Best things to do in Bologna

The first time I visited, Bologna left a bad taste in my mouth. There was a canceled train, a long cold night at the train station and loads of bad feels. But trust me, the second time around, Bologna made it up to me 10-fold and left me singing with all the incredible flavors!

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Known as La Dotta (the educated one, due to the university), La Rossa (the red one, due to the red bricks) and La Grassa (the fat one, due to all the incredible local food), Bologna is a city you simply have to experience. To make the most of your visit, here are some of the best things to do in Bologna!

Why visit Bologna

Bologna is a stunning city with rich history, unique architecture, and the most delicious, incredible food.

While the history and architecture of this city are impressive, nothing beats the food in Bologna. Emiglia Romagna has always had a sweet spot for cuisine, and Bologna is the epicenter of all these flavors and delicacies.

You should dedicate this trip to your taste buds. So pack some stretchy pants and jeans a size (or two) larger and let’s explore Bologna and all the flavors it has to offer!

Where to stay in Bologna

Bologna is a walkable city but really not as small as it might initially appear so you’ll want to stay fairly central. If you’re traveling by train and prefer to be closer to the station try to find accommodation within the ring rather than north of the station.

22 incredible things to do in Bologna

Below are the most incredible things you should add to your Bologna itinerary and the list includes popular highlights like the Asinelli Tower, some off-the-beaten-path curiosities, and unmissable culinary highlights!

The historic center of Bologna is fairly small and walkable so I highly recommend you join this walking tour to get acquainted with the city and the main sights. Once you’ve familiarized yourself with the main sights and received a deep dive into the history of the city it’s time to dive deeper.

1. Do a food tour

As already mentioned, the highlight of Bologna is the delicious food (or at least for me) so a food tour is an absolute must. This awesome food tour will give you a chance to indulge in Bologna’s renowned gastronomy with a local guide as you savor breakfast, sample fresh pasta, balsamic vinegar, cheese, wine, gelato, and even a secret dish. You’ll get a chance to see how pasta is made, discover the best places to buy Parmigiano Reggiano, and visit an authentic bottega to learn about the aging of balsamic vinegar.

Book your food tour of Bologna

2. Explore Piazza Maggiore & Nettuno

Bologna’s beating heart, Piazza Maggiore, dates back to 1200 and over the centuries, it was transformed into the grand plaza we know today. This public square has been a beloved gathering place for centuries, serving as the hub of one of Europe’s largest open-air markets until the mid-1800s.

The square is not only a beloved meeting spot for Bologna residents and tourists alike, filled with coffee shops, but is also home to some of Bologna’s most prominent buildings. Most of which are best enjoyed just by taking in the architectural beauty of the facades from the hustle and bustle of the square. However, if you’re a history nut you might want to visit a few of them.

Palazzo dei Notai next to the basilica was the headquarters of the Notary Order, as indicated by the three inkwells with goose feathers on its court of arms. The rectangular brick building has crenellations at the top and ground-level awnings, and 15th-century frescoes inside.

Palazzo d’Accursio on the western side was originally a public grain store and in 1336 it became the seat of the Anziani (Elders), the highest governing council of the city. Today, the complex serves as the town hall (with impressive frescoes), a public library (Salaborsa) and a small municipal art museum. But the real highlight is the clock tower. While possibly the lowest of the many towers you can climb in Bologna, it actually offers some of the most impressive views. You’ll get a first-row seat view over Piazza Maggiore with the twin towers and Bologna hills in the background, and its only a few flights of fairly decent stairs.

Fontana del Nettuno is technically located on Piazza Nettuno, an expansion of the Piazza Maggiore between Palazzo d’Accursio and Palazzo del Podestà. The Fountain of Neptune is made of marble and bronze and represents the power of the Pope, who was believed to rule the world like Neptune ruled the seas.

Palazzo del Podestà served as the first seat of the city council back when it was known as the Podestà in the 13th century. Back in the time artisans traded goods under the vaulted arcades, while notaries busily signed contracts under the stairs. Don’t miss the Torre dell’Arengo which was used to summon citizens for important meetings, and the Voltone del Podestà known for its incredible acoustics.

Palazzo Re Enzo behind Podesta originates from the mid-13th century and was originally known as Palazzo Nuovo (New Palace). It is now called Palazzo Re Enzo as it long served as the residence (a.k.a. prison) for King Enzo of Sardinia, who was captured during the Battle of Fossalta. On the ground floor, you can still see the army’s war equipment, while town meetings were held under the portico on the first floor. Make sure to also check out the Sala del Trecento, which has been transformed into a municipal archive.

Palazzo dei Banchi on the eastern side of the piazza is the youngest of the buildings in the square and was designed to make the square more pleasant by concealing the narrow streets, markets and old buildings at the back. The facade features 15 arches, with two larger ones that connect to Mercatto di Mezzo behind the building. The name of the palace comes from the exchange shops that used to operate here during the Renaissance. The portico of the building, along with the portico of the Archiginnasio further down the street, is called the Pavaglione, and allowed wealthy citizens of Bologna to take leisurely walks to the university be it rain or scorching sun.

3. Visit the Basilica di San Petronio

Basilica di San Petronio is also located on Piazza Maggiore but it’s so prominent it deserves its own section.

Named after the city’s patron saint and it was intended to become the largest church in Italy, even bigger than St. Peter’s Basilica in Rome. However, it was never finished due to a rivalry with Rome, leaving the façade only partially covered in marble. Despite this, it’s still the largest brick-built church in the world and it remains a symbol of Bologna’s history and architectural achievements.

Inside, the basilica features three naves and 22 chapels. The Music Chapel is the oldest musical institution in Bologna and houses the oldest still-functioning organ in the world. One of the most striking features of the church is the Chapel of the Three Wise Men, which has walls decorated with frescoes by Giovanni da Modena depicting scenes of heaven and hell. The floor features the longest sundial in the world, measuring 67.27 meters, created by the famous Italian astronomer Gian Domenico Cassini.

Despite all the incredible architectural importance, in my opinion, the highlight of the Basilica of St. Petronio is the panoramic view from the terrace. From there you can enjoy breathtaking views of piazza maggiore and nearby landmarks. At a height of 54 meters, it can be reached via a secured staircase or a lift. This is one of the rare viewing platforms in Bologna accessible by elevator.

4. Take in the views from Torre dell’Orologio

Perched proudly above Piazza Maggiore, the Clock Tower has been Bologna’s timekeeper since the 13th century. Its remarkable mechanical clock, boasting a diameter of 6.40 meters, stands as one of the largest in Italy. To accommodate it the tower was raised by 10 meters in the 15th century.

The Clock Tower is an integral part of Palazzo d’Accursio, and access to it is included with the museum ticket.

To reach the tower, you can ascend the ramp-like stairs or take the elevator at the back, leading you to the magnificent Sala Farnese. Adorned with breathtaking frescoes, this Baroque masterpiece serves as a captivating prelude to your journey upward. Take the restored stairs through the last door on the right and before reaching the top, don’t forget to pause at the balcony just beneath the clock. It gets even bigger up close! The final flight of stairs, still from the original structure, requires a signed waiver before ascending.

At the top of the tower you’ll be greeted with a 360-degree panoramic view of the historic center and the surrounding hills. Take in the sight of Piazza Maggiore below, the grand Basilica of San Petronio, and the myriad of towers, including the iconic Asinelli towers, nestled in the vibrant heart of Bologna.

5. Climb The Asinelli Tower (currently closed)

The twin towers of Bologna, also known as Le Due Torri, are iconic symbols of the city and were built during the Middle Ages as defensive fortifications. The shorter Garisenda Tower leans at a steep angle due to the subsidence of the land and is closed to the public.

The taller Asinelli Tower, named after the family who had it built, is open to the public. You’ll have to climb the sketchy 498 stairs to a height of 97 meters to the viewing platform. The stairs are narrow, uneven, steep, and frankly never-ending, but boy is the view worth the effort!

As you reach the top, the entire city of Bologna spreads out before you in a breathtaking 360-degree view. To the west, you’ll see the grand Piazza Maggiore and majestic Basilica of San Luca, while to the southwest, the ancient Roman road of Via Emilia stretches into the horizon. To the south, lush green rolling hills of the Emilia Romagna region provide a stunning backdrop. And if you’re feeling daring, lean over the northern railing to gaze down at the shorter, leaning Garisenda Tower and bustling Piazza de Porta Ravegana below.

Unfortunately, the Asinelli Tower is currently closed for maintenance.

Don’t worry, though—there are other fantastic spots to take in panoramic views of Bologna:

• Clock Tower (Palazzo d’Accursio): Open daily, offering an excellent view over Piazza Maggiore and beyond.
• Bell Tower of Cattedrale di San Pietro: Located on Via Indipendenza, this bell tower also offers great sights of Bologna’s rooftops. Open on Saturdays.
• Torre Prendiparte: A beautiful medieval tower now partially open to visitors, providing sweeping city views. Open Sundays.

Book your ticket with audio guide

6. Feel humble at the Archiginnasio & Anatomical Theatre

As you step into the atrium of the Archiginnasio you’ll be greeted with magnificent frescoes and ornaments and a calm atmosphere where your jaw will drop in fascination, along with your cell phone reception.

The Archiginnasio is the former main building of the University of Bologna from the 16th century and its thick walls are still home to the Library of Bologna. The library is for registered users only, but you can take a peek at the seemingly endless bookshelves from a lecture hall included in the Anatomical Theatre ticket.

This is also where you’ll find the fascinating Teatro Anatomico. This ornate lecture hall, carved entirely out of spruce wood, once hosted lectures for medical students. The amphitheater-style room is decorated with spellati wooden statues displaying the human anatomy and astrological symbols on the ceiling. The marble table at the center is where students would dissect human bodies during lectures.

Book your visit with audio guide and tasting

7. Eat your way around the Quadrilatero

As you make your way through the labyrinthine streets behind the Palazzo dei Banchi, just off of Piazza Maggiore, the sights and sounds of the Mercato di Mezzo. This market is a sensory overload in the best possible way, a place where the past and present collide in a riot of colors, flavors, and sounds. You’ll hear the vendors shouting out their daily specials, see the colorful produce on display, and catch whiffs of mouth-watering dishes you’ve never seen before.

Family-owned businesses have been passed down from generation to generation, but the Quadrilatero is much more than just a historical district. It’s a foodie’s paradise, a treasure trove of street food and traditional delicacies that will leave your taste buds singing.

Via Calcoliere, at the end of Via Drapperie, is known for all the incredible street food so make sure to stop at Murtadela for the best mortadella bites in town, try the delicious piadine at Piadineria la Piadeina or for something smaller, grab a tigella at Tigellino.

And when you’re ready for a break, there are plenty of cozy cafes and bars to choose from, where you can indulge in a delicious lunch or an afternoon aperitivo. In many of the bars in the area is common to grab a bite from the local deli or street food shop and sit down for a glass of wine.

You can also join this food tour that takes you to both, the Mercato delle Erbe and the Mercato di Mezzo for the ultimate Bologna food experience.

8. Stroll the Bologna Porticoes

Bologna’s porticoes have earned their rightful place on the UNESCO World Heritage List. Spanning almost 62 km, with 40 km in the city center alone, these covered walkways are a hallmark of the city’s history and prosperity.

The porticoes were built at different times in history but mainly during the Middle Ages, when the city flourished and continued to be extended till the early 20th century, as the growth of the University demanded more space. These partially enclosed walkways lined with arches and columns were built over the existing walkways at a height that allowed for horse-drawn carriages to pass beneath them, while also providing space for expansions on top of them.

While the porticoes leading up to the Sanctuary of the Madonna di San Luca is the longest and by far the most famous, each portico in Bologna has its own distinctive style, structure, and history. Walking through them is like stepping into a time machine and getting to know the city’s past, one step at a time.

Don’t miss the portico of the Archiginnasio, known as The Pavaglione, and the impressive four-sided portico of the Basilica of S. Maria dei Servi in Strada Maggiore. The tallest portico can be found in Via Altabella, where the archiepiscopal building boasts an arch nearly 10 meters high. On the other hand, the narrowest portico, measuring just 95 cm, can be found in Via Sanzanome.

There are wooden porticoes at Casa Isolani in Via Marsala and the beccadelli semi-porticoes of Palazzo d’Accursio and Palazzo Ghisilardi-Fava. Another well-known portico is the towering dei Bastardini in Via D’Azeglio, named after the orphanage that once occupied its vaults.

To truly appreciate the beauty and significance of the porticoes I recommend joining this guided tour is highly recommended. You’ll learn about the intricate designs, the play of light and shadow, the various architectural angles, columns, capitals, and frescoes that adorn these porticoes. These covered walkways create the most fascinating urban landscapes that are hard to resist falling in love with.

Book your porticoes & Madonna di San Luca tour

9. Join a cooking class

Nothing says Italy like Italian food which is almost a religion for the locals. So why not join a cooking class and unlock the secrets of Bologna’s regional cuisine?

You’ll be warmly welcomed into a local’s home for an intimate lesson and learn to prepare a delicious, authentic Italian meal from scratch. Whether you’re a rookie or an experienced cook, you’ll soon be whipping up famous Bolognese delicacies like a pro, from mouth-watering tortellini to freshly made pasta.

And best of all? You’ll get to enjoy these creations with a glass of wine and you’ll be able to recreate a little piece of Italy even when you return home.

Book your cooking class

10. Visit St. Stephen Square and the 7 churches

Take a stroll down the lively Via San Stefano to Piazza San Stefano. This quieter piazza is a welcome retreat from the hustle and bustle of the Quadrilattero. Sit down at the lovely Agricola e Vitale and enjoy a glass of wine or a cappuccino with the impressive historic complex of the Basilica of San Stefano as a backdrop.

The Basilica of San Stefano, also known as Sette Chiese (Seven Churches), is a complex of religious buildings that occupies the entire eastern side of the square. It is a unique labyrinth of interlocking ecclesiastical buildings incorporating Romanesque, Lombard, and even ancient Roman elements. Originally, there were seven churches in the complex, but only four remain intact today, including the crypts.

Particularly impressive is the Chiesa del Santo Sepolcro which is believed to have been built on an ancient Temple of Isis and dates back to the 5th century. Octagonal in shape, it was designed to faithfully replicate the place where the remains of Christ were laid after his death and is dominated by a large pulpit in the center.

11. Climb to the Sanctuary of the Madonna di San Luca

It’s time to get those steps in and give your body a chance to digest while you embark on a journey through the enchanting Portico di San Luca, a UNESCO World Heritage site.

This portico stretches a whopping 3.8 kilometers from the Arco Bonaccorsi at Porta Saragozza to the Sanctuay of the Madonna di San Luca on Colle della Guardia. With 664 intricately designed arches adorned with icons and chapels built by the city’s patron families, this portico is the longest in the world and a wonder to behold.

As you make your way through the porticoes keep an eye out for the Arco del Meloncello. This 18th-century arch forms a pedestrian portico over the road solving the problem of an intersection where two roads met and allowing pilgrims to proceed uninterrupted.

The final part of the walk is mostly stairs to the top of the hill where sits the Sanctuary of the Madonna di San Luca. Inside are magnificent frescoes and artwork by renowned Italian painters and sculptors such as Creti, Reni, Pestrini, Mazza, and Bigari. But for me, the real appeal were the breathtaking views of Bologna

If walking up to the Sanctuary of San Luca is not feasible for you, don’t worry, you can still appreciate this sacred path and the stunning vistas from the hilltop and reach it with the San Luca Express. It runs every half hour from Piazza Maggiore, just make sure to book your tickets in advance, especially during the summer months. An even better option is this guided tour of the porticoes in town and the basilica.

Book your visit:

Porticoes & Madonna di San Luca tour

San Luca Express ticket

12. Discover the 7 secrets of Bologna

Hidden within the labyrinthine streets of Bologna lie the seven secrets of the city, each holding a curious tale waiting to be uncovered. Yet, are they truly secrets or simply intriguing curiosities that have captivated the imaginations of those who have wandered these storied paths? Here’s the complete list, can you find them all while exploring Bologna?

1. La Finestrella is a small window on the wall in Via Piella that will transport you to a romantic and unexpected view of a canal, reminiscent of the waterways in Venice.

2. Aincent wireless phone in the vault of Palazzo Podestà refers to the amazing acoustics of the portico. Approach the wall, whisper your message, and witness the incredible acoustic game that allows your message to be heard distinctly by someone standing in the opposite corner.

3. The three arrows are stuck in the wooden ceiling of the portico at the entrance to Corte Isolani. Legend has it that three assassins were commissioned to kill an unfaithful wife, but their aim was foiled when the woman looked out of her window without a veil, distracting the archers who missed their mark and shot the arrows upwards.

4. Canabis protectio is among the inscriptions at the elegant Art Nouveau building at the corner of via Indipendenza and via Rizzoli. The full inscription reads bread is life, hemp is protection, wine is joy and refers to the city’s agricultural wealth that was the foundation of the local economy. Cannabis was once a highly valued crop used for textile production and the creation of sturdy ropes.

5. Happy Neptune refers to a perspective illusion created by one of the statue’s fingers. Giambologna was asked to reduce the virility of Neptune to abide by religious laws. He did so, but secretly added it back in and designed the statue so that from a certain angle, Neptune’s finger looks like an erect phallus. Need I remind you the fountain was dedicated to the power of the Pope? What an intricate middle finger this is, thumbs up to you Giambologna!

6. The broken vase at the top of the Asinelli tower symbolizes the city’s political problem-solving skills, but its origin and authenticity are a mystery. In fact, there is no guarantee it is even there. Having watched a few clips of the Italian senate, my guess is the pot flew off the tower when Mr. Important Politician One threw it at the head of Mr Important Politician Two and missed. Nevertheless, the views from the tower are breathtaking and totally worth the climb!

7. Panum resis is allegedly an inscription on one of the historic desks at the University of Bologna. It means knowledge as the basis for everything. All I know is that nobody ever found it, guess it doesn’t get more secret than this!

13. Hear the engines roar in the Motor Valley

Buckle up and get ready for a journey through the Motor Valley, home to Ferrari, Lamborghini, Maserati, Ducati, and two world-famous racetracks this 50km area is a petrolhead’s paradise.

While I wouldn’t be against a Lambo in my garage, I have to be honest, this really isn’t my field of expertise but for those of you interested here’s the gist of everything you need to experience between Imola and Modena;

• Imola race tracks and the Museo Checco Costa
• Ducati Museum and factory tour
• Museo Ferruccio Lamborghini focused on the brand’s history
• MUDETEC museum and Lamborghini factory tour for the modern models
• Museo Enzo Ferrari
• Maserati showroom & factory tour
• Modena race track
• Test drive a Ferrari in Modena

This is quite a list and it might take you a couple of days if you’re committed to it all, but you should absolutely make some time for this Lamborghini and Ferrari tour. And depending on what you are most interested in, you could book one which also includes the Pagani factory or Ducati museum.

Book your adventure:

Test drive a Ferrari in Modena

Lamborghini and Ferrari tour

Pagani Lamborghini and Ferrari tour

Ducati Lamborghini and Ferrari tour

14. Visit the most delicious theme park in the world

I probably sound like a broken record, but Bologna really is famous for its delicious food, and it’s no surprise there’s a theme park here where you learn about and taste the best of Italian cuisine.

FICO Eataly World is the largest food theme park in the world and a food lover’s paradise with Michelin-starred chefs and fresh ingredients everywhere. It’s not just about eating, it’s an experience with unique hangout spots and an opportunity to deepen one’s love for gastronomy. With 45 restaurants, food factories, gardens, and even animal farms, at FICO there’s something for every taste.

Book your admission ticket and just take a stroll or delve a little deeper and combine your visit with a pasta, mortadella, gelato, pizza or wine course.

Book your foodie adventure at FICO:

Admission ticket
Pasta course
Mortadella course
Gelato course
Pizza course
Wine course

15. Climb the Torre Prendiparte

Bologna’s skyline looked quite different in the middle ages with over 90 towers dotted around town. The first towers were constructed as a means of defense and surveillance, but as the city’s political landscape shifted, the towers became a way for the wealthiest families to assert their power, wealth, and dominance.

Today, only 22 of the original more than ninety towers remain standing and one of the most impressive towers is the Torre Prendiparte, also known as the Coronata Tower (The Crowned One) because of the iconic recess just under the top.

Built by the wealthy Prendiparte family in the 12th century, this tower stands an impressive 60 meters tall and is the second tallest tower in Bologna after the Asinelli. With its red brick walls and sturdy selenite blocks, the tower looks like an impregnable fortress from the outside.

As you climb the 12 floors of the tower you’ll emerge onto a large panoramic terrace at the top of the tower, where you can take in breathtaking views of Bologna’s rooftops, buildings, hills, and plains. Surrounded by centuries of history and with the city of Bologna spread out before you, it’s impossible not to feel a sense of wonder and awe at the enduring legacy of these medieval towers.

Torre Prendiparte is only open on Sundays

16. Visit some artisan and vintage shops

Bologna is home to some incredible artisan and vintage shops with loads of charm and history.

My favorite by far is Profumi e Veleni which translates to Perfumes & Poisons. This shop is impossible to miss and you’ll smell the enchanting fragrances seeping onto the streets.

La Coroncina (1694) is the oldest shop in Bologna and is still in the hands of the descendants of the family who established it centuries ago. Here you can find a bit of everything which can’t be found anywhere else and is the perfect shop to buy some unique gifts and souvenirs.

17. Buy some bigger pants

After all the delicious food in Bologna you’re probably struggling to do up the button on your pants so let’s find you a bigger pair. Via San Felice, Via Indipendenza and Via Rizzoli, as well as Galleria Cavour are the main shopping areas in Bologna.

18. Unwind at The Parco Giardini Margherita

With 26 acres, the Parco Giardini Margherita is the main park in Bologna boasting ample recreational (and relaxation) areas. The park’s original English Romantic layout and the discovery of an Etruscan burial ground add a layer of historical interest to the already impressive natural surroundings. While many tourists might head to the historic Parco della Montagnola for their fix of green, I’d highly recommend you go the extra mile to Margherita. You’ll not only avoid the smell of urine but end up in a little slice of paradise, complete with a small lake filled with turtles.

But Giardini Margherita is not just a park, but a hub for innovation and sustainability where you can expect a unique experience that blends nature, art, and entertainment thanks to Le Serre dei Giardini, where you’ll find a trendy restaurant and bar. Le Sierre boasts an incredible outdoor garden with plenty of seating areas hidden among the many garden beds, pergolas, and greenhouses. This is not just a place for relaxing with a refreshing gin and tonic, but also a popular coworking place where entrepreneurs come to finish their projects and youngsters study for their exams.

The park also hosts a variety of events and music festivals throughout the summer and showcases modern art projects focused on sustainability and regeneration.

19. Get curious at Ex Chiesa di San Mattia

After being deconsecrated and used as a warehouse in the late 1700s, the restoration of San Mattia began in 1981 and was completed in 1994. The stucco and frescoes have been brought back to their former glory and has been transformed into a spectacular venue for exhibitions.

Today it hosts a range of events and expositions dedicated to architecture, urban planning, and design. You can check the current events and exhibitions here but unfortunately, the space is often closed between events. If you get a chance I highly recommend you visit an exhibition here as it’s quite impressive how the history and futuristic art merge in this space.

20. Explore the Ghetto Ebraico

As you take wander through the network of streets that converged onto Via dell’Inferno (Hell Alley), where the synagogue once stood at number 16, it is hard to imagine what this quarter must have felt like in its gloomiest times. In medieval times these narrow streets and courtyards imprisoned the Jewish community of Bologna, but have now transformed into hipstertown.

Today the Ghetto Ebraico is a hub of quirky shops, bars, and restaurants, all brimming with progressive residents and university students. In the evening, meander around the Ghetto’s colorful streets, and indulge in the heady mix of boutiques, vintage stores, bars, and street art. Then sit down for an aperitivo and take in the lively atmosphere as you watch Bologna’s uber cool, sipping spritz and smoking while discussing new ways to save the world (or the at least the latest Tik Tok trend). La Prosciutteria and Camera a Sud are my favorite options for a drink and bite in the Ghetto.

21. Immerse yourself in art at Pinnacoteca Nazionale

The Pinacoteca Nazionale di Bologna, situated in the former Jesuit novitiate on Via delle Belle Arti, is the most significant art gallery in Bologna. It houses an extensive collection of Emilian paintings from the 13th to the 18th century, featuring local and non-Bolognese artists such as Giotto, Raphael, Annibale Carracci, and Guido Reni.

With eight thematic sections dedicated to specific periods and artistic movements, the National Gallery presents a detailed exploration of Emilian painting throughout history, spanning Gothic, Renaissance, and Baroque periods. It provides a glimpse into the region’s rich artistic heritage and takes you on a comprehensive journey through centuries of magnificent paintings.

22. Join the aperitivo culture

Italy is known for its aperitivo culture, a pre-dinner drink served with appetizers. Traditionally, an aperitivo is a low-alcohol fizzy drink, like an Aperol Spritz, and is usually served with a small plate of crackers, olives, meats, cheeses, and bread.

Well, in Bologna the aperitivos start rolling right after lunch and keep going late into the night. Some of my favorite places to grab an aperitivo are Camera a Sud, La Prosciutteria Bologna, Le Vie Dei Briganti and of course Le Serre dei Giardini.

At select places, like Lab16 or Caffè Zamboni you can even get an apericena which is a buffet style selection of food to enjoy with your drink, generally in the 10-15 EUR range.

How many days in Bologna

A weekend in Bologna are the perfect amount of time to experience this wonderful city. You’ll be able to see all the main sights, do a food tour, visit some of the museums and galleries or walk up to Madonna della Salute.

You can see the main sights in Bologna in just one jam-packed day but ideally, you’ll spend the night here in order to experience the magical evening atmosphere.

With three days or more, you’ll be able to enjoy even more of the delicious food, venture out of the historic center and do some day trips from Bologna.

Getting to Bologna

Getting to Bologna is convenient, thanks to its well-connected transportation options. Whether you’re arriving by air, train, or car, you’ll find multiple ways to reach the city center efficiently.

• By Car: You can reach Bologna by rental car, as it is connected to nearby cities via motorways (A1 for Florence and Milan, A13 for Venice). However, be aware that central Bologna is a traffic-restricted area and parking options are limited.
• By Air: Bologna is serviced by Bologna Guglielmo Marconi Airport, located just 5.8 miles (9.3 km) from the city center.
  • The fastest way to travel from the airport to the city is via the Marconi Express, which takes just 7 minutes and accepts contactless payment.
  • Taxis at the airport can be expensive, so book a private transfer, with a drive time of 20-40 minutes, depending on traffic.
• For budget travelers, the 944 bus runs every 15 minutes into the city from 5 AM.
• By Train: Italy boasts an excellent railway network, with high-speed services (Frecciarossa) connecting Bologna to other major cities. The train station is a short walk from the city center.

Getting around Bologna

Getting around Bologna is both easy and enjoyable, with its pedestrian-friendly streets with porticoes and excellent transport networks.

• Walking: The old town is compact and pedestrian-friendly, with beautiful porticoes that shield you from rain and sun, making strolls enjoyable.
• Cycling: A popular option, cycling in Bologna is ideal due to slow traffic. Many locals and tourists traverse the city on bicycles, allowing you to explore at your own pace.
• Segways: For a unique experience, consider renting a Segway to tour the city.
• Public Transport: Bologna has an excellent bus system covering all major points of interest. The hop-on, hop-off bus provides convenient access to famous landmarks, complete with historical commentary.
• San Luca Express: This tourist train departs from Piazza Maggiore and takes you past various sights on the way to the Basilica of San Luca.

Where to eat and drink in Bologna

When it comes to food and drink in Bologna, you’re in for a true treat—because you can really eat anywhere and everywhere! I did stumble upon one lackluster coffee, but everything else? Absolutely incredible! So, let’s dive into some must-visit spots that will have your taste buds dancing.

• Breakfast and Coffee: Rise and shine with a delightful breakfast at Impero, Forno Brisa, or Uno Cafe Olistico. Personally, starting my day with a strong espresso and a pastry from Forno Brisa is how I show Bologna I love it. Trust me; you won’t regret it!
• Quick Bites & Street Food: For satisfying snacks that capture the essence of Bologna, head to Murtadela and Tigellino. These places serve up quick bites that will keep you fueled for your adventures. Just imagine sinking your teeth into a freshly made tigella—pure bliss!
• Lunch or Dinner: If you’re looking for a more substantial meal, don’t miss Sfoglia Rina and La Montanara. The pasta at Sfoglia Rina is a warm hug on a plate, and La Montanara’s pizza is simply divine. I still dream about that perfectly baked crust!
• Aperitivo and Late Bites: As the sun sets, it’s time to unwind with some aperitivo. Pop into Camera a Sud, La Prosciutteria Bologna, or Le Vie Dei Briganti for the best late bites. Picture this: a platter overflowing with cured meats, cheeses, and a glass of local wine in hand. What’s not to love?

Is Bologna worth visiting?

Absolutely! Bologna is a paradise for food lovers—and if you’re just a bit curious about food, you’re still in for a treat. The city boasts an array of regional delicacies you won’t find anywhere else. It’s called “La Grassa” (the Fat One) for a reason!

Beyond the food, you will appreciate the charm of La Rossa (the Red One) and La Dotta (the Learned One); the architecture and culture are just as rich as the cuisine.

Best time to visit Bologna, Italy

Bologna is a year-round destination. Those endless porticoes are a fantastic feature—they’ll keep you dry when the rain surprises you and provide shade during those hot summer days.

However, keep the summer heat in mind—July and August can get pretty toasty. Winter days might be shorter, but I’m a secret admirer of Italy in winter. There’s something magical about strolling through Bologna in winter while it’s crisp outside, and the cozy restaurants invite you in for a hearty meal.