Overview
The Fountain of Neptune, or Fontana del Nettuno, is a magnificent Renaissance fountain located in the heart of Bologna. It was designed by the architect Tommaso Laurenti and completed in 1566. The fountain features a statue of Neptune, the Roman god of the sea, standing atop a chariot pulled by two sea horses.
The fountain is a significant example of Renaissance art and architecture, and it is a symbol of Bologna's rich cultural heritage. It is also a popular gathering spot and a popular subject for photographers.
Location
Address
Piazza del Nettuno, Bologna, Emilia-Romagna
Neighborhood: Bologna Centro Storico
Coordinates
44.494050, 11.341420
Visiting Information
Opening Hours
Admission
Best Time to Visit
Overall Best Period
April-June, September-October
Best Time of Day
Early morning or late afternoon
Fewer crowds and better lighting for photographs
Duration Recommendations
Seasonal Highlights
spring
Mild to warm
- • Blooming flowers in nearby gardens
- • Outdoor cafes opening
summer
Hot and sunny
- • Long daylight hours
- • Outdoor concerts and events
autumn
Cool and crisp
- • Fall colors
- • Harvest season
winter
Cold and damp
- • Holiday lights
- • Christmas markets
Know Before You Go
Essential Information
- No tickets required to view the fountain from the outside
- The fountain is open 24/7
- Early morning visits are best for photography
What to Bring
essential
recommended
seasonal
not allowed
Health & Safety
Physical Requirements: Low
- • Beware of pickpockets in crowded areas
- • Watch your step on wet cobblestones
Medical facilities: Nearby pharmacies and hospitals available
Payment Information
Accepted
Cash, Credit/Debit cards
Currency
Euro (EUR)
Typical Costs
Dress Code
Casual, Comfortable walking shoes, weather-appropriate clothing, Comfortable shoes for walking on cobblestone streets, Swimwear, Revealing clothing that may offend locals
Booking Tips
- • Not required for viewing the fountain, but recommended for nearby attractions
- • Official tourist website or trusted third-party platforms
- • Varies by attraction or tour
- • Available for nearby attractions, such as museums
Amenities
Digital Services
Mobile App
Bologna Welcome
Size: 50 MB
Features: Interactive map, Attraction information, Event calendar, Audio guides
Platforms: iOS, Android
WiFi Zones: Nearby cafes and restaurants, Some public areas
Charging Stations: Available in some cafes and shops
How to Reach
From Airport
Nearest: Bologna Guglielmo Marconi Airport (BLQ)
Distance: 6 km
Travel Time: 20-30 minutes
From City Center
Distance: 1-2 km (depending on starting point)
Local Insights
Cultural Context
Why Locals Love It: The fountain is a symbol of Bologna's rich history and cultural heritage, and it is a popular gathering spot for locals and visitors alike.
Historical Significance: The fountain was commissioned by the Pope to celebrate the end of a drought and has been a prominent feature of Bologna's Piazza del Nettuno ever since.
Insider Tips
- The best gelato in the area can be found at Gelateria Gianni
- Visit the fountain early in the morning to avoid crowds and enjoy the peaceful atmosphere
- The nearby Mercato di Mezzo is a great place to try local specialties, such as mortadella and tortellini.
Local Recommendations
- • Try a local Bolognese dish at a nearby trattoria
- • Ask for recommendations from friendly locals
- • Visit the Mercato di Mezzo for local specialties
Language Help
Useful Phrases
Guide Languages: Italian, English, French, Spanish
Photography Guide
Best Photo Spots
In front of the fountain
Best Time: Golden hour (just after sunrise or before sunset)
Tips: Low angle to capture the fountain's grandeur, or from the side to include the surrounding architecture
Result: Stunning photographs with beautiful lighting
Photography Rules
Nearby Attractions
Piazza Maggiore
Distance: 100m
Walking: 2 min
Type: Historical Site
Basilica di San Petronio
Distance: 150m
Walking: 3 min
Type: Religious Site
Palazzo d'Accursio
Distance: 200m
Walking: 4 min
Type: Historical Site
Archiginnasio
Distance: 300m
Walking: 6 min
Type: Historical Site/Museum
Mercato di Mezzo
Distance: 400m
Walking: 8 min
Type: Market
Reviews
Based on 5,000 reviews
Recent Visitor Tips
- "Visit early in the morning for the best photographs"
- "Try the local specialties at the nearby Mercato di Mezzo"
- "Be aware of pickpockets in crowded areas"
Contact Information
Related Tours & Activities (1)
Quick Info
Available Tours
30
Rating
4.7 / 5.0
Reviews
5,000
Adult Entry
Free (for viewing the fountain from the outside)