinion of a Tripadvisor member and not of Tripadvisor LLC. Tripadvisor performs checks on reviews as part of our industry-leading trust & safety standards. Read our transparency report to learn more.
betterthanwork
Nottingham, UK1,337 contributions
Oct 2023 • Family
This square is the jewel in the Bologna crown. The highlight is the cathedral of course, but there are beautiful buildings on all sides.
Written 7 October 2023
This review is the subjective opinion of a Tripadvisor member and not of Tripadvisor LLC. Tripadvisor performs checks on reviews as part of our industry-leading trust & safety standards. Read our transparency report to learn more.
andycoldham
Crawley, UK908 contributions
Oct 2023 • Couples
The main square in the centre of Bologna, everything starts here the streets leading of the square are full of tasty restaurants, the square houses the largest church in town and is often lit up with strobe lighting. The square is also closed off to traffic at weekends and is not to be missed.
Written 7 October 2023
This review is the subjective opinion of a Tripadvisor member and not of Tripadvisor LLC. Tripadvisor performs checks on reviews as part of our industry-leading trust & safety standards. Read our transparency report to learn more.
Judy A
Jersey, UK76 contributions
Jul 2023 • Family
Beautiful square and a great base. Gets very busy at night time and there was an open air cinema that was well attended. The rows of restaurants were just off the square. The roads around the square are closed to traffic at the weekend which was a nice touch.
Written 15 August 2023
This review is the subjective opinion of a Tripadvisor member and not of Tripadvisor LLC. Tripadvisor performs checks on reviews as part of our industry-leading trust & safety standards. Read our transparency report to learn more.
Burcu M
Istanbul, Türkiye1 contribution
Is that a good idea visiting Bologna on sundays? Or what can we do on sunday?
lorben17
Turin, Italy47 contributions
Buongiorno, cosa consigliate di visitare a Bologna?
lisapippi77
Padua, Italy13 contributions
Il Ghetto è piccolo, ma molto interessante. Il mercato coperto vicino a Piazza Maggiore. Una sosta la merita la torrefazione Filicori&Zecchini, lì da oltre 2 secoli. La libreria Nanni, al portico della Morte: se un libro nn lo si trova lì, nn lo si trova da nessun'altra parte. Le 2 Torri. La chiesa di San Michele, sú per via Castiglione e San Mamolo: da lì si gode di una vista che toglie il fiato (l'occhio, nelle giornate tese, si spinge fino a Ravenna, come già raccontava Dante nella Commedia). La chiesa di San Francesco con le sue arcate è assolutamente da vedere. Una chicca per appassionati è la chiesa di Santo Stefano, al cui interno sono riprodotte le 7 chiese di Gerusalemme (è detta anche "la piccola Gerusalemme": è chiusa il lunedì mattina). Meritano una visita la biblioteca dell'Archiginnasio ed il negozio storico di Majani (cioccolatieri dal 1796, inventore del cremino Fiat nel 1911)
Pavel S
33 contributions
Is the renovation of the Piazza Maggiori over? If no - when is going to be over? Thanks!
IrinaPavlovna
Russia150 contributions
Площадь Маджори рядом с площадью Нептуна. В октябре Пьяцца Маджоре не была перекрыта и Базилика Сан-Петронио была открыта для посещения, на фото видно.
𝐴𝑛𝑔𝑒𝑙𝑜 𝐷'𝐴𝑔𝑜𝑠𝑡𝑖𝑛𝑜 🇮🇹
Avezzano, Italy14,956 contributions
Salve, per raggiungere la piazza quale parcheggio mi consigliate?
Silvia V
Bologna, Italy120 contributions
Il parcheggio di piazza VIII agosto
iain p
Eastbourne, UK76 contributions
when will work finish and your great statue be visible again?
AJJS1
London, UK184 contributions
I just saw the question. When we were there in August they suggested it would be ready around the end of October. I went onto to the bolognawelcome,com website today and you can book tours of the renovation works until Dec 10.
No guarantee that it will be finished then - best to email the tourist office to confirm.
rocco422015
Bologna, Italy3 contributions
C'è mai stato in piazza un monumento ???
kika_1723
Province of Milan, Italy238 contributions
Si, nella seconda metà dell'Ottocento c'era il monumento equestre del re Vittorio Emanuele II che fu trasferito ai Giardini Margherita (dove si trova ora) durante la seconda guerra mondiale.
Paola F
Guácima, Costa Rica
Un parqueo cerca de la plaza Mayor? Dirección para GPS?
Luisalonso50
sabadell45 contributions
no puedo ayudarte, siempre me muevo en transporte publico cuando salgo de españa
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Claim your listingPIAZZA MAGGIORE: All You Need to Know BEFORE You Go (with Photos)
Frequently Asked Questions about Piazza Maggiore
- According to Tripadvisor travellers, these are the best ways to experience Piazza Maggiore:
- Classic Walking Tour Bologna (From £114.17)
- Bologna Food & Wine tour with a local Chef (From £55.33)
- Classic Bologna Food Tour (From £101.00)
- 5-Day Best of Italy Trip with Assisi, Siena, Florence, Venice and more (From £680.63)
- Bologna Food & Cultural Walking Tour (From £122.95)
- Hotels near Piazza Maggiore:
- (0.02 mi) Spacious and Elegant Apartment of Great Charm in the historic center of Bologna
- (0.02 mi) San Petronio Vecchio
- (0.04 mi) Star Home
- (0.04 mi) La Casa del Dottore
- (0.04 mi) Casa Tulù B&b
- Restaurants near Piazza Maggiore:
- (0.01 mi) Bar Vittorio Emanuele, dal 1882
- (0.02 mi) Signorvino - Bologna P. Maggiore
- (0.02 mi) Bar Romano Snc
- (0.02 mi) Pigro Mortadelleria
- (0.03 mi) 051 Piazza Maggiore
- Attractions near Piazza Maggiore:
- (0.01 mi) Bologna Welcome - Official Tourist Office
- (0.02 mi) Torri Tour
- (0.02 mi) Taste Bologna - Bologna Food Tour
- (0.02 mi) Constantintravel.club
- (0.02 mi) Oksana Klimovets Guide to Italy