Welcome to Bologna! This beautiful city in Italy is full of amazing sights and activities. Here are 13 must-visit attractions in Bologna that you won’t want to miss. From the stunning Piazza Maggiore to the fascinating University of Bologna, there’s something for everyone to enjoy in Bologna. So, what are you waiting for? Start exploring this amazing city today!
1. Piazza Maggiore
Piazza Maggiore is the principal public square of Bologna, Italy, located in the center of the city. The piazza’s most notable feature is Palazzo d’Accursio, the seat of Bologna’s municipal government. The palazzo dates back to the 13th century, but its current form was built in the 15th century.
Piazza Maggiore is also home to several important monuments, including the Fountain of Neptune, the Palazzo del Podesta, and the Basilica of San Petronio. Each day, the piazza is filled with people enjoying the cafes and shops that line its perimeter.
On warm days, the piazza is a popular place to relax and people watch. At night, the piazza comes alive with music and laughter as locals and visitors alike enjoy the lively atmosphere. Whether you’re looking for a place to enjoy a cup of coffee or want to experience Bologna’s vibrant nightlife, Piazza Maggiore is the perfect spot.
Address: Piazza Maggiore, 40124 Bologna BO, Italy
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2. Fountain of Neptune
The Fountain of Neptune in Bologna, Italy is an awe-inspiring work of art. The life-size statue of the Roman god Neptune stands atop a gorgeous marble pedestal, surrounded by smaller statues of dolphins and sea creatures.
Water flows from the top of the fountain, creating a beautiful aquatic display. The whole scene is bathed in sunlight, creating a truly magical atmosphere.
Visitors to the fountain can’t help but be impressed by its size and grandeur. It’s no wonder that the Fountain of Neptune is one of Bologna’s most popular tourist attractions!
Address: Piazza del Nettuno, 40124 Bologna BO, Italy
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3. Basilica of San Petronio
The Basilica of San Petronio is the largest church in Bologna, Italy. Construction on the basilica began in 1390 and was completed in 1464.
The basilica is a prime example of Italian Gothic architecture and is one of the most popular tourist destinations in Bologna. The interior of the church is decorated with frescoes, sculptures, and stained glass windows.
The exterior of the church is adorned with marble reliefs and statues. The Basilica of San Petronio is a truly remarkable building and is a must-see for anyone visiting Bologna.
Address: Piazza Galvani, 5, 40124 Bologna BO, Italy
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4. Palazzo dei Banchi
The Palazzo dei Banchi in Bologna, Italy is an architecturally stunning building. It was constructed in the 14th century and has been meticulously restored to its original glory.
The Palazzo dei Banchi is a great example of Gothic architecture, with its beautiful arches and intricate detailing. The ground floor of the Palazzo dei Banchi is occupied by shops and restaurants, while the upper floors are home to offices and apartments.
The Palazzo dei Banchi is one of the most popular tourist attractions in Bologna and is definitely worth a visit!
Address: Piazza Maggiore, 6, 40124 Bologna BO, Italy
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5. Asinelli Tower
The Asinelli Tower is one of the most iconic landmarks in Bologna, Italy. Standing at nearly 200 feet tall, the tower is the tallest brick building in all of Italy.
Construction on the tower began in 1109, and it took nearly 100 years to complete. The Asinelli Tower has been a part of Bologna’s skyline for over 900 years, and it remains one of the city’s most beloved landmarks.
Visitors can climb the 498 steps to the top of the tower for breathtaking views of Bologna and the surrounding countryside. The Asinelli Tower is a must-see for anyone visiting Bologna – it’s an incredible piece of history and an essential part of the city’s identity.
Address: P.za di Porta Ravegnana, 40126 Bologna BO, Italy
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6. Garisenda Tower
The Garisenda Tower is one of the most iconic landmarks in Bologna, Italy. Rising over 200 feet into the air, the tower leans at a remarkable angle of nearly 4 degrees.
Despite its precarious angle, the tower has remained standing for over 600 years and is a popular tourist destination. Visitors can climb to the top of the tower for breathtaking views of Bologna’s red-tiled roofs and medieval churches.
The Garisenda Tower is a reminder of the city’s rich history and is a must-see for anyone visiting Bologna.
Address: P.za di Porta Ravegnana, 40126 Bologna BO, Italy
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7. The University of Bologna
Founded in 1088, the University of Bologna is not only the oldest university in Europe but also one of the most prestigious. Located in the capital of the Emilia-Romagna region, the university attracts students from all over Italy and the world.
Its programs in law, medicine, and the humanities are particularly well-regarded, and its alumni include some of the most influential figures in Italian history. Today, the University of Bologna is a vibrant community of over 90,000 students, representing more than 130 different countries.
With its beautiful medieval architecture and lively student scene, it’s no wonder that Bologna is often considered one of Italy’s most livable cities. For those who want to experience the best of what Italy has to offer, a visit to the University of Bologna is a must.
Address: Via Zamboni, 33, 40126 Bologna BO, Italy
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8. Church of Santo Stefano
The Church of Santo Stefano in Bologna, Italy is a beautiful example of Romanesque architecture. The church was built in the 12th century, and its exterior features a striped brick façade and two detached bell towers.
Inside, the church is divided into seven different chapels, each with its own distinct decoration. The highlight of the church is the Chapel of St. Stephen, which contains a magnificent 13th-century fresco cycle depicting the life of the saint.
With its intricate details and striking colors, the frescoes are truly a sight to behold. The Church of Santo Stefano is one of Bologna’s most beloved landmarks and a must-see for any visitor to the city.
Address: Via Santo Stefano, 24, 40125 Bologna BO, Italy
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9. Basilica of San Francesco
The Basilica of San Francesco in Bologna, Italy is one of the city’s most iconic landmarks. Located in the historic city center, the basilica was built in the 13th century and contains a wealth of artwork and architectural features.
The imposing facade is decorated with statues and reliefs, and the interior is adorned with frescoes, mosaics, and stained glass windows. The basilica is also home to the remains of St. Francis of Assisi, who was born in nearby Assisi.
Today, the basilica is a popular tourist destination, and its unique blend of art, history, and religion makes it an essential stop on any trip to Bologna.
Address: Piazza Malpighi, 9, 40123 Bologna BO, Italy
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10. Sanctuary of the Madonna di San Luca
The Sanctuary of the Madonna di San Luca is a church located in Bologna, Italy. The church is situated on top of a hill, and it is reachable via a long portico that is made up of 666 arches.
The portico is one of the most iconic features of the church, and it offers stunning views of the city below. The church itself is home to a number of beautiful frescoes and paintings, and it is a popular destination for tourists and pilgrims alike.
In addition to its religious significance, the Sanctuary of the Madonna di San Luca is also an important historical landmark, and it is one of the most popular tourist attractions in Bologna.
Address: Via di San Luca, 36, 40135 Bologna BO, Italy
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11. Teatro Comunale di Bologna
The Teatro Comunale di Bologna is one of the most important opera houses in Italy. It is located in the city of Bologna, and it was built in 1763. The theatre has a capacity of 1,600 people, and it is one of the largest theatres in the country.
The Teatro Comunale di Bologna was designed by Giuseppe Bibiena, and it was inspired by the Teatro Farnese in Parma. The theatre has been home to many famous operas, including Giuseppe Verdi’s “Nabucco” and Gioachino Rossini’s “The Barber of Seville”.
The theatre is also known for its excellent acoustics, and it is considered to be one of the best concert halls in Italy.
Address: Largo Respighi, 1, 40126 Bologna BO, Italy
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12. Palazzo Re Enzo
The Palazzo Re Enzo is a historic building in Bologna, Italy. It was built in 1244 and served as the seat of the city’s government during the medieval era.
The Palazzo Re Enzo has a number of interesting features, including a grand portico with six arches, a large internal courtyard, and a staircase leading up to the second floor. The building was extensively damaged during World War II, but it has since been restored to its former glory.
Today, the Palazzo Re Enzo is open to the public and houses a museum dedicated to the history of Bologna. Visitors can also enjoy views of the city from the Palazzo’s rooftop terrace.
Address: Piazza del Nettuno, 1/C, 40125 Bologna BO, Italy
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13. Palazzo della Mercanzia
The Palazzo della Mercanzia is one of the most iconic buildings in Bologna, Italy. Built-in the 14th century, it has been a powerful symbol of commerce and industry for centuries.
The massive stone structure is covered in intricate carvings and sculptures, and its grandiose size is rivaled only by its grandiose beauty. Today, the Palazzo della Mercanzia is open to the public as a museum, and it remains one of the city’s most popular tourist attractions.
Visitors can explore the grand chambers and learn about the building’s rich history, making it a must-see for anyone interested in Italian art and culture.
Address: Piazza della Mercanzia, 4, 40125 Bologna BO, Italy
In Conclusion
There are many wonderful attractions to see in Bologna, Italy. From historic buildings and churches to museums and opera houses, the city has something for everyone. These thirteen must-see attractions are a great place to start exploring all that Bologna has to offer.
