31 Bologna Photo Spots: Locations For The Best Pictures

Looking for the best Bologna photography spots? I’ve walked these streets with my camera in hand, and trust me, Bologna delivers: from the medieval Two Towers (Le Due Torri) to tucked-away corners in Quadrilatero Market.

If you’re into street photography, historic architecture, or simply want that perfect Instagrammable Bologna shot, this list is your shortcut to the most photogenic places in the city and the top things to see and do.

Want to know where to photograph Bologna like a local? Start early at Piazza Maggiore, wander past Portico di San Luca, and don’t miss the reflections at Finestrella di Via Piella—a hidden canal view most tourists walk right past.

If you’re flying into Bologna Guglielmo Marconi Airport, getting to the heart of the city is quick. Have a look at my How to get from Bologna Airport to Bologna Centrale train station blog post – I’ve detailed it exactly, so no guesswork needed.

💡Tip: If you’re planning your Italy itinerary and want to save time and money on transport, I recommend checking out Omio for train and bus tickets. That’s what I used to book my trip between Bologna and Florence—super smooth.

Piazza Maggiore – Best Place to Photograph Bologna’s Historic Center

What’s the best place to start exploring Bologna? Hands down, it’s Piazza Maggiore, the city’s main square and one of the most photogenic spots in Bologna’s historic center. I was there just after sunrise, and the golden light spilling over the red-brick buildings was unreal. If you’re chasing the best early morning photo spots in Bologna, this is it.

Standing in the middle of the square, you’re surrounded by architectural heavyweights: Basilica di San Petronio, Palazzo d’Accursio, Palazzo dei Notai, Palazzo del Podestà, Palazzo Re Enzo, and Palazzo dei Banchi. It’s an open-air museum of medieval and Renaissance architecture — and a perfect place to take wide-angle shots without the usual crowds, especially if you visit before 9 AM.

Voice Search Tip: Where to take sunrise photos in Bologna? → Try Piazza Maggiore at dawn.

📍 Location: Piazza Maggiore, Bologna city center

Palazzo d’Accursio – Bologna’s Most Instagrammable Historic Building

Right on the western side of Piazza Maggiore, Palazzo d’Accursio (also known as the Town Hall) surprised me with how much there is to photograph in one place. From the stately façade with medieval coats of arms to the elegant inner courtyards and the grand staircase, every corner here tells a story.

Inside, don’t miss the Farnese Hall and Municipal Art Collections (free entrance at times). The ceiling frescoes, especially in the hallways, are some of the most stunning indoor photo spots in Bologna. This is where you’ll also find one of the most beautiful staircases in Bologna, bathed in natural light — perfect for minimalist shots.

Want great photos and skip the crowds? Go on a weekday morning.

📍 Location: Piazza Maggiore, west side
🎟️ Entry: Free (some areas), check current hours on Bologna’s municipal site

📏 Medieval Units of Measurement – Bologna’s Historic Market Standards

Ever wondered how merchants in medieval Bologna measured goods? On the wall of Palazzo d’Accursio, just a few steps from Fontana del Nettuno, you’ll find a fascinating relic: the original 13th-century units of measurement carved into the façade. These stone engravings were the city’s official standards during the weekly markets held in Piazza Maggiore, ensuring no merchant could cheat you on fabric, grain, or bricks.

I walked right past them the first time — they’re low on the wall and easy to miss. Look closely and you’ll spot the “piede bolognese” (Bolognese foot) and other ancient units etched into marble. It’s one of those hidden photo spots in Bologna most people overlook, but it adds so much depth to a historic walk.

Voice search tip: Where to see medieval measurement standards in Bologna? → Look at the wall of Palazzo d’Accursio, near Neptune Fountain.

📍 Location: Palazzo d’Accursio, Piazza Maggiore

🦅 The Two Eagles – Is This a Michelangelo Sculpture in Bologna?

Right beneath the window above the medieval measures, you’ll spot two sculpted eagles — and they come with a story. According to local lore, the eagle on the left may be an early work by Michelangelo Buonarroti. The eagle on the right, attributed to Niccolò dell’Arca, didn’t get quite the same acclaim. Locals joked it looked more like a pigeon than an eagle — and honestly, I kind of see what they mean.

Both attributions are still debated, but it’s a great example of how Bologna blends myth, history, and a touch of humor into its public art. Don’t just photograph them — stop and really look. It’s a great photo spot for art lovers in Bologna and an unexpected find right on the street.

📍 Location: Palazzo d’Accursio façade, near the Fountain of Neptune

Salaborsa Library, Bologna: Where Architecture Meets History

If you’re exploring Piazza Maggiore and want to see one of Bologna’s most unique photo spots, step into the Salaborsa Library, located inside Palazzo d’Accursio. I was genuinely surprised by how stunning the library’s central hall is—a grand space with ornate ceilings, arched balconies, and glass floors revealing ancient ruins below.

You can enter the library, just be mindful that it’s a quiet zone used for studying and research.

Voice search tip: “What is the beautiful library near Piazza Maggiore in Bologna?” → Salaborsa Library inside Palazzo d’Accursio.

Ancient Roman Ruins Beneath Salaborsa

One of Bologna’s best hidden gems is beneath your feet. Inside Salaborsa, I followed the signposted route—just turn left at the main entrance, take the right staircase down, and you’ll find a door leading to the archaeological excavations. You can walk above Roman wells, cisterns, and building foundations on glass floors.
Entry is free, but a small donation helps support the site.

💡Pro tip for photographers: The contrast of ancient ruins under modern architecture makes this one of the most unexpected and Instagrammable spots in Bologna.

Palazzo d’Accursio Courtyard: Quiet, Cool, and Photogenic

Tucked inside Palazzo d’Accursio is a shaded stone courtyard that feels like a pause button on the city’s buzz. I sat on one of the cool marble benches and watched people pass under archways drenched in warm light. It’s a simple spot, but the geometry of the arches and shadows offers some great framing for photos.

16th-Century Horse Staircase

After the courtyard, turn right and you’ll find the elegantly curved staircase built wide enough for horse-drawn carriages. This 16th-century architectural feature was one of the most unique things I stumbled across in Bologna. It’s quiet, dramatic, and made for a moody vertical shot.

Sala Farnese: A Baroque Treasure Above the Square

At the top of the carriage staircase lies Sala Farnese, a Baroque masterpiece. The frescoed ceiling here is jaw-dropping—I must’ve spent 15 minutes staring at it. If you’re into art, architecture, or history, this is a must-see.

Clock Tower of Bologna: Best View of Piazza Maggiore

Want one of the best panoramic views in Bologna? Take the staircase from Sala Farnese to the Clock Tower (Torre dell’Orologio). From the top, you get an unbeatable view over Piazza Maggiore and Bologna’s historic rooftops. The mechanical clock added in the 15th century still ticks over the square.

💡Entrance ticket tip: The 8 EUR ticket includes both the Clock Tower and the Municipal Art Collections, so plan at least an hour to explore.

Palazzo del Podestà: Hidden Details in Plain Sight

Right across from San Petronio Basilica is the Palazzo del Podestà, one of Bologna’s most photogenic medieval buildings. Its unique charm lies in the over 7,000 decorative tiles carved into the columns and arches. They feature everything from coats of arms and floral patterns to mythical creatures.

Fun fact: Locals say two of the tiles are identical, but no one’s found them yet. Challenge accepted?

Palazzo Re Enzo – A Medieval Facade Worth Photographing

You can’t miss Palazzo Re Enzo when walking across Piazza Maggiore. Built in the 13th century, this medieval palace stands out with its imposing brick exterior and arched windows. While general access inside is usually restricted, the exterior alone is a must-shoot for lovers of Gothic architecture and symmetry.

Voice search tip: “Can you visit Palazzo Re Enzo in Bologna?” → Only during special exhibitions or events.

📍 Location: Piazza Maggiore

Lampione dei Neonati – Bologna’s Baby Lantern

One of Bologna’s most overlooked photo details is the Lampione dei Neonati. Look for it on the Via Rizzoli corner of Palazzo Re Enzo. Legend has it that the lantern was supposed to light up every time a baby was born in Bologna. Whether it ever worked that way is a mystery, but it remains one of the most charming and symbolic architectural elements in the city.

📍 Location: Palazzo Re Enzo, Piazza Maggiore

Fountain of Neptune – Symbol of Papal Power

One of the most iconic photo spots in Bologna is the Fontana del Nettuno. Built in the 16th century, this Renaissance masterpiece features Neptune towering over four angels, symbolizing the major rivers of the known world at the time: the Danube, Nile, Amazon, and Ganges. The statue represents the Pope’s worldly power, much like Neptune’s rule over the seas.

Voice search tip: “What does the Neptune Fountain in Bologna represent?”→ It symbolizes the Pope’s power over the world, just as Neptune rules the seas. The four angels at the base represent the Danube, Nile, Amazon, and Ganges—major rivers of the known continents in the 16th century.

📍 Location: Piazza del Nettuno

Basilica di San Petronio – Gothic Grandeur in the Heart of Bologna

Facing Piazza Maggiore, Basilica di San Petronio is the sixth-largest church in Italy. Its unfinished brick-and-marble facade and cavernous interior with 22 side chapels offer endless photography opportunities. The light streaming in through the high windows shifts throughout the day, creating dramatic contrasts that are perfect for wide shots or detail captures.

🎟️ Entrance: Free 📍 Location: Piazza Maggiore

World’s Longest Sundial – Inside San Petronio

Inside the basilica, look down to find the longest indoor sundial in the world. Designed by astronomer Domenico Cassini in the 17th century, the line spans 66.6 meters across the marble floor. If you’re into scientific landmarks or historical astronomy, this one is unmissable.

📍 Location: Basilica di San Petronio, Piazza Maggiore

Oldest Working Organ in the World

Another reason San Petronio is a record-breaker: it houses the oldest functioning pipe organ in the world, built in the 15th century. The organ is still played during concerts and special events. If you’re a music or architecture lover, it’s worth checking schedules in advance.

📍 Location: Basilica di San Petronio, Piazza Maggiore

The Two Towers of Bologna (Due Torri)

The Torre degli Asinelli and the leaning Torre Garisenda are Bologna’s most iconic landmarks. Originally built for defense and prestige in the 12th century, only Torre Asinelli is open to climb. I recommend booking your ticket in advance at the Bologna Welcome Tourist Office in Piazza Maggiore to reserve your time slot (5 EUR).

Climbing the 498 wooden steps to the top is no joke, but the panoramic views over Bologna’s red rooftops from nearly 100 meters up are absolutely worth it.

📍 Location: Piazza di Porta Ravegnana

Palazzo della Mercanzia – Bologna’s Gothic Commercial Hub

Located on the edge of the Quadrilatero, Palazzo della Mercanzia is a Gothic-style building from the 14th century that once housed the city’s Chamber of Commerce. Its pointed arches, sculpted columns, and coat-of-arms carvings make it one of the best architectural photo stops in Bologna.

📍 Location: Piazza della Mercanzia, 4

Archiginnasio of Bologna – One of the Oldest University Buildings in the World

If you’re looking for historic photo spots in Bologna, don’t miss the Archiginnasio, located just behind Piazza Maggiore.

Built in the 16th century, it was the main building of the University of Bologna, the oldest university in the Western world, founded in the 11th century.

I was blown away by the interior courtyard—every inch is covered in frescoes, coats of arms, and Latin inscriptions.

🎟️ Admission: Free 📍 Location: Piazza Galvani, 1

Teatro Anatomico – The Anatomical Theater of Bologna

Tucked inside the Archiginnasio is the Teatro Anatomico, a 17th-century lecture hall made entirely of carved wood. It was used for medical dissections and teaching anatomy. At the center is a white marble dissection table, surrounded by rows of benches and statues of famous physicians and anatomical figures. This is one of the most unusual and atmospheric interiors in Bologna.

🎟️ Admission: €3 📍 Location: Piazza Galvani, 1

Porticoes of Bologna – UNESCO World Heritage Arches

You don’t have to look for the porticoes of Bologna—they’re everywhere. With nearly 62 kilometers of covered walkways (40 km in the city center), they offer a unique architectural rhythm to the city. Twelve portico sections are part of the UNESCO World Heritage list, chosen for their reflection of Bologna’s social, architectural, and academic history.

The porticoes date back to the Middle Ages and evolved as Bologna’s population and university expanded. They provided shelter for pedestrians, created extra living space, and turned streets into open-air living rooms. My favorites? The wooden portico of Casa Isolani on Strada Maggiore and the columnless beccadelli arches behind Palazzo d’Accursio.

Voice search tip: “Where can I find Bologna’s UNESCO porticoes?” → All over the historic center, especially Via Zamboni, Strada Maggiore, and the Portico di San Luca.

📍 Location: Throughout central Bologna; San Luca Portico extends outside the city walls

Sanctuary of the Madonna di San Luca – Panoramic Viewpoint Over Bologna

Want one of the best panoramic views of Bologna? Head up to the Sanctuary of the Madonna di San Luca, perched on a hill just outside the city. You can walk the entire Portico di San Luca, a covered arcade with 666 arches that stretches 3.8 km from the city gate to the top. I’ve done this walk—it’s peaceful, scenic, and perfect for capturing the sweeping views of the countryside.

🎟️ Entry: Free to the Basilica; Dome access: donation (€5), Crypt: €3 📍 Location: Via di San Luca, 36

Former Jewish Ghetto – Bologna’s Hidden Historic Quarter

Explore the narrow alleyways of the former Jewish Ghetto, a compact area full of character between Via dell’Inferno and Via de’ Giudei. Today, the area is filled with artisan shops, bookstores, and quiet courtyards. It’s ideal for candid street photography and discovering the hidden side of Bologna.

📍 Location: Via dell’Inferno and surrounding streets

Basilica of San Domenico – Sculptural and Spiritual Legacy

The Basilica di San Domenico is one of Bologna’s richest churches artistically and spiritually. Inside the Chapel of San Domenico, you’ll find the saint’s remains resting in the Arca di San Domenico, adorned with sculptures by Nicola Pisano, Alfonso Lombardi, and a young Michelangelo.

One of Michelangelo’s early works, believed to be a prototype for his David, which can be seen in the Accademia Gallery in Florence, is tucked behind the ark—don’t miss it.

To find the young Michelangelo’s David, enter the Chapel of San Domenico, on the right side of the Basilica. Walk behind the Arca di San Domenico. The sculpture to the right is said to be the prototype of David.

🎟️ Entrance: Free 📍 Location: Piazza di San Domenico, 13

Piazza Santo Stefano – The Seven Churches of Bologna

Known as the “Sette Chiese” (Seven Churches), the Santo Stefano complex is a labyrinth of interconnected religious buildings, crypts, and courtyards. Although only four of the original seven structures remain, the site still retains its medieval atmosphere. The standout is the Church of the Holy Sepulchre, built on the foundations of a 5th-century temple to Isis.

🎟️ Entrance: Free 📍 Location: Piazza Santo Stefano

Canals of Bologna – The Hidden Venice (La Piccola Venezia)

Most visitors don’t expect to find canals in Bologna, but tucked behind Via Piella, you’ll get a glimpse of what locals call “La Piccola Venezia” or Little Venice. The narrow stretch of water framed by colorful facades and reflections of old buildings is one of the most unexpected and photogenic Bologna photo spots. It’s a small area, but it packs a lot of charm, especially for detail and reflection shots.

📍 Location: Via Piella, 5

La Finestrella di Via Piella – One of Bologna’s 7 Secrets

At Via Piella 16, look for a tiny window cut into a stucco wall—this is La Finestrella, the “little window” with a view straight onto the hidden canal. It’s part of Bologna’s lesser-known legends and one of its famous Seven Secrets. You’d easily walk right past it, but I recommend coming at night. The light is magical, the canal quiet, and the scene feels pulled straight from a storybook.

💡Pro tip: For the best night photo of Bologna, bring a tripod and head to La Finestrella around blue hour.

📍 Location: Via Piella, 16

Narrow Streets & Medieval Alleys – Bologna’s Urban Maze

If you want to capture authentic Bologna street scenes, head into the maze of medieval alleys. These narrow cobbled lanes wind through centuries-old buildings, perfect for street photography, especially in the early evening when the light is golden and the locals are out for a stroll. Strada Maggiore, Via del Pratello, and the area around Via Clavature are especially photogenic.

Voice search tip: “Where to take street photos in Bologna?” → Try the alleys around Strada Maggiore and Via del Pratello.

Quadrilatero Market – The Tastiest Place to Photograph Bologna

Bologna isn’t nicknamed “la grassa” (the fat) for nothing. For a feast of color, texture, and food culture, head to the Quadrilatero, Bologna’s ancient market quarter nestled between Piazza Maggiore and the Two Towers.

The streets here are packed with stalls selling fresh pasta, Parmigiano, prosciutto, local wine, seafood, and handmade sweets.

It’s more than just a market—it’s where generations of families have sold food for centuries. I loved photographing the vibrant displays and grabbing lunch on the go.

If you’re into food photography or want to understand Bologna’s culinary soul, Quadrilatero is a must.

📍 Location: Streets between Piazza Maggiore and the Two Towers

Libreria Nanni – Bologna’s Oldest Bookshop

In the heart of Quadrilatero, you’ll find Libreria Nanni, one of the oldest bookstores in Bologna. The shop’s classic wooden interior and nostalgic charm make it a cozy, quiet escape from the bustle of the market streets. It’s a great place to capture Bologna’s literary history and grab a souvenir book.

📍 Location: Via de’ Musei, 8

Santuario di Santa Maria della Vita – Baroque Hidden Gem

A few steps from the main Quadrilatero market lanes, Santa Maria della Vita offers one of Bologna’s most powerful art scenes. After entering the church, climb the stairs to the small oratory above. There you’ll find “Death of the Virgin”, a stunning terracotta sculpture group by Alfonso Lombardi, surrounded by gilded carvings and ceiling frescoes. It’s one of those places that’s both spiritually and visually striking.

🎟️ Entrance fee: €6 📍 Location: Via Clavature, 8/10

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Ready to discover all these photo spots by yourself? Click on the map to find the perfect accommodation for your Bologna trip

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📸 Final Thoughts: Bologna Is a Dream for Photographers and Travelers Alike

If you love photography, Bologna is one of the easiest places in Italy to fall in love with. When I visited, I didn’t expect so many free things to do — from the sweeping views at Piazza Maggiore to wandering the porticoes of Via Farini and stumbling on colorful markets and medieval towers. And yes, it’s all ridiculously photogenic.

What stood out most? The fact that many of Bologna’s top attractions are free, rare for an Italian city. I found myself constantly pulling out my camera: one moment I was snapping the Two Towers, the next I was catching golden light under the porticos or grabbing shots of locals buying fresh tortellini.

If you’re heading to Bologna soon, bring extra memory cards and wear comfy shoes — trust me, you’ll be stopping every few minutes for a shot.

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