Palazzo Comunale
1 / 10

Palazzo Comunale

4.6
·132 reviews·Modena, Italy

Historic Palazzo Comunale in Modena, offering free entry, stunning interiors, and panoramic views of Piazza Maggiore.

Highlights

Highlights

Must-see attractions

Social content

Social

From TikTok & Reddit

Best Time

Weekday mornings

Fewer crowds, peaceful exploration

CrowdLow
Loading map...
Palazzo Comunale

Palazzo Comunale

Best Time

Weekday mornings

Fewer crowds, peaceful exploration

CrowdLow
Highlights

Highlights

Must-see attractions

Historic Palazzo Comunale in Modena, offering free entry, stunning interiors, and panoramic views of Piazza Maggiore.

4.6
(132 reviews)

"Worth a visit, even half an hour is enough. Entrance is free and the rooms are very beautiful."

Vertical photo
TIP

🎯 Free Entry, Book Ahead!

Entry is free, but booking is recommended during high season to avoid queues.

📸 Amazing City Views

Climb up for incredible, free panoramic views of Piazza Maggiore.

Third hero image

Highlights

Discover the most iconic attractions and experiences

Panoramic Views

Panoramic Views

Upper floors of Palazzo Comunale

Ascend to discover breathtaking, free views of Piazza Maggiore and Modena's skyline.

Ancient Decorations

Ancient Decorations

Interior rooms

Marvel at 17th-century ceilings, tapestries, and historical furnishings in this impressive palazzo.

Piazza Maggiore & Stone of Shame

Piazza Maggiore & Stone of Shame

Outside Palazzo Comunale

Experience the vibrant main square and the intriguing 'stone of shame' or 'herring stone'.

Your AI travel agent

Plans like a pro.
Thinks like you

Start Chatting

Planning Your Visit

Timing Your Visit to Palazzo Comunale

While entry is free, booking ahead is wise during peak times to avoid crowds. Consider visiting on weekdays to experience the ancient decorations and tapestries with fewer people. Check opening days for specific attractions like the vinegar factory, as hours can vary.

Exploring Modena's Heart

Palazzo Comunale is central to Modena's charm, offering a glimpse into its history. Combine your visit with exploring the adjacent Piazza Maggiore and its famous stone of shame. Don't miss the chance for panoramic views from within the palace.

Best Times

When
Weekday mornings
Why
Fewer crowds, peaceful exploration
Crowd
Low
When
Sunday afternoons
Why
Guided tours available
Crowd
Medium

Insider Tips

from TikTok, Instagram & Reddit

A #Modena ci siete mai stati? Ecco qualche curiosità per voi da parte @Columbus 😄 | #inEmiliaRomagna #ArtCities #VisitModena #perte #fyp #tiktoktravel
@inemiliaromagna
2K likes • 96.8K views

🎯 Free Entry, Book Ahead!

Entry is free, but booking is recommended during high season to avoid queues. Reddit

📸 Amazing City Views

Climb up for incredible, free panoramic views of Piazza Maggiore. TikTok

✨ Descubre la magia de Módena, una joya escondida en el corazón de Emilia-Romaña. Desde su impresionante Catedral Románica (Patrimonio de la Humanidad) hasta sus sabores únicos como el vinagre balsámico tradicional, esta ciudad italiana lo tiene todo: arte, historia y gastronomía de primer nivel. 🚗 Además, es la cuna de Ferrari y otras leyendas automovilísticas. ¡Una parada obligatoria para amante...
@raulairfly
1.5K likes • 26.3K views
Bolle til 10 kr! Søndag 12. oktober fra kl. 12–17 får du ferske boller hos Palazzo Comunale for kun 10 kr. Vis at du følger oss på Instagram for å få tilbudet. Førstemann til mølla – vi baker så lenge deigen rekker! #palazzocomunale #oslo
palazzo.comunale
98 likes • 89K views

🏛️ Guided Tour Value

Consider the €5 guided tour on Sundays for detailed insights. Reddit

📍 Central Location

Perfectly situated in Modena's heart, easy to combine with other sights. TikTok

🏰 Quali segreti nasconde il Palazzo Comunale di Rho? Il Sindaco @andreaorlandisindaco si improvvisa guida turistica per farne scoprire alcuni. Se volete conoscerli tutti, non resta che visitare l'edificio che dal 1931 si affaccia su Piazza Visconti. Le occasioni non mancano: nel prossimo week end, le visite legate a Ville Aperte sono sold out, ma si può ancora aderire agli spettacoli proposti ...
comune_rho_official
156 likes • 4.3K views

Tips

from all over the internet

🎯 Free Entry, Book Ahead!

Entry is free, but booking is recommended during high season to avoid queues. Reddit

📸 Amazing City Views

Climb up for incredible, free panoramic views of Piazza Maggiore. TikTok

🏛️ Guided Tour Value

Consider the €5 guided tour on Sundays for detailed insights. Reddit

📍 Central Location

Perfectly situated in Modena's heart, easy to combine with other sights. TikTok

⏳ Check Factory Hours

Vinegar factory hours vary; check ahead if this is a priority. Reddit

What Travellers Say

4.6
(132 reviews)

Reviews Summary

Visitors praise Palazzo Comunale for its free entry, beautiful ancient decorations, and stunning panoramic views of Piazza Maggiore. The central location and historical significance are frequently highlighted as major draws. Some visitors note that the associated vinegar factory may have inconsistent opening hours.

"Free visit possible for this palazzo comunale but there might be affluence during high season, so booking in advance is better. 3-4 rooms to visit, furnished and ancient decoration (ceilings from XVIIth c, tapestries etc). Worth a tour."

G M

"Love the cobblestone piazza!"

pts pts

"Very nice architecture."

axl mor

What People Like

Free entry
Beautiful interiors
Panoramic views

What People Dislike

Inconsistent factory hours

Frequently Asked Questions

🚇 🗺️ Getting There

Palazzo Comunale is centrally located in Modena, Italy, directly on Piazza Maggiore. It's easily accessible on foot if you're already in the city center. Public transport options can take you close to the piazza, and it's a key landmark in Modena's historic heart. TikTok

Parking in Modena's historic center can be challenging. It's best to use public parking garages located a short walk from Piazza Maggiore. Consider parking at the Novi Park or the Ex-Area Mercato, then walking to the Palazzo. TikTok

Yes, Modena has a bus system that serves the city center. Several bus lines stop near Piazza Maggiore, making it convenient to reach Palazzo Comunale via public transport. Check local bus routes for the most direct options. TikTok

The Palazzo Comunale is about a 15-20 minute walk from the Modena train station. It's a pleasant stroll through the city center, allowing you to see more of Modena along the way. TikTok

The best way to explore the area around Palazzo Comunale is on foot. Piazza Maggiore and the surrounding streets are best experienced by walking, allowing you to soak in the atmosphere and discover hidden gems. TikTok

🎫 🎫 Tickets & Entry

Entry to Palazzo Comunale is generally free, making it an accessible attraction. However, during peak tourist seasons, booking in advance is recommended to secure your spot and avoid potential queues. Reddit

While entry is free, booking in advance is advised, especially during high season, to guarantee entry and avoid long waits. This is a common tip for popular free attractions. Reddit

Opening hours can vary, and it's best to check the official website or local listings before your visit. Some sources suggest specific days for guided tours, like Sundays. Reddit

Yes, guided tours are often available, particularly on Sundays for a small fee (around €5 per person). These tours offer valuable insights into the palace's history and art. Reddit

The vinegar factory's opening schedule can be inconsistent. Some visitors have reported it being closed, while others mention it reopens on specific days like Friday, Saturday, and Sunday. It's crucial to check its operating status beforehand. Reddit

📸 📸 Photography

The most iconic photo spot is from within the palace's courtyard, looking out over Piazza Maggiore for stunning panoramic views. The interior rooms with their ancient decorations also offer beautiful photographic opportunities. TikTok

Photography is generally allowed inside Palazzo Comunale, but it's always a good idea to check for any specific restrictions in certain rooms or during special exhibitions. Be mindful of other visitors. TikTok

For the best light and fewer crowds, consider visiting in the morning. The golden hour light can also be beautiful for exterior shots of the piazza and palace. TikTok

Drone photography is typically restricted in historic city centers and around public buildings due to privacy and safety regulations. It's best to avoid using drones in this area. TikTok

The 'stone of shame' (or 'stone of herring') is a historical stone in front of the Palazzo Comunale, once used for public punishments. It's an interesting historical marker and can make for a unique photo. Reddit

🎫 🏛️ Onsite Experience

Inside Palazzo Comunale, you can explore several rooms featuring ancient decorations, including 17th-century ceilings and tapestries. The palace offers a glimpse into Modena's historical governance and art. Reddit

A quick visit can take as little as half an hour to see the main rooms and enjoy the views. If you opt for a guided tour or wish to linger, allow 1-2 hours. Reddit

Information on accessibility can vary. While the main piazza is accessible, upper floors with historical features might have limitations. It's advisable to contact the venue directly for specific accessibility details. TikTok

The Stone of Shame, located in front of the Palazzo Comunale, was historically used for public punishments and as a place for debtors to sit. It's a fascinating piece of local history. Reddit

Restroom facilities are usually available in public buildings like Palazzo Comunale. It's best to inquire upon arrival or look for signage within the building. TikTok

🍽️ 🍽️ Food & Dining

Yes, Palazzo Comunale is located in the heart of Modena, surrounded by numerous restaurants, cafes, and trattorias offering local Emilian cuisine. You'll find plenty of options for lunch or dinner nearby. TikTok

Modena is famous for its traditional balsamic vinegar, tortellini, tagliatelle al ragù, and gnocco fritto. Many restaurants around Palazzo Comunale will serve these regional specialties. TikTok

Typically, there are no restaurants or cafes directly inside Palazzo Comunale itself. However, the surrounding Piazza Maggiore and adjacent streets are filled with dining establishments. TikTok

Modena's culinary scene is evolving, and you can find vegetarian options in most restaurants. Vegan options might require more specific searching, but many places can accommodate dietary needs if informed. TikTok

The Instagram reel mentioning 'Palazzo Comunale' with 'Bolle til 10 kr!' refers to a location in Oslo, Norway, likely a bakery or cafe, and is unrelated to the Palazzo Comunale in Modena, Italy. Instagram

For Different Travelers

Tailored advice for your travel style

👨‍👩‍👧 Families with Kids

Families visiting Palazzo Comunale can enjoy the free entry and the impressive architecture that might capture children's imaginations. The open space of Piazza Maggiore is perfect for kids to run around safely. While the historical interiors might be less engaging for very young children, the panoramic views from the upper floors can be a fun highlight. TikTok

Consider bringing snacks and drinks, as dedicated family facilities might be limited. The nearby restaurants offer kid-friendly options, and the overall experience of being in a historic Italian piazza is a memorable one. Checking for any special family-oriented events or tours could also enhance the visit. TikTok

💰 Budget Travelers

Palazzo Comunale is a fantastic option for budget travelers as entry is free. This allows you to experience a significant historical and cultural site without any cost. The panoramic views from the upper levels are also a free bonus, offering great value. TikTokReddit

To keep costs down, pack your own snacks and water. Instead of dining at upscale restaurants, explore local bakeries or markets for affordable and delicious Modenese treats. The city center is very walkable, saving on transportation costs. TikTok

couples

For couples, Palazzo Comunale offers a romantic setting, especially when combined with a stroll through the charming Piazza Maggiore. The panoramic views from the upper floors provide a perfect backdrop for shared moments and photos. TikTok

Consider visiting during the late afternoon or early evening when the piazza is lively but less crowded, or opt for a Sunday guided tour for a more intimate experience. Enjoying a traditional Modenese dinner at one of the many restaurants surrounding the piazza after your visit can cap off a perfect day. TikTok

Deep Dives

In-depth insights and expert knowledge

The Architectural Gem of Modena

The Palazzo Comunale in Modena, also known as Palazzo d'Accursio, stands as a testament to the city's rich history and architectural evolution. Its origins trace back to the 11th century, though it has undergone numerous transformations over the centuries. The building's imposing facade and its integration with the vibrant Piazza Maggiore make it a central landmark. Visitors can admire its ancient decorations, including stunning 17th-century ceilings and intricate tapestries, offering a glimpse into the grandeur of past eras. TikTokReddit

The palace's significance extends beyond its aesthetics; it has historically served as the seat of civic government. Exploring its halls provides insight into Modena's administrative past. For those seeking a broader perspective, the upper levels offer panoramic views of the bustling piazza and the surrounding cityscape, a feature frequently highlighted by visitors. TikTok

While the main palace is free to enter, some specific attractions within or associated with it, like the traditional balsamic vinegar factory, may have separate hours or require advance booking. Always check local listings for the most up-to-date information to make the most of your visit. Reddit

Experiencing Modena's Gastronomic Heritage

Modena is globally renowned as a culinary capital, and its gastronomic heritage is deeply intertwined with landmarks like the Palazzo Comunale. The city is the birthplace of traditional balsamic vinegar, a delicacy with strict production rules and a protected designation of origin. While the vinegar factory associated with the Palazzo may have variable opening hours, experiencing authentic Modena means seeking out this rich, complex flavor. Reddit

Beyond balsamic vinegar, Modena's cuisine is celebrated for its fresh pasta dishes, such as tortellini and tagliatelle al ragù, often prepared with locally sourced ingredients. Visitors can savor these delights in the numerous trattorias and restaurants surrounding Piazza Maggiore. The vibrant atmosphere of the piazza, with the Palazzo Comunale as its backdrop, enhances the dining experience. TikTok

When planning your visit, consider that some culinary experiences, like tours of balsamic vinegar producers, might require advance reservations. Exploring the local markets and food shops near the Palazzo Comunale can also offer a delicious introduction to Modena's famed produce and specialties. TikTok

You may also like