Palazzo d'Accursio - a large building with a clock on the top of it
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Palazzo d'Accursio

4.7
·2k reviews·Bologna, Italy

Historic town hall with a clock tower offering panoramic views and a rich art museum, all in the heart of Bologna.

Highlights

Highlights

Must-see attractions

Social content

Social

From TikTok & Reddit

Best Time

Weekday Mornings

Fewer crowds, better photos

CrowdLow
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Palazzo d'Accursio - a large building with a clock on the top of it

Palazzo d'Accursio

Best Time

Weekday Mornings

Fewer crowds, better photos

CrowdLow
Highlights

Highlights

Must-see attractions

Historic town hall with a clock tower offering panoramic views and a rich art museum, all in the heart of Bologna.

4.7
(2k reviews)

"Amazing view of Bologna from the top would definitely recommend."

Vertical photo
TIP

🎟️ Combo Ticket is Key

Buy the €10 tower ticket; it includes museum access. Strict timed entry for the tower, so book ahead!

✨ Free Courtyard Views

Access amazing Piazza Maggiore views from the courtyard without a ticket! Look for stairs on the right.

Third hero image

Highlights

Discover the most iconic attractions and experiences

Clock Tower Ascent

Clock Tower Ascent

Clock Tower

Climb to the top for panoramic views of Piazza Maggiore and Bologna's rooftops. A must-do for any visitor!

Art Museum Collection

Art Museum Collection

Art Museum

Discover a remarkable collection of paintings, sculptures, and historical artifacts. A treasure trove for art lovers.

Piazza Maggiore Vista

Piazza Maggiore Vista

Clock Tower Summit

Gaze down upon the vibrant heart of Bologna from an unparalleled vantage point. The iconic piazza unfolds below.

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Planning Your Visit

Clock Tower Views & Ticket Bundles

Ascend the clock tower for breathtaking Bologna views! Many visitors recommend purchasing a combined ticket for the tower and museum to maximize your experience and save money. Be mindful of timed entry for the tower.

Explore Beyond the Tower

While the clock tower is a highlight, don't overlook the Palazzo Comunale's impressive art collections. The museum houses a rich array of paintings, sculptures, and artifacts, offering a deeper dive into Bologna's history.

Best Times

When
Weekday Mornings
Why
Fewer crowds, better photos
Crowd
Low
When
Late Afternoon
Why
Golden hour light
Crowd
Medium

Insider Tips

from TikTok, Instagram & Reddit

✨Vuoi scoprire una vista pazzesca di 📍Piazza Maggiore dall’alto Gratis?✨ Ti basterà entrare nel cortile di 📍Palazzo d’Accursio, anche noto come Palazzo Comunale. 🍃Qui dovrai attraversare il cortile ed arrivare in fondo a destra, sotto il porticato. Qui alla tua sinistra troverai delle scale che dovrai salire fino ad arrivare al secondo piano! 🙌 Arrivat* a destinazione troverai una grande sala dall...
@bolognesediadozione
1.3K likes • 51.8K views

🎟️ Combo Ticket is Key

Buy the €10 tower ticket; it includes museum access. Strict timed entry for the tower, so book ahead! Reddit

✨ Free Courtyard Views

Access amazing Piazza Maggiore views from the courtyard without a ticket! Look for stairs on the right. TikTok

🚶‍♀️ Explore the Museum

Don't skip the art museum! It's included with your tower ticket and has a fantastic collection. Reddit

☁️ Rainy Day Views

Even on a rainy day, the tower offers great town views. Weather won't stop the experience! Reddit

Tips

from all over the internet

🎟️ Combo Ticket is Key

Buy the €10 tower ticket; it includes museum access. Strict timed entry for the tower, so book ahead! Reddit

✨ Free Courtyard Views

Access amazing Piazza Maggiore views from the courtyard without a ticket! Look for stairs on the right. TikTok

🚶‍♀️ Explore the Museum

Don't skip the art museum! It's included with your tower ticket and has a fantastic collection. Reddit

☁️ Rainy Day Views

Even on a rainy day, the tower offers great town views. Weather won't stop the experience! Reddit

🎧 Informative Audio Guide

The free audio guide for the tower is informative, though sometimes descriptions can be lengthy. Reddit

What Travellers Say

4.7
(2k reviews)

Reviews Summary

Visitors consistently praise the spectacular views from the Clock Tower and the impressive art collection within the museum. The value of the combined ticket is frequently highlighted, making it a highly recommended experience. Some find the ticketing details slightly confusing, and the audio guide can be lengthy, but these are minor points against an otherwise excellent visit.

"This visit is so much more than you bargained for. Brilliant tour of the clock tower and various art galleries and the palace.
Amazing view of Bologna from the top would definitely recommend."

Carolyn Jenkinson

"Excellent art exhibition and tour of the clock tower. Spectacular views from the top. Don't miss the art exhibition too as it is included with the ticket!"

Angel Samson

"Visited the clock tower and the ticket let us visit the museum. The clock has amazing architecture behind it and when you watch all the components move.

Went to the top on a rainy day. Get to see in all directions of the town. Wasn’t able to see in the distance due to the weather. Ticket was reasonably priced and we purchased it before we visited."

Sarit Shah

What People Like

Spectacular city views
Impressive art collection
Great ticket value

What People Dislike

Confusing ticket details
Lengthy audio guide

Frequently Asked Questions

🚇 🗺️ Getting There

Palazzo d'Accursio is centrally located in Piazza Maggiore, making it easily accessible on foot from most parts of Bologna's historic center. If arriving by public transport, numerous bus lines stop near Piazza Maggiore. TikTok

Parking in the immediate vicinity of Piazza Maggiore is restricted. It's best to use public parking garages located a short walk away, such as the Garage Europa or Parking Staveco. Reddit

Yes, it's a pleasant walk of about 15-20 minutes from Bologna Centrale train station to Palazzo d'Accursio. Follow the main streets towards the city center. Reddit

Absolutely! Many bus routes stop directly at or very near Piazza Maggiore, which is where Palazzo d'Accursio is located. Check local bus schedules for the most convenient routes. TikTok

The most iconic approach is through Piazza Maggiore, offering a grand first impression. You can also enter via the internal courtyards. TikTok

🎫 🎫 Tickets & Entry

Entry to the public spaces and courtyards is free. However, to access the Clock Tower and the Art Museum, a combined ticket is required, typically costing around €10. Reddit

Yes, it's highly recommended to book your Clock Tower tickets in advance, especially during peak season, as they have strict timed entry slots. Reddit

The standard ticket usually includes access to the Clock Tower climb and the Palazzo d'Accursio's art museum, which features a significant collection of paintings and artifacts. Reddit

Yes, you can freely explore the beautiful internal courtyards of Palazzo d'Accursio, and some visitors report finding great views of Piazza Maggiore from these areas without a ticket. TikTok

Opening hours can vary, but generally, the public spaces are accessible during the day. The Clock Tower and Museum have specific operating hours, so it's best to check the official website before your visit. Reddit

🎫 🧭 Onsite Experience

Inside, you'll find the stunning Art Museum with its impressive collection of paintings, sculptures, and historical artifacts. The Clock Tower offers a unique climb with rewarding views. Reddit

The climb involves numerous stairs and can be strenuous for some. It's a rewarding experience, but be prepared for a good workout. Reddit

While there's a free audio guide for the Clock Tower, dedicated guided tours for the museum might be available. It's advisable to check for current offerings. Reddit

The museum boasts a diverse collection, including Renaissance paintings, medieval artifacts, sculptures, and historical objects, offering a comprehensive look at Bologna's artistic heritage. Reddit

Photography is generally allowed in most public areas and the museum, but check for any specific restrictions, especially for flash photography or in certain exhibition rooms. TikTok

📸 📸 Photography

The summit of the Clock Tower offers unparalleled panoramic views of Piazza Maggiore and the city. The internal courtyards also provide beautiful architectural shots. TikTokReddit

Late afternoon often provides beautiful golden hour light over the city. Weekday mornings can offer fewer crowds for unobstructed shots. Reddit

Yes, the intricate clock mechanism is a fascinating subject. Be sure to capture its complexity when you visit the tower. Reddit

While generally permitted, always be mindful of signage regarding flash photography or specific exhibits where photography might be prohibited. TikTok

Expect stunning wide-angle shots of Piazza Maggiore, the surrounding terracotta rooftops, and the distant hills of Bologna. TikTokReddit

For Different Travelers

Tailored advice for your travel style

👨‍👩‍👧 Families with Kids

Palazzo d'Accursio offers a fun and educational experience for families. The climb up the Clock Tower can be an exciting adventure for older children, providing a sense of accomplishment and amazing views. The museum, with its diverse collection of art and artifacts, can spark curiosity in younger minds, though it might require some engaging storytelling to keep them interested. Reddit

Tip: Consider the timed entry for the tower carefully, ensuring it aligns with your children's energy levels. The free courtyard access is a great way for kids to explore and burn off energy before or after a ticketed visit. Pack snacks and water, as the climb can be tiring.

💰 Budget Travelers

Palazzo d'Accursio is surprisingly budget-friendly. The most significant cost is the combined ticket for the Clock Tower and Museum, typically around €10. This offers substantial value, covering two major attractions. Reddit

Pro-tip: Take advantage of the free access to the palace's beautiful courtyards. These areas offer stunning architectural views and a great sense of the palace's grandeur without spending a euro. It's a fantastic way to experience a part of the Palazzo d'Accursio for free. TikTok

📸 Photography Enthusiasts

For photographers, Palazzo d'Accursio is a dream. The Clock Tower summit provides unparalleled opportunities for panoramic cityscapes, capturing the essence of Bologna's rooftops and Piazza Maggiore. The intricate details of the clock mechanism itself are also a unique photographic subject. TikTokReddit

Best Shots: Aim for the late afternoon golden hour for warm, dramatic lighting. The internal courtyards offer excellent opportunities for architectural photography with interesting light and shadow play. Don't forget to capture the vibrant life of Piazza Maggiore from above.

Deep Dives

In-depth insights and expert knowledge

The Clock Tower: A Climb to Remember

The ascent up Palazzo d'Accursio's Clock Tower is a highlight for many visitors. This climb offers not just a physical challenge but also a journey through the tower's history and mechanics. The views from the top are consistently praised, providing a breathtaking panorama of Piazza Maggiore and the sprawling cityscape of Bologna. It's an experience that truly puts the city into perspective. TikTokReddit

Visitors often mention the timed entry system for the tower, emphasizing the importance of booking tickets in advance to secure a preferred slot. While the climb involves many stairs, the reward of seeing Bologna spread out below, especially during the golden hour, makes it well worth the effort. The free audio guide, though sometimes lengthy, adds an informative layer to the experience, detailing the tower's history and function. Reddit

Remember to check the weather before your visit, as visibility can be affected on foggy or rainy days. However, even with less-than-ideal conditions, the unique perspective from the tower remains a memorable part of visiting Palazzo d'Accursio. Reddit

Palazzo d'Accursio's Art Museum: A Hidden Gem

Beyond the iconic Clock Tower, Palazzo d'Accursio houses a surprisingly rich and well-preserved art museum. This collection offers a deep dive into Bologna's artistic heritage, featuring a diverse array of paintings, sculptures, artifacts, and antiques. Many visitors express delight at discovering this extensive collection, often included with their tower ticket, finding it to be a significant part of their visit. Reddit

The museum's contents are meticulously displayed across various rooms, making for an engaging exploration. From Renaissance masterpieces to historical busts, the sheer volume and quality of the works ensure there's something to captivate every art enthusiast. The preservation of these pieces is commendable, allowing visitors to appreciate them in their full glory. Reddit

For those interested in art history or simply seeking a more comprehensive cultural experience, dedicating time to the Palazzo d'Accursio museum is highly recommended. It transforms a visit to the town hall into a journey through centuries of art and history. Reddit

Navigating Tickets and Access

Understanding the ticketing system for Palazzo d'Accursio can initially seem confusing, but a clear strategy can simplify the process. The most common advice from visitors is to opt for the combined ticket that includes access to both the Clock Tower and the Art Museum. This is often priced around €10 and represents excellent value. Reddit

Crucially, the Clock Tower operates on a strict timed entry system. This means booking your tickets in advance online or at the ticket office for a specific time slot is essential to avoid disappointment. Arriving precisely for your booked slot is also advised. Reddit

It's also worth noting that the internal courtyards of Palazzo d'Accursio offer impressive views of Piazza Maggiore and can be accessed freely. While not a substitute for the tower's height, these areas provide a beautiful introduction to the palace and its surroundings without requiring a ticket. TikTok

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