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alessio.vallero, CC BY 2.0
Last update: 12 Oct 2026
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San Petronio Summary
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| Public website: | www.basilicadisanpetronio.org |
Italy – Quick facts
| Power Grid: |
230 V, 50 Hz Plug: Type C , Type F
Type C:
  Read about power adapters |
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| Currency: |
Euro (EUR) £1 ≈ €1.19 |
| Cashless info: |
Rating 5/5
Cashless payments are widely accepted in Italy, particularly in cities. While larger establishments and chains are fully cashless, smaller shops may still prefer cash.
Save with a travel credit card |
| eSIM providers: |
Best value: Saily Flexibility: Airalo Read our in-depth comparison |
| Tipping: | Tipping is customary in Italy, especially in restaurants where 10-15% is typical. Tipping for taxi drivers is usually rounded up or 5-10%. Small tips for hotel staff are also appreciated. |
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| Public drinking: | Public drinking is allowed in Italy, especially in public squares and during festivals. In some regions, it is illegal to drink alcohol in certain areas like public transport or near schools. |
| Public smoking: | Smoking is banned in indoor public spaces and on public transport. Designated smoking areas are available outside. |
| Ferragosto (August) |
Many businesses close, and Italians take holidays. It’s very busy in tourist areas. |
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| Christmas (December) |
Christmas markets and festivities are popular, expect higher prices and crowded attractions. |
| La Befana (January) |
Celebrated on January 6, the Epiphany is a public holiday with festive events, and some businesses close. |
| Emergency contact: | Emergency Number: 112 (Police, Fire, Ambulance) |
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| Taxi apps: | Uber, Free Now, ItTaxi |
| Other: | Italy's tourist infrastructure is well-developed, but some rural or historical areas may require extra planning for accessibility. |
Best times to travel
The best times to travel section shows how the months compare for a visit, so you can find the time of year that fits what you want to do.
Background colours of the months:
The colour shows the typical temperature: yellow (hot), green (mild) and blue (cold). How strong the colour is shows the travel season: full colour means high season, soft colour means shoulder season and soft-striped means off season.
Weather symbols:
Each month has one symbol showing what the weather is typically like, such as hot and sunny, freezing or a rainy or snowy season. Use them to quickly spot months that match the weather you want, or to avoid the ones that don't.
Crowdedness:
The people icon shows how busy the place usually is. The more people, the more crowded it gets.
Additional notes:
The grey info boxes point out special things worth knowing, like recurring weather issues or seasonal events.
for San Petronio, Italy
Entry free, covered shoulders and knees required; closed to visitors during services
Christmas market and lights on and around Piazza Maggiore from late November to early January
Don't miss
- ☀️ Walk the longest meridian line in a church
- 🎨 Admire Renaissance frescoes in the Chapel of the Magi
- 🌇 Climb to the rooftop for panoramic Piazza Maggiore views
You've been here?
Log in to manage your own bucket list! San Petronio Basilica is one of the largest Gothic churches in Italy, started in 1390 and still famed for its unfinished façade which lends a unique character. The basilica holds great cultural and spiritual significance as the home of Bologna’s patron saint. Its interior features 22 chapels richly decorated with frescoes and sculptures, including the extraordinary Meridian Line, an astronomical instrument that marks time and seasons.
The Cappella dei Re Magi showcases captivating frescoes of biblical scenes by Giovanni da Modena, while the bell tower, standing 62 meters tall, offers panoramic views of Bologna for those willing to climb its stairs. The basilica’s blend of art, history and science makes it a compelling stop.
While entry to the main basilica is free, some areas like the chapels and bell tower require tickets. Visitors should be aware of modest dress codes due to the church’s religious nature. The basilica can get busy during religious holidays and weekends, so planning visits during off-peak times is recommended.
San Petronio remains an essential stop to grasp Bologna’s heritage, providing a serene and inspiring atmosphere in the city’s bustling center.
Knowledge before you go
- Entry free but donations appreciated; modest dress required.
- Visit terrace via elevator for stunning Bologna rooftop panoramic views.
- Admire world's longest sundial on floor, measuring meridian precisely.
- Unfinished Gothic façade reflects rivalry with Vatican over planned size.
How to travel to San Petronio
San Petronio is located in the heart of Bologna and is easily accessible on foot from Bologna Centrale train station and by local buses. Bologna Guglielmo Marconi Airport offers flights from major European cities and taxis or buses can bring visitors into the city center.
Access summary
- From Bologna Airport (BLQ): Marconi Express to center, then walk/bus, 25–40 minutes.
- From Bologna Centrale Station: Bus to Piazza Maggiore or 20-minute walk through center.
- From Florence: High-speed train to Bologna Centrale (~40 minutes), then bus/walk to Piazza Maggiore.
Check your route from anywhere
Where to stay near San Petronio
Bologna offers a variety of accommodation options near Piazza Maggiore, from upscale hotels with historic charm to cozy guesthouses, providing easy access to San Petronio and other central attractions.
Hotel recommendations
*by rating and popularity. Commissions have no influence on the rankings.
Packing recommendations for San Petronio
Log in to add this place to a travel list and get a summary of all recommended items for your whole trip.
📷
Camera
👟
Comfortable walking shoes
🧣
Shawl or headscarf
🧕
Modest clothing covering shoulders and knees
for religious sites
🧶
Light jumper
🔋
Power bank
📱
Travel eSIM
🔌
Universal travel adaptor
💳
Credit card with no foreign transaction fees
Budget snapshot
Costs compared to home
We calculate the average costs when travelling to destinations and compare those with the living costs at your home. With this you can get an estimate of how expensive or cheap the destination is for you.
To customise this, you can set up which location and price level are used for the calculations in your account settings.
Daily expenses in the region are around 18% lower than the average across United States. That means you'll spend considerably less on meals and getting around.
Exchange rate trend
The exchange rate price factor shows how expensive or cheap a currency currently is compared to its historical average. It's a quick way to see if a country is currently more or less affordable due to exchange rate changes.
Your exchange rate (GBP to EUR) is 3% better than in recent years. That means travelling now costs around the same compared to the past.
Safety information overview
General safety
San Petronio in Ravenna enjoys a very low crime rate typical of small Italian towns. Visitors rarely encounter theft or violent incidents; pickpocketing is uncommon outside crowded markets. Standard precautions – keep valuables secure and stay aware of surroundings – ensure a safe, pleasant visit.
Accessibility
San Petronio in Ravenna offers limited accessibility: a few ramps and accessible restrooms, but narrow stairways and uneven flooring hinder wheelchair users. The historic façade is beautiful, yet visitors with mobility issues should plan ahead for assistance and consider guided tours.
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