Top attractions in Bologna

Editor's Choice: Bologna

Bologna’s architectural legacy is defined by medieval towers, Renaissance palaces, and grand religious landmarks. This curated selection includes the iconic Two Towers and the 61-meter Azzoguidi Tower, remnants of the city's medieval skyline. Central sites like Piazza Maggiore and the Neptune Fountain sit alongside the Basilica of San Petronio, notable for its Cassini meridian line. The list also features the hilltop Sanctuary of San Luca, the historic Archiginnasio Library, and the hidden 'Little Venice' canal window, providing a detailed overview of the city's historical and cultural evolution.

Editor's Choice: Bologna — Map

Letizia Querci, Alfredo Di Maria / CC BY-SA 4.0

A

Two Towers

Medieval Renaissance towers known for their historical architecture and panoramic city views.

Brian Snelson / CC BY 2.0

B

Fountain of Neptune

Historic marble and bronze fountain built in the Renaissance period featuring a statue of Neptune and four angels symbolizing major rivers.

Mattana / CC BY-SA 3.0

C

Sanctuary of the Madonna di San Luca

The Sanctuary of the Madonna of San Luca is a basilica church in Bologna, northern Italy, sited atop a forested hill, Colle or Monte della…

Giovanni Dall'Orto / Attribution

D

Piazza Maggiore

Historic 115 by 60-meter square featuring a central raised granite pedestrian platform known as the crescentone. It is surrounded by significant medieval and Renaissance buildings, including administrative palaces and a major basilica.

Ceppicone / CC BY-SA 3.0

E

Basilica of San Petronio

Historic Gothic church notable for its impressive architecture, significant art collections, and the Cassini meridian line.

Nicola Quirico / CC BY-SA 4.0

F

Basilica of San Domenico

Historic church and convent known for its religious significance, Renaissance and Gothic architecture, and rich collection of art and relics.

Jean Housen / CC BY-SA 3.0

G

Archiginnasio Library

Historic library housed in the Palazzo dell’Archiginnasio featuring a vast collection of rare manuscripts and incunabula.

Alexandre Alves / CC-BY-SA

H

D'Accursio Palace

Historic medieval town hall featuring notable art collections, historic rooms, and architectural elements from various periods. It also includes a Clock Tower and the Sala Borsa library.

Ceppicone / CC BY-SA 3.0

I

Bologna Cathedral

Historic Roman Catholic cathedral featuring Baroque interior art and a notable campanile. It is a significant site of religious worship and architectural heritage.

Mammamia / CC BY-SA 3.0

J

Palace of Commerce

Historic Gothic palace dating from the 14th century, serving as the seat of the merchant guild and Chamber of Commerce since the late 1300s.

Workshop of Ludovico Carracci… / CC BY 2.0

K

San Colombano

Historic former church featuring Baroque frescoes, a collection of ancient musical instruments, and a library.

sailko / CC BY-SA 3.0

L

Azzoguidi Tower

One of the towers in Bologna named after the street on which it stands. With its 61 metres, it's sometimes called "The Tall Beauty".

Vladimir Vera Plaza / CC-BY-SA

M

Window on the Canal

Small hidden window revealing a view of the historic underground canal system known as 'Little Venice'.

Amico Aspertini / Public domain

N

Basilica of San Giacomo Maggiore

The Basilica of San Giacomo Maggiore is an historic Roman Catholic church in Bologna, region of Emilia Romagna, Italy, serving a monastery…

Adriana verolla / CC BY-SA 3.0

O

Casa Saraceni

One of the examples of magnificent Renaissance architecture in the city. Nowadays it hosts exhibitions and various cultural events.

Other Lists

Bologna Essentials Bologna's Secret Towers & Gems Historic Monuments and Gates Top Museums & Art Historic Churches of Bologna Parks & Gardens Culinary Landmarks