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5 villages to visit near Bologna

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By now you already know the best things to do and see in Bologna and now you want to dedicate yourself to the beauties that are in its vicinity? Here we have what’s right for you!

A short distance from the capital of Emilia you can visit five unmissable medieval villages . We are sure you will enjoy discovering these places that you will realize are precious pieces of your journey.

Turn into explorers and enter with us through the narrow streets of these charming villages.

The 5 most beautiful villages to see near Bologna

The city is dotted with small hidden gems in its vicinity, ancient fortresses , fairytale landscapes within natural parks . So we decided to talk to you about the beauty and uniqueness that we consider the 5 most beautiful villages to visit near the city Felsinea .

1. Visit Dozza, the open-air art gallery

Dozza is a small village castled on a hill where stands the impressive Rocca Sforzesca . The village has just 1000 inhabitants if you do not consider the characters imprinted on the walls of the city that animate the streets, they are the true soul of the city.

In fact Dozza is a real open-air art gallery , there are more than a hundred paintings made on houses and shops that will accompany you through the paths of this fascinating jewel. It all started with the Biennale del Muro Dipinto which, thanks to the participation of hundreds of contemporary artists, has transformed Dozza’s houses into so many works of art since the 1960s.

The Biennale takes place during the first days of September, in odd years, and on these occasions it is possible to see the artists at work with their murals.

After having fully enjoyed the beauty of the streets it is certainly worth stopping at the Rocca Sforzesca , site of medieval origin. Here is also a small art gallery where you will find works in time detached from the walls for conservation needs as well as several sketches, do not miss the visit to the towers and prisons. Wine lovers will be pleased to know that the Rocca is also home to the Regional Enoteca , so we suggest you finish your tour with a good glass from the surrounding vineyards.

To visit this village means to get lost in the streets and live a surreal experience to try at least once in your life.

2. Brisighella and the three guardians

The only approach to the medieval village of Brisighella will transport you back in time, immediately appear imposing the three rocky pinnacles, called three hills, which overlook the small town, each with its own “ guardian ” to watch over it.

One of them is the Rocca Manfrediana located on the second of the three pinnacles, built in 1300 by the Manfredi family , lords of Faenza , and passed over the years also in the hands of Cesare Borgia and the Venetians undergoing various modifications and extensions.

The visit to the fortress is really suggestive, inside there are several educational paths with narrating voice and music that will lead you during your exploration. But it is in the walk on the walkways of the fortress that time stops and you just have to admire the village from above .

If you want to be accompanied by ladies, knights, artisans and late medieval soldiers, we suggest you make your visit in June, the month in which the fortress turns into an enchanted castle with detailed historical re-enactments .

Starting from the Rocca you can enjoy a beautiful landscape surrounded by beautiful vineyards and walking until you reach another Guardian : The Clock Tower . The tower was born as a fortress and was built by the commander and politician Maghinardo Pagani Da Susinana in 1290, initially had a defensive function, in 1850 it was completely rebuilt. On this occasion the clock was added, which has the distinction of having only six hours in its dial.

The third guardian is the Sanctuary of the Madonna Del Conticino , surrounded by cypress trees, it contains inside an image of the Madonna of 1626.

It’s time to get to the heart of the city. Piazza Marconi immediately strikes for the small houses that surround it. These stand out for their bright pastel colors but also keep a secret , to understand it is enough to approach. Spill out from the arch-shaped windows that overlook the square, inside them you will see the ancient covered and elevated road called Via degli Asini .

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The road was built in the fourteenth century with defensive purposes and then was later covered and incorporated by surrounding homes and used mainly by birocciai and their donkeys for the transport of gypsum, coming from the quarries near the city, the road takes its name from these animals. For the adventurous peoples it is important to know that Brisighella is located in the  Parco Regionale della vena del Gesso. Here you can have awesome excursions and not far from the Brisighella there are fascinating caves that can be visited.

3. La Scola, from watchtower to secret village

The enchanting medieval village of Scola dates back to the fourteenth century and is one of the best preserved of the Bolognese Apennines . Visiting it feels immediately transported to another era and seems to have reached a secret place. The name of this small town tells us a lot about its history, in fact it would seem to indicate a watchtower and this is precisely the purpose with which it was born, the position made it a great defensive bulwark . By the Comanicini Masters , towers and other defensive buildings were transformed into dwellings over time.

We suggest to get lost in the streets of the village and go hunting for the various symbols left by these famous builders and artists on the walls of the houses. To make this hunt even more enjoyable there are the various arches on the way, the doors and windows decorated with coats of arms , pergolas and many other architectural features.

A building not to be missed during the visit is the Oratory of San Rocco built in 1481 with blocks of sandstone, a real rarity. Also worth mentioning is the fourteenth-century Casa Parisi , which belonged to the family that owned the village until 1700, a period in which the sundial with which the façade of the building was embellished dates back to. Right here now stands a small museum dedicated to the territory and rural life .

This enchanted city is guarded by a centennial cypress that has become a real monument of the town.

4. The tiny village of San Pietro

The tiny village of San Pietro , immediately striking for its small size, is located on the edge of the beautiful Parco Regionale dei Gessi Bolognese . San Pietro, like other medieval villages in the area, was born with strategic and defensive functions, the Castle of Uggiano was a proof, it is a pity now it is only possible to imagine its greatness. Nothing remains of the castle except an important witness: the Tower (XII century) used as a bell tower and recently renovated. The importance of the tower can also be understood from the fact that in 1881 it became a municipal coat of arms meaning that it was therefore considered a symbol of the city .

Another building from the Middle Ages left to tell us about the history of this tiny village is the Church of San Pietro which enclosed the walls of the castle together with the church of San Lorenzo , now disappeared. The facade of the church was redone in 1929. The last witnesses of the ancient village are the two fountains that rise not far from the church, called Fontane Delle Armi .

Who at the end of the visit was hungry should not be afraid, the village in fact houses an old tavern where you can enjoy excellent Bologne food .

5. Monteveglio Antica, the impregnable stronghold and its abbey

In the past, Monteveglio was considered one of the most important strongholds in the area , the tower and the abbey that rise to the top of the hill where the city is located bring to mind an era of clashes and sieges. Here is the ancient part of the city, the jewel that we recommend you visit.

on the top of the hill, at the entrance we can see the embattled arched door and the castle tower which are what remains of the original fortress. It was here that Matilde Di Canossa succeeded in resisting Emperor Henry IV thanks to the impregnable stronghold. Inside the tower there is now an interesting documentation center on the history of the territory.

Continuing along the cobbled street we meet historic buildings up to the ancient Abbey of Santa Maria . The imposing Romanesque building was built by Matilde di Canossa to celebrate her victory, which dates back to the 12th century. The abbey stands on the ruins of an even older site where you can see the traces by visiting the beautiful crypt where there is a holy water font from the Longobard era .

We suggest you close the exploration with the fifteenth-century cloister with double loggia, one of the two cloisters of the church, unfortunately the oldest remain only ruins.

For those who love getting lost in nature it is important to point out that the village is located in the regional park called precisely the Abbazia di Monteveglio , so it is a duty to take one of the many suggested trails and go to the discovery of the fascinating protected area.

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Day Trips from Bologna: 8 of the Best Places to Visit near Bologna, Italy

The underrated city of Bologna in the northern Italian region of Emilia Romagna is rising in popularity. But until recently, it always sat in the shadow of its tourist-magnet neighbours, including Florence, Rome, Venice and Milan.

Not only is Bologna the true home of some of the best food in Italy, such as tagliatelle al Ragù, lasagne and mortadella ham, but it is also an excellent base for exploring the region. This is mostly thanks to the efficient train network. Some of the best day trips from Bologna include Modena, home of Ferrari and Lamborghini and the Traditional Balsamic Vinegar. Or Reggio Emilia, famed for Parmigiano Reggiano (aka Parmesan cheese) and Ravenna , known for its UNESCO World Heritage Sites.

There’s an endless list of charming destinations in Emilia Romagna to visit as day trips, but here are my favourites.

So let’s jump in!

Day trips from Bologna: Travelling by train

All of these day trips are based on using the highly efficient train network in northern Italy. Bologna Centrale station is conveniently located at the heart of the north-south route and the east-west route.

Trains are cheap, regular and comfortable on Italy’s high-speed train network.

You can either book trains on the day, or join a tour with a local guide who will handle all the logistics and transportation.

How to buy train tickets

At Bologna Centrale station, head to the main ticket hall. You can either queue and pay at a counter, using the ticketed line system. Or you can use one of the machines, all of which have the option to select English instructions. The machines are very straight forward to use, and accept both card payments and cash.

You must validate your train tickets before boarding a train. They are easy to buy at the small machines on the platform.

Generally, the day trips from Bologna in this guide, will be fine to book on the day. If it is the height of summer, then perhaps book one day before for ease.

Trains leave to all these destinations multiple times an hour in summer months. However, to guarantee a seat on to the destinations further afield, i would definitely book in advance.

When you get your ticket, make sure to double check which platform the train departs from. Confusingly, there are east and west platforms with the same number. The best way is to check the boards for the exact train number, instead of the destination.

Where to stay in Bologna?

Bologna’s train station is around a 25-30 minute walk from Piazza Maggiore at the heart of the city. If you’re planning day trips from Bologna, then I recommend staying near the train station. There are a couple of great hotels nearby, including the NH Bologna de la Gare and the Mercure .

If you’d prefer to stay in the city centre, then I highly recommend staying at the Hotel Cavour . A beautiful hotel in a very central location. Other fantastic options include Art Hotel Commercianti , I Portici and Corona d’Oro .

Best day trips from Bologna – within Emilia Romagna

Famous for: Prosciutto di Parma ham and Parmigiano-Reggiono cheese

Train travel: 50 minutes / 99 km / approx. €6 each way

Parma is world-renowned for its famous export of Parma ham, locally called Prosciutto di Parma. And together with its nearby neighbour, Reggio Emilia, it also produces Parmigiano-Reggiano cheese, aka parmesan. Both of these are certified DOP (designated origin of protection), so this is an essential day trip for all foodies .

Parma offers the chance to learn about the production, as well as plenty of opportunities to sample the produce. The city also earned the title of UNESCO Creative City for Gastronomy in 2015.

The town itself is also charming, and in 2020 is actually Italy’s Capital of Culture. Parma’s best known attractions include the medieval Piazza Duomo, the Cathedral, the Teatro Farnese, and the famous octagonal baptistry. You could also plan to attend the opera at Teatro Regio.

I recommend joining a morning walking tour, such as this one . Following this, you can browse the markets and sample some of the local wines, such as the fizzy Lambrusco. In the afternoon, visit the production factories for Parmigiano-Reggiano cheese and Parma ham. But note you must join a tour to visit these. The factories are generally closed to public-viewing, except for tours. Here is an excellent tour taking in both factories .

The production factories are generally still family-run, so you’re likely to be following a family member for the tour. You can learn the history behind the production, as well as the storage of the cheese and the curing of the ham. It was fascinating, plus it finished with delicious tastings!

Famous for: Fast cars! As well as Traditional Balsamic Vinegar, the chef, Massimo Bottura and the singer Pavarotti

Train travel: 32 minutes / 50 km / approx. €4 each way

Modena is a fantastic day trip, offering a wide variety of attractions to appeal to everyone. And of course, it is the birthplace of two very famous Italians, Enzo Ferrari and Luciano Pavarotti. This tour here takes in the best of the city, including local food tastings.

Some of Modena’s most famous exports are its supercars. Ferrari, Lamborghini, Maserati and Pagani all originate from Modena, and are still designed and built here. Whether or not you’re a petrol head, the car museums and production factories are fascinating.

I highly recommend visiting the Enzo Ferrari Museum, where you can learn about the history of the car. Unfortunately, Ferrari’s production line is closed to the public (unless you are a Ferrari owner). But you can visit Lamborghini’s incredible factory on a guided tour.

Note: All phones, cameras and personal belongings must be put in a locker before entering the production line.

You can also arrange a visit to nearby Maranello to take a Ferrari test drive tour on the track. This is a true a once-in-a-lifetime experience! To get to Maranello, you can take a quick taxi from Modena. Or you can join a tour such as this one , which will include transport.

As well as being the home of the supercar, Modena is also famous for its production of Traditional Balsamic Vinegar. One of the best things to do in Modena is to visit one of the famous family cellars. Here you can learn how and why they produce the world-famous sweet Balsamic Vinegar.

Finally, if you enjoy fine dining, make sure to visit Osteria Francescana. You will need to save up and book WELL in advance for lunch or dinner here. Winning the award for the World’s Number 1 Restaurant for several years running is no mean feat. The restaurant is owned by Massima Bottura who is world-renowned for serving some of the very best food in the world.

Modena’s picturesque city centre is also worth visiting, with the UNESCO World Heritage Piazza Grande at the centre. Spend an hour wandering the pretty cobbled streets, and make sure to visit the Mercato Albinelli food market. This tour here is an excellent 2-hour walking tour of the city with an English-speaking guide.

Famous for: The prominent Este family, and its Renaissance architecture

Train travel: 35 minutes / 48 km / approx. €5 each way

Ferrara, in the east of the region, was designated as a UNESCO World Heritage Site in 1995 for its art and culture.

The Este family ruled this town for centuries, living in the imposing 14th century Este Castle in the centre. You can head inside on a tour to view the lavish rooms, and wander or cycle alongside the moat outside.

To fully appreciate the history, I recommend joining an insightful tour with a local such as this one . Or this tour here which includes travel from Bologna too.

Famous for: Being the capital of the Western Roman Empire in the 5th century, for the early Byzantine mosaics, and as the final resting place for Dante.

Train travel: 1hr10 minutes / 84 km / approx. €7 each way

Ravenna is famous for its dazzling collection of early Christian churches and Byzantine mosaics. The city is a must-visit for all lovers of art history!

Some of Ravenna’s basilicas or mausoleums look quite unassuming from the outside. But inside they are adorned with intricate mosaics, all of which are magnificently preserved.

Three key attractions not to miss are the Basilica San Vitale, the Basilica di Sant’Apollinare and the Galla Placidia Mausoleum. A combination ticket grants you access to these and several other sites and costs €9.50. I highly recommend joining a guided walking tour to fully appreciate these sites.

Ravenna is also the final resting place of the poet Dante Alighieri. I recommend visiting his tomb in the heart of town to learn about the fascinating history.

The city is also adjacent to a glorious stretch of beach at Marina di Ravenna, so you could also make a beach day too.

Make sure to read my detailed guide on the best things to do in Ravenna here .

Famous for: Being a popular Italian beachside town, as well as the home of the famous filmmaker Federico Fellini

Train travel: 1hr30 / 121 km / approx. €8 each way

This iconic beach resort on the Adriatic Sea is much loved by Italians. But there’s so much more than the nine mile stretch of golden sand. Rimini is the birthplace of world-renowned Italian filmmaker Federico Fellini. His most well- known films are La Dolce Vita, Amarcord and 8 /12.

He was born in the city and many of his films draw inspiration from his childhood and life here. His favourite hotel was the Grand Hotel Rimini, which is well worth a visit. He also frequented many other areas, including the Cinema Fulgor.

There are also countless Roman ruins, museums and historical sites peppered throughout Rimini. Make sure to also visit the charming neighbourhood of Borgo san Giuliano. This colourful district dated back to the 11th century, and is awash with quirky street art and family-run trattorias. I recommend joining a walking tour here to make the most of your time in Rimini.

Best day trips from Bologna – further afield

These day trips are a little further afield, but definitely worth considering if you want to explore the neighbouring regions of Lombardy and Veneto.

Famous for: Its global influence in fashion and design, as well its stunning Duomo Cathedral. It is also home to The Last Supper, by Leonardo di Vinci.

Train travel: 1hr30 / 201 km / approx. €10 each way

A global powerhouse in the world of fashion and design, Milan has one of the world’s most iconic fashion weeks. Brands such as Dolce & Gabbana, Armani, Missoni, Moschino, Prada and Versace all started in Milan.

It’s also packed with historical and cultural gems, as well as financial institutions as it is the economical capital of Italy. Milan is a huge city, but the best things to do are in its centre. This small group 3-hour guided walking tour takes in the all the best sites in the city, as well da Vinci’s The Last Supper at the Convent of Santa Maria delle Grazie.

Of course, make sure to visit the city’s central square at Piazza del Duomo. It’s popular with locals and tourists alike, and is typically very busy every day of the week. It’s a hive of activity with excellent shopping streets nearby, and plenty of places to eat and drink whilst watching the world go by. Nearby is also Italy’s oldest shopping mall, the Galleria Vittori Emanuele. It has a stunning glass dome and intricating detailing and design throughout – although the stores are typically very expensive, it’s worth walking through here just to admire the architecture.

For an amazing viewpoint of the square, make sure to visit La Rinascente shopping mall just nearby. Take the lift to the top and enjoy well-priced drinks and an excellent view. There are other more expensive bars bordering the square with entry as high as £25, so I recommend visiting this roof bar instead.

There are plenty of things to do in Milan, but one lesser known place to visit is the Terme Milano QC , a city centre thermal day spa. It has two floors, with an open air pool and an indoor pool, where you can spend the day swimming and relaxing. There are countless treatment rooms, with massages starting from around €88/£78/$99 (with all day entry). Finally, it has bottomless food and drink from 7-9pm, so at (€48, £43, $54), it offers excellent value.

Make sure to also visit Lievita Pizzeria , which serves some of the best pizza in Milan at reasonable prices and best of all, no tourists!

Famous for: As the setting for the Romeo & Juliet and for the Arena di Verona, which is still in use today

Train travel: 1hr / 144 km / approx. €9 each way

Verona is a beautiful, compact city that is easy to explore and enjoy in a day trip. Once in Verona, you can of course visit the Casa di Giulietta which is one of the most popular things to do in Verona. There is the option to pay to go inside, but visiting the courtyard and seeing the balcony is free.

The Arena di Verona located in Piazza Bra in the heart of the city is magnificent and the 8th largest amphitheatre from Roman times. The opera performs here, as well as other concerts, with the amphitheatre seating nearly 22,000 people. The Arena di Verona is actually better preserved than the Colosseum in Rome, with far fewer crowds and tourists!

Other gems in Verona are based around its Centro Storico, and the beautiful piazzas, castles and towers dotted around the city. The city is best explored on foot or on bikes , and I recommend this walking tour here if you’re looking to join an English-speaking guide to explore Verona.

I highly recommend Liston12 in Piazza Bra for a delicious affordable lunch, as well as one of the best wine bars in Verona at Vini Zampiera alla Mandola.

Make sure to read my detailed guide to Verona here , covering all of the best things to do the city.

Famous for: Its canals, gondola rides, St Marks Square and its nearby islands

Train travel: 1hr46 / 153 km / approx. €9 each way

Venice, one of the most famous cities in the world and one of the most popular places to visit in Italy. Drawing tourists from across the globe, arriving in their masses by both air and cruise ships, Venice is notorious for its crowds.

That being said, it’s still an iconic city and well worth a visit. Visiting as a day trip from Bologna also means avoiding the expensive hotel prices in Venice too.

The key sites in Venice are centered around the famous Piazzo San Marco (St Mark’s Square), Saint Mark’s Basilica and the Rialto Bridge. And of course, exploring the canals. You can easily explore these on foot, which allows you to freely wander in the stores and cafes. But the most romantic thing to do in Venice is of course to enjoy a ride in a gondola, but this is rather expensive (often €70 per hour).

This self-guided discovery tour is an excellent way to explore the city, using an audio guide and a walking map. Alternately, this 2 hour small-group walking tour is another great to explore Venice.

Make sure to read my longer guide to visiting Venice here .

Places to Visit near Bologna, Italy

So there’s my guide covering the best day trips from Bologna, in the northern Italian region of Emilia Romagna. It’s really easy to explore the surrounding area around Bologna and there are endless things to do and see.

I hope this is useful but please do let me know if you have any questions!

Don’t forget to also check out my Italy guides too, which are below:

• How to spend a weekend in Venice
• Visiting Murano and Burano as a day trip from Venice 
• Best things to do in Verona
• Best things to do in Ravenna

Wanna see more? Check my Instagram  here , my Facebook  here  or my Twitter  here !

Disclaimer:  This is an independent guide to day trips from Bologna and is based on multiple visits to Bologna.  The tourism board has supported some of these visits.

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Loved this. Picked up few ideas from here. The pic with the car is stellar!

Interesting Blog. Thanks for sharing these information with us. I didn’t knew there are such amazing places to travel near Bologna. Keep up the good work.

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Towns to admire and photograph just outside Bologna

Its festive atmosphere captivates every visitor, but the surrounding area is no less fascinating.

If you have already had the chance to stay in the capital of Emilia Romagna and would like to discover the beauties to be found in its vicinity, we have just the thing for you!

This itinerary goes just outside the historical centre of Bologna and touches upon 6 towns all to be admired and (why not?) photographed for their unique qualities.

These are unmissable places with a historical medieval charm that will become precious pieces of your journey. You will visit them over 3 days , transforming into curious explorers.

It will be impossible for you to not go down the narrow streets of these picturesque sites and scrutinise every nook and cranny. This route will take you to historic fortresses and enchanting landscapes, surrounded by verdant natural parks. You will uncover real hidden gems, scattered around of the city of Bologna. It will be an experience that will thrill you, taking you back in time.

Itinerary stages

The route starts from one of the best-preserved villages in the entire Bologna area: La Scola .

Its strategic position among the Apennine mountains overlooking the valley below makes it particularly picturesque.

The settlement is small, and you will be able to capture it in a few hours using your camera or smartphone. There is plenty to photograph for those with a curious eye, from many different perspectives. A key shot is of the centenary cypress tree – a true monument of the village which guards this magical, hidden place.

We advise you to wander through the narrow streets of the village to hunt for the traces left by the famous builders who transformed the towers and defensive buildings into dwellings. You can also discover the work of local artists who decorated the walls, doors and windows of the houses with coats of arms, and embellished them with pergolas, arches and other architectural features.

40030 Vimignano-la Scola BO, Italia

• Public transport

Castel del Rio

Continuing your journey in search of sights, a stop at Castel del Rio – a mountain village in the valley of the Santerno River – is a must. You can’t fail to wonder at the dense forests and centuries-old chestnut groves that surround it. Immersed in nature, you can savour the tasty chestnuts , which are protected by the PGI label.

You will certainly find the Ponte Alidosi photogenic. Its incredible width makes it unique in the world and the humpbacked structure will impress you in all its grandeur. The bridge dates back to 1499 when it was created to facilitate trade between the two banks of the river. This centuries-old bridge has linked the banks of the Santerno for over 500 years.

40022 Castel del Rio BO, Italia

Moving towards Imola, your next stop is in Dozza . The pretty village, perched on the same hill as the majestic Rocca Sforzesca , has just 1,000 inhabitants.

Livening up the streets are the many characters depicted on the walls, giving the impression of being in a sort of museum – an open-air art gallery. In total, there are more than 100 paintings on the houses and shops. These will accompany your walk through the lanes of the small village. They were created by extraordinarily inventive artists in the 1960s who were inspired by their surroundings, using the walls of the houses as their canvas.

This varied and rich heritage has given rise to the Biennale del Muro Dipinto (Festival of the Painted Wall), now in its 28th edition – a historic painting event that will stimulate your photographer’s eye.

40060 Dozza BO, Italia

Pieve di Cento

The route continues through the plain of Bologna, along the course of the Reno River, until it reaches Pieve di Cento . Also known as “little Bologna” for its resemblance to the city, this village welcomes you to its historical centre, dating back to 1500.

The focus of your shots will undoubtedly be the long porticoes , built on the Bologna model, but also the urban layout of the Roman castrum , which has remained virtually intact, to which the 9th-century parish church was added, and medieval and Baroque-Renaissance influences were included over time. Pieve di Cento is also famous for its long musical tradition, which lives on in the Scuola di Artigianato Artistico, where crafts including the art of violin making are handed down.

40066 Pieve di Cento BO, Italia

San Giovanni in Persiceto

Your penultimate stop will be in the “Land of Saints”: San Giovanni in Persiceto .

Arriving in the centre of the plain to the northwest of Bologna , you will come across this lively town, home to Street Art that merges the traditions and history of the town with absolutely contemporary paintings on the walls of its houses.

Don’t miss the old town centre, which has retained its original concentric layout, and the highly original Piazzetta Betlemme , also known as “Piazzetta degli Inganni” (Square of Deceptions).

Here, your camera lens will have lots to do amidst the colourful trompe-l'œil paintings, an homage to cinema with scenes halfway between fantasy and reality, and home to plenty of little places to stop for an aperitif.

40017 San Giovanni in Persiceto BO, Italia

Turning towards Modena , you have now reached the final stop on our journey: Bazzano . Surrounded by countryside with geometric boundaries, you can enjoy inspiring views, alternating lush nature with historic villas and old farmhouses, evidence of a deep-rooted agricultural tradition.

In this border town, you can enjoy a stroll through the protected area of the Parco Regionale dell’Abbazia di Monteveglio , a short distance from the heart of the valley, and also visit the ancient Rocca dei Bentivoglio , which makes a fascinating backdrop for shots that will preserve for posterity the views of this town with more than a millennium of history.

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11 Best day trips from Bologna

• David Angel

The city of Bologna is one of the most beguiling in Italy, with a wonderful medieval centre and some of the best food in the world. It’s home to the classic ragù sauce that most of the world calls Bolognese, and much more besides.

Bologna is worth a few days of your time, but it’s also one of the best places to stay in northern Italy if you’re planning to use somewhere as a base to explore the region. Its location means that there are some amazing day trips from Bologna. It’s within reach of two of Italy’s ‘big three’ destinations, Venice and Florence.

Closer to home, it’s the main city in Emilia-Romagna, one of the best food regions in Italy , home to the heavenly Parmigiano Reggiano, or Parmesan, cheese, and Parma ham.

So if you can tear yourself away from the delicious food in Bologna, there’s plenty of outstanding food in Parma too, or you could take a Modena balsamic vinegar tour.

Some of the best day trips from Bologna are close to the Adriatic coast, with Ravenna and Rimini especially worthy of the time, and another country, the tiny republic of San Marino, also close by.

You can accomplish many of these day trips from Bologna by train, and venture even further by looking at tours from Bologna or car hire from Bologna.

Table of Contents

Padua – Padova in Italian – is reminiscent of Bologna in that it’s a fascinating old city with an ancient university and a large student population. It’s also home to two separate UNESCO World Heritage Sites – its 14th century fresco cycles and the 16th century Orto Botanico (Botanical Garden).

It’s one of the main cities of the Veneto region, and the Bologna to Padua train journey takes as little as an hour.

There are enough things to do in Padua  to keep you there at least two days, but you can get around the main sights on a day trip from Bologna.

You should book yourself a place on a tour of the Cappella Scrovegni, the interior of which was painted by Giotto da Bondone between 1303 and 1305, decorating it with a series of Biblical scenes.

The heart of the city is around the Palazzo della Ragione and the two squares either side – Piazza della Frutta and Piazza delle Erbe, where busy markets are held on weekdays.

These are a very short walk from the cathedral whose Baptistery has an amazing ceiling by Giusto de’ Menabuoi.

It’s also worth stopping by at the Caffe Pedrocchi for coffee or food, before joining a guided tour of the University.

Padua’s other essential sight is Il Santo, the Basilica of St Anthony of Padua, one of the most opulent and fascinating churches I’ve ever visited. Anthony was a disciple of St Francis of Assisi who was canonised just three years after his death, and his devotional cult is very powerful, 800 years after his death.

Our rating: 5/5

Getting there: An easy train journey, taking around an hour.

There are so many things to do in Venice and a day doesn’t come anywhere doing it justice, but a Bologna to Venice day trip is feasible, and you can get a taste of it in the time available. I

t’s something you could easily accomplish by yourself – the train from Bologna to Venice can take as little as an hour and a half. Otherwise there are also plenty of day tours of Venice available.

It’s surprising how much you can actually see in a day trip to Venice. After leaving Stazione Santa Lucia, head straight for the kiosks by the Grand Canal and buy a one day travel card (biglietto per un giorno), which currently costs €20.  It’s expensive, but a big saving on buying single journey tickets at a time (an exorbitant €7.50).

Then board the next available #1 vaporetto (waterbus) and travel the length of the Grand Canal, which takes 35 minutes.

If you’re travelling by yourself you’ll need to be organised if you want to avoid wasting time in long queues, but you can book ‘skip the line’ tickets to St Mark’s (San Marco) Basilica, the Campanile and the Doge’s Palace.

The area around Piazza San Marco (St Mark’s Square) is always packed with crowds. Our advice is to either catch another vaporetto (the number 2 crosses the lagoon to the beautiful church of San Giorgio Maggiore and continues to Zattere, a great place to start exploring the canals of Dorsoduro) or walk.

Our 3 day Venice itinerary feature gives you some ideas on other things to see in Venice and has some wonderful walking routes.

Getting there: A straightforward direct train, taking on average less than 90 minutes.

Modena is the best of the cities near Bologna. It’s a very short hop away by train (between 17 and 30 minutes) from Bologna to Modena. It’s one of the best destinations in Emilia-Romagna, and there are a host of things to do in Modena, with enough to keep foodies, history buffs and petrolheads very happy.

Most people know of the city because of its main food product, balsamic vinegar of Modena. Forget what you have tasted out of a bottle in a supermarket: some of the aceto balsamico tradizionale di Modena you can buy in the city and around is unrecognisable from this, far and away better.

My wife Faye bought me a bottle for my birthday and it tasted so exquisite I didn’t want to consume it. Of course, I did, eventually, savouring every beautiful drop. It’s well worth seeking out a Modena food tour where you can visit an acetaia and sample some of the older aceto balsamico .

The historic centre of Modena is another delight. The Romanesque Duomo and the later, adjacent Torre Ghirlandaia are outstanding, and are a UNESCO World Heritage Site.  The Piazza Grande is one of the most beautiful squares in Italy, with the Duomo and town hall – the Palazzo Comunale – facing it.

Modena is also one of Italy’s two main car manufacturing centres, along with Turin. Fans of the Formula 1 Ferrari marque have two museums to choose from.

The Museo Enzo Ferrari in the city centre covers the life of the company’s founder, while racing car aficionados should head for the Ferrari Museum in Maranello, 18 km (11 miles) from Modena, where you can see Ferraris from vintage models to the present day.

You can also drive in an F1 simulator along a track or enjoy a simulated pit stop.

If you’re visiting the Museum in Maranello, you can also book yourself on the Ferrari factory tour, which includes a trip to the Fiorano test track. Places on this tour are limited, as only two tours run each day, at 1230 and 1330.

Getting from Bologna to Maranello is easy, with regular buses from Modena to the town. Alternatively, it’s possible to book Ferrari tours from Bologna, which include both museums.

Getting there: Getting from Bologna to Modena by train is as easy as it gets, and there are regular buses – taking 30-40 minutes – to Maranello from there.

4. Reggio Emilia

Reggio Emilia – also sometimes called Reggio nell’Emilia – tends to get overlooked by visitors as it’s overshadowed by Modena and Parma.

It’s actually a lovely small Italian city with a beautiful old town with several fine squares and arcaded streets. Piazza Prampolini is one of the finest, and it’s the site of the city’s Duomo (cathedral).

The churches of San Prospero and Beata Vergine della Ghiara are also well worth a visit.

Interestingly, a group of Australian pre-school teachers we know visited Reggio Emilia, as it’s where an approach to child learning originated. They didn’t really get to visit anywhere else, but were blown away by the beauty of the city. It’s definitely worth a look.

Our rating – 3.5/5

Getting there : The journey by train from Bologna to Reggio Emilia is easy, between 25 and 40 minutes.

Parma, like Bologna, is one of the best destinations in Italy for food lovers. Yet there are plenty of other things to do in Parma, the home town of composer Giuseppe Verdi, with a gorgeous historic centre to explore.

The stunning pink marble Baptistery (Battistero) is one of the icons of the city, even better-known than the Duomo (Cathedral) to which it’s attached. The Piazza del Duomo is one of the most magnificent squares in Italy, the one absolute must-see in Parma.

Parma’s centro storico is fairly compact, with most sights within walking distance. The Galleria Nazionale di Parma is the city’s main art gallery, with an outstanding collection including works by Leonardo da Vinci, van Dyck and Canaletto, to name just a few.

It’s housed in the Palazzo della Pilotta, which also includes two other museums and the splendid Teatro Farnese.

It would be remiss to leave Parma without going on some sort of food tour in Parma, whether guided or self-guided. You can explore the many delis and restaurants around the city by yourself.

Otherwise, various food tours in Parma offer trips including Parmigiano Reggiano cheese tasting and Parma ham tasting, where you also get to learn about the production involved bringing these delicacies to the table.

Our Rating: 5/5

Getting there : The fast train from Bologna to Parma takes 50 minutes, with the regionale taking only 1 hour and 15 minutes, so it’s within easy reach.

Ferrara is yet another medieval gem, a city that grew around the powerful Este dynasty in the Middle Ages. Their legacy lives on in the Castello Estense, one of their main residences and one of the best things to see in Ferrara. It has an imposing exterior and the interior is a mixture of plush, opulent apartments and dingy dungeons.

Ferrara’s heyday was during the 15 th and 16 th century Renaissance period, when the likes of Michelangelo, Mantegna and Piero della Francesca worked there. The Este family amassed a magnificent art collection, an example that was later followed by their Florentine rivals, the Medici.

Much of the city was planned and built during this time, including the spectacular town walls, which became the model for others around Europe. Much of the city is a designated UNESCO World Heritage Site, which also includes the nearby Po river delta.

There are enough things to do in Ferrara to warrant a stay of a night or two, or even to use it as a base to explore the region. It also has a beautiful Romanesque cathedral and adjacent museum, as well as an excellent art gallery in the Palazzo Diamanti, another Este residence.

Our Rating: 4.5/5

Getting there : Regular trains make the short journey between Bologna and Ferrara.

The Ravenna mosaics are among the best-known religious art in the world.

The history of Ravenna is extraordinary. It grew to become the western capital of the Holy Roman Empire, which was ruled from Byzantium (Constantinople, now Istanbul), and it became very wealthy as a result.

Its collection of early Christian mosaics is the richest in the world, and collectively they are a UNESCO World Heritage Site. They are astounding – I’d go so far as to say they’re one of the top ten things to see in Italy. 

They are at six different sites around Ravenna – the Basilica of San Vitale, the Neonian and Arian Baptisteries, the Mausoleum of Galla Placidia, and the Basilicas of Sant’Apollinare Nuovo and Sant’Apollinare in Classe.

Getting there : It’s easy to get from Bologna to Ravenna by train – the slow, cheap regionale gets you there in an hour and twenty minutes.

A day trip to Rimini from Bologna also gives you a taste of something very different – a slice of Italian beach life at the country’s largest beach resort.

Family holidays to Rimini are a huge tradition in Italy. I’ve met families who’ve been coming back to the same hotel for 30 years. This Adriatic seaside resort has 9 miles (15 km) of beach, most of which is divided into numbered sections. Each bagno rents out sun loungers, umbrellas and use of facilities to visitors – some have Jacuzzis, others are more basic. There are also a few sections of free beach, including around the port.

The Bologna to Rimini train is a quick run of around an hour, and if you head out of the station in the opposite direction to the beach you’ll soon find that there are other things to do in Rimini besides soaking up the sun.

Rimini was an important Roman town, and it has some amazing sites including the 1 st century AD Arco di Augusto and the Domus del Chirurgo, the Surgeon’s House, an archaeological site that’s still revealing its ancient secrets.

Rimini is also home to an unfinished wonder of the Renaissance, the Tempio Malatestiano. The city’s grand cathedral was never completed as the nobleman who commissioned it, Sigismondo Pandolfo Malatesta, ran out of funds. But it’s still very impressive, especially the huge marble façade and the frescoes by Piero della Francesca and Giotto.

Our rating – 5/5

Getting there – direct train from Bologna to Rimini.

9. Predappio

Predappio is a small town in the Sangiovese wine region of south-east Romagna that would probably get very few visitors. The only reason it gets a small but steady stream of people is that it happens to be the birthplace of the Fascist dictator, Benito Mussolini.

Mussolini and Fascism aren’t quite as beyond the pale in Italy as Hitler is in Germany. You can walk into a souvenir shop and buy all kinds of Fascist paraphernalia and memorabilia, and you can visit his tomb in the nearby cemetery.

Visiting somewhere like this is a bizarre experience. The church where Spanish dictator Franco was until recently buried, in the Valley of the Fallen near Madrid, is similar.

It’s an alternative reality, where someone who brutally suppressed opponents and instigated laws discriminating against Jews and Africans is almost venerated. In a world where alternative facts are propagated, you need to visit somewhere like this to confront the madness.

You should also try to watch Charlie Chaplin’s first ‘talkie’, The Great Dictator , to see the hilarious lampooning of Mussolini through the character Benzoni Napaloni, the Dictator of Bacteria.

Many in Predappio are deeply uncomfortable about the association with Mussolini, and the local authorities are trying to establish a Museum of Fascism, documenting the political movement and showing its abuses, to provide a more balanced view of an era Italy has always found difficult to fully confront. This is scheduled to open in 2019.

Rating: 3.5/5

Getting there : One option is to consider car rental in Bologna, and combine it with San Marino for a day trip. Alternatively, regular trains run from Bologna to Forli, from where you can catch a bus to Predappio.

See Also: What Is Italy Famous For?

10. San Marino

The independent country of San Marino is a tiny landlocked state a few miles inland from Rimini. It’s the fifth smallest country on the planet, the only city-state in Italy to retain its independence – something it has done, remarkably, since 301 AD.

It’s a funny little place. Most visitors head for the city of San Marino, on the upper slopes of Monte Titano. The most impressive sights are the Rocca Guaita fortress and Torre Cesta tower on the precarious mountain summit.

Otherwise, you can see the ceremonial Changing of the Guard during the summer months, or go shopping in San Marino for rare postage stamps.

It’s possible to get from Bologna to San Marino and back on a day trip, though it’s at the limits of where you can realistically reach on public transport.

If you’re driving, it can be combined with Predappio on a most intriguing day out.

Our Rating: 4/5 on its own, 5/5 if combined with Predappio and nearby San Leo.

Getting there : If travelling by public transport, you need to get a train from Bologna to Rimini, which averages at a little over an hour, then an onward bus (another hour) from Rimini to San Marino.

Alternatively, if you’re driving, the A14 or SS9 run parallel to each other from the outskirts of Bologna to Rimini, and from there you take the SS72 up to San Marino.

11. Florence

A day trip to Florence is a definite option, especially if you’re just planning to visit a few locations there, such as the Accademia gallery or the Uffizi. There are too many things to see in Florence to cover in a day trip, but if you’ve missed something on a previous visit, it’s well worth considering, especially as the Bologna to Florence train takes just 34 minutes.

If this is your first time in Florence , it’s definitely worth considering Florence day tours, which would give you an overview of the city. You can also book ‘skip the line’ tours of the Accademia and Uffizi and walking tours, which include the Duomo (cathedral), Piazza della Signoria and the famous Ponte Vecchio bridge.

I’ve stayed in and close to Florence on different trips, and used day trips to Florence to see places I hadn’t had time to see on earlier visits, including the Cappelle Medicee in San Lorenzo church and the Bargello, another outstanding gallery.

Getting there – direct trains from Bologna to Florence are frequent, especially with new operators like Italo offering competition to the state railway.  The 34-minute journey is by high speed train, costing between €17-26, depending on the time you travel.  Don’t bother with regionale trains, you could end up taking four times longer (over two hours) to make the journey one way.

Best day trips from Bologna Map

David Angel is a British photographer, writer and historian. He is a European travel expert with over 30 years’ experience exploring Europe. He has a degree in History from Manchester University, and his work is regularly featured in global media including the BBC, Condé Nast Traveler, The Guardian, The Times, and The Sunday Times.  David is fluent in French and Welsh, and can also converse in Italian, German, Portuguese, Spanish, Czech and Polish.

13 Top-Rated Attractions & Places to Visit in Bologna

Written by Barbara Radcliffe Rogers Updated Dec 28, 2023 We may earn a commission from affiliate links ( )

Bologna, for all its size and importance as the capital of its province and of Emilia-Romagna, is an easy city to visit, and many visitors find it one of Italy's most appealing. Those who enjoy good food certainly do; it has the reputation as Italy's gastronomic capital.

Among Bologna's main industries are the manufacture of pasta and sausages, so be sure to try some while you're here. Along with visiting Bologna's tourist attractions, spend time absorbing the city's unique character: stroll beneath its long arcades - the famed portici, peek inside its elegant old shops, notice its architectural quirks and interesting brickwork, pause in one of the numerous cafés, and soak up some of the exuberance of its many students.

Most of its popular places to visit are within walking distance of Piazza Maggiore, and the arcaded streets make walking in Bologna pleasant in all kinds of weather. Find the best things to do in the city with our list of the top things to do in Bologna.

See also: Where to Stay in Bologna

1. Piazza Maggiore and Piazza del Nettuno

2. san petronio (basilica of st. petronius), 3. santo stefano (st. stephen basilica), 4. leaning towers, 5. sanctuary and portico of the madonna di san luca, 6. enjoy bolognese food, 7. archiginnasio anatomical theater, 8. bologna's portici, 9. san domenico (st. dominic church), 10. museo civico archeologico (archeological museum), 11. oratory of battuti, 12. basilica di san pietro, 13. pinacoteca nazionale (national gallery), where to stay in bologna for sightseeing, driving in bologna, map of attractions & things to do in bologna, bologna, italy - climate chart.

It may seem as though everyone in Bologna were meeting friends at the same time in these two adjoining squares in the heart of the city. Conversation and laughter blend with the sound of water splashing in the magnificent Neptune Fountain , which gives Piazza del Nettuno its name.

Created by Giambologna in the 16th century, it is one of the finest fountains of its period. Nearly every major attraction in the city is within a few minutes' walk, as are the most important streets - among them the busy shopping street, Via dell'Indipendenza , and Via Galleria with its many old aristocratic mansions.

Elegantly arcaded Via dell'Archiginnasio runs alongside the great Basilica of San Petronius ; its still unfinished facade dominates one side of Piazza Maggiore. On the north side is the former Palazzo del Podestà (Governors Palace) with a tower, Torre dell'Arengo , dating from 1259. Under its vaulted dome, people whispering on one side can be heard by those on the opposite corner.

When construction of the massive church that dominates one side of Piazza Maggiore began in 1390, it was designed to be even bigger than St. Peter's in Rome, but never quite made it. In fact, it was never finished, and the facade remains incomplete. In the tiny museum at the back of the church, you can see the designs that were submitted for the facade, including those by the great architect Andrea Palladio.

The interior, which was finished, is often referred to as the epitome of Gothic architecture in Italy , and each of the side chapels seems like a small church. Look for the strange line cutting across the floor of the nave; it is a meridian line.

Address: Piazza Maggiore, Bologna

While Bologna has no shortage of interesting and art-filled churches, Santo Stefano is the oldest and the most atmospheric. The complex of eight buildings could be called the cradle of faith in Bologna, built by the Benedictines between the 10th and 13th centuries to house the remains of Bologna's early martyrs, Saints Vitale and Agricola.

Chiesa del Crocifisso, the principal church, has a 12th-century external pulpit and a crypt dating to 1019; octagonal Santo Sepolcro opens onto a pillared courtyard adjoining a two-story cloister. In the simple third church, look for the capitals of various styles recycled from previous Roman and Byzantine buildings and for the 6th-century mosaic floors.

Address: Via Santo Stefano 24, Bologna

Pisa's may be more famous, but Bologna has a pair of towers that appear to tilt even more alarmingly because of their narrow shape. They are the best-known of the 20 towers that remain of the more than 100 that formed Bologna's 12th-century skyline.

Although they were necessary as both watchtowers and places of refuge in case of attack, their height also became status symbols for the noble families that built them. The 48-meter Torre Garisenda leans by more than 13 meters; you can climb the 498 steps inside Torre degli Asinelli for bird's-eye views of Bologna.

Address: Piazza di Porta Ravegnana, Bologna

The basilica stands atop a hill that commands views across the city and the Po Valley landscape, its classical interior highlighted by the striking floor of inlaid black, white, and red marble floor. The chancel is lined in equally striking variegated black and white marble.

But what distinguishes this basilica from all the others in Italy is the 3.8-kilometer covered arcade that connects the sanctuary to the city . This monumental structure is the longest portico in the world , with 666 arches, and was built between 1674 and 1793 to protect the Byzantine Madonna with Child icon in its annual procession into Bologna. The icon, said to have been painted by Saint Luke, has traveled this route to Bologna's Cathedral of San Pietro since 1433, when it was brought from a hilltop convent in the hope of a miracle to stop harvest-threatening rains.

This scenic walk, beginning at Piazza di Porta Saragozza, is a favorite - and free - thing to do in Bologna on Sundays, or you can take the San Luca Express, a tourist "train" from Piazza Maggiore. For even wider views, the San Luca Sky Experience is a panoramic terrace reached by climbing into the basilica's cupola.

Address: Via di San Luca 36, Bologna, Italy

Perhaps Bologna's greatest appeal to tourists, and the source of its fame throughout Italy, is its reputation as a culinary center. It's known for tortellini, tagliatelle, and other pastas , and its classic dish, tagliatelle al ragu, is known elsewhere simply as tagliatelle Bolognese. Cured meats are a local specialty, and this region is the home of the incomparable Parmigiano Reggiano cheese.

You can experience and savor Bologna's culinary heritage. A good place to begin is in its markets and food shops . The narrow streets of the Quadrilatero, an area between Piazza Maggiore, via Rizzoli, via Castiglione, and via Farini, has been a market since Roman times, filled with little shops and outdoor stands selling all kinds of food, from garden produce, cheese, and fish to freshly made pastas and baked goods.

Opportunities to learn from Bolognese chefs and home cooks abound, from group classes to individual lessons on forming perfect tortellini. Another thing to do is join a specialized tour led by a local foodie . These will likely include visits to food markets and a number of traditional food shops, including a bakery, chocolatier, salumeria (deli), pasta maker, and gelato shop where you can sample some of Bologna's specialties.

Once the main building of the University of Bologna, the Archiginnasio is now home to one of the most unusual places in Bologna, the classroom where medical students learned anatomy by watching as corpses were dissected. It's not this bizarre aspect that fascinates today so much as the exceptional interior and its unusual wood carving.

The highlight is Ercole Lelli's Spellati (Skinless), a life-sized wood sculpture of a man with the musculature and skeletal structure rendered in minute detail. Also in this building is the Stabat Mater lecture hall, its walls decorated with coats of arms. The University of Bologna, founded in the 11th century, is the oldest university of the Western world.

Address: Piazza Galvani 1, Bologna

Official site: http://www.archiginnasio.it/english_index.html

Visitors to Bologna can't help strolling under the portici, the arcades that line so many of its streets. They are a welcome relief from the summer sun and shelter from the rain, as well as providing extra space to shops, which often display goods under them.

They began in the 11th century as overhanging upper stories of buildings in the growing city center, adding more living and storage space over the shops and businesses on the street level. As they became larger, they needed support beams and posts, and gradually the arcades grew. In the 13th century, new arcades were required to be tall enough for a rider to pass through on horseback, a rule that led to the elegant arched arcades we see today.

These portici are one-of-a-kind, constructed at different times and in different styles, often embellished with stone carving or other decoration. In all, Bologna has about 40 kilometers of these portici , the longest of which is 3.8 kilometers and leads from the city to the hilltop Sanctuary of the Madonna di San Luca. Bologna's portici are a candidate for 2021 UNESCO World Heritage Site designation.

At the death in 1221 of Saint Dominic, in this convent of the order he founded, work began on the church that took several centuries to complete. The marble tomb that enshrines his remains is reason enough to visit, carved in minute details by the greatest artists of the day, including Michelangelo and Nicola Pisano . The church's art treasures don't end here.

The outstanding wood inlay by intarsia master fra' Damiano da Bergamo in the choir was hailed by Renaissance contemporaries as the eighth wonder of the world. Each first and second Saturday of the month, at 10.30am and 3.30pm, free guided tours are offered to the chapels, choir, Inquisition rooms, St. Dominic's cell, and other places not usually open to the public.

Address: Piazza di San Domenico 13, Bologna

Even those who normally tune out at museums of antiquities will enjoy this remarkably up-to-date display of prehistoric and Etruscan finds from the surrounding area , as well as outstanding treasures from the Celtic, Greek, Egyptian, and Roman civilizations. There are only two other museums in Italy that can match its Egyptian collection .

The 15th-century Palazzo Galvani, close to Piazza Maggiore, has been skillfully repurposed to house the collections; no dry jumble of dusty relics here, but a modern museum of brilliantly displayed artifacts.

Address: Via dell'Archiginnasio 2, Bologna

Climb the stairs to the room above the church to find one of Bologna's unsung treasures, a small oratorio decorated in Baroque paintings, frescoes, and gilded carvings. Avoid a stiff neck by taking advantage of one of the benches to stretch out and look up at the perfectly splendid ceiling.

Around the room stand a group of 15 terracotta statues, Death of the Virgin , created by Alfonso Lombardi in the early 16th century. Watch for announcements of musical programs, which are held here because of the room's excellent acoustics.

Address: Via Clavature 8, Bologna

The cathedral of San Pietro has undergone many changes since its founding in 910, including the addition of a choir by Pellegrino Tibaldi in 1575 and a nave, remodeled in the grandeur of the 17th-century Baroque style.

A door at the end of the side aisle on the left leads to a collection of artistic treasures donated over the centuries to use in religious celebrations. These include items belonging to several popes and a splendid processional cross given as recently as 1996.

Address: Via Indipendenza, Bologna

The Pinacoteca has a unique mission: to preserve and display works by artists who have lived and worked in Bologna and the Emilia-Romagna region, especially from the 13th to the early 19th centuries.

Some of the works have histories of their own, many have been rescued from churches that were closed or turned to other uses, and others have been returned to Bologna after Napoleon I carried them off to the Louvre in Paris . The museum collections include works by Raphael, Perugino, Tintoretto, and other Renaissance artists.

Address: Strada Maggiore 44, Bologna

Piazza Maggiore and Piazza del Nettuno, the Basilica, the excellent Archaeological Museum, and the pair of leaning towers that lead Bologna's list of tourist attractions are all clustered within a very short distance. Two major churches, Santo Stefano and San Domenico, are only a few blocks away, making Bologna easy to visit from any central lodging. Here are some highly rated hotels in Bologna:

Luxury Hotels :

• The gleaming Grand Hotel Majestic Gia Baglioni , adjacent to the Basilica and Piazza Maggiore, has generous, well-decorated rooms in a beautifully restored historic building.
• In the middle of the old town, just under famous medieval towers, the boutique Hotel Corona d'Oro 1890 has rooms with parquet floors, marble baths, and balconies - some with tower views.
• Just off Piazza Nettuno and handy to shopping and restaurants, Art Hotel Orologio has traditional rooms in a converted historic mansion.

Mid-Range Hotels:

• Cleverly themed rooms at Al Cappello Rosso , just off Piazza Maggiore, are all different and stocked with luxuries that include slippers, robes, and a selection of different pillows.
• With bright, attractive rooms dressed in sleek, modern decor, Metropolitan Hotel is less than a five-minute walk from Piazza Maggiore, surrounded by restaurants and shops.
• Close to the train station and within easy reach of the central attractions, NH Bologna De La Gare offers 156 soundproof rooms, including nine spacious suites on the top floor with beautiful views of the city.

Budget Hotels:

• Filling the fourth floor of a classic building just off Piazza Maggiore, Panorama Hotel has large rooms with well-maintained shared baths.
• Only a short walk from the Piazza Nettuna, Albergo Centrale Bologna is a 3-star hotel with compact but comfortable rooms in the center of the city. Breakfast is included, and the hotel is surrounded by restaurants.
• The recently restored Il Canale Hotel overlooks the river and has a rooftop terrace with views over the city. An easy walk from Piazza Maggiore, the hotel has family-sized rooms.

Like most cities in Italy, the historic center is closed to automobiles. If your hotel is within this area - called the ZTL zone - be sure to ask them where to park before your arrival. The usual procedure is that they will put your license number on the ZTL whitelist for the period of your stay, which allows you to drive to and from the hotel.

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Nearby Food Capitals: After sampling the local delicacies of Bologna, you may want to explore the Reggio-Emilia region's other food capitals. You can visit the home of the world-famous Parmigiano Reggiano cheese, and see the top attractions of Parma and its surrounding towns . On the way (a major highway connects Bologna and Parma) stop in Modena , home of the best balsamic vinegar.

Exploring the Adriatic Coast: When you are in Bologna, you are within easy reach of a city whose art treasures are unique in Italy. Ravenna is filled with magnificent Byzantine mosaics, most of them in eight buildings that have been declared a UNESCO World Heritage Site. Not far south on the Adriatic coast are Rimini's well-preserved Roman sites and beaches . For more general ideas to help plan your trip, see our article on the best places to visit in Italy .

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Home » Travel Guides » Italy » 15 Best Things to do in Bologna (Italy)

15 Best Things to do in Bologna (Italy)

Bologna serves as the capital of the Emilia-Romagna region of Northern Italy and has a current population of approximately 387,000. with a greater metropolitan population of just over 1 million inhabitants. Bologna occupies a central location in Italy and lies to the north of Florence, to the South of Venice and to the South East of Milan. Throughout history, Bologna has served as a major cultural and economical hub in Italy and has been ruled by the Etruscans, Celts and Romans respectively.

From the 18th century onwards, this city was part of the Papal States until the Napoleonic area in the 1700’s. Major economies in Bologna include the manufacturing industry, and a strong financial sector. Furthermore due to its location, the city also serves as a major transport hub. As a major university city and its long history, Bologna has a wonderful array of cultural sights, fantastic architecture and high quality museums.

Lets explore the best things to do in Bologna :

1. Piazza Maggiore

As the central square in Bologna, the Piazza Maggiore is located right in the centre of the city and serves as an important historical place.

This square is packed full with important buildings including the Pallazo d’Accursio, the Palazzo del Podesta, the Basilica di San Petronio and the Palazzo Comunale.

Furthermore to the north west of the square sits the Piazza del Nettuno that contains the famous Fountain of Neptune.

Admire the fantastic architecture, visit the palaces and basilica, or sit and enjoy a fine Italian meal at one of the restaurants nestled in the Porticos.

A fantastic vibe and atmosphere can be found at the Piazza and open air movies and concerts are sometimes held here.

2. The leaning towers of Bologna

Who would of thought that the famous tower at Pisa is not the only leaning tower? Bologna actually has a pair of leaning towers and one is taller than the iconic campanile! Bologna actually has a myriad of towers, but the two tall examples standing in the Piazza di Porta Ravegnana are the most legendary.

Asinelli and Garisenda are two tall towers that stand next to each other and are both named after important Italian families.

Asinelli stands at 97.2m and was used as a prison and a stronghold.

Garisenda stands only at 48m but has an extremely noticeable tilt and overhang of 3.2m.

Climb the towers for unparalleled views of Bologna and see the epic landscapes stretching for miles around.

3. San Petronio

This immense structure stands as the 10th largest church in the world by volume and presents a domineering presence in the centre of the Piazza Maggiore.

Dedicated to Saint Petronius who is actually the patron saint of Bologna, the church has a Gothic design and it is noted for both it sheer size and its unfinished front facade.

Originally constructed in 1388 through to 1479, the church has never been truly finished and its front facade is quite bizarre – the lower half features coloured marble stone work, whilst the top half remains bare and contains exposed brown brickwork.

Inside the church feels truly epic – The large brick columns adorned with decoration seem to stretch forever and the main altar draws your attention as you walk down the central aisle.

4. Archiginnasio

Listed as one of the most important buildings in Bologna, the Archiginnasio was once the main buildings of the University of Bologna and now houses the famous Anatomical Theatre.

This fantastic building was created in the 16th century and is located on the Piazza Galvani.

As a piece of historical architecture, the Achiginnasio is fantastic in its own right, but the Anatomical Theatre is undoubtedly the centre piece.

Created completely in wood, this small room has an immense amount of wood panelling and carved statues of famous medical practitioners.

Furthermore, in the centre of the room surrounded by seating platforms lies an ornate anatomical table.

This is the place where university students would have learnt about the human anatomy and watched dissections and demonstrations of surgery etc.

5. Bologna Archaeological Museum

A fine museum in the heart of Bologna, the Archaeological Museum offers a fantastic insight into the history of the city throughout the ages.

Located on the Piazza Maggiore, the museum is easily accessible and is a fascinating place to visit.

The museum hosts a huge range of collections and is split into 9 different sections, these include: Prehistoric, Etruscan, Celtic, Greek, Roman, Egyptian and Numismatic.

Each collection contains a superb display of different artefacts such as Bronze Age tools, skeletal remains, pottery, weaponry, china and marble statues.

Due to the large collection and its variety, you could spend hours admiring the displays and learning about the ancient history of the region.

6. Bologna National Gallery

Whilst some galleries display works from a variety of countries, the Bologna National Gallery contains works that are related someway to the Emilian region and the city – These paintings range in age as far back as the 13th century, up to the 18th century.

Located within the confines of the old university complex, the museum is within easy reach of the city centre and the main Piazza Maggiore.

Split into two main sections, the museum contains the Accademia Clementina and the Gallery of the Academy of Fine Arts; the first of which contains a myriad of fantastic 13th century Byzantine paintings and the latter contains later works.

Notable pieces include the Ecstasy of St. Cecilia by Raphael and Christ and the Good Theif by Titian.

7. La Piazzola Market

This historic market has been held in Bologna for hundreds of years and continues to prove increasingly popular with both the locals and tourists.

Located in the Piazza dell Agosto which can be found to the north of the city centre, the market features over 400 different stalls and is a truly fascinating sight to witness.

Here you can find practically anything for sale from clothes, shoes, fashion accessories, flowers, pottery and jewellery.

You will find the atmosphere captivating – The locals will haggle and shout, you will smell the different foods, spices and creations, and you will see the wider variety of different colour on display.

8. Monte della Guardia

The longest portico in the world leads up to the top of Monte della Guardia.

This forested hill provides a fantastic escape from the city and reaches a height of approximately 300m.

You can find the hill to the south west of Bolongna in close proximity to the Reno River.

Walk the length of the portico and climb the slopes to reach the top of this wonderful hill.

At the top you will be greeted with unparalleled panoramic views of Bologna and the surrounding regions.

Furthermore, the delightful Sanctuary of the Madonna of San Luca is perched on top of the hill and is a fantastic church to visit in its own right.

9. Santuario di Madonna di San Luca

As one of the oldest churches in Bologna, the Sanctuary of Madonna was first created in 1194 but not finished until 1765. This church sits on top of the Monte della Guardia and offers great views of the city of Bologna.

Towering over the surroundings, the main building features a central basilica and is created from an orange/pink material with green domes; its style is considered to be Baroque.

Inside, the sanctuary features a plethora of fantastic decoration and detailed frescos that depict important religious scenes.

Furthermore the is also an icon of the Virgin Mary that was supposedly painted by Luke the Evangelist.

10. Torre Prendiparte

As previously mentioned, Bologna was once full of tall, narrow stone towers during the Middle Ages – Only a handful still remain today in their original shape and design, one of which is the Torre Prendiparte.

This particular tower was constructed during the 12th century and stands at 59.50 metres high.

Located on the Piazza Prendiparte, the tower lies close to the two leaning towers and the Piazza Maggiore.

It now hosts a bed and breakfast establishment which offers a unique experience, but the levels of the tower are also still open and you can climb to the top and explore this wonderful building.

11. Oratory of Battuti

This small chapel located within the church of Santa Maria della Vita features a tremendous amount of design and decoration and is one of the rarely seen finds in Bologna – Many people simply forget it is there.

The Oratory was constructed in 1604 and was designed by Floriano Ambrosini.

Contained within the Oratory is a myriad of sculptures included statues of St. Proculus and St. Petronius, and also a variety of beautiful frescos.

If you tilt your head back, the ceiling presents you with a stunning depiction of the ascension of Madonna, and the walls feature other religious iconography.

12. Museo per la Memoria di Ustica

A slightly haunting and sombre attraction, but nonetheless an important part of the history of Bologna – The Museum for the Memory of Ustica is dedicated to the fateful Ustica Disaster.

In 1980 a Douglas DC-9 filled with 81 passengers that was heading to Palermo was torn in pieces and crashed, killing all the people on board.

This disaster remains a true mystery and the cause of the crash is still under investigation and debated highly.

Inside this museum, you can see the reconstructed remains of the DC-9 place together with a collection of photographs and possessions from the unfortunate victims.

This dedicated museum is tastefully constructed and allows you to pay tribute to those who lost their lives during the Ustica disaster.

13. St. Stephen Basilica

This historical religious complex is located in the Piazza Santo Stefano and features several different buildings including the Church of Saint John the Baptist, The Church of the Holy Sepulchre and the courtyard of Pilate.

As you walk through the first church, you might think that it is just one building, but as you step into the main arched courtyard you can see the various different buildings.

Each church has its own character, design and artwork and there is also a free museum that contains historical information about the complex.

14. Try a local dish of Tortellini

Tortellini is one of the most popular traditional Italian foods in Bologna and most local restaurants will serve this tantalizing dish.

Traditionally, Tortellini ring shaped pasta is filled with various stuffing’s such as pork, prosciutto and cheese, and served in a form of chicken or beef broth.

Mystery and intrigue surround the origins of this food but Bologna is considered to be one of the best places to experience an authentic Tortellini dish.

Consider frequenting one of the restaurants surrounding the Piazza Maggoire, or venturing down the side streets to find a local eatery not geared towards tourists.

15. Explore the Porticoes

Bologna is famed for its extensive Portico – A Portico is essentially a partially enclosed walkway that is lined with arches and columns.

As Bologna grew as a university city, so did the amount of Porticos present in the city.

It is reported that within the confines of the city centre, you can walk through 40km of corridors.

There are numerous different porticos scattered around the city but the most famous are the Bonaccorsi Arch and the walkway leading to the Sanctuary of the Madonna di San Luca.

Walk through the porticos and admire the wonderful ancient architecture.

15 Best Things to do in Bologna (Italy):

• Piazza Maggiore
• The leaning towers of Bologna
• San Petronio
• Archiginnasio
• Bologna Archaeological Museum
• Bologna National Gallery
• La Piazzola Market
• Monte della Guardia
• Santuario di Madonna di San Luca
• Torre Prendiparte
• Oratory of Battuti
• Museo per la Memoria di Ustica
• St. Stephen Basilica
• Try a local dish of Tortellini
• Explore the Porticoes

• Bologna & Emilia

Top 5 (+1) wonderful places to visit around Bologna

The city of Bologna is the capital of the Emilia-Romagna region . Rich in art and culture, renowned as an ancient university town , thanks to The University of Bologna (Università di Bologna), founded in 1088, is certainly full of things to see, to do and to taste.   From enjoying the region's excellent cuisine in local Osterie, to exploring its wonderful monuments, such as the leaning tower of Bologna (it's not just in Pisa !) named the Garisenda, one of The Two Towers of Bologna (while the tallest one is called Asinelli tower), the majestic Palazzo Comunale and the ancient library in the Palace of Archiginnasio , the Basilica of Santo Stefano and the unfinished Basilica di San Petronio (which was supposed to be bigger than St. Peter's in Rome).   But apart from its traditions and historical heritage, which can be visited with an exciting guided tour from Florence and its gastronomic heritage, which can be experienced on our original food tour , or cooked by yourself with our cooking class , this city offers also some great opportunities for excursions to visit its surroundings, both with and without a car.   The region of Emilia-Romagna is rich in wonderful destinations around Bologna that you can discover with one of our day trips departing from Bologna . In order to help you making your trip in Emilia Romagna unforgettable, we have selected the top 5 (+1) to give you some inspirations for your next voyage to Italy!

Modena is only 37 kilometers away from Bologna and about 100 kilometers from Florence ; the beautiful city of Modena is known for the variety of its historical heritage, and is considered among the most fascinating cities of the Emilia-Romagna region also for its rich traditions and culinary delights.   Its historic center is rich in architectural wonders , that can be admired visiting the Romanesque Cathedral and the Ghirlandina Tower , symbol of the city located in the center of Piazza Grande Ghirlandina , which since 1997 has been declared Italy's heritage site by UNESCO .  Modena is also famous for its many churches - such as St. Vincent , St. Augustine , St. Charles and St. Peter - and its civic monuments, like the Ducal Palace and the Town Hall .   Last but not least, the cuisine is the most important aspect of this city, renowned for being the Italian capital of food. What to eat in Modena? The top local specialties that every traveller passing by Modena should try are:

• Parmigiano-Reggiano PDO (also known as Parmesan cheese)
• Prosciutto di Modena PDO
• Traditional Balsamic Vinegar of Modena PDO
• Tortellino , handmade ring-shaped pasta

You can taste all the typical Modena food specialties with our Emilia Food Valley Experiences .

Former ducal capital, famous for its 11th century University, the city of Parma is located at less than 100 kilometers from Bologna and offers many cultural treasures and attractions to visit. Parma has been officially proclaimed by UNESC O a " Creative City for gastronomy ", in 2015, as the gastronomic centre of the "Italian Food Valley", and in 2014 it has been declared the world's 4th best place for the quality of life by the British newspaper "The Telegraph".   Parma's major monuments are all located in the area of ​​the Cathedral , which is considered among the greatest works of Roman architecture in Italy. Among the historical attractions of Parma make sure not to miss the Basilica of Santa Maria Steccata , built between 1521 and 1539; the Baptistery of Antelami , consecrated in 1270, completely covered in pink marble; the Renaissance Abbey of St. John the Evangelist , rich in historical treasures. A guided tour of Parma will give you the opportunity to visit also the complex of the Palazzo della Pilotta , the University Palace , the baroque palace of the Ursulines , the neoclassical Imperial Palace Arena , and finally the elegant Casinetto Petitot , one of the most elegant Italian cafes.   Parma is also world-famous for its culinary traditions , in particular for these unmissable gems of Italian and Emilian cuisine:

• Prosciutto di Parma PDO (or Parma Ham)
• Lambrusco wine PDO , a typical red wine

Great and rich in traditions,  Ravenna  is a destination to put on your bucket list if you visit the  Emilia-Romagna . Boasting an incredible cultural, artistic and architectural heritage,  Ravenna  has eight monuments - the complex of the early Christian monuments of Ravenna - considered World's Heritage Sites by  UNESCO .   Most of  Ravenna 's religious buildings were destroyed during the war, but some of them were rebuilt and restructured, such as the 18th century  Cathedral of the Holy Resurrection , the 5th century  Basilica di Sant'Agata Maggiore , the  Basilica of Santa Croce , the  Basilica of San Francesco , which hosted the funeral of Dante Alighieri in 1321, and the  Basilica of Santa Maria in Porto , where from 1570 is kept the image of the famous  Greek Madonna .   Among its interesting museums don't miss the  Museum Archbishop of Ravenna  (reopened in 2010 after eight years of work), the  National Museum , the  Art Museum  and the  Municipal Art Gallery .

4. Maranello

For all the car-lovers and fans of the Formula 1 , the charming town of Maranello is a destination not to be missed, as it is the seat of the Ferrari factory .   Several references to the famous car manufacturer characterize this city: in the center of Maranello, over the mosaic in Piazza Libertà depicting the emblem of the town, stands the famous monument to Enzo Ferrari (founder of the Ferrari), who moved his factory from Modena to Maranello in 1943 because of the war. The monument to the Prancing Horse , the symbol of Italian sport car manufacturer Ferrari, by the sculptor Helidon Xhixha is located close to the Ferrari factory .   Maranello is located less than 100 kilometers from Bologna, and you can reach the city of the Prancing Horse by train from Modena railway station or Bologna railway station.   But, if you do not want to being busy in taking trains and buses from Bologna to Maranello, you can book our food and Ferrari tour of Maranello departing from Bologna: with our fantastic excursion you will have the opportunity to visit the Ferrari Museum , which displays historical models and engines of racing cars. Do not miss trophies and cups, suits and helmets of pilots that document the history of one of the oldest teams in Formula 1 !   If you prefer departing from Florence to Maranello, you can book our tour of Maranello departing from Florence .

Ferrara is one of the most charming cities near Bologna: once an important medieval center and one of the most opulent courts of the Renaissance , the city of Ferrara boasts an incredible historical and architectural heritage.   The historic center is dotted with splendid palaces , churches , squares , gardens and works of art housed in its many museums, which are one of its main attractions. Ferrara is a magical place to be explored, on foot or by bike, reliving the magical atmosphere of the past at every step. The city is also home to historical events, such as the Palio di San Giorgio , the oldest in Italy, and several musical events such as the Ferrara Buskers Festival .   Also known as the "City of the Renaissance", Ferrara has been included in the World Heritage Sites by UNESCO , due to its historical treasures and unique natural landscape.

(+1). San Marino

San Marino is an enclaved microstate surrounded by Italian territories, and it is one of the nicest places near Bologna. The independent state of  San Marino  offers to visitors a variety of fascinating attractions: from the representative  three towers  that rise imposing, symbol of this ancient  city-state  that has always defended its freedom.    San Marino  is also rich in churches, palaces and squares of great beauty:  Liberty Square , which offers a beautiful view of the valley: the museums where you can discover the past of this city, but also other cultural buildings, such as the  Library  and the  State Archives , or as the old  Titano Theatre  and the  State University , founded in 1985. The  State Museum , housed in the old building of the  Palazzo Pergami Belluzzi , contains almost 5000 pieces, many of which related the  San Marino 's history. But it also preserves  archaeological finds  from Neolithic to Medieval times, from ancient Egypt, Etruscan and Roman sculptures and paintings, and several artifacts.   Since 2008, the San Marino historic center and Mount Titano were included in the UNESCO World Heritage Sites . San Marino is the ideal destination to spend a nice day trip between art, history and beautiful natural seneries.  

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The Lonely Planet guide to Bologna

Dec 4, 2023 • 6 min read

Find out where to eat, how to get around, and the best things to see and do in Bologna © RossHelen / Getty Images

Lovingly referred to as La Grassa (the fat one, for its hearty food traditions), La Dotta (the learned one, a nod to its famed university, founded in 1088) and La Rossa (the red one, for both its terracotta-hued buildings and its famously left-wing politics), Bologna presents a tantalizing trifecta of medieval might to visitors.

First and foremost, the city’s glorious food legacy, from which arose one of Italy’s most heralded dishes, ragù (please don’t call it bolognese), is arguably the country’s most coveted. Its university (known as Unibo) has ensured a steady stream of culture, innovation and forward-thinking enlightenment for nearly 950 years. And its medieval historic center, a stunning confection of UNESCO-listed porticos and boundless architectural gems, cements the entire easy-on-the-eyes patchwork together.

When is the best time to visit Bologna?

Being at heart a big university town, Bologna is a dynamic city with plentiful cultural attractions, bars and restaurants that stay lively year-round. And with over 61km (38 miles) of porticos (nearly 40/25) in the center itself), the city is more manageable in inclement weather than most. But if we're talking ideal, then April (pleasant weather but not swarming with high-season crowds) and September to October (most of the crowds have thinned out) fit the bill. Avoid August when the city is hot, muggy and mostly closed – many Bolognesi flee the city for their summer holidays in more touristy locales.

One of the benefits of a summer visit, however, is Sotto le Stelle del Cinema (mid-June to mid-August) when Europe’s largest outdoor projection screen is set up in Piazza Maggiore for nightly movie sessions (book ahead!).

Is it easy to get in and around Bologna?

Bologna is Italy’s seventh largest city, but its medieval city center is best enjoyed on foot. From its western boundary at Porta San Felice to its eastern boundary at Porta Maggiore, it’s just 2.6km (1.6 miles) across. If you’d rather rely on public transport, the TPER bus system is well-connected throughout the city center and outlying suburbs. Tickets may be purchased at any tobacco shop (known as a tabaccheria ) or on board with coins and/or credit cards (including contactless). A 10-trip City Pass is €14.

Top things to do in Bologna

Bologna’s best and most unique attractions are intrinsically linked to the city. Casa di Lucio Dalla , for example, is the fascinating home museum of legendary Italian singer-songwriter and Bologna native Lucio Dalla. Following suit with the city’s designation as a UNESCO Creative City of Music, San Colombano – Collezione Tagliavini is an extraordinary assembly of musical instruments amassed by the late octogenarian organist Luigi Tagliavini housed in a stunningly restored church. 

The Teatro Anatomico , part of the world’s oldest continually-operating university, is a jarring throwback to 17th-century medical school dissections. And don’t miss a wander around the atmospheric Quadrilatero , the city’s medieval market area, home to food stalls, greengrocers, delis, and divey wine bar Osteria del Sole , which has been slinging vino since 1465. Unfortunately, the city’s iconic twin towers, Torre degli Asinelli , were closed indefinitely in 2023 in order for engineers to evaluate their structural integrity.

Bologna’s aforementioned centuries-old porticos , one of Italy’s newest UNESCO World Heritage sites (2021), are everywhere you turn in the city. Besides providing cover for those on foot, these remarkable arched arcades are also historic feats of ingenuity and engineering, with representations spanning hundreds of years: medieval wooden porticoes, Gothic and Renaissance porticoes, 14th century beccadelli (semi-porticoes without columns) and 19th-century porticoes featuring court-architecture) among them. An organized tour of the most significant porticos is well worth investing an afternoon.

Another unmissable draw of Bologna – in cahoots with nearby Modena – is Motor Valley, home to a who’s who of legendary sports car manufacturers and their incredible museums. While only Museo Ducati is within the city itself, heavyweight luxury sports car icons Lamborghini is within easy reach on public transport (while Ferrari , Maserati and Pagani sit on the Modena side). For anyone big on cars or Italian design, these emblematic museums are imperative stops on any itinerary to the region.

What to eat in Bologna

Where to begin? With pizza, risotto and gelato being notable exceptions, nearly all of Italy’s most widely-adored contributions to the global dinner table hail from Bologna and/or the surrounding region of Emilia-Romagna. Lasagna, tortellini, ragú (with tagliatelle, not spaghetti), mortadella, prosciutto (Parma), balsamic vinegar (Modena) and Parmesan cheese top the list, but there’s plenty more where that came from. 

Among the less famous (but every bit as delicious) dishes born in Bologna and/or Emilia, polpette con piselli (meatballs with peas), tortelloni di ricotta con burro e salvia (ricotta-stuffed pasta with butter and sage), gramigna alla salsiccia (pasta with sausage) and crescentine/tigelle (fried dough/bread rounds, stuffed with cheese, salumi etc) top the list. Sfoglia Rina is a great spot to acquaint yourself with local specialties but arrive early or settle in for a wait (they do not take reservations). Long dinner short, this is the land of egg pasta and all manner of pork! Vegetarians notwithstanding, Bologna is irrefutably one of Italy’s best cities for food and is in fact the main reason people visit.

How to get to Bologna?

The quickest way to reach Bologna is by air; the city is well-served by an international airport with flights from throughout the EU and beyond.

Arriving in Bologna by air

Bologna Guglielmo Marconi Airport (BLQ) welcomes flights from around the EU as well as locations further afield such as London, Dubai, Istanbul and Casablanca, among others. A taxi to the city center runs between €15-20; and the Marconi Express people mover heads direct to the train station in under eight minutes for €11.

Arriving in Bologna by train

Bologna Centrale is a major high-speed rail station on Italy's main train line and most big cities of note are reachable on direct trains. Approximate travel times on Italy’s fastest train, Frecciarossa 1000, include Milan (one hour), Florence (38 minutes), Rome (two hours) and Naples (3.5 hours). The train station is a 15 to 20 minute walk from most locations in the center.

Arriving in Bologna by car

Like the train station, Bologna sits along Italy’s longest and most important highway, the A1 (Autostrada del Sole), which dissects the country from Milan to Naples. It’s part of the greater European routes E45 (Norway to Italy) and E35 (The Netherlands to Italy).

My favorite thing to do in Bologna

Bologna is wonderfully walkable and first and foremost I love meandering through the medieval center, admiring the rusty-red architecture and popping in and out of the city’s UNESCO-listed porticos. My favorite piazza is undoubtedly Piazza Santo Stefano. The city’s most unique religious destination, Basilica di Santa Stefano , anchors the piazza, but it's otherwise just a superbly atmospheric and oddly triangular-shaped square lined with bars and cafes – ideal for an aperitivo . A perfect night for me would be local craft beers at Il Punto followed by dinner at my favorite in-the-know spot for traditional cuisine, Trattoria Bertozzi .  

How much money do I need for Bologna?

• Hostel bed: around €50
• Basic room for two: between €80–150
• Self-catering apartment (including Airbnb): from €150
• Public transport ticket: €1.50 for a single ride, €6 for a day ticket
• Coffee: €1.10
• Pint at a craft beer bar: €6
• Tagliatelle with ragú: €12
• Dinner for two with a bottle of local wine: €60

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2 Days in Bologna: A Perfect Itinerary for First Timers

Looking for a guide to a perfect 2 day Bologna itinerary that serves as a nice introduction to our favorite city in Italy? You’re in the right place – we LOVE Bologna, and think it’s a staple on any Italy itinerary for a couple of reasons. We’ve been to Bologna twice over the past few years, with plans to return in a few months. 

We think Bologna is worth including on a trip to Italy because it offers a different vibe than the other major cities in Italy – a big percentage of the population are students at the University, and the tourists tend to be Italian (or German – they’re everywhere!) – and it happens to be the best Italian city for foodies. 

We have two goals with this guide.

First, we want to use our experiences exploring Bologna (and Emilia-Romagna) to help you plan an amazing trip.

Second, we want to convince you to add a day or two in Bologna to your trip to Italy (we know there’s a lot to see in Italy, but we firmly believe Bologna is worth it!). 

In this guide, we’re going to cover everything you need to know to spend 2 days in Bologna. Along the way, we’ll cover our favorite things to do, see, eat, and drink in Bologna, important logistics that you should know before your trip, and more.

Throughout the guide, we’ll share our favorite finds and experiences in Bologna based on our trip to help you plan your unforgettable trip.

Sound good to you? Pack your stretchy pants and let’s get into it!

Disclaimer: Some of the links in this post, like hotel links, are affiliate links, meaning at no additional cost to you, we make a little bit of money if you click through and book. That being said, we would never recommend something to you that we don’t stand behind 100%.

Is Bologna Worth Visiting?

As we’ve already covered in the introduction, we might be Bologna’s biggest fans outside of Italy. Which begs the question around why we have this section here, given that we obviously believe it’s worth visiting. 

It goes back to our second reason for writing this guide – to convince you to add Bologna to your trip to Italy (which inevitably means cutting something else).

Which means we need to explain why Bologna is worth it over, say, an extra day or two in Rome or Florence (or a trip to Venice at all). 

As our friends will attest, we love Bologna as a city, and tell everyone we possibly can that they should include it on their trip to Italy, even if it’s their first visit. 

Bologna is different than most other cities on your standard “first time in Italy” itinerary. 

For one thing, it’s a nice contrast from places like Rome, Florence, and Venice, where it feels like it’s all tourists and zero residents as you’re walking around the streets in the center. In Bologna, the mix is more heavily tilted towards locals and, most noticeably, students. 

When we’re traveling, we like to strike a balance between the famous tourist destinations and lesser-known cities where people actually live. And, for us, Bologna fits pretty squarely in that second category. 

The other reason to visit Bologna is the food. 

Bologna is the best food city that we’ve been to in Italy, and it’s not particularly close in our minds. 

One of the most interesting parts about traveling to Italy is having our expectations about “Italian” food completely shattered.

Here in the US, Italian food (we now know that Italian–American food is an entirely separate thing) consists of heavy sauces with lots of garlic, garlic bread, and chicken parmigiana. 

The truth is that Italian food culture is vastly different from region to region, and depends a lot on the fresh ingredients available in close proximity. 

For example, in Sicily, you’ll find tons of fresh seafood because you’re on an island and are perpetually near the coast. In Tuscany, it’s olives, wild boar, and sheep cheese (pecorino) because those are the ingredients that are readily available. 

If you made us choose our favorite Italian food region, we’d choose Bologna. 

Here’s an exercise: write down your five favorite Italian ingredients (rather than dishes). If you’re anything like us, at least one of the things you wrote down comes from Bologna’s region, Emilia-Romagna. 

There’s a reason the city is known as “La Grassa” (“the fat one”). It’s about as close to heaven for foodies as you can get. 

The Emilia-Romagna region is the birthplace of countless Italian delicacies, including Prosciutto di Parma, Parmesan-Reggiano cheese, Balsamic Vinegar from Modena, and some great wines (we love lambrusco, a bubbly light red). And Bologna sits at the very heart of it all. 

The city is also the home of traditional Bolognese Ragù – which is unlike anything you’ve ever tasted before. 

It’s a far cry away from the Americanized Spaghetti Bolognese most of us know.

I don’t know about you, but my mom made it by browning ground beef and adding canned tomato sauce, which is definitely NOT how a nonna from Bologna would make it. 

For what it’s worth, we make it fairly often at home using this famous recipe , and it’s delicious every time. 

In short, yes, Bologna is well worth visiting, and there’s a reason we put it in our two week Italy itinerary over other, more famous destinations in Italy like the Amalfi Coast or Cinque Terre. 

Is 2 Days in Bologna Enough?

While Bologna is a relatively compact city where you could probably see the highlights in a day, that’s not really the vibe that we think Bologna brings to the table as Italian cities go.

We think 2 days in Bologna is a good balance between spending enough time to really get to know the city and making sure you’re making the most of your time in Italy. 

It allows you to do AT LEAST one tour – potentially two, if you want to really dive deep into the food culture – and also ensures enough time to do the walk up to the Santuario Madonna di San Luca, the church on the hill that looks out over the city. Which, according to our friends who live in Bologna, is their favorite thing to do with visitors. 

There are also some great day trips deeper into Emilia-Romagna like Parma and Modena, that are worth an extra day on your itinerary if you have the time.

You could do Bologna as a day trip (we have a separate guide for spending one day in Bologna ), but you are going to miss out on some of the more interesting aspects that just don’t make sense with extremely limited time. 

For what it’s worth, we originally visited Bologna years ago on a day trip from Florence , only to find ourselves craving more.

The next year, we returned for a five day trip, which was a whirlwind of filled pastas, cured meats, and as much Bolognese as we could fit into that time. 

Where to Stay in Bologna

If you’re lucky enough to have an overnight stay in Bologna, you’re going to want to stay in Bologna’s city center. However, it’s a little more complicated than that, and there are two things to think about.

First, you want to be within a 5-10 minute walk of Piazza Maggiore , which is the beating heart of the city center and will be the centerpiece for many of the activities on your itinerary (just about everything, with the exception of San Luca, is about 10-15 minutes away from Piazza Maggiore). 

The other thing to consider here is street noise. Which we learned on our first two nights in Bologna when we stayed in a guesthouse right above a popular bar. 

Bologna is a university town – one of the oldest universities in the world, in fact – which means there’s a huge student population. On Friday and Saturday nights in particular, they get rowdy. And it can be loud. 

If that doesn’t sound like your cup of tea (we’re with you!), we’d recommend avoiding the area northeast of Piazza Maggiore, which is the heart of University life in Bologna. 

We have an entire guide dedicated to helping you figure out where to stay in Bologna with FAR more detail. Here’s the basic summary.

Matt spent a few days in Bologna solo on his last trip to Italy, and stayed at Bibliò Rooms and Guesthouse . 

It’s essentially a small B&B that takes up one floor on a residential building about five minutes from Piazza Maggiore. The rooms are fairly spacious with comfortable beds and private bathrooms, and it’s a good home base for a few nights in Bologna. 

We also stayed at the Social Hub in Bologna , which is a hip, young-feeling hotel in Bolognina up near Bologna Centrale. 

While the location is further away from Bologna’s main attractions, it is a gorgeous hotel with all sorts of great amenities (a pool, a nice gym, a bar, an events calendar, and ping pong, to name a few).

Plus, it’s about five minutes on foot from the train station, so it’s convenient in that sense. 

I will say that it definitely has a younger vibe, and almost skews into hostel territory with its amenities and clientele.

If you’re looking for an apartment, look at Canonica Suites , which is where I kind of wish we had stayed. 

A Perfect 2 Day Bologna Itinerary for First Timers

Over the course of 2 days in Bologna, you’ll marvel at the architecture of Bologna, dive into the city’s role as a major University town and bastion of left wing politics, and, of course, indulge in the incredible bounty of different foods (and drinks) that Bologna and the rest of Emilia-Romagna bring to the table. 

Here’s an overview of the itinerary you’ll find below: 

• Day 1 : An Introduction to Bologna (Piazza Maggiore, Quadrilatero, and a Walking Tour)
• Day 2 : Churches, Porticoes, and a Foodie Adventure

Day 1: An Introduction to Bologna

Spend your first day in Bologna exploring the city center and its main tourist sites (to the extent that they exist in Bologna) to get a feel for the city before you dive deeper on the second day.

Begin your day by exploring some of the city’s key historic attractions, before grabbing a delicious lunch in the famous Quadrilatero district. 

In the afternoon, climb the iconic Asinelli Tower for views over the city, then end your day on a guided walking tour with a local.

But First, Coffee

There’s no better way to start a day in Italy than with some delicious locally brewed coffee. And Bologna is no exception. 

Finding good coffee anywhere in Italy is easy. You can’t go wrong with a strong espresso or milky cappuccino, which is served just about everywhere in Bologna. 

But finding a great specialty coffee can be a little more hit-and-miss. Fortunately, I (Matt, aka resident coffee geek) am known for putting in the time and research to hunt down bright and fruity coffee around the world.

My favorite coffee in Bologna came from Aroma Specialty Coffee , a cozy little cafe hidden within the porticoes a few minutes west of Piazza Maggiore.

They offer a solid menu of Italian coffee roasters, as well as traditional coffee options and fun flavored drinks. There’s also a selection of freshly baked pastries and cakes available each morning for breakfast.

We went to Aroma multiple times during our stay in Bologna, including to buy a bag of beans from Gardelli , my favorite Italian roaster.

Explore Around Piazza Maggiore

After you’re fueled up and caffeinated, head just a few minutes down the street to Piazza Maggiore, Bologna’s main square and the beating heart of the city. 

The large piazza is the postcard image of Bologna and is home to many of its most impressive and important buildings, including the Palazzo d’Accursio (Municipal Palace) and the huge Basilica di San Petronio (which we’ll discuss more later).

Piazza Maggiore is also full of people at all hours. You’ll find many talented street performers in the square throughout the day, each surrounded by a small crowd, giving the area a fun and lively atmosphere. 

One of my favorite things to do in Piazza Maggiore is to simply sit on the steps of the church for a few minutes, basking in the sunshine and watching the world pass by. 

Here are a few places to focus on in the main piazza in Bologna. 

Fontana del Nettuno

While exploring Piazza Maggiore, make sure not to miss the adjacent Piazza del Nettuno. The small connecting square is home to the famous 16th-century Fontana del Nettuno (Fountain of Neptune).

The iconic fountain is surrounded by mermaids and cherubs and topped with a large bronze figure of Neptune, the Roman god of the sea.

So what’s so special about this particular fountain? 

Well, Bologna’s famous Neptune fountain holds several secrets. The first of which is a rather risqué optical illusion…

The fountain was commissioned to symbolize Pope Pius IV’s power at the time, as he ruled the land like Neptune ruled the seas. However, the Pope had his concerns about the statue and requested the artists make the nude God a little less indecent.

The artist, Giambologna, was annoyed by the church’s censorship but obliged anyway and got his revenge in secret. He sculpted the statue so that when it’s viewed from a particular angle, Neptune’s thumb makes the God appear particularly well-endowed.

You can see this optical illusion by standing on a black stone in the piazza behind the statue, which is known as ‘“the stone of shame” by locals.

Another, less crude, secret of the statue is that it inspired the logo of a very famous car manufacturer. Can you guess which one? 

Neptune’s trident inspired the Maserati brothers, who were originally from Bologna. It became the emblem for their first-ever car.

Over 100 years later, the 3 pronged trident remains the logo of one of the world’s most luxury car brands, Maserati.

Basilica di San Petronio

Another of the most important landmarks around Piazza Maggiore is the monumental Basilica di San Petronio. 

Known for its half-finished marble facade, the huge 14th-century church is a beautiful example of Italian Gothic architecture and one of the city’s most important buildings.

But why is the exterior only partially finished?

Basically – and this is the very brief Drunk History version – Bologna tried to build a humongous church that would outshine all others in Italy, including The Vatican. 

Unsurprisingly, the Catholic Church did not support this idea and put an end to the construction, using some slightly underhanded tactics. This has resulted in the half-marble, half-brick façade being left unfinished for hundreds of years.

As well as admiring its unique façade, Basilica di San Petronio is also worth going inside to see. It’s free to visit the church. But you’ll need to pay €2 to take photos.

From inside, you can really appreciate the size and grandeur of the enormous church. Bologna had already managed to build a lot before construction was halted. 

There are 22 impressive chapels to explore and many priceless artworks. The Basilica also has the longest indoor meridian line in the world, at 67 meters long.

Cattedrale Metropolitana di San Pietro

The second, less imposing (but more important) church in Bologna is located just a short walk away down the city’s main avenue of Via dell’Indipendenza. 

Cattedrale Metropolitana di San Pietro may not be quite as large as Basilica di San Petronio, but it is the city’s official cathedral, so it’s definitely worth visiting too (plus, it’s free). 

The original cathedral dates back to the 10th-11th centuries but has been altered dramatically over the years. In the 1700s, a striking Baroque red brick facade was added, which is symbolic of Bologna. One of the city’s (many) nicknames is “La Rossa” (the red one).

The cathedral’s grand interior is also free to visit. Inside are many paintings by famous Italian artists, while the church museum is a treasure trove of important religious relics from the building’s 1,000 year history.  

You can also climb the cathedral’s bell tower, which at 70 meters high is the second tallest in the city. It costs €5 to climb to the summit and enjoy the amazing views from the top. 

Although, the hours are a little hit or miss and definitely not what they have posted – at least not when we were there.

Lunch in Quadrilatero

By the time you’ve finished exploring Bologna’s historic highlights, you’ll probably have built up quite the appetite. So it’s finally time to dive into the city’s famous food scene.

For lunch, head to the Quadrilatero district, which sits just off Piazza Maggiore. 

This charming little neighborhood consists of many narrow pedestrian-only streets packed with countless market stalls, delis, shops, cafes, and restaurants. 

Not only are there plenty of great places to grab a tasty lunch, but you can also browse for edible souvenirs to take home with you. We find that food-related gifts are always the biggest hit among friends and family, and this is a good place to find them. 

You can’t go too wrong no matter where you choose to eat in Quadrilatero, but here are a few of our favorites for some guidance:

• Zerocinquantino is a delightful little wine bar and restaurant known for its charcuterie plates (cured meats and cheeses) and freshly prepared sandwiches, piadina, and tigelle (traditional flatbreads from Emilia-Romagna). It’s perfect for those wanting a light, local lunch rather than a hearty meal. The bar is consistently bustling with both locals and tourists, so you may need to be assertive to get a table during peak lunch hours. 
• Drogheria Gilberto , located nearby, is another wine bar and shop that we loved. They specialize in small plates, with a wide selection of Italian meats and cheeses. This spot may appeal more to adventurous eaters – when we inquired about one of the meats, the server cryptically replied, “You don’t want to know” before we pressed him into an answer. For those with a sweet tooth, the shop also has a fantastic assortment of Italian chocolates and sweets.
• Tamburini is an iconic deli and wine bar (separate spaces that are right next to each other) that has been a beloved fixture in the Bologna food scene since it first opened in 1932. The bar has a nice assortment of Italian cured meats and cheeses, along with authentic Bolognese specialties and an array of homemade desserts. The shop is also a great spot to buy some locally packaged delicacies, including traditional cold cuts, cheeses, and regional wines (we discovered our favorite bottle of Lambrusco here).

Climbing the Asinelli Tower

If you don’t manage to climb the bell tower of San Pietro in the morning, don’t worry. Your first stop after lunch is an even taller tower (the tallest in the city!) – the Torre degli Asinelli.

This is the first thing we ever did in Bologna.

We climbed the tower with our friends who lived in the city for a while but had somehow never gone up there (kind of like the Space Needle in Seattle – sometimes you just don’t do the touristy stuff until people come from out of town). 

During the Middle Ages, Bologna’s skyline was filled with many slender towers, serving both defensive and symbolic purposes for the wealthy families that commissioned them. 

Over the centuries, most of these towers were dismantled (or toppled over), leaving only a handful still standing today. Among them, “Le Due Torre” or “the two towers,” have become iconic parts of Bologna’s skyline.

Asinelli is the taller of the two at over 97 meters and is the tower you can climb for spectacular panoramic views over the city.

Neighboring Garisenda once stood at the same height, but had to be lowered to 47 meters due to its increasing lean. It’s even been nicknamed “the Leaning Tower of Bologna.” Despite the correction, you can no longer climb Garisenda.

To reach the top of Asinelli, you’ll need to climb 498 steep steps up a narrow wooden staircase that winds its way around the inside of the tower. It’s certainly not the easiest climb, but it’s worth it for the breathtaking views! 

The tower costs €5 to climb. Due to the narrow staircase, only a limited number of people can climb the tower at a time, so it’s best to book your tickets in advance .

When booking, you’ll need to pick the time slot you plan on visiting.

Get Introduced to Bologna with a Walking Tour

Finish your first afternoon with a guided walking tour of Bologna. On a walking tour, you’ll get to stroll around the city and learn more about Bologna’s long and fascinating history from a local.

Now, usually I recommend starting off with a walking tour, but the particular availability and schedule of the one we did and enjoyed didn’t work out in this case, so an afternoon tour it is!

We did this walking tour and it was a great introduction to the city with Addy, an extremely friendly guide who has lived in Bologna for many years after falling in love with it during his studies. 

A couple of stops on this tour will be places you’ve already visited, such as Piazza Maggiore.

But you’ll also discover many other areas of the city, including Bologna’s student quarters, the University of Bologna, Piazza Verdi, and the Jewish ghetto.

A guided walking tour also allows you to ask a local anything you want. Whether you have questions about the city’s architecture and history or simply want to know where the best places to eat and drink are, this is your opportunity. 

Make the most of this time. The other people on your tour are sure to be interested in your questions too.

Dinner & Cremeria La Vecchia Stalla

End your first day in Bologna with some delicious traditional Bolognese cuisine, featuring the likes of handmade pasta, complex ragus, and tasty filled pasta.

A few spots we’d recommend for dinner in Bologna:

Trattoria di Via Serra : A simple Italian Trattoria with cozy decor and a menu of freshly prepared homestyle Bolognese cuisine made with ingredients from small local producers. Open for dinner from Wednesday to Saturday. The restaurant is small yet popular so it’s best to make a reservation in advance. 

Bottega al Pappagallo : A historic restaurant that opened in 1919 and has become famous for its high-quality, traditional, fresh pasta (especially the tortellini). Since 2022 the restaurant has turned its focus to take-away dishes. Not open on Sunday evenings. 

Noi at Mercato delle Erbe : A small spot selling tasty handmade pasta in Mercato delle Erbe, the largest covered market in Bologna. Also known for its Crescentina Fritte (aka Tigelle, or fried flatbread), and Polpette (meatballs). 

If you have enough room left after dinner, head to Cremeria la Vecchia Stalla . Several locals recommended we visit here and it was a fantastic suggestion!

The ice cream shop has a huge variety of flavors to choose from, from more traditional flavors like pistachio and stracciatella to many unique and interesting flavor combinations.

We also had a couple of glasses of wine sitting under the porticoes at Vineria Favalli , which is right across from the ice cream place. We loved sampling their delicious local wines (despite the slow service). 

For beer lovers, head around the corner to Birreria Popolare , which has a wide selection of local and imported beers (both from Italy and beyond). 

Obviously, as someone with Celiac Disease, my ability to eat and drink in Bologna is a little more complicated. So for more on where to eat and drink, I’d point you over to Coral at Curious Appetite (who also runs food tours in Bologna!).

Day 2: Churches, Porticoes, and a Foodie Adventure

Start your second day in Bologna with a stroll around the unusual Seven Churches Complex, before enjoying the best of Bologna’s world-class food scene with a local food tour or cooking class. 

Finish your afternoon by hiking through the porticoes up to Santuario Madonna di San Luca then heading to La Serre dei Giardini Margherita for a relaxing evening drink. 

Breakfast at Forno Brisa

For breakfast, head to Forno Brisa , a small chain of independent bakeries with 5 locations in Bologna. We visited their store on Via Galliera, which is a 10 minute walk (ish) from Piazza Maggiore.

The bakery sells handcrafted breads, delicious focaccia, freshly baked pastries, and – most importantly! – great specialty coffee.

Perfect for a quick breakfast before a busy day of exploring. You can grab something to go or sit at one of the small tables inside. 

Oh, and don’t forget to pick up one of their famous “fanculo la dieta” stickers (we’ll let you translate that one!).

The Complesso delle Sette Chiese

After breakfast, head to the Complesso delle Sette Chiese (Complex of the Seven Churches), a unique religious compound that comprises a network of interlinked churches, chapels, courtyards, and crypts in central Bologna.

The many religious structures were constructed across multiple centuries and its origins and meaning remain a mystery.

One legend claims that the original structure was built by Bishop Petronius in the early 5th century.

He wanted something similar to the Church of the Holy Sepulchre in Jerusalem, with structures representing places in the Holy Land that recall the Passion, Death, and Resurrection of Jesus Christ.

Today the unusual complex is a popular tourist destination that you can enter for free to explore the different periods of Bologna’s history.

Around the complex, you’ll find evidence of Roman, Byzantine, Lombard, Ottonian, and Benedictine influence. There’s also a museum with frescoes, sculptures, and artworks from various eras.

You can purchase a small guidebook explaining what you’re looking at for just €2.

We’d recommend getting it as signage in English is limited and it’s useful to know what you’re looking at – otherwise, you’ll be wandering around pretty aimlessly. 

Choose Your Own Adventure: Food Tour vs. Cooking Class

By this point you may be wondering – but what about all of the delicious food you’ve been raving about?

And yes, we admit, this Bologna itinerary hasn’t been that food-heavy… So far! But don’t worry, today is your opportunity to really dive deep into the city’s world-class culinary scene.

We believe there’s no better way to experience a city’s food scene than spending a few hours with a local and seeing it through their eyes. 

Taking a foodie experience with a local can help give you a deeper understanding of the connection between a city’s history, culture, and food.

Plus – most importantly – a local will take you to places to eat and drink that you would never normally discover on your own . 

Bearing that in mind, we have two suggestions for how to spend your second afternoon in Bologna; a local food tour or a local cooking class.

Take a Bologna Food Tour

There’s certainly no shortage of fantastic food tours in Bologna. 

This is the one we’d do . 

Unfortunately, we had to skip it as Matt has Celiac Disease and can’t eat gluten, which is present in basically everything that we would have eaten on the tour.

The 4-hour tour includes tastings of Balsamic vinegar of Modena and an aperitivo of cold meats, Parmigiano Reggiano, and Lambrusco – a delightful bubbly and light red wine native to Emilia-Romagna.

You’ll also enjoy 3 homemade pasta dishes for dinner, artisanal Italian gelato, and local natural wine tasting in an old enoteca.

Bologna Cooking Class

Another fantastic way to embrace Bologna’s world-class culinary scene is with a local cooking class.

We love cooking classes as a way to immerse ourselves in the food culture of a place we’re visiting. 

We’ve done them in Spain, Colombia, Mexico, and here at home in the US. 

Unfortunately, since Matt has Celiac Disease and can’t have even a crumb of gluten, Italy isn’t a great place to do that given the prevalence of pasta, pizza, and various breads (having made gluten free pizza and bread, we know that flour ends up EVERYWHERE).

But you should! 

This is the Bologna cooking class we’d choose if given the choice. Hosted by a local innkeeper, this small group class teaches you how to make two types of local pasta (tagliatelle and tortellini) and authentic Bolognese ragù in a traditional Italian kitchen.

You’ll also get to taste some local wines from the Emilia-Romagna region while enjoying your delicious homemade pasta.

Hike up to the Santuario Madonna di San Luca

With the rest of your afternoon, work off your lunch with a leisurely walk up to the iconic Sanctuary of the Madonna di San Luca.

The grand baroque church sits on a hilltop above the city and is a popular pilgrimage spot among both locals and tourists. It offers some of the best views over Bologna, so you can take in the picturesque city from a different perspective.

To reach the church, you’ll need to walk through 666 porticoes (someone has a sense of humor) along a long winding walkway that leads from the edge of the city. At 3.8 km in length, the covered walkway is the longest of its kind in the world!

The full walk up takes around 45 minutes to an hour, depending on your pace. Along the way, you’ll be treated to some spectacular views back towards Bologna and out over the hills surrounding the city. 

Once at the top, you’ll get the best view of them all, which is from the church’s large dome.

Inside the church, you can also admire many historic artworks, including the sacred image of The Madonna of San Luca that gave the church its name.

If the full uphill walk is too much for you, another option is to take the tourist train either one way or both ways. 

The San Luca Express is a charming little tourist train that departs from Piazza Maggiore and travels through the city and up to the Sanctuary. A round ticket costs €12 per adult and €6 for kids, and includes an audio guide.

La Serre dei Giardini Margherita

End your day at the charming La Serre dei Giardini , a cool renovated greenhouse sitting within Giardini Margherita, Bologna’s largest and most popular park on the southern end of the city.

The greenhouse has been turned into a cool community gathering space, with an art gallery, event space, kids area, and restaurant.

The unique restaurant serves an all-day menu of delicious dishes using local seasonal produce. There’s also a great wine menu!

During the cooler months, you can sit inside the glass-roofed greenhouse. While on warmer summer evenings, grab an outdoor table and soak up the string-light-filled ambiance.

What to Do with More Time in Bologna

As we mentioned at the beginning of this itinerary, there’s no shortage of things to do and see to fill several more days in Bologna, ESPECIALLY if you include the rest of Emilia-Romagna. 

Our first recommendation would be to do whichever you didn’t do out of the cooking class and the food tour we mentioned above. Then, eat more tortellini, ragu, and cured meats, and drink more Lambrusco. 

Every extra day you spend in Bologna gives you another 24 hours to eat some of the best food in Italy. Make the most of every second of it!

Dive Deep into Parmigiano-Reggiano with Claudio

If you want to learn even more about Italian cuisine, Bologna is a great base for exploring the many farms and producers of the Emilia-Romagna region, aka the food capital of Italy.

And this is our second STRONG recommendation for things to add to a visit to Bologna, but it didn’t make sense to fit it into the main itinerary above because it takes the better part of a day. 

We did this organized day trip to visit a cheese producer in Reggio Emilia on our last visit to Bologna and it was incredible.

We’d even go as far as saying it was the highlight of our recent trip to Italy. 

On the tour, we got to learn all about how the famous cheese from Reggio-Emilia (which most people know as Parmesan) is made. 

We wandered around a working factory, saw the cows that produce the milk, and got to taste various aged cheeses, as well as some other products from Emilia-Romagna like balsamic vinegar, prosciutto, and Lambrusco.

And we even went home with a vacuum-packed 500g portion of local cheese (which will last until you get home in our experience).

The tour starts from Reggio Emilia AV Station, which you can easily reach from Bologna in just 22 minutes by high-speed train (or slightly longer by slower regional train).

Take a Day Trip to Verona 

Located less than an hour away from Bologna by high speed train, Verona is another one of our favorite cities in Italy and a fantastic day trip destination.

One day in Verona is more than enough to see the city’s main attractions, including the huge Arena di Verona and hilltop Castel San Pietro. Plus you’ll still have time for a slow stroll along the Adige River and a glass of Prosecco in a beautiful piazza.

Verona is known as Italy’s “City of Love”, largely due to its connection to Shakespeare’s romantic tragedy, Romeo and Juliet.

And while it’s certainly a romantic little city, we feel obligated to note that Casa di Giulietta (Juliet’s House) is, quite possibly, the worst tourist attraction we’ve ever experienced.

Skip it. There are better ways to spend your day in Verona.

Take a Day Trip to Florence

Another great day trip from Bologna is the iconic Tuscan capital of Florence, which sits just 35 minutes away by fast train.

While definitely a little (okay, a lot) busier than the likes of Bologna and Verona, Florence is a city that everyone should see at least once in their life. So why not use this opportunity to visit?

One day isn’t enough time to see everything Florence has to offer (2-3 days is better). However, you will still be able to see the main highlights within a day. 

With one day in Florence , it’s going to be a busy one. We’d suggest starting with the Galleria dell’Accademia (for Michelangelo’s David) and the Duomo in the morning, before moving on to the Uffizi Gallery in the afternoon.

Finally, end your day at Piazzale Michelangelo for amazing views over the Tuscan city, before jumping on the train back to Bologna.  

Catch a Bologna FC Match (Soccer / Football)

If you’re a fan of football/soccer, don’t miss the chance to see a Bologna FC game at the team’s historic 100-year-old stadium, Renato Dall’Ara. We went to see Bologna play during our last visit. 

Bologna F.C. is currently in Italy’s Serie A, the country’s top division, which usually runs its season between late August and late May.

You can find a list of upcoming fixtures on the club’s website to see if there’s a game happening during your visit. 

Tickets can be purchased at the visitor center on Piazza Maggiore, where they’ll help you buy and print them (I tried to do it myself and failed, and they were super helpful).

The stadium is located on the outskirts of the city and can be reached by local bus in around 10 minutes from the center (although we walked, and it was easy enough). 

What to Do with Less Time in Bolonga

If you find yourself with less time, follow our one day Bologna itinerary , which compresses the above into one action (and food) packed day. 

With one day, we’d recommend spending your morning seeing the sights of Piazza Maggiore, including Basilica di San Petronio, and climbing the Asinelli Tower. 

Then use your afternoon to make the most of Bologna’s culinary scene on a food tour.

Getting Around Bologna

Like most smaller Italian cities, the best way to get around Bologna is by foot .

Bologna is a very walkable city. The majority of the main sites and attractions are located within 15-20 minutes of each other by foot. 

The porticoes (covered walkways), which are something Bologna is famous for, offer some much-needed protection from the sun or rain while you’re wandering around. 

We’d suggest doing the majority of the Bologna itinerary above on foot. But there is the option of using the bus (or tourist train) to reach some further out destinations such as the Sanctuary of the Madonna di San Luca.

Bologna has a good public bus network, with numerous lines and routes around the city. You can tap your credit card on the contactless payment kiosk on the bus to ride. We used Google Maps to see the bus schedules (although they don’t always exactly line up with said schedule).

More information on taking the bus in Bologna can be found here . 

Getting to Bologna

Bologna is pretty easy to get to, whether you’re coming from inside of Italy (it’s arguably the most well-connected city in Italy) or from abroad. 

From Outside of Italy

If you’re coming to Bologna from outside of Italy and it’s your first or only stop in the country, you’re likely going to want to fly. 

If Bologna is a part of a broader Italy itinerary, then I’d suggest trying to fly into a different airport, like Rome or Milan, which is likely to have more flight connections. 

If you’re flying into Bologna directly, you’re probably going to be flying into Bologna Guglielmo Marconi Airport (BLQ) , the airport serving Bologna and broader Emilia-Romagna. 

It’s a small airport, but there are a few flights a day from most of the major hubs in Europe. If you’re coming from a smaller airport OR from outside of Europe, you’re going to have to make a connection. 

From Within Italy

If you’re coming from within Italy, you should take the train.

Bologna is a really unique city in terms of train connections because basically every long distance train runs through Bologna, which is a sort of crossroads in the middle of the country. 

Venice to Rome, Milan to Naples, and more all run right through Bologna, which makes it an excellent city in terms of connections to other places. 

When it comes to taking the train in Italy, you essentially have two options: regional trains (slower, but tickets are more flexible) and intercity trains (faster, more expensive, less flexible). 

If you have limited time, we’d strongly recommend booking an intercity train, which will save you hours of time, depending on the journey. 

You can book trains directly through Trenitalia , but you’ll need to know the Italian name of the train station (Bologna Centrale, in this case), which sometimes can be a little confusing. 

You do want to book these in advance if you can because there are discounts for booking earlier. The trade off is that you’re locked into that day and time, which doesn’t allow for a whole lot of flexibility. 

Here are some connection times from other main cities in Italy on the high speed trains: 

• From Florence: 45 minutes
• From Milan: 1 hour 15 minutes
• From Venice: 1 hour 30 minutes
• From Rome: 2 hours

Basically, you can get from Bologna to most major cities in central and northern Italy in two hours or less, which is excellent. 

Getting To / From the Airport

If you’re coming from outside of Italy, you’re probably going to be flying into Bologna Guglielmo Marconi Airport (BLQ) , the airport serving Bologna and broader Emilia-Romagna.

It’s a small airport and it’s relatively close to the city center. 

The best part about flying into this airport is the fact that there’s an above ground monorail that connects the terminal to the city center in roughly 8 minutes flat. 

It costs €17 round trip (€9.10 one way), and you can either buy tickets at the machines on the platform, or tap your credit card at the entrance gates, and tap off when you arrive on the other end. 

When you get off the plane and head to baggage claim, follow the signs for “train to city center.” There are two stops on the tram, you probably want to go all the way to Bologna Centrale, which is Bologna’s main train station. 

From there, you can either walk or catch a taxi to your hotel. 

You could also take a taxi from the airport, but it will take longer and will be significantly more expensive. Not a great choice unless you have way too many bags to carry, or a group of 4+. 

The Best Time to Visit Bologna

Both of our recent visits to Bologna were during the fall, which is our favorite time to travel to Italy in general. 

By visiting Bologna during the fall , you’ll miss the peak summer heat, which makes wandering around the city far more bearable. 

The weather is definitely still warm enough to spend your days exploring and even dining al fresco if you choose. Plus the crowds are decidedly thinner than during the school holidays of July and August.

Spring is also a good time to visit Bologna. The weather tends to be pleasant and sunny, and the city is livening up after the bleak winter. The winter rain can last well into March, so late April and May are better times to visit.

Bologna’s summers can get really hot. A little too much if you’re not used to it. The good news is that there are miles and miles of porticoes to shelter you from the sun, but the heat and humidity can still make it challenging to be out exploring in the middle of the day.

Winter , on the other hand, sees temperatures in Bologna drop drastically to around 40-50 degrees Fahrenheit and sometimes even lower at night. There’s also a chance of rainstorms and occasionally some snow.

The only real reason we’d suggest visiting Bologna in winter is for the festive celebrations in December.

Matt is the founder and main writer behind Wheatless Wanderlust, which he started back in 2018 as a way to share his gluten free travel guides with his fellow Celiac travelers.

Since then, Matt and his wife Alysha have visited 18 national parks, spent three months in Europe and six weeks in Colombia, and have explored every corner of the Pacific Northwest, which is where Matt grew up.

He writes super detailed guides to the places they visit, bringing together personal experience and historical context to help YOU plan an amazing trip.

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12 Top Things to Do in Bologna, Italy

TripSavvy / Christopher Larson

Located about halfway between Florence and Milan, Bologna is the capital of the Emilia-Romagna region in northern Italy. An old university city with lavish porticoed walkways and squares, fine historic buildings, and a storied medieval center, Bologna is well-known for its beauty. But it's also famous for its left-wing politics, as it's home to the former Italian communist party and its newspaper, "L'Unita." Of course, most people come here for the city's food scene. Because it's in the heart of the Emilia-Romagna, widely considered the greatest food-producing region of Italy, Bologna is nicknamed La Grassa—the fat one—which is also a play on the city's prosperous economy.

Bologna can be visited any time of the year although it may be pretty cold in winter and very hot in summer. The city is a transportation hub for several train lines, with easy access to Milan , Venice , Florence , Rome , and both coasts.

Try the Local Specialties

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The cuisine of the Emilia-Romagna region is some of the best in Italy, and Bologna is one of the best places to sample its range. There is so much more to try beyond just spaghetti bolognese, and at many restaurants, you can find other classics such as lasagna and tagliatelle drenched in ragu—a slow-cooked meat sauce—as well as handmade stuffed pasta like tortellini. The city is also known for its salami and mortadella. There are tons of excellent restaurants in Bologna , but if you're looking to celebrate a special occasion, book a reservation at I Portici , the city's (surprisingly) only Michelin-star restaurant.

Seek Out Architecture

Tripsavvy / Michaela Sieman

Bologna's compact medieval center has several beautiful churches, monuments, and civic buildings. As you explore the city, you can also enjoy its many porticoed sidewalks, which make window shopping all the more pleasant. The must-visit churches are the hilltop Santuario di Madonna di San Luca (Sanctuary of the Madonna of San Luca) and the Basilica di San Giacomo Maggiore (Basilica of San San Giacomo Maggiore), the latter of which has both Renaissance and Baroque influences. Other notable buildings include the Archginnasio of Bologna , which was once the University of Bologna's main building; today, it houses the Biblioteca Comunale dell'Archiginnasio (Archinnasio Municipal Library) and the Teatro Anatomica (Anatomical Theater), where the academics used to dissect human corpses for study.

Explore the Main Squares

TripSavvy / Michaela Sieman

While visiting Bologna, you can square-hop between the beautiful central squares like Piazza Maggiore, which houses the Gothic Basilica of San Petronio , the Palazzo dei Notai , and the Archaeological Museum . In Piazza del Nettuno, you'll find an ornate 16th-century fountain in the center that is surrounded by medieval civic buildings. Make sure you go inside the Salaborsa Library to admire the interior.

Try New Flavors Along Via Clavature

East of Piazza Maggiore, the area along Via Clavature has several small, interesting food stalls, where you'll find a number of small markets on side streets. For example, Pescheria Brunelli is the oldest fish market in town and is well worth a visit. If you're short on time and looking for a quick bite, head inside Mercato di Mezzo . This covered market is a great place to pick up some edible or drinkable souvenirs and sit down at a casual restaurant.

Wander Around the Piazza Santo Stefano

In Piazza Santo Stefano, also called Piazza delle Sette Chiese (The Square of Seven Churches), you will find an unusual cluster of interlocking Romanesque churches. The oldest, the church of Santi Vitale e Agricola, is said to have been built on the ruins of Roman temples and columns. The church is named after two saints who became martyrs in Bologna during the era of Roman Emperor Diocletian, and are believed to have died on this site. There is also an interesting courtyard with a maze of little chapels.

See Art at Pinacoteca Nazionale di Bologna

The Pinacoteca Nazionale di Bologna (National Art Gallery of Bologna) is one of Italy's best galleries. Housed in a former 17th-century Jesuit building, the museum has been open to the public since 1885. It contains a large collection of oil paintings dating back to the 13th century, with several important works of art spanning the Renaissance, Mannerism, and Baroque periods. See paintings by Italian artists such as Raphael, Titian, and the Carracis, before making your way to the art gallery's temporary exhibitions. After your visit, consider paying a visit to the Academy of Fine Arts , located within the same building.

Visit the World's Oldest University

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Founded in 1088, the University of Bologna is the world's oldest university. You don't have to be a student to visit the Museum of Palazzo Poggi, which is filled with interesting exhibits on military architecture, ancient maps, natural history, physics, and human anatomy. Or, you can wander around the Botanic Garden and Herbarium; founded in 1568, it is one of the oldest botanic gardens in Italy. You can sign up for a tour if you want to take a deeper dive into the university's history, but a simple stroll through the campus is also a pleasant way to spend an afternoon.

Enjoy Aperitivo

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Throughout Italy, the aperitivo, or the time to have a drink before dinner, starts sometime between 6:30 p.m. and 7 p.m. The best place to go in Bologna for an Aperol Spritz or Negroni is Via Pescherie Vecchie, just off Piazza Maggiore. The street is lined with bars and restaurants offering outdoor seating, wines by the bottle or glass, tasty appetizers, and great people-watching. Mercato Delle Erbe , a foodstuffs market by day, becomes a lively nightlife destination after dark, with a bevy of restaurants and food stalls surrounding a central dining hall.

Climb Asinelli Tower

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After helping yourself to a big meal, you can get your exercise in by walking up the 498 steps to the top of Asinelli Tower , which stands at 97.2 meters (319 feet) tall. Built by the Asinelli family in the 12th century, it is the world's tallest leaning medieval tower and the highest point in Bologna. From the top, you'll be able to see each of the city's major landmarks in addition to the surrounding countryside. Nearby is the Garisenda Tower, which is much shorter at 47 meters (154 feet) and, like its sister, leans slightly. Together, the two comprise Bologna's "Two Towers." Due to its steep incline, Garisenda Tower does not allow visitors. You can buy tickets in advance to climb Asinelli Tower on its official website .

Find the City's Hidden Canals

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Venice might be the most famous city in Italy for canals, but maybe that's because Bologna's are hidden away behind the buildings. You can get a peek into some of these canals by visiting the window on Via Piella , which allows viewers to look out over the Canale delle Moline. Or, consider booking a hotel or vacation rental that offers views looking down into the water.

Step Inside the Basilica di San Petronio

The Basilica di San Petronio, located off of Piazza Maggiore, is the city's oldest church. Dedicated to Bologna's patron saint, Saint Petronius, it was built starting in 1390, although it wasn't until 1954 when the basilica was officially consecrated. Within its walls, pay attention to the Music Chapel of San Petronia, the city's oldest musical institution, which features a 552-year-old organ that is still in use today. The basilica also houses the world's longest sundial, a 67.27-meter instrument built by the astronomer Cassini, as well as the Cappella Bolognini (Chapel of the Three Kings), whose walls display frescos by Giovanni da Modena.

Walk the World's Longest Portico

The Portico di San Luca, which runs for 3.8 kilometers (2.4 miles) and bears 666 arches, is the longest portico in the world. Constructed between the 17th and 18th centuries, it travels from Porta Saragozza up the Colle della Guardia hill, ending at the Sanctuary of the Madonna of San Luca . It was built so as to protect the sanctuary's icon from rain during the annual Feast of the Ascension, with the 666 arches—a number that is usually associated with "the beast"—intended to symbolize the Madonna's victory over the devil. While you can drive up to the church today, walking the route is a quintessential Bolognese experience.

No, Bologna is part of the Emilia Romagna region, which borders Tuscany.

The capital of the Emilia-Romagna region of Italy, Bologna is one of the world's top food cities and serves as a great jumping-off point to explore the culinary delights of the surrounding area. It's also home to the oldest university in the world, the University of Bologna, which was founded in 1088.

Spring and fall are the best times to visit Bologna, when the weather is mild and pleasant and you can find great deals on hotels and airfare.

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16 Unmissable Things to Do in Bologna, Italy (Plus Food Tips)

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Bologna is one of the most underrated cities in Italy. Despite its beautiful historic centre, rich food culture, and lively yet relaxed atmosphere, it’s often overlooked by tourists on the usual Venice-Florence-Rome route.

This is a shame as there are so many things to do in Bologna from climbing medieval towers to fun food tours, and it makes a great base for exploring other attractions in the region.

We spent a week there and loved the mix of elegance and grittiness and, of course, all that delicious fresh pasta.

Our detailed Bologna travel guide shares our top tips for what to do in Bologna, where to eat and stay, the best day trips, how to get there, and a map with all our recommendations.

Where is Bologna, Italy?

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Bologna is the capital of the Emilia-Romagna region in northern Italy. It’s located between Florence (to the south) and Venice (to the north) and is easily accessible by train.

Towards the end of this post, there are details on how to get to Bologna from major cities in Italy.

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Bologna has three nicknames that reflect what it is best known for.

La Dotta (The Learned)

Bologna University, founded in 1088, is the oldest university in the western world and students came from all over the world to study there.

There is still a large student population which adds to the city’s vibrant atmosphere, especially at aperitivo time.

La Grassa (The Fat)

For many people coming to Bologna is a culinary pilgrimage. The Emilia-Romagna region is where many of Italy’s top products come from—balsamic vinegar, parmesan cheese, Parma ham, and mortadella.

The food here is rich and decadent and the markets are superb. I share the best things to do in Bologna for foodies below.

La Rossa (The Red)

Originally “The Red” nickname referred to the terracotta tiled roofs of the city, which are best seen from the top of Asinelli Tower .

In later years it also alluded to the city’s leftist political leanings, especially during and after World War II when it was a stronghold of the resistance against Nazism.

The other unusual thing about Bologna is the high number of porticos that extend from almost every building.

These attractive arches were originally built from wood in the late Middle Ages to create extra living space and now have the advantage of offering protection from the rain and sun as you walk around the city.

Bologna is home to the longest portico in the world at nearly 4km. It starts just outside the city walls and extends up the hill to Santuario di Madonna di San Luca —one of the best places to visit in Bologna.

1) Take a Bologna Food Tour

The cuisine is one of the main reasons to visit Bologna, and it’s well worth taking a food tour at the beginning of your trip to learn more about the food culture. It’ll help you make the most of the rest of your stay.

We did this four-hour Classic Bologna Food Tour with Sara of Taste Bologna . We started at the city’s best coffee shop sampling unusual flavours like Caffè allo Zabaione, which was like a dessert in a mini cup, and even I, a non-coffee drinker, enjoyed it.

We continued our tour around the markets and food shops, sampling olive oil and aged balsamic vinegar (and discovering what real balsamic tastes like) and learning about the best local products.

A highlight was a stop at a fresh pasta stop where we watched the ladies making tortellini (stuffed pasta parcels) incredibly fast and even tried rolling one ourselves (not as easy as it looks!).

Lunch was a picnic feast of all the products we’d picked up at one of the oldest bars in the world.

We enjoyed our food with a glass of the local sparkling Pignoletto on a big wooden table under photos of the famous clientele who’d visited in the previous decades. Of course, our final stop was for some amazing gelato.

Bologna is a very meaty city, but as vegetarians, we really enjoyed the tour and had plenty to eat.

It was helpful to learn from Sara which products (like tigelle or even some focaccia) are made with lard which is commonly used here.

Half a day spent eating your way around an Italian city is never going to be a bad experience. Not only did we get to try some local products, but we also learnt more about the city and its delicious food.

Check availability for the Classic Bologna food tour here .

Thank you to Taste Bologna who hosted us on their wonderful food tour. 

2) Go Food Shopping in the Quadrilatero

The Quadrilatero is one of the most atmospheric areas of the city.

This cluster of narrow streets off the main square has been Bologna’s market since the Middle Ages and is still full of delis and stalls selling giant wheels of parmesan, legs of ham, and pristine piles of fruit and vegetables.

Via Pescherie Vecchie is one of the cutest streets with terracotta and yellow buildings, old signs and ornate street lamps, and restaurant tables spilling onto the pavement.

The shops used to sell fish from the canals, but now you’re more likely to find chunks of cheese and fresh pasta.

We visited the area on our food tour .

3) Eat Your Way Around the Mercato Delle Erbe

While the Quadrilatero is a good place to pick up cheese and cured meats, for fresh produce I preferred the Bologna food market, Mercato Delle Erbe .

The fruit and vegetables here are beautiful and most of them come from Italy. I was excited that strawberries from the Basilicata region were already in season in April.

There’s also an upmarket food court where you can snack on sandwiches, piadina, slices of pizza, or even have a whole meal.

We stayed in an apartment right across the road from the market, which was wonderfully convenient for shopping and quick meals.

Search for more apartments in the historic centre of Bologna here .

4) Enjoy an Aperitivo

The tradition of aperitivo—a pre-dinner drink with snacks—is strong in Bologna.

Just wander the streets from around 6pm and you’ll find plenty of bars offering everything from peanuts and crisps to buffets that are enough for a meal.

Sometimes the food is included in the price and sometimes you’ll pay €8 or €10 for a drink and buffet.

The Mercato delle Erbe and the bars opposite are good places for aperitivo in Bologna. We also liked Marsalino which from 6–9pm provides pizza toasts and crisps with your drink.

5) Try Local Specialities

Spaghetti Bolognese is not actually an Italian dish. Instead, locals eat tagliatelle al ragù , thick strips of fresh egg pasta with a meat sauce.

Another classic local dish is tortellini , meat-stuffed pasta dumplings typically served in broth.

Vegetarians should look for tortelloni (with an o rather than an i) which are larger pasta parcels stuffed with ricotta and herbs.

Make sure you get them with a sage and butter sauce as they can also be served with ragù.

For a cheap quick meal, try a piadina , a flatbread sandwich with an array of fillings to choose from. The dough is usually made from lard but a few places offer a version with olive oil instead—see my recommendations below.

The wine is also excellent. Try Pignoletto , a sparkling white like a fruitier Prosecco, or a red Sangiovese . We also enjoyed the sparkling red Lambrusco from nearby Modena.

And don’t miss the gelato—it’s so good here!

See the Restaurant section below for tips on the best places to eat in Bologna.

6) Climb Asinelli Tower

I love climbing Italian towers! Bologna’s beautiful terracotta tiled roofs are best admired from above, so make your way up the 498 steps of the medieval Asinelli Tower—one of the top things to do in Bologna.

From the top you can enjoy stunning 360º views of the smaller Garisenda tower , which leans precariously next to it, Piazza Maggiore , and the hills surrounding the city.

You must book your ticket in advance (€5 adults/ €3 children)—we booked on the Due Torri website about three hours beforehand, but at busy times book a few days ahead. I recommend going early as it gets very crowded.

Please note Asinelli Tower is currently closed for maintenance. You could alternatively climb the Clock Tower for similarly fantastic 360º views.

7) Stroll through Piazza Maggiore

Piazza Maggiore is the main square and one of the top Bologna attractions.

Here you’ll find the Basilica di San Petronio , which was started in 1390 and is oddly unfinished—the bottom section ornate marble and the top stark brick.

Depending on the story this is either because the church ran out of money or the pope stopped construction as he didn’t like the idea of the plans for a cathedral bigger than Rome’s St Peter’s.

On the other sides of the square are grand palaces including Palazzo d’Accursio which was once the Town Hall.

Also, don’t miss seeking out Bologna’s whispering walls , two vaulted archways under Palazzo del Podestà  that can carry a whisper from one corner to another.

If you’d like to learn more about Bologna’s history, you can take a private guided tour around the historic centre. This group Bologna City Centre Walking Tour is another option to discover hidden gems.

8) See the Neptune Fountain

Next to Piazza Maggiore is the 16th-century Neptune Fountain built by Flemish sculptor Giambologna. It is so beautiful that many cities across Europe copied it.

Despite representing a pagan god, the pope approved of the statue because Neptune is the god of water.

There used to be a port and canals in Bologna and water meant power and riches—it was an extremely rich city (and is still one of the wealthiest in Italy).

9) Visit the Seven Churches of Santo Stefano

My favourite piazza in Bologna is Piazza Santo Stefano where beautiful porticos on both sides lead to a few outdoor bars and a complex of seven churches (well, only four remain).

Entry is by donation and it’s worth a wander around the maze of interconnecting buildings and peaceful courtyards.

If you’d like to learn more about the churches, visit on a private tour .

10) Visit the Archiginnasio and Teatro Anatomico

The Archiginnasio was once the main building of the University of Bologna and dates back to the 16th century.

Here you can visit the Teatro Anatomico (€3), an ornate anatomical theatre built in 1636 entirely from wood and decorated with statues.

Lectures were once given here with a cadaver laid out on the marble slab for dissection in the centre of the room.

There’s a spy hole in the wall where the church kept tabs on classes making sure that nothing too progressive was being taught.

My favourite part of the Archiginnasio building is the gorgeous portico in the entrance courtyard with frescoes on the ceiling.

If you’d like to learn more, consider this Audio-Guided Archiginasio Tour .

11) Discover the Hidden Canals

Head north of the Two Towers and you’ll find the small remaining section of Bologna’s once extensive canals.

Look out for the Finestrella di Via Piella where you can get a framed view of the canals from a window in the wall.

If you are wondering what to do in Bologna to burn off all that pasta and gelato, there are some beautiful parks to the south of the city, perfect for walking or running as long as you don’t mind hills.

12) Santuario di Madonna di San Luca

The Santuario di Madonna di San Luca is a church upon a hill above the city and is a Bologna must see.

For us, the highlight was getting there on a 50-minute walk from the centre under the 666 arches of the Portico San Luca , the longest in the world.

Start by exiting the city from Porta Saragozza and follow the portico—it’s flat until the Arco del Meloncello and then it climbs uphill.

From the church you can enjoy views of the city and countryside. The best view is from the rooftop of the church known as the San Luca Sky Experience (€5 adults/ €3 children) which you reach by climbing a narrow spiral staircase.

If you don’t want to walk up to San Luca, you can take the San Luca Express bus , but the walk is worth it if you can.

13) Giardini Margherita

Giardini Margherita is a pleasant park just south of the city and is the closest and flattest place for a run—it’s about a 1.5km loop around it.

14) San Pellegrino Park

For a more challenging run or walk head up the hills to the Parco di San Pellegrino via the smaller Villa Spada park .

It’s only 4km from the centre, but you feel like you’re in the countryside with fields of wildflowers and views of San Luca and the city.

My early morning run up here was one of my Bologna highlights. It would be a lovely place for a picnic.

It’s worth spending a week or more in Bologna as it’s a great base for exploring the Emilia-Romagna region. We visited Modena and Ferrara , both a 30-minute train ride from Bologna.

You could also visit the elegant city of Parma (1 hour on the train) where Parma ham and Parmesan cheese originate and Ravenna (1 hour on the train) known for its exquisite mosaics. Florence is only 35 minutes away on the fast train.

If you’d prefer to take a tour, this popular Bologna Food Experience includes visits to local producers of Parmesan cheese, prosciutto ham, and balsamic vinegar (with tastings), plus a traditional multi-course lunch. 

Visiting a Balsamic Vinegar Maker

Modena is the home of balsamic vinegar and it’s also where the first few episodes of Master of None season 2 were shot, so we had to visit.

After an easy 30-minute train ride to get there, our first stop was Acetaia di Giorgio , one of the closest balsamic vinegar makers to the centre (a 30-minute walk from the train station or take a taxi).

It’s very much a family-run business. Giorgio’s family has been making vinegar for 130 years and the tradition is passed down to each generation—Giorgio is now working with his son-in-law to keep it alive.

Giorgio’s English-speaking wife Giovanna explained the vast difference between supermarket balsamic vinegar and traditional DOP balsamic vinegar which is strictly regulated for quality by a consortium.

The real stuff is made from 100% grape must with nothing added—it is cooked at a low temperature for a long time until it reduces to thick black liquid gold. It can only be made in Modena.

At the Acetaia the vinegar is aged in small wooden barrels for at least 12 or 25 years.

It’s a long, painstaking process where some of the vinegar is moved from one barrel to another as it evaporates, year after year.

Finally, we got to try the final product and it was like no vinegar we’d ever tasted, thick, sweet and intense.

The type of wood that’s used for the barrels really makes a difference—the juniper was spicy and the cherry fruity.

And the 25-year-old really does taste sweeter and richer than the 12-year-old—it doesn’t taste like vinegar at all.

Traditional balsamic is very expensive (the cheapest 12-year-old costs €45), but it lasts forever and you only need a few drops to transform a dish (try it on strawberries or parmesan).

We couldn’t resist buying a bottle—not only because it tasted so good and was a rare chance to buy real balsamic in Modena, but because we wanted to support this family who is working so hard to keep the traditions alive.

Tours are free but you must book in advance by email or phone. See the Acetaia di Giorgio website for details.

Eating in Modena

Modena has some of the best restaurants in the world including three-Michelin-star Osteria Francescana , so make sure you include a meal in your visit (and it’s a good idea to book).

We had lunch at the simple, traditional Da Danilo —the pumpkin tortelloni were good if a little sweet and we loved the ricotta tortelloni in a balsamic sauce.

We also enjoyed the local sparkling red Lambrusco wine and the thick black digestif nocino (well, it grew on me). There are lots of vegetarian options and it’s good value.

Stop by Bloom afterwards for an excellent gelato.

Exploring Modena

Modena is a pleasant city to wander and worthwhile stops are Piazza Grande , Mercato Albinelli , the Ducal Palace , and the Duomo where you can climb the Ghirlandina Tower .

It’s much less crowded than Bologna’s tower, but sadly you can’t open the windows to take photos at the top.

To learn more about this beautiful and historic city why not book this Private Modena 2-Hour Walking Tour ?

16) Ferrara

Ferrara is also worth a day trip to see the Estense Castle surrounded by a green moat.

Honestly, we preferred the outside to the inside, which was crowded with Italian school groups, but we did enjoy the views from the tower.

We had lunch at Osteria I Quattro Angeli with views of the castle and tried the local specialities cappellacci di zucca (pumpkin stuffed pasta) with butter and sage and torta tenerina (chocolate cake).

On our list for next time are these other Bologna activities: 

• Hands-On Home Cooking Class – Learn to make tagliatelle and tortelloni.
• Gelato Museum – It’s a 30-minute drive out of the city, but it’s ideal for foodies who want to learn more about gelato and even try making their own. Reservations are essential. 
• Visit a Vineyard – Take a tour of a family owned winery.
• Explore Bologna by Bike – A Guided E-bike tour that includes food tastings.
• Discover Bologna’s Best Street Art – Find the best murals with added fun on an E-Scooter.
• Torre Pren diparte – Another tower to climb with a fantastic view. You can even spend the night in the one-room B&B here. 
• Basilica di San Petronio – For €5 you can access the panoramic terrace on top of the basilica for beautiful views. Check the timetable on their website as it’s not open all day.
• MAMbo – Bologna’s modern art museum. 
• Pinacoteca Nazionale di Bologna – Bologna’s largest traditional art museum.
• Arte Fiera – Italy’s longest running Contemporary Art Fair runs annually every February.
• Ferrari Museum – A pilgrimage for the car enthusiast in your life.
• FICO Eataly World – A foodie theme park. 
• Certosa di Bologna – A huge and beautiful cemetery just outside the city. 
• Explore Fascinating Relics in Bologna’s Churches – Amazing sights include the dramatic Renaissance sculpture, Il Compianto Sul Cristo Morto and the macabre mummified Catherine of Bologna sitting on a golden throne.

You don’t need a list of the best restaurants in Bologna—you really can go almost anywhere and get a fantastic meal.

That said, here are our favourites, all of which have vegetarian options (most places do but the choice can be limited).

If you’re not familiar with restaurant etiquette in Italy, see our guide to eating in Italy .

Sfoglia Rina

I love Sfoglia Rina for a number of reasons. They make their own fresh pasta and only serve that and desserts, so it’s ideal if you don’t want an epic multi-course meal.

They open all day until 9pm so you can eat outside the usual strict Italian mealtimes. They also don’t have a cover charge and water is free (very rare in Italy).

The restaurant is housed in a cool and modern space with unusual lampshades and tables decorated with pots of fresh herbs.

Despite this it’s a casual place—the menu is on a blackboard and you write your table number and order on the notepad and give it to the waiter then pay afterwards at the till.

Most importantly, of course, the food is delicious. The menu includes traditional Bolognese dishes (tortelloni is the only vegetarian one) and a changing weekly menu of more creative plates of pasta.

There were four vegetarian options and one vegan (marked on the menu) when we visited.

We had the vegan potato capellati with a cherry tomato and sage sauce and black ravioli stuffed with peas and buffalo mozzarella mousse on the side.

Both were wonderful and it was refreshing to have a break from tortelloni which was the only thing we could eat in many places. All dishes are served with a side of vegetables and a roll.

Our torta tenerina chocolate cake was excellent and even better than the one we tried in its home town Ferrara.

The only downside of Sfoglia Rina is that it’s popular, so get there early for lunch or go outside the usual 12.30–2.30pm lunch hours.

We got in without waiting at 12 pm on a Monday but an hour later it was packed, and at the same time on a Sunday, there was a 40-minute wait.

Details:  Via Castiglione 5/B. Open daily 9am – 9pm. Website: Sfoglia Rina

Oltre is a mix of fancy and hipster and serves traditional Bolognese food with a modern twist.

The menu is quite small and there were no vegetarian mains, but when we asked, the waiter offered us the classic tortelloni filled with ricotta in a butter and sage sauce “fuori menu” (off the menu).

We shared a creamy potato and leek soup to start then both had the tortelloni and made yummy noises with every bite—it was the best pasta in Bologna that we had on our trip.

The chocolate fondant dessert was also wonderful.

It was our most expensive meal in Bologna (€63 for two), but it’s worth it for a more upmarket experience and would be even better for meat-eaters.

Details:  Via Majani 1/A. Open Thurs – Fri 7.30pm – 11pm, Sat – Mon 12.30pm – 2.30pm/ 7.30pm – 11pm. Closed Tuesdays and Wednesdays. Website: Oltre.

Trattoria del Rosso

Trattoria del Rosso is a simple, traditional restaurant that was recommended by our Airbnb host.

They had four vegetarian mains on the menu as well as two meat-free specials.

We had the gnocchi with vegetables—the gnocchi was good but the sauce a little dull—and the special green tortelloni with a walnut and saffron sauce, which was tasty but we couldn’t help comparing it to our perfect (but much more expensive) tortelloni at Oltre.

Overall it’s nothing special but good for a casual, affordable meal (€41 for two at the time of our visit).

Details:  Via Augusto Righi, 30. Open Mon – Sat 12pm – 3pm/ 7pm – 10pm and Sun 12pm – 3pm. Website: Trattoria del Rosso

Ca’Pelletti

We ended up going to Ca’Pelletti twice during our week in Bologna for a break from the heavier traditional fare.

It’s a casual cafe that serves food all afternoon so you don’t have to wait until 7.30 pm for dinner.

There’s no cover charge so it’s affordable (€24 for two) and you pay at the till so it’s quicker than most restaurants.

They are lots of vegetarian options including homemade pasta, soup, salads, and piadina. I liked the salads (you can choose your ingredients) and Simon’s gnocchi was excellent.

Details:  Via Zamboni, 4 and another branch on Via Altabella, 15 C/D. Open daily 9am – 11pm. Website: Ca’Pelletti

Ca’Pelletti was the cheapest sit-down meal we had and the following are faster food options with a few seats or you can get takeaway.

Mercato dell Erbe

There is loads of choice in this wonderful market. We liked the piadina (see below) and pizza slices at Forno.

There’s also a vegetarian stall at lunchtime, ironically in the old butcher shop (look for the sign Ex Macelleria ) that does inexpensive pasta and vegetable dishes. Sadly we ran out of time and didn’t get to try it.

Details:  Via Ugo Bassi 23. Food stalls open Mon – Sat 12pm – 2.30pm/ 7pm – Midnight and Sun 11am – 3pm. Vendors hours may vary. Website: Mercato dell Erbe

Piadina, flatbread sandwiches, are typically made with lard, but you can ask for a vegetarian version made with olive oil at Sfarina in the Mercato dell Erbe.

They have wholemeal and white dough options plus a few vegetarian fillings including a parmigiana with grilled aubergine, tomato sauce, and mozzarella.

La Tua Piadina in the market also has vegetarian piadina, but we didn’t have time to try it.

Details:  Mercato delle Erbe – Box 24. Open Mon – Sat 10am – 11pm. Closed Sundays. Website: Sfarina

O Fiore Mio

O Fiore Mio serves tasty pizza slices with a range of toppings. You choose the amount you want and pay by weight. Ideal for a quick meal.

Details:  Piazza Malpighi, 8e. Open daily 10.30am – 10pm. Website: O Fiore Mio

Cremeria Santo Stefano

You have to eat gelato in Bologna—it’s exceptionally good and the best place to try it is Cremeria Santo Stefano.

They won an award for the best gelato in Italy and the pistachio was the best I’ve ever had (and I’ve eaten a lot of pistachio gelato in Italy!).

Simon was a fan of the caffe bianco , and the chocolate fondant is incredibly rich.

Details:  Via Santo Stefano, 70/C. Open Tues – Sun 11am – 10pm. Closed Mondays. Website: Cremeria Santo Stefano

Sorbetteria di Castiglione

Sorbetteria di Castiglione is also a contender for the best gelato in Bologna.

They have a few unusual flavours—I loved the Dolce Emma with ricotta, caramelized figs, honey, and lemon. I’ve tried a similar flavour in a few places since but nothing comes close.

Details:  Via Castiglione 44d. Open daily 11.30am -Midnight. Website: Sorbetteria di Castiglione

The best area to stay in Bologna is within the city walls so you’ll be within walking distance of everything.

Anywhere within a 10-minute walk of Piazza Maggiore would be ideal. If you are planning to do some day trips, it’s also worth checking the distance from the train station.

We usually rent apartments in Italy as they are more affordable than hotels. We like having more space and a kitchen for healthier breakfasts than the usual croissant.

If you are on a budget, there are some cheap holiday rentals in the Bolognina neighbourhood north of the station, but I’m really glad we chose somewhere in the historic centre.

The apartment we stayed in is no longer available. It had the perfect location opposite the Mercato dell Erbe, just a five-minute walk from Piazza Maggiore and a 15-minute walk from the train station. We walked everywhere.

A few options in a similar location include:

• Apartment in the centre of Bologna – An elegant two bedroom with three bathrooms and a small patio that can sleep up to seven people. 
• The Red Door – A quiet, two-bedroom apartment with modern decor, a spacious open plan kitchen/living room, and large terrace for al fresco dining.
• Wonderful attic with two terraces – This two-storey apartment has three bedrooms and two terraces with views, and it’s just a one-minute walk from Piazza Maggiore. You can’t get more central. 

Search for more apartments in Bologna here .

Bologna Hotels

If you’d rather stay in a hotel, I kept seeing Hotel Centrale recommended in my research for its central location near Piazza Maggiore and historic building.

For a bit more luxury, consider Hotel Corona d’Oro or the extravagant five-star Grand Hotel Majestic “Gia’ Baglioni” .

Click here to search for more hotels in Bologna .

If you only have one day in Bologna, you can easily see all the major sights in the historic centre including everything in the Historic Things to Do in Bologna section above and still have time for a delicious meal and gelato.

The city does reward a longer stay, though. Bologna is becoming a popular weekend destination from the UK and other cities in Europe.

With two or three days you could see all the historic attractions plus have time for a food tour, the walk up to San Luca, shopping, and many more delicious meals.

Ideally, you’d spend a week in Bologna, like we did, to have time to take day trips to the surrounding area.

Bologna Airport is 6km north of the city and is served by budget airlines Ryanair and Easyjet. You could also fly to Florence or Parma. Search on Kiwi for cheap flights.

The best way to travel around Italy is by train. You can check train times to Bologna on the Trenitalia website . You need to use Italian place names (i.e Torino not Turin). 

Prices for the Freccia fast trains are much lower if you book online a few months in advance. Here are some journey times for the fastest trains:

• Florence to Bologna – 35 minutes
• Venice to Bologna – 1.5 hours
• Rome to Bologna – 2 hours
• Milan to Bologna – 1 hour

We travelled from Paris to Bologna by train with a change of trains (and enough time for lunch) at Turin. The entire journey took about nine hours and was comfortable and scenic.

Read our guide to traveling between London and Italy by train for more details.

In Bologna we got around everywhere on foot.

Bologna is absolutely worth visiting, and I hope you consider a visit to Bologna on your next trip to Italy.

It can easily be combined with major destinations like Florence and Venice and will give you a break from the tourist crowds as well as an opportunity to try all that delicious food.

• Dos and Don’ts of Eating in Italy
• 29 Unusual Things to Do in Rome to Escape the Crowds
• 15 Best Day Trips From Rome
• 17 Towns Not to Miss in Puglia, Italy
• Salento, Italy: The Ultimate Travel Guide
• 17 Best Things to Do in Bari, Italy
• The Ultimate Guide to Lecce

Other Regions

• 10 Ways to Make the Most of Your Stay on the Italian Riviera
• Hiking the Path of the Gods and Visiting the Amalfi Coast on a Budget
• 16 Unmissable Things to Do in Matera, Italy
• 12 Best Places to Visit in Sicily: Western Sicily Highlights

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15 Comments

Great post! Thank you!

Reply ↓

Fantastic information! Bookmarked immediately for use in my next trip. Thank you for including Vegan options!

This is an amazing post. I will always be certain to check your site before going anywhere!!!

Looks like you missed the whispering walls.

If you visit again you must try the Gnocco fritto and a glass of lambrusco di modena.

Thank you for this! I will be in Bologna for a week at the end of September and you have given me good choices for my visit. I especially appreciate the vegetarian food options you discussed. I am not strictly vegetarian, but I am not a big meat-eater either. I will definitely drop a pin on many of these restaurants. I’ve copied site information into calendar.

Best Recommendations! esp for vegetarians! loved Cremaria Santo Stefano for the Pistachio Gelato! mmmmm and the Tortelloni at sfoglia Rina

Hallo! Nice article! I am from Bologna, and you wrote really a good itinerary. I would suggest as a cultural thing to see also “Il compianto sul Cristo Morto”, a great dramatic sculpture of the Renaissance (I don’t think you have mentioned it). Also, the “Pratello” area ist an old area worth a visit, for a dinner or an aperitiv (it is full of nice bars and restaurants). Last to mention: if you come by car be careful NOT PARKING or DRIVING in the city center. Better to ask the host or hotel receptionist, many tourists don’t see the signals and get an expensive fine. Thanks for writing about Bologna!

Thank you for the tips, Fulvia! I really hope we can return to Bologna at some point!

Great article!!! From a Bolognese Girl i think you couldn’t write better! If everyone like to visit Bologna and taste a real Bolognese experience I can advice my farmhouse: http://www.nuovacampagna.it It is a marvellous farmhouse very close to the city but in a peaceful and silent countryside area, where you can taste real home made bolognese food and wines. We have 8 elegant and delightful suites, and we are very close to the city (10 min) We are Bologna Welcome and Fico Eataly World Partners!

Thanks for such a helpful guide to Bologna. Based on your descriptions, with so much to do in Bologna, we will stay longer than the two days we were planning. This will be our third trip to Italy, and I can’t seem to get enough! This trip, we’ll arrive in and depart from Venice, explore some Northern Italy cities, and possibly fly to my ancestral region of Calabria.

I’m so glad you extended your stay! Even after spending a week there we’d like to go back to explore more of the region.

I’ve been to Italy a dozen times and it’s never enough! Enjoy! Erin

Hi Your website does not have an .english translation. Can you provide more information in .english?

The churches in Bologna have some amazing relics – most impressively is the mummified body of Catherine of Bologna sitting on a golden throne at Corpus Domini. You have to be buzzed into the back to see it and it is an absolutely incredible/bizarre thing to see. Also the university has some amazing collections of anatomical waxworks and other unique medical collections, which are definitely worth seeing.

That sounds crazy – thanks for the tip!

Great article. I have been to Rome and Milan but not Bologna. Your article inspired me to start a plan trip to Bologna next!

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21 Best Things to Do in Bologna (Italy’s Foodie City!)

Oh, beautiful Bologna: as the capital of the Emilia-Romagna region and a foodie paradise, there are dozens of things to do in Bologna, Italy to captivate you during your visit (and yes, many of them are related to stuffing your face).

Bologna is one of our favorite cities in Italy–admittedly a hotly contested designation–and one that we plan to continue visiting again and again.

By now, we’ve visited Bologna several times, ranging from one day trips to a solid month spent “living” in the city.

Known as La Dotta (the learned, for its university), La Rossa (the red, for its architecture), and La Grassa (the fat, for its food), Bologna is such a stunningly beautiful city that perhaps the most remarkable fact about its beauty is that it may come second to its food in reasons to visit.

Planning a trip to Bologna and not sure where to start?

Here’s are the best things to do in Bologna, Italy!

Table of Contents

The Things to Do Bologna, Italy

What to eat in bologna, where to stay in bologna, italy, getting around when visiting bologna.

Some links in this post may be affiliate links. If you make a purchase through one of these links, we may earn a small commission at no extra cost to you. Please see our disclosure policy for more detail.

Stop by the Piazza Maggiore.

Bologna’s main square is the perfect first stop on any trip to Bologna.

The Piazza Maggiore holds Bologna’s largest cathedral (San Petronio Cathedral), the elaborate Neptune Fountain, and some of the city’s best people-watching opportunities.

Grab a cappuccino or a spritz from one of the shaded cafes and enjoy watching the city go by.

Climb the Asinelli Tower for an incredible view of Bologna.

Want to see a leaning tower in Italy but not planning to make it to Pisa?

Don’t worry: Bologna is actually home to a taller leaning tower than Pisa anyway! The leaning towers of Asinelli and Garisenda, also known as Bologna’s Two Towers , stand right next to each other.

I f you’re up for quite the climb (all 498 steps of it), Asinelli is available to tour and boasts incredible views over Bologna.

If you’re feeling brave, you can lean over up top (don’t worry, it’s enclosed and safe) to get a great view of the shorter Garisenda Tower beneath you.

As someone who is scared of heights, climbing this tower wasn’t my favorite thing in the world… but the views made it worth it.

There are only a limited number of people allowed to climb Asinelli at a time (we had to wait several hours for our time slot), so we recommend booking tickets and arranging a set time to climb in advance.

Stroll down Via Drapperie and admire the food shops and restaurants.

Via Drapperie is one of the most picturesque streets we have seen in Italy (and considering how much we travel here, that’s really saying something!).

Imagine a small cobblestone street with towering buildings reaching up on either side, and then add in tons of food stalls, crowded shops, flower stands, and cafes with tables spilling onto the sidewalk–that’s Via Drapperie.

This is one of our favorite spots to photograph in Bologna, and it also makes incredible dog and people-watching!

In the early evening, grab some prosecco and a plate of cured meats (one of Bologna’s specialties!) and settle in to enjoy the show.

Visit San Petronio’s Terrace for great views of Bologna that also feature its famous towers.

Though Asinelli Tower provides the highest viewpoint within Bologna, San Petronio’s Terrace provides what is probably my favorite view.

I’m partial to any views that include a city’s most epic landmarks, and San Petronio’s Terrace boasts a wonderful view of Bologna’s leaning towers!

Eat your heart out.

Emilia-Romagna is one of Italy’s most foodie-friendly regions (this is the place that produces true parmigiano-reggiano and balsamic vinegar, after all), and the food is one of the major reasons to visit Bologna.

While you’re there, be sure to try the tagliatelle al ragu and the mortadella.

You’ve probably had less-than-ideal versions of both in the past, as they’re better known throughout the world by the names inspired by their origin: spaghetti bolognese and bologna (though I promise, mortadella is nothing like what you pick up in the average grocery store!).

Other specialities to try in Bologna include tortellini en brodo , parma ham, zuppa inglese , gramigna alla salsiccia , lasagna, and many more.

Hunt down the hidden canals of Bologna.

Venice isn’t the only place you can see canals in Italy!

Bologna is home to several canals that date back to the Middle Ages, but you’ll have to go on a bit of a scavenger hunt to find them.

Many of the canals have been closed off as the city has grown, or can only be seen from certain spots (there’s even one you can spot through a window!).

Luckily, Bologna makes it easy for people seeking out canal views.

The city helpfully provides a handy map of where the canals are located, and the walk through town is a great way to see more of Bologna along the way.

Take a day trip (or four) outside the city.

Bologna may be the capital of Emilia-Romagna, but it’s hardly the only place worth seeing while there!

The city makes an excellent base for day trips around the region and beyond.

Consider a trip to Rimini for one of Emilia-Romagna’s best beaches, San Marino to visit the world’s fifth smallest country, Florence to get a taste of Tuscany, or Verona to chase the ghosts of Romeo and Juliet (or just to enjoy a delightful and underrated Italian city).

For foodies or those looking to stay close by, two of the best day trips from Bologna are to Modena (home of balsamic vinegar) and Parma (home to parma ham and parmigiano-reggiano ).

We consider our day trip to Modena and Parma –which included a tour of a parmigiano-reggiano factory–one of the best day trips we have ever taken anywhere in the world.

Book your food-filled day trip to Parma and Modena today!

Visit the Anatomical Theatre and Library of Archiginnasio.

There’s something magical about wandering through opulent, historical universities.

There is just so much history and mystery (pardon the rhyme) in centuries-old centers of learning, all begging to be explored.

Add in a hefty dose of Italian beauty, and the picture gets even more inviting.

The palace of Archiginnasio dates back to the 16th century, and has long belonged to the University of Bologna–and it is beautiful and interesting enough to belong on any list of things to do in Bologna.

The palace boasts a 17th-century carved anatomical theatre, which is easily the most opulent place imaginable for learning how to cut open bodies (trust us–it’s worth taking a look).

It’s also home to a remarkable library, which is lovely and stretches on as far as the eye can see (literally, as unfortunately most of it is closed to people who are not students–still worth a peek, though!).

Climb Torre Prendiparte.

Looking for a unique climb in Bologna?

Torre Prendiparte fits the bill.

Not only does this tower boast a fabulous view of Bologna, Italy from its terrace and an interesting history as a prison, but you can also sleep there if you like!

Tucked into a quiet square in Bologna that you would never know is there without a map, Torre Prendiparte is home to a tiny bed & breakfast that definitely fits the bill if you’re looking for unique accommodation in Bologna!

Pay a visit to the museum of the history of Bologna.

Want to get an overview of Bologna?

The “Museum of the Story of Bologna” is the perfect place.

Here, you can earn all about the different phases of Bologna’s history, and walk away with context that will help you enjoy the rest of your things to do in Bologna even more.

Learn all about the making of Emilia-Romagna’s most famous foods.

We headed to Parma during the end of our month in Bologna specifically to go on a food tour (that we maybe-kinda-sorta partially booked because of my desperate desire to see hundreds of wheels of parmigiano-reggian o aging in person), and had an absolute blast!

Throughout the day, we visited a parmigiano-reggiano factory (and yes, it lived up to expectations), a parma ham factory, and a passionate balsamic vinegar producer at his home/one-man production spot.

There was also a stop for a delicious lunch, of course, because what respectable food tour doesn’t involve lots of eating?

If you’re looking to spend a day getting out into the countryside of Emilia-Romagna while exploring the region’s specialties, we can’t recommend the Parma Delicacies Tour enough (not sponsored, we’re just big fans of well-run food tours).

As a bonus, we got back to Parma early enough that we were able to spend some time enjoying the town before catching our train back to Bologna!

Book your Parma Delicacies Tour to explore some of Emilia-Romagna’s best foods!

Check out the Museum for the Memory of Ustica.

In Jun 1980, Itavia Flight 870 was en route from Bologna to Palermo when it exploded, killing all 81 people on board.

In the nearly 40 years since the flight has remained a source of controversy and contention.

It’s widely agreed that the plane was shot down by a missile, but less clear is who shot that missile, and why.

At the Museum for the Memory of Ustica, you can explore that question… with the plane itself.

The wreckage from the flight, along with personal artifacts from the victims, works to create a truly unique museum that highlights a violent and senseless tragedy.

This museum does have limited and somewhat strange hours , so if you want to make sure that visiting is one of the things you do in Bologna, be sure to plan ahead!

Admire the porticoes.

Bologna’s porticoes are not only beautiful, but they’re also one of our favorite features of the city from a functional standpoint.

These wide walkways flanked by columns keep you cool on hot days and dry on rainy ones, while also making sure that most roads have plenty of walking space that will never be interrupted by vehicle traffic.

Bologna is almost as famous for its gorgeous porticoes as it is for, say, tagliatelle al ragu , and while you’ll undoubtedly visit several, it’s worth taking a few minutes to sit and admire them in detail (perhaps with a coffee in hand)

Visit FICO Eataly World.

There is a Disney World for people who love Italian food instead of princesses, and it’s in Bologna.

Eataly World is new to Bologna, and is essentially an Italian food amusement park.

Whether you’re looking for food to buy to take home, a plate of food to eat immediately, an educational discussion on Italian food, or a cooking class, you can find it at Eataly World.

Unapologetically touristy (I wouldn’t expect to see many Italians there), Eataly World is definitely one of a kind, and if you’re curious, is worth adding to your list of things to do in Bologna.

Explore the markets.

Like any respectable Italian city, Bologna is home to more markets than you can count!

Be sure to stop by Mercato delle Erbe for food (parts of the market have even been converted into a food court, so no worries about bringing things home to cook!) and Campagna Amica for a delicious farmer’s market.

Outside the realm of food, you can visit La Piazzola for a clothes market with a more local feel, and Fiera del Libro to peruse all kinds of books!

Visit a winery near Bologna, Italy.

Though nearby Tuscany is a much more famous wine region from an international perspective, Emilia-Romagna holds its own!

The region is home to several different wines, the most typical of which is Sangiovese di Romagna.

If you’re going to be in Bologna for a few days, be sure to schedule a trip out to a nearby winery to soak in the views while you sample the local specialties!

Pay a visit to the Bologna National Gallery.

Italy is bursting at the seams with art museums, but the Bologna National Gallery (or Pinacoteca Bologna ) has a special twist: it focuses on local work from Emilia-Romagna.

You won’t need a whole day here, but it is definitely worth stopping by for a couple of hours and getting a feel for what the style of Emilia-Romagna has been throughout the centuries.

The local art, unsurprisingly, reaches back much further in time than when the region has been part of a united Italy.

Stop by the Piazza Santo Stefano.

Small and quiet, Piazza Santo Stefano is located just a short walk away from Bologna’s leaning tower.

And, if you’re looking for a pretty spot to admire Bologna’s porticoes or simply somewhere to relax with a cup of coffee, this piazza is a great option.

Try your hand at a cooking class in Bologna.

Bologna is known for some absolutely incredible food, and what better way to learn how to take the flavors of tagliatelle al ragu , tortellini en brodo , and more home with you finish working your way through all the things to do in Bologna than to make them yourself in a cooking class?

For something memorable, you can even book a cooking class in the home of a local family, like this well-reviewed class .

Book your Bologna cooking class today!

Climb to the Sanctuary of the Madonna di San Luca.

If you have an afternoon to spare, add climbing to the Sanctuary of the Madonna di San Luca to your list of what to do in Bologna!

The roughly hour-long walk from Piazza Maggiore to the sanctuary is mainly covered in beautiful porticoes, ensuring that the climb is shaded, dry, and lovely regardless of the weather.

Once you reach the sanctuary, you’ll be able to see beautiful views of Bologna down below!

Though you can also reach the sanctuary by car, the walk is a far more memorable way to experience one of the best attractions in Bologna.

Stop by the archaeological museum.

One of the most extensive archaeological museums in Europe is housed right next door to the Piazza Maggiore in Bologna!

Home to exhibits that highlight artifacts from the Etruscans, Egyptians, Romans, Greeks, and beyond, the Museo Civico Archeologico in Bologna is an excellent place to step way, way back in time.

It’s also home to a beautiful courtyard featuring–what else?–porticoes.

No history lover should skip putting the archaeological museum on their list of things to do in Bologna!

No list of things to do in Bologna, Italy would be complete without a detailed breakdown of what to eat!

I know I covered it a bit already, but I can’t resist calling out a couple of special dishes again.

Truly, if you were to visit Bologna for one thing and one thing only, it should be for the food–it’s that good.

A full rundown of local cuisine could fill a book, but if you’re looking for a quick overview of great dishes to try, here’s what you absolutely can’t miss eating while in Bologna.

Parmigiano-Reggiano

True parmigiano-reggiano –also known as one of the best cheeses in the world–comes from the towns of Parma and Reggio Emilia, both of which are located within an hour of Bologna.

That means that the parmigiano-reggiano in Bologna is, hands down, some of the best in the world.

We personally love the cheese that has been aged 30+ months, as it has the sharpest taste and most crumbly texture, but preferences vary–many people love the creamier 24-month cheese!

Traditional Balsamic Vinegar

Forget the “salad dressing” you find on grocery store shelves at home!

Traditional balsamic vinegar is aged for a minimum of 12 years, preferably 25, and is more like a rich, almost-sweet-but-also-tangy syrup than a salad dressing.

Before trying it, the thought of dribbling a few drops of balsamic vinegar over strawberries, gelato, parmigiano-reggiano , or custard seemed utterly bizarre–but trust me. It is amazing.

If you’d like to learn more about the (literal decades) of work that goes into making traditional balsamic vinegar, consider heading out on a foodie tour to Modena !

Tortellini en Brodo

Traditionally served on Christmas, tortellini en brodo (pasta in broth) is a very simple stuffed pasta dish.

It’s so simple, in fact, that you might be tempted to skip it in favor of heavier fare.

Definitely don’t!

While tortellini is delicious in all sorts of cream sauces (or smothered in pesto, which is our totally untraditional favorite way to eat it), the traditional dish is delicious and definitely worth sampling while in Bologna.

Tagliatelle al Ragu

If there’s one dish you add to your list of things to do in Bologna, make it this one.

The real version of what the rest of the world knows as spaghetti bolognese is incredibly delicious.

When you think tagliatelle al ragu , picture thick, wide noodles that are big and strong enough to hold the meat sauce in a way that the spaghetti used in “regular” spaghetti bolognese never could.

Like tagliatelle al ragu , mortadella comes with a different name abroad–bologna (gee, I wonder where that name came from?!).

Don’t be fooled, though: while you can tell enough similarities between mortadella and bologna to see why they are compared, mortadella is in a whole different league.

At least 15% of any given mortadella is made up of small cubes of pork fat, giving it a smooth, creamy texture and a delicious taste.

Prosciutto di Parma

Sweeter than the better-known salty proscuitto of nearby Tuscany, prosciutto di parm a is perhaps the most popular cured meat in Bologna!

We strongly recommend ordering a heaping plate of it (along with some mortadella and salame rosa ) at an outdoor cafe in Bologna, adding a cheese plate and a glass of wine, and digging into it as a delicious (and simple) meal.

Looking for a well-reviewed, centrally located place to stay when enjoying the best activities in Bologna, Italy?

Each of these properties is well-reviewed with an excellent, central location, and makes a fantastic place to rest your head while in Bologna.

Residenza Bianconcini  — Set in a historic building in the university district, the Residenza Bianconcini is especially noted in the reviews for its charming neighborhood close to major attractions and its delicious included breakfast!

Check rates & book your stay at Residenza Bianconcini!

B&B Second Floor  — Located a short walk from Bologna’s leaning towers and many other major attractions, this B&B has fantastic reviews across the board.

Check rates & book your stay at B&B Second Floor!

When we spent a full month in Bologna, we opted for this spacious Airbnb  a bit away from the center of town.

The apartment was perfect for long visits (very clean, close to a grocery store, great wifi), but the 20-minute walk to the center of Bologna means that we wouldn’t recommend it for a short stay.

If you’re considering staying in an Airbnb, check out our best tips here .

Bologna is a fairly compact city, and if you stay within walking distance of the Piazza Maggiore, you’ll be able to reach virtually all of the best things to do in Bologna, Italy on foot.

The train station (Bologna Centrale) is about a 20-minute walk from Piazza Maggiore, and each time that we’ve arrived in the city by train, we simply walk into town (when arriving at the airport, we take a taxi or Uber).

If you’re driving into Bologna as part of an Italian road trip , be cautious!

There are parking garages just outside the historic center where you can leave your car, but driving into the ZTL zones–which make up most of the historic center–can result in a hefty fine.

Unfortunately, a few of our family members found this out the hard way!

About Kate Storm

In May 2016, I left my suburban life in the USA and became a full-time traveler. Since then, I have visited 50+ countries on 5 continents and lived in Portugal, developing a special love of traveling in Europe (especially Italy) along the way. Today, along with my husband Jeremy and dog Ranger, I’m working toward my eventual goal of splitting my life between Europe and the USA.

8 thoughts on “21 Best Things to Do in Bologna (Italy’s Foodie City!)”

I would spend hours at the piazza! Gotta love some good old fashioned people watching. Rocking post!

Thanks, Ryan!

Awesome and super-comprehensive post! That view from the tower though, gulp! The museum to the crashed plane sounds really interesting and moving. A friend just got back from Bologna and really raved about it, and after reading this post I think I’ll have to put it on my list too!

Haha, right?? The view itself was manageable for me (very enclosed), but the way up was NOT FUN. Worth it, though!

I’ve been to Italy so many times, but never to Bologna. I’ve heard from so many travelers though that it’s their favorite place in Italy. Hopefully next year! 🙂

Fingers crossed for you! It’s a fabulous city. 🙂 Italy has so many delightful nooks and crannies, I think it will take a lifetime to get to them all!

We are headed to Bologna in June. Thanks for your posts. Did you happen to visit the Basilica Santo Stefano Complex? Thanks again!

Only to the piazza outside it! We haven’t been in that particular complex. 🙂 Hope you have an amazing time in Bologna!

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19 Top Places to See & Best Things to Do in Bologna, Italy (+Map & Tips)

By Author Jurga

Posted on Last updated: April 23, 2024

Visiting Bologna, Italy, for the first time and wondering what to see and do in the city? In this guide, we share the top places to see and the best things to do in Bologna coupled with our experience-based tips and practical advice to help you plan your trip. Find out!

The capital city of northern Italy’s Emilia Romagna region, Bologna is one of the largest and most interesting cities to visit in Italy . Ruled at various times by Etruscans, Celts, and Romans – and part of the Papal States until the 18th century – it has a rich and fascinating history.

With its beautiful UNESCO heritage-listed porticoes, incredible medieval buildings, and a distinctly authentic feel, Bologna is a unique and often underrated city just waiting to be explored.

However, surrounded by so many grand and world-known cities and other famous places in northern Italy, Bologna is often overlooked by international visitors planning a trip to Italy. But it’s absolutely worth a visit, also because you will find a much more authentic atmosphere here than e.g. in Venice or even in Florence …

In this guide, we share the main landmarks and top experiences in Bologna that make it well worth a visit, even if you are traveling from the other side of the world. Take a look!

Interesting to know: Some of the best reasons to visit Bologna may be summed up by its three unique nicknames – La Rossa, La Grassa, and La Dotta – The Red, The Fat, and The Learned.

La Rossa (The Red) refers to the city’s distinctive terracotta-tiled rooftops and the flaming red color you’ll see decorating many of its walls. But the name also reflects Bologna’s political leanings. The city was strongly anti-fascist during the Second World War and the center of Nazi resistance, after which it became a Communist stronghold.

La Grassa (The Fat) pays homage to the excellent food you can experience in the region. Home to Parma ham, parmesan cheese, tagliatelle al ragù, mortadella, and balsamic vinegar, Bologna’s culinary scene is a food lover’s dream and the main reason some people come to visit.

La Dotta (The Learned) refers to the city’s university, which was founded in 1088 and is the oldest in the Western world. Bologna is a real student town with a great atmosphere, and also a dynamic and edgy appeal.

Good to know: Our list below is sorted starting with the most famous, must-see places in Bologna firs t. So if you are short on time, concentrate on the top 10 – 12 sites on the list (you should be easily able to cover all of these in a day). In addition, don’t miss #19 on our list – no visit to Bologna would be complete without experiencing its food! We share some restaurant recommendations as well.

For each of the main attractions in Bologna, we include some practical information and tips that you may want to know before your visit. In addition, we also created a MAP indicating all the best places in Bologna. You can find this interactive map at the bottom of the article.

TIP: If your time in Bologna is limited or if you want to get a good introduction to the city before you explore deeper, I highly recommend taking this highly-rated city walking tour . We did this tour first thing upon arrival and it was a great way to get the feel of the city and hear some stories and tips from a local guide.

Some of the people in our group were only in Bologna for a few hours or visiting Bologna for a day from Florence , others – like us – for a few days. We all found that this introductory city tour was well worth it.

Here are the very best things to see and do in Bologna:

1. Piazza Maggiore

The vibrant heart of the old city center, the public square of Piazza Maggiore is the main meeting point for locals and tourists alike. If you are visiting Bologna for the first time, this is an absolute must-see. Many other landmarks and most important places to see in Bologna are located just nearby too.

Piazza Maggiore is one of the best places to simply walk around and absorb Bologna’s lively atmosphere. It is lined with bustling cafes and surrounded by some of the city’s oldest and most impressive buildings. You’ll see grand palaces here, like the Palazzo d’Accursio (once Bologna’s Town Hall), along with Palazzo dei Notai, Palazzo del Podestà, Palazzo d’Accursio, and Palazzo dei Bianchi.

The Basilica di San Petronio is located on the other side of the square and to the northwest you’ll find the Piazza del Nettuno, home to the stunning Fountain of Neptune (more info about these sights is below). Just a few blocks to the east from here, you’ll see Piazza di Porta Ravegnana, the site of Bologna’s famous leaning towers.

The starting point for many of the city’s tours , Piazza Maggiore is also home to the Welcome Bologna visitor information center and the Biblioteca Salaborsa (Public Library).

In this central area, you can easily while away many hours, whether shopping, dining, or exploring the sights. If you’re lucky you may even catch an open-air movie or concert during your visit.

Be sure to pop back at night and enjoy an Aperol spritz as the crowds of the day give way to the laid-back buzz of the evening. The buildings are beautifully illuminated after dark and look quite stunning.

2. Fountain of Neptune

The Fountain of Neptune is another must-see in Bologna. Built by Flemish sculptor Giambologna and located in the Piazza del Nettuno , this controversial stone and bronze artwork dates back to the mid-16th century. Depicting a naked Neptune surrounded by lactating mermaids, it is a structure that still raises eyebrows today for its sexual explicitness.

Originally commissioned by Cardinal Carlo Borromeo to beautify the Piazza Maggiore, the fountain was constructed where the cardo and the decumanus – Bologna’s main streets – intersected. Legend has it that some local women were so scandalized by the sight of the naked Neptune that he was fitted with bronze pants to save their blushes!

It was also customary for students to walk anti-clockwise around the fountain twice, to bring them luck before exams. Depending on when you’re visiting, you can still see students celebrating their graduations beside this iconic fountain today.

Good to know: Next to the main fountain there is a smaller one with drinking water where you can refill your bottles.

TIP: Whilst visiting the Fountain of Neptune, look towards the east-facing wall of the Palazzo d’Accursio. Here you will find the very moving Sacrario dei Partigiani (the Partisan Wall). This is a memorial to all those partisans who were executed there by the Nazis for their involvement in the city’s WWII resistance movement.

3. Garisenda & Asinelli Towers

Did you know that Pisa isn’t the only place in Italy with a leaning tower? Bologna actually has two – the Asinelli and Garisenda Towers , locally known as the Due Torri .

Iconic symbols of the city, the towers were built in the 11th century by the Asinelli and Garisenda families. At the time of their construction, they would have been at the entry point of the ancient Via Emilia, serving as a warning to anyone thinking of invading!

It is likely that they were also built as a display of the families’ considerable wealth and importance! That being said, there were a lot of towers in the city at the time – 180, in fact. Today, only 20 remain, including the Prendiparte tower and the Galluzzi tower. The Asinelli and Garisenda Towers, however, are the tallest and most famous. They are located on Piazza di Porta Ravegnana in the old town.

The Garisenda Tower has a particularly steep overhang because the foundations have subsided. It has previously been lowered to prevent its collapse and is currently being restored. You cannot climb this tower.

But you can climb the Asinelli Tower and it’s definitely one of the best things to do in Bologna! The climb involves almost 500 very narrow, wooden steps, and is not for the faint-hearted. But if you are physically capable, it’s something you simply have to experience.

The 360° views from the top are incredible, with the entire city at your feet. You can see Piazza Maggiore and Basilica of San Luca to the west, the Roman road via Emilia to the southwest, and the verdant Emilia Romagna hills to the south. You also get a great view of the Garisenda Tower and Piazza de Porta Ravegana directly below.

See further for practical information for visiting the Asinelli Tower.

Good to know: Torre degli Asinelli is the most popular tourist attraction in Bologna and is open daily throughout the year, except on Christmas day. If you want to climb the tower, you have to reserve a timed slot in advance .

You can find more information and reserve your tickets on the official site . It’s also possible to buy a timed entry ticket in combination with some local food tasting . This ticket offers very good value and has the advantage that you can cancel up to 24 hours in advance if your plans change.

How much time do you need: The climb to the top took us less than 10 minutes, and about the same to get back down. Including the time to enjoy the views, we spent about half an hour at the Asinelli Tower. Also, you should arrive at least 5-10 minutes before your designated entry time.

TIP: If you are booking the combi ticket , do it in the morning (+-10-11.30 am). That way, you can use the food vouchers for lunch. If you are visiting Bologna in the high season, it’s also easier to do the climb early, before it gets too warm. We visited in May and went at 2 pm and it was really hot. In any case, be sure to take a bottle of water with you!

4. Clock Tower & Municipal Art Collections

Right on the Piazza Maggiore, you can visit another tower of Bologna – Torre dell’Orologio (the Clock Tower). The tower is part of Palazzo d’Accursio (or Palazzo Comunale), Bologna’s Town Hall . This impressive palace also houses the Municipal Art Collections .

If you want to climb at least one tower in Bologna and find the height of Asinelli Tower intimidating, then the Clock Tower might be a better option. It’s not nearly as high, but the views are really nice too. From the terrace at the lower level and also from the top of the tower, you have a unique aerial perspective of Piazza Maggiore and Bologna rooftops.

In addition, the ticket also includes entry to the Municipal Art Collections which are really impressive. Set inside the apartments of the former cardinals of Bologna, this is a combination of an art museum and palace chambers with some original decorations and furnishings. You can also see some important wooden crucifixes.

Good to know: You only need about 15-20 minutes to visit the Clock Tower and you can quickly walk through the museum in about the same time too. All in all, I recommend planning 1 hour for a quick visit. We visited both – the tower and the museum – and spent about 50 minutes inside.

Practical information: You can get a ticket for the museum only or a ticket that includes entry to the museum and the tower (recommended). The tower entry is timed and can be reserved in advance, whereas if you are only interested in the museum, you can easily visit without any advance booking.

For more practical information and tickets see here .

It’s possible that you can visit the tower without booking in advance as well, but it will depend on the season/ day. Just to be sure, we booked our tickets in advance, but it wasn’t busy at all when we visited. Despite its super central location, it seems as if many tourists just pass by the Town Hall without visiting inside… And yes, it’s totally worth it; one of the top places to see in Bologna.

5. Quadrilatero Neighborhood & Mercato di Mezzo

Quadrilatero neighborhood is home to the Mercato di Mezzo (Middle Market) and is an area you really have to experience in Bologna.

Foodies will say that this is the true heart of Bologna. The streets here are alive with stallholders shouting their wares and cafes spilling out onto the pavements. This is a noisy and vibrant area, an eclectic mix of sounds, smells, and colors.

Located just steps from the Piazza Maggiore, Quadrilatero has always been at the center of Bologna’s culinary scene. There were markets and food stalls here dating all the way back to the Middle Ages.

Nowadays, the area is the place to come for the very best regional specialties. These include locally produced balsamic vinegar, freshly prepared pasta, traditional cheeses, and some of the finest charcuterie you’ll ever experience.

Be sure to take a stroll down Via Pescherie Vecchie . Lined with restaurants and food stores, it is one of the prettiest streets in the area, with picture-perfect yellow and terracotta buildings and decorative old street lamps.

If you are looking for a nice quick meal, check out Mercato di Mezzo . This is not really a market, but a food court where you will find stalls selling all kinds of local specialties.

TIP: When in Bologna, be sure to try the crescentine fritte – delicious, pillowy rectangles of fried dough that are usually topped with cheese and prosciutto. I’d go back to the city just for this!

Good to know: Come here for lunch or in the afternoon as that’s when the area is at its liveliest.

6. Seven Churches – Santo Stefano Complex

Piazza Santo Stefano is a triangular open space often used to host concerts and other cultural events. With Casa Berti, Palazzo Isolani, and Palazzo Bolognini Isolani on one side – and the 16th century Palazzo Bolognini Amorini Salina on the other – it is dominated by the Basilica of Santo Stefano .

Basilica of Santo Stefano ( Basilica Santuario Santo Stefano – Complesso delle sette chiese ) is a must-see in Bologna. This historical religious complex includes several different buildings, chapels, and courtyards, plus a free museum where you can learn more about its history.

The site has been restored multiple times. Despite its name, there are only 4 churches left rather than the original 7.

You start your visit at the 8th-century Church of the Crucifix , where you can see the 14th-century crucifix that gives the church its name. There is also an 18th-century sculpture depicting the “Lamentation over the Dead Christ” in the left nave, and a fascinating crypt under the presbytery stair.

From there you exit through a side door to the Church of the Holy Sepulchre – the complex’s oldest building. It contains a shrine holding the relics of San Petronio (recovered here in 1141) and a natural spring symbolizing the River Jordan. You’ll see people crawling on their knees through a small hole in order to see the relics inside – it’s really special.

Next is the church dedicated to Vitale and Agricola – a master and servant who became the city’s martyrs when they fell victim to persecution by Diocletian in 305 AD. Here you can see the remains of a mosaic floor and the two decorated sarcophagi of Vitale and Agricola.

Finally, you exit into the “Courtyard of Pilates” – named for the spot where Jesus was sentenced – and move on to the Church of the Trinity , containing a wood sculpture depicting the Adoration of the Magi.

The tranquility and beauty of these buildings really must not be missed – and be sure to take a stroll around the peaceful cloisters at the end of your visit.

Good to know: The Basilica of Santo Stefano and most other sights here are open daily from early morning until around 7-7.30 pm. There is a 2-hour lunch closure between 12.30 and 2.30 pm.

There is no entrance fee and you don’t need any advance reservations in order to visit here.

This is one of the most unique religious sites in Bologna, it’s right in the heart of the old town, and really easy to visit. Definitely, one of the top places not to miss in Bologna!

We came here with our walking tour of Bologna’s highlights. It was nice to have a local guide who could tell us more about what we were seeing and quickly guide us through the labyrinth of different buildings of this impressive religious complex.

7. Teatro Anatomico & Palazzo dell’Archiginnasio

Teatro Anatomico is one of Bologna’s most curious attractions. It is also one of the most popular places to visit, and is absolutely worth a few minutes of your time. Just to make things clear – this is not a theater , but a 17th-century anatomical lecture hall of Bologna University.

The Anatomical Theatre is located in the Archiginnasio Palace , the most impressive building of Bologna’s University in the heart of the old town. Palazzo dell’Archiginnasio was built in the 16th century and served as the seat of Bologna University until 1803.

Part of the city’s old medical school, Teatro Anatomico was damaged by bombing in WWII. It has been painstakingly restored using its original pieces. Built entirely from spruce wood and decorated with statues and astrological symbols, this lecture hall is really impressive.

The scene is dominated by the throne-like seat for the professor, flanked by the rather grisly Spellati (skinless) statues with their bodily anatomy exposed. There is a marble table in the middle of the room which – although it’s only a copy of the original – makes it easy to visualize how it was once used for the dissection of cadavers. You can take your place on the tiered seating and imagine how it must have felt to be a medical student at the time.

See if you can also see a spy hole in the wall. It was used by the church to make sure that classes were not teaching anything immoral.

Good to know: Everyone is free to walk around and visit the impressive courtyard and several hallways of Palazzo dell’Archiginnasio. But you will need a ticket if you want to visit Teatro Anatomico or the library inside .

Be sure to also take a look at the beautiful library. You can only visit Stabat Mater Hall and not the actual library. But you can take a peek at the impressive library through an open door.

The entrance fee includes access to Teatro Anatomico and Stabat Mater Hall and is just a few euros. You only need 10-20 minutes for a visit. However, the number of people they allow inside at any given time is limited. So if you didn’t reserve a specific time slot in advance, it’s possible that you will have to come back a few hours later.

Practical information: Teatro Anatomico is open daily except on Sundays and some public holidays. You can reserve your ticket in advance here . It’s not a must but can be helpful if you want to visit at a specific time (which makes it easier to plan your day).

8. Basilica di San Petronio & Terrazza di San Petronio

Basilica di San Petronio located on Piazza Maggiore is another place that you really should visit in Bologna. This is NOT the official Cathedral of Bologna, but it’s the most impressive church if the city.

One of Bologna’s most important buildings, the San Petronio Church is the 10th largest church in the world and the 6th largest in Europe. Dating back to the late 14th century, its unfinished front facade is a strange mixture of marble and brickwork – the result of a rivalry with Rome.

The church is dedicated to Saint Petronius – Bologna’s patron saint – and has many unique and distinctive features. These include the world’s longest indoor Meridian – which accurately marks the passing of days and seasons – and 22 smaller chapels. Inside one of these – the Cappella Bolognini – you can see an original depiction of heaven and hell inspired by Dante’s Divine Comedy.

There are also some magnificent frescoes here, plus two ancient organs – one of which is the oldest functioning organ in the world.

TIP: If you are looking to do something unique in Bologna, see if you can visit Terrazza di San Petronio . This is a temporary viewing platform located on the outside at the back of the church. This part of the building is being renovated and they had to install metal stairs for the workmen to be able to reach the upper parts of the church. To help finance the renovation, they also added a small ‘terrace’ at the top of these metal stairs, from where tourists can enjoy unique views of Bologna.

Good to know: The Basilica is open daily from 8.30 am to 1.30 pm and from 3 to 6.30 pm and the entrance is free of charge. They ask you to pay a small fee if you want to take pictures inside or visit Cappella Bolognini.

The panoramic terrace is only open on the weekends and holidays (when there are no construction workers) and only while the construction works last. There is a small fee and you can get a ticket on the spot. For more practical information and opening hours, see here .

I’m not sure how much longer these renovation works will be going on. But if you are visiting Bologna on a weekend, take a look if the terrace is still open. The views are well worth a short climb.

9. Former Jewish Ghetto

Bologna’s former Jewish ghetto ( Ex Ghetto Ebraico ) lies in the heart of the medieval center. A network of covered bridges, suspended bridges, and alleyways, the area looks much as it did in ancient times.

Just as in most other places all over Europe, the ghetto was created following a 1555 order by Pope Paul IV that Jews be separated from the rest of the population in all territories of the Papal State.

The old ghetto in Bologna is a small area north of Via Rizzoli and between the streets of Via Oberdan and Via Zamboni. You only need 15-20 minutes for a visit here. It’s definitely worth passing by!

The area is really picturesque, with colorful houses and interesting street art. You’ll also find lots of artisan workshops and cool bars here, as the old ghetto has gradually become popular with Bologna’s younger crowd.

In addition, you can visit the Jewish Museum of Bologna ( Museo Ebraico di Bologna ) inside the ghetto to learn more about the area’s history.

Good to know: At various places in the ex-ghetto, you’ll see informational signs with a hand-shaped map of the area.

These maps indicate some of the main points of interest in the neighborhood (see the picture below). Following their recommendations and reading all the info along the way, you can learn more about the ghetto’s history.

10. Sanctuary of Madonna di San Luca

The iconic Sanctuary of San Luca sits on top of the Monte della Guardia overlooking the city and is one of Bologna’s must-see attractions. However, it’s located quite far from everything else and so you’ll need to foresee a bit more time if you want to visit here.

Santuario di Madonna di San Luca is a place of worship dedicated to the Virgin Mary. It sits on the site of a 12th-century hermitage that developed into a monastic community. Their purpose was to guard an image of Mary and her child, which was said to have been painted by Luke the Evangelist (and explains the sanctuary’s name).

The interior of the Basilica is quite stunning. Inside the sanctuary, you can see beautiful frescoes and imposing columns, with the highlight being the icon of the Virgin Mary with the infant Jesus. This sacred image is much revered in Bologna as it is believed to protect the city. It is carried down each May on a canopy to the Cathedral as part of a solemn religious ceremony.

For a higher-angle view, you can visit an observation deck for which you need to buy a ticket. It involves climbing a narrow spiral staircase of 110 steps into the church’s cupola and onto a small outdoor terrace. The view is nice with Bologna center in the distance and rolling hills that make you think of Tuscany… However, you only have partial side views and the terrace is tiny. It’s nice to see but not really a must.

Getting there: The easiest way to get to the Sanctuary is by boarding the ‘San Luca Express’, a little tourist train from Piazza Maggiore. It runs daily the whole year round, with frequent departures. You can hop off at the sanctuary, visit it, and take the next ‘train’ back to the center. But many people just look around, take a few pictures while passing by, and don’t even get off.

You can get tickets for this little train on the spot or book this ticket that includes food tasting as well. Either way, you’ll have to see what the next available time is and if it’s busy, you may have to wait half an hour or even longer. Talk to the staff and see if you can put your name on the list for the specific departure. In the meantime, you can visit other places in the Bologna center.

Alternatively, you can take a taxi or even walk to the Sanctuary. Some even find the journey to reach the Sanctuary of Madonna part of its appeal. The route follows the beautiful, covered path of Portico di San Luca – the longest portico in the world.

It begins at Via Saragozza and then starts to rise at the Arco del Meloncello elevating you above the traffic. The incline is 10% so it can certainly be challenging, especially taking into account the long series of steep steps at the end! The walk gives you the chance to enjoy some really good views, including the soccer stadium, the city’s historic center, and the Colle dell’Osservanza.

TIP: If you have a few hours to spare and are looking to get a bit off the beaten path in Bologna, take a tourist train or a taxi to the sanctuary, visit inside, and afterwards walk back via the Portico di San Luca. This way you are walking downhill and it’s much easier. Still, the distance between the Sanctuary of San Luca and the city center is about 5 km (3 miles) and the walk will likely take you at least 1 hour. You’d need about 1.5 hours if you would do the same walk in the other direction.

Our experience: We took the tourist train to the sanctuary and walked back. In all honesty, I don’t know if I’d do it again. Instead, I would just check out the Portico of San Luca and maybe walk down for a couple of minutes – just for the experience. But I’d take the tourist train back to the center rather than walking all the way. There are better things to do in Bologna, and definitely, if your time is limited.

11. Bologna Porticoes

Bologna’s UNESCO world-heritage-listed porticoes are an intrinsic part of the city’s landscape. In the city center alone, you’ll find an incredible 40 km (about 25 miles) of arched walkways.

Originally built from wood in the late Middle Ages, these covered walkways were designed to create additional living space. Nowadays, they provide sheltered paths for strolling around the city, which is very convenient. If it’s hot, you can always find some shade, and if it rains, you can see and do a lot without ever needing an umbrella.

Good to know: There is not one ‘best’ place to see the Bologna porticoes. It’s something you will see all over the city. The longest portico is the one leading up to Santuario di Madonna di San Luca (see above).

However, some of the most noteworthy are the original wooden porticoes of Via Marsala and Casa Isolani on Strada Maggiore, and the porticos of Piazza Santo Stefano. You can also find some really pretty porticoes around Piazza Cavour.

12. Finestrella

‘Finistrella’ is Italian for window – and this may be one of the most unique views through a window in the city!

Located in Via Piella (see also our map further below for the exact location), the small ‘Canal Window’ looks out onto one of the few remaining sections of Bologna’s historic canals. Otherwise obscured from view, this section of Canale delle Moline is lined by colorful houses and is quite lovely. It almost looks like a picture come to life!

However, it’s worth noting that the canal sometimes dries up in the summer months, and some people find it’s not worth going out of your way to visit it. We found that it was totally worth a small detour, especially if you are visiting the Jewish Ghetto which is just nearby too.

Good to know: A hidden gem in the past, Finestrella is nowadays one of the most famous ‘instagrammable’ places in Bologna. Sometimes, you’ll see a long queue of people waiting to take a peek through this little window…

When we arrived, we had difficulties finding where Finestrella actually is and walked past it without realizing it. When we passed here on another occasion, there was a huge line and you really couldn’t miss it.

If you are also looking for it, the Finestrella is located to the right of the entrance of Trattoria dal Biassanot. It’s hidden in a colorful wall, under one of the typical Bologna porticos that is also used as a restaurant terrace. Normally, this little window is closed and since it has the exact same color as the wall, it’s easy to miss it if there’s nobody else around.

13. Mercato delle Erbe

Mercato delle Erbe is another food court/market in Bologna city center and is a popular spot for dining.

Whereas the Quadrilatero is the best choice for its aged cheese and cured meats, Mercato delle Erbe excels in fresh, local produce and seafood. There is an actual market here, so not just restaurants or food stalls as in Mercato di Mezzo.

Housed in an attractive historic building whose foundation once belonged to a church, the market is filled with boxes of colorful fruits and vegetables. It also has several really nice restaurants.

Good to know: The building remains open after the market has closed and is a great place to enjoy an aperitivo along with the locals at the end of the day.

TIP: If you want to bring home some of the delicious local cheese, head to Formaggeria Barbieri. They will shrink-wrap it for you, making it easier to travel with. For lunch or dinner, I highly recommend NOI at Mercato delle Erbe. This restaurant serves delicious local food including the best crescentine fritte we had in Bologna. For dinner, it’s best to reserve a table in advance (this is the case in most restaurants in Bologna).

14. Basilica of San Domenico

Located a bit outside the main tourist area, Piazza San Domenico is a small cozy square, home to the Basilica of San Domenico . It’s well worth visiting if you have some extra time, but not a must if your time in the city is limited.

This Basilica is considered one of the most beautiful churches in Bologna. But the main reason to come here is to see the tomb of St. Dominic , founder of the Dominican Order. This monumental sarcophagus is called Arca di San Domenico and is absolutely impressive.

The tomb contains the three statues of Buonarroti. Often considered forgotten treasures because so few people know of their existence, these statues were made by Michelangelo. They include the candle-holder angel, the statue of San Petronio, and the statue of San Procolo.

Good to know: The Basilica is open daily in the morning (except Sundays) and in the afternoon. Just as most churches in Italy, it closes for a few hours around noon.

15. Museo Civico Archeologico

A visit to Bologna’s Archaeological Museum makes a great way to learn about the city’s development and progress throughout the years. It is located in the 15th-century Palazzo Galvani, just a short walk from Piazza Maggiore.

The exposition is divided into different eras – including Prehistoric, Celtic, Roman, and Greek – with various fascinating artifacts in each collection. But the most impressive part to visit is the Egyptian collection , which is considered among the most important in Europe and the third-largest in Italy. You can see some Egyptian mummies and other artifacts from ancient Egypt.

Other exhibits include those previously housed at the former Museo Universitario, along with a collection belonging to the painter Pelagio Palagi. You can also see items excavated locally between the end of the 19th century and the early 20th century.

When we visited, a big part of the museum was closed due to renovation works, and we found it a bit underwhelming. On the other hand, the Egyptian collection alone was worth seeing, and in the meantime, the rest of the museum is open again. So I’ll leave it up to you to decide if it’s worth it.

The good thing is that this museum is very centrally located and it doesn’t require much time. So if you are looking for additional things to do in Bologna, it’s worth considering.

Good to know: The museum is open daily except for Tuesdays. For practical information, see their website , or simply pop inside once you are in the city. You don’t need to buy tickets for the museum in advance; only if you would be interested in a specific temporary exhibition. Their website suggests booking in advance in order to avoid long lines, so maybe it can get busy at times. When we visited, it wasn’t busy at all.

16. Giardini Margherita

Located just south of the city center, Giardini Margherita is the most popular park in Bologna. It retains much of its original layout, inspired by the classic and romantic parks of England.

Though the boating lake, zoo, and funicular railway it once contained are now gone, it is still a beautiful green space in which to relax. You’ll find several nice cafes here, a small lake with paved paths, plus multiple trails for walking or running.

During your visit, be sure to check out Kilowatt (known to the locals as Le Serre ) on the western side of the park. Formerly the park’s municipal greenhouses, the site has now been transformed into a multi-functional space. You’ll find co-working facilities here, a restaurant, a vegetable garden, live music, and lots more. It really is quite a unique venue and well worth visiting if you are looking to explore the more local side of Bologna.

17. Pinacoteca Nazionale

The National Art Gallery of Bologna is a museum is located in the former Saint Ignatius Jesuit novitiate, within the complex of the old university. Unlike other galleries which tend to display pieces from all over the world, this museum focuses on work with a connection to the Emilia Romagna region and the city of Bologna.

There are some incredible pieces to see here, some dating as far back as the 13th century. They are divided into two sections. The first – the Accademia Clementina – is filled with fascinating and ancient Byzantine paintings, whilst the second – the Gallery of the Academy of Fine Arts – contains later works.

Paintings to look out for include Titian’s ‘Jesus Christ and the Good Thief’ , Vasari’s ‘Feast of St. Gregory the Great’ , and the ‘Ecstasy of St. Cecilia’ by Raphael. There is an entire room devoted to the work of Giotto and another dedicated to the Baroque painter Guido Reni.

Good to know: The museum is open daily except on Mondays. For more practical info, see their website .

18. FICO – World Eataly

Update: FICO is currently closed. They say that they are working on an even bigger project. We will do our best to update this guide when there is more news. In the meantime, there are many other great opportunities to enjoy local food in Bologna – see further below!

FICO  – Italian Food Theme Park – is one of the more ‘local’ places to visit in Bologna. This is a theme park with a difference, devoted entirely to celebrating the diversity of Italian food.

Vast in scale, this unique attraction’s main focus is to show its visitors how food is made. With a motto of ‘dal campo alla forchetta’ (from field to fork), it takes you through the production processes of a variety of foods.

There is a big emphasis on agriculture and you can visit a huge outdoor area where the crops grown range from cereal and olives to fruit and truffles. You can also see stables with some 200 farm animals.

The rest of the attraction is indoors and is truly a foodie’s dream! In addition to 40 food factories, there are more than 40 kiosks or restaurants and plenty of shops to buy and taste all kinds of Italian produce.

On the other hand, often, the place feels a bit deserted and too big for the number of people coming here. So your experience will highly depend on when you visit and what your expectations are. I’d say it’s definitely not a must, but can be something nice to do in Bologna with kids or for people who have lots of extra time and are looking to get a bit off the beaten path.

Good to know: FICO is located on the outskirts of Bologna and is not a place you visit in a hurry. There’s an entrance fee, plus you have to pay extra for food.

19. Local Food

No guide to the best of Bologna would be complete without mentioning its food . The entire Emilia Romagna region is known as the foodie destination in Italy, and its capital city Bologna is a paradise for those who want to experience some of the best Italian food.

Some of the must-try regional specialties in Bologna include tagliatelle al ragù (the actual version of the world-famous spaghetti bolognese which originated in Bologna), lasagne bolognese, tortellini in brodo , Parma ham, mortadella sausage, parmesan cheese, and balsamic vinegar. Also the earlier-mentioned fried bread crescentine is not to be missed.

There are so many amazing places where you can eat in Bologna that it’s almost impossible to find a bad meal. If I can give you one piece of advice is to try to eat at as many different places as possible. From food courts, markets, or kiosks to local trattorias or high-end restaurants – food in Bologna is an experience in itself.

Here are some restaurant recommendations – 3 of our absolute favorites from all the places we ate in Bologna:

• Ristorante Da Cesari . Simply the best meal of our entire trip to Florence and Bologna. Reserve in advance!
• Osteria dell’Orsa . This is a very popular low-key restaurant. Great price-quality ratio. It’s a nice place for those looking for an authentic local experience. They don’t take reservations, so be prepared to queue, but it moves quickly.
• NOI at Mercato delle Erbe – for the best crescentine in Bologna (the rest of the food was great too!). If you want to have dinner here, be sure to reserve. For lunch, come as soon as they open (or reserve).

For a quick lunch , try Mò Mortadella Lab. This is a very popular sandwich shop. However, they have no seating. For a really good gelato in the city center, check out Cremeria la Vecchia Stalla, Oggi gelaterias, or Cremeria Cavour. We indicated all these places on our map below.

TIP: If you are short on time and want to try some traditional specialties in Bologna , one of the best ways to do that is by joining a local food tour. There are quite a few food tour options , sometimes in combination with some city highlights. If you are mostly interested in food, then this tour is the best option.

If you rather keep your flexibility but want to take advantage of local tips, you can also opt for a self-guided food tour where you get instructions and vouchers for different tastings in various local shops and restaurants in the city center.

With an extra day: One of the best excursions to do from Bologna is taking a gastronomic tour of the Emilia Romagna region. I recommend a tour that combines several places/foods in one. For example, this gastronomic tour visits a dairy factory (Parmigiano Reggiano cheese), a vinegar-production site (Modena vinegar), and a wine cellar (Lambrusco wine). Another popular option is a day tour to Parma where you visit factories specializing in Parmigiano Reggiano and Parma Ham.

Where to stay in Bologna

Bologna city center is rather compact so you can explore almost everything on foot. The best area to stay in Bologna is within 5-10 minutes walking distance from Piazza Maggiore.

Here are some hotel recommendations in this area:

• 5* luxury: Grand Hotel Majestic gia’ Baglioni .
• More-affordable luxury: Hotel Corona d’Oro .
• One of the nicest price/quality/location 4* hotels: Art Hotel Commercianti .
• Mid-range 3*: Hotel Accademia .
• Lower budget: Albergo Garisenda .

Good to know! Bologna accommodation options are rather limited compared to places like Florence or Venice, so lodging here tends to be more expensive. Price/quality-wise, Bologna can be really expensive. Furthermore, it’s a university town and also a place that’s popular for meetings and corporate events. It might be hard to believe but it happens quite often that all the accommodations in the city center are fully booked.

We met an American solo traveler in Bologna who said he was only visiting for a day because he couldn’t find any accommodation in Bologna for that night. And when we were looking for a hotel for our trip about 2-3 months in advance, there was hardly anything available in the center. We opted for Hotel Accademia , not because it was our top choice, but because there was simply not much else to choose from within a short walking distance of the main attractions.

So if you want to stay in town, be sure to book your hotel in Bologna as soon as you know your travel dates. Alternatively, you can always visit Bologna from Florence for a day too. It’s just a short train ride away.

LEARN MORE: Florence to Bologna Train Info & Itinerary

Map of Bologna attractions

To help you plan your time, we created this map indicating all the best places to see in Bologna. We also indicated the restaurants mentioned in our guide.

As you will see, many of Bologna’s landmarks and best sites are located really close to each other. So you can see a lot in a short time and many people just visit Bologna for a day.

On the other hand, Bologna is a city that is worth exploring deeper and it’s worth staying longer just for the food too. So if you can, plan 2-3 days for Bologna – you won’t regret it.

How to use this map:  Use your computer mouse (or fingers) to zoom in or out. Click on the icons to get more information about each place. Click the arrow on the top left corner for the index. Click the star next to the map’s title to add it to your Google Maps account. To view the saved map on your smartphone or PC, open Google Maps, click the menu and go to ‘Your Places’/’Maps’. If you want to print the map or see it in a bigger window, click on ‘View larger map’ in the top right corner.

So, this is our guide to the very best of Bologna. I hope that this inspired you to visit Bologna and also to spend more time in the city. But even if you only have (half) a day in Bologna, it’s absolutely worth a visit too!

I also hope that our personal, experience-based tips will help you make the most out of your time in Bologna. It’s an incredible town with such a unique atmosphere that we haven’t experienced anywhere else in Italy. Have a great trip!

TIP: If you are looking for more travel inspiration around Bologna, take a look at our 3-day Emilia Romagna itinerary . It takes you to some really beautiful places in the region – many of which are undiscovered by mass tourism and offer a much more authentic experience.

Some of our favorite places in Northern Italy:

• Florence and Venice (must-sees, of course!)
• Best places in the Dolomites
• Best Towns in Tuscany
• Siena and Montepulciano
• … For more destinations, travel guides, and itineraries, please see our Italy travel guide . If you are wondering how to visit many of the best places in Italy in one trip, see our suggested 2-week Italy itinerary .

If you found this post useful, don’t forget to bookmark it and share it with your friends. Are you on Pinterest? Pin these images!

More guides and inspiration for visiting some of the most popular Italian cities:

• Tips for Visiting Rome
• Where to Stay in Rome
• How to Get to Rome City from the Airport
• Best Things to Do in Rome
• Hidden Gems of Rome
• Best Views in Rome
• Ancient Rome Sites & Landmarks
• Colosseum Levels & Tickets
• Rome Underground: Best Places to See
• 1 Day in Rome  
• 2 Days in Rome  
• 4 Days in Rome
• Best things to do in Venice
• 1 Day in Venice
• 3 Days in Venice
• Doge’s Palace, Venice
• Gondola Ride in Venice  (what to expect & tips)
• Visiting Venice with a baby or a toddler
• Visiting Venice by car
• Best Things to Do in Florence  
• 1 Day in Florence  
• Florence Rooftops with Best Views
• Florence to Bologna Travel Info & Itinerary
• Best Things to Do in Milan
• 1 Day in Milan
• Best Things to Do in Naples
• 1 Day in Naples
• Where to Stay in Naples
• Best Day Trips from Naples
• How to Get from Naples to Amalfi Coast
• How to Visit Mt Vesuvius

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Wednesday 6th of March 2024

WOW, this is our first trip to Bologna and we are already loaded with a milllion things to see and taste, great work guys

Thursday 7th of March 2024

Glad to help, Glenn. Have a wonderful trip and enjoy all the amazing food. The food in Bologna is amazing!

John Signorelli

Sunday 15th of October 2023

I used numerous articles on your site for the trip I just completed with my wife. Bologna was not on my list before reading this article and boy would that have been a mistake to pass this up.

Of particular note was Basilica of San Domenico. I think there were 8 people in the church, including my wife and I. We also loved Osteria dell'Orsa as you described.

Your advice in all of your articles were awesome, and they made our trip perfect. Thank!!

Monday 16th of October 2023

Glad to hear that, John! And yes, Bologna is well worth a visit! I'd go back in a heartbeat, even if just for the amazing food...

Tuesday 18th of April 2023

Hello - thank you for posting this wonderful and informative site. We're hoping to visit Italy in May and are English speakers. We know polite words in Italian but should we postpone our trip until we become better versed in the language?

Hi Kelli, no, there is absolutely no need to postpone any trip because of the language. We don't speak much Italian either, nor Spanish, Portuguese, Icelandic, or Chinese..., but that never stopped us from traveling the world. You'll be just fine with English, and a few words of Italian plus a smile goes a long way. Enjoy your trip!

Monday 3rd of October 2022

After I finish planning next years trip I will start planning our trip to Italy/Greece. I am saving all of your Italy articles for that trip.

Sunday 9th of October 2022

You'll love Italy and Greece, Michael! Both are amazing places to see in Europe. Happy travels!