What to see near Bologna station

In addition to being a major national railway hub, Bologna’s central station is the ideal starting point for a walking tour into the heart of the city.

The station opens onto Piazza XX Settembre, named after the Breach of Porta Pia, which marks the transition from the modern station area to the first traces of historic architecture. From here, the atmosphere of Emilia’s capital gradually unfolds, where 19th-century façades blend seamlessly with the porticoes that lead the way to the historic centre.

The Medieval Galliera Gate

Just a short stroll from Piazza XX Settembre lies Porta Galliera, one of the ancient gateways to Bologna’s medieval city. Built in the 13th century, it still preserves sections of the old walls that once encircled the city. Close by are the remains of Galliera Castle, commissioned by Pope John XXII and destroyed several times during its turbulent history. Today, Porta Galliera stands as a reminder of Bologna’s defensive past and forms a direct link between the station and the historic centre.

• Only a 5-minute walk away.

Via Indipendenza and the allure of Its monumental portico

Continuing on foot brings you to Via Indipendenza, one of the main thoroughfares of the city centre. Stretching for about a kilometre, it connects the station directly with Piazza Maggiore. Its most striking feature is the monumental portico that runs along much of the street, offering shade from the summer sun and shelter from the winter rain. Lined with shops, historic cafés and elegant nineteenth-century buildings, Via Indipendenza is one of the city’s busiest spots, a lively meeting point for locals and visitors alike.

• Just 10 minutes on foot from Porta Galliera.
• About 15 minutes from the central station.

Arena del Sole Theatre

A little further along Via Indipendenza stands the Arena del Sole Theatre, one of Bologna’s leading cultural venues. Opened in 1810 as an open-air arena for popular entertainment, it was later transformed into an indoor theatre during nineteenth- and twentieth-century renovations, gradually acquiring an increasingly prestigious programme. Today, the Arena del Sole stages plays, concerts and contemporary productions.

• Only a 13-minute walk from the station.

The Neptune Fountain

Standing more than four metres tall, the Neptune Fountain dominates the square linking Piazza Maggiore with Palazzo Re Enzo. It was created in the second half of the sixteenth century by Giambologna, a Flemish sculptor active in Italy, to celebrate papal power. The sea god, surrounded by allegorical figures and playful water jets, quickly became a symbol of the city. Today it remains one of Bologna’s most photographed landmarks and a defining feature of its historic centre. The fountain is easily reached from the station:

• on foot in around 20 minutes,
• or by public transport in about 15 minutes.

Palazzo Re Enzo

Beside the Neptune Fountain stands Palazzo Re Enzo, built in 1245 as an extension of the Palazzo del Podestà. The building takes its name from Enzo of Swabia, son of Emperor Frederick II, who was captured during the Battle of Fossalta and imprisoned here between 1249 and 1272. With its striking medieval architecture, the palace has hosted civic assemblies and public gatherings for centuries. Today it serves as a venue for exhibitions and cultural events.

Piazza Maggiore and the Basilica of San Petronio

Just a few minutes’ walk from Palazzo Re Enzo lies Piazza Maggiore, the symbolic and geographical heart of Bologna. This has long been the focal point of city life, a gathering place for residents and the setting for major public events. Overlooking the square are some of Bologna’s most important historic buildings, including the Palazzo del Podestà, the Palazzo dei Banchi, and the unfinished Basilica of San Petronio.

The Basilica of San Petronio

Construction of the basilica began in 1390 but was never completed. It remains one of the largest and most striking Gothic churches in Europe, housing precious artworks and Cassini’s celebrated seventeenth-century sundial.

The portico of the Palace of the Podesta and the game of secret acoustics

One of Piazza Maggiore’s most intriguing curiosities is found under the portico of the Palazzo del Podestà. Thanks to a remarkable acoustic effect, two people standing at opposite corners can speak to each other in hushed tones and still be heard perfectly, as if they were side by side. This phenomenon, known as the “Volta del Podestà,” has become a favourite stop for both visitors and locals, a small yet fascinating testament to medieval architectural ingenuity.

St. Peter’s Cathedral

Although many regard San Petronio as Bologna’s main basilica, the city’s actual cathedral is the Metropolitan Church of San Pietro, located on Via Indipendenza. This Baroque church, rebuilt several times over the centuries, dates back to the 17th century and preserves important works by Bolognese artists, including the grand high altar designed by Alfonso Torreggiani and paintings by Donato Creti and Ludovico Carracci. Its 70-metre bell tower is one of the tallest in Bologna and houses the “Campanazza,” cast in 1594, which at over three tonnes is the city’s largest bell.

From the station, the cathedral can be reached:

• In about 20 minutes on foot
• In around 15 minutes by public transport

Strolling under the porticoes and through the historic shops

The perfect way to conclude a visit is with a slow wander beneath Bologna’s porticoes, recognised as a UNESCO World Heritage Site since 2021, and into the historic shops that line the city centre. The porticoes are not merely an architectural feature but a living part of the city’s social fabric. Traditional food shops, welcoming osterie and artisan boutiques all contribute to the unique atmosphere that has earned Bologna its nicknames “La Dotta, La Grassa e La Rossa”:  the Learned, the Fat and the Red. From the station to the heart of the city, the route offers a true immersion in Bologna’s history, art and culture.

Article translated by Agnese Giardini