Bologna · Piazza Maggiore and the old centre
Piazza Maggiore
The main square of Bologna, with the Basilica of San Petronio and the Palazzo d'Accursio on its sides. It is the usual starting point of a walk through the centre.
- 1 h
- Free
- Booking: not needed
- Piazza Maggiore and the old centre
Data checked on November 3, 2026
Bologna Welcome calls it one of the symbolic places of the city, and it sits on a walking route that also takes in the Two Towers and the Quadrilatero. The Basilica of San Petronio stands on the square and the Palazzo d'Accursio and the Palazzo Re Enzo overlook it. There is no ticket and no gate, so the visit is a matter of walking across it and looking at the buildings around.
What to look for
- The Basilica of San Petronio
- Palazzo d'Accursio
- Palazzo Re Enzo
Opening hours
Always open.
Source: Bologna Welcome (turismo ufficiale), checked November 3, 2026
Tickets and booking
Free. Free to see at any time.
Getting there
Tip
Come back in the evening, when the square fills with people.