Bologna in winter – 20+ things to do in winter in Bologna
I adore Bologna at any time of the year, but there’s something particularly special about the La Dotta, La Grassa, La Rossa in winter.
La Dotta celebrates the city’s rich academic history as the home of Europe’s oldest university. La Grassa highlights Bologna’s hearty cuisine that feels especially comforting in the cold season. And La Rossa refers to its iconic red bricks and rooftops.
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In this article, I’ll share practical tips and insider knowledge to help you make the best of your Bologna visit in winter.
In winter Bologna comes alive with colorful events, including beautiful nativity scenes, Christmas markets, concerts, and cultural exhibitions. Enjoy the delightful local markets, comfortable porticoes that protect from the winter chill, and the irresistible aroma of traditional foods like tortellini in brodo.
In a hurry?
These are the Bologna in winter essentials:
🎟️ Book your Bologna tours:
Bologna walking tour
Porticoes & Madonna di San Luca tour
Asinelli Tower ticket with audio guide
Archiginnasio ticket with audio guide
Bologna food tour🛏️ Stay at:
Grand Hotel Majestic già Baglioni 5*
Hotel Metropolitan 4*🚗 Getting to Bologna and around:
Renta a car
Why visit Bologna in Winter
In winter, Bologna offers a magical experience with its festive atmosphere and vibrant culinary scene. Beyond the sights, the winter season in Bologna provides a serene and authentic connection to the city’s culture.
Here’s why winter is the perfect time to visit Bologna:
- No Summer Crowds: Explore Bologna’s stunning porticoes and historic sites at your leisure without the hustle of high-season tourists.
- Budget-Friendly: Off-peak season offers plenty of great deals, making it an ideal time for economic travel.
- Local Feel: With fewer tourists around, you have more opportunities to mingle with the locals and immerse yourself in the genuine Bolognese way of life.
- Seek Shelter Under Porticoes: The city’s famous porticoes offer both charm and practicality, allowing you to explore comfortably, no matter the weather.
- Harthy Bolognese cuisine: Winter is the perfect time to indulge in rich, warming dishes like tortellini in brodo and tagliatelle al ragù, best enjoyed in the cozy atmosphere of Bologna’s trattorias.
RELATED:
Are you considering a winter trip to Italy?
This guide will help you plan a memorable winter trip to Italy and show you what to expect.
Where to stay in Bologna in winter
Choosing the perfect accommodation in Bologna during winter is simple, given the city’s generous offerings and seasonal discounts. Stay in a central location so you can easily access Bologna’s main attractions.
Grand Hotel Majestic già Baglioni – TIMELESS LUXURY
Relish in luxurious accommodations and top-notch service in the heart of Bologna, just steps from the main attractions.
Hotel Metropolitan – MODERN COMFORT
This stylish hotel blends contemporary elegance with Italian hospitality, offering a serene retreat close to the city center.
Casa Isolani – A COZY HOLIDAY HOME
Enjoy a home-away-from-home experience in this charming and centrally located holiday home.
20+ incredible things to do in Bologna in winter
Unmissable things to do in Bologna
No matter when you visit, you have to explore these must-see landmarks in Bologna.
Stroll Through Bologna’s Iconic Porticoes
Have you ever tried sightseeing while avoiding getting wet in the rain? Bologna can proudly say, “Hold my aperitivo!” with its famous porticoes!
These UNESCO World Heritage covered walkways stretch nearly 62 kilometers (that’s almost a marathon!), with 40 kilometers snaking right through the city center.
Built originally during the Middle Ages to bring architectural flair and practicality (let’s face it, they’re a real blessing during a winter drizzle), these porticoes allowed the expansion of the buildings over the walkway.
The portico leading to the Sanctuary of the Madonna di San Luca is the longest and arguably the most famous. I particularly enjoyed the porticoes of the Archiginnasio, Basilica of S. Maria dei Servi, and Via Altabella.
For the ultimate experience, join this guided porticoes tour and explore the stunning arches and decorative columns, learning more about the history of the city.
Book your Porticoes & Madonna di San Luca tour
Admire the Basilica di San Petronio
The Basilica di San Petronio is Bologna’s unfinished symphony. Originally designed to make St. Peter’s Basilica weep with envy, it sadly never reached its full glory, tempered by papal rivalry.
Yet what it does offer is plenty for the eye and soul. Inside, admire the three naves, 22 chapels, and of course, the oldest functioning organ in the Music Chapel. Sneak a peek at the celestial frescoes in the Chapel of the Three Wise Men and step over the world’s longest sundial on the floor.
Oh, and don’t skip the climb to the terrace. At 54 meters high, it gives you divine views over Piazza Maggiore.
Take in the views from Torre dell’Orologio
Ticking since the 13th century, the Torre dell’Orologio (Clock Tower) is an unmissable part of Bologna’s skyline. Measuring 6.40 meters across, this grand old mechanical clock is one of Italy’s largest.
Accessible with a Palazzo d’Accursio museum ticket, you can choose to stride up a carpenter’s nightmare of a ramp or take an elevator to Sala Farnese, adorned with breathtaking frescoes.
From the top, enjoy panoramic views of Piazza Maggiore, the Basilica of San Petronio, the Asineli Towers, and the sparkling Colli Bolognesi. Although not as high as the Asinelli Tower, I prefer the views over Piazza Maggiore from the Clock Tower.
Ascend The Asinelli Tower
Built during the Middle Ages, the Asinelli Tower is another iconic feature of Bologna’s skyline. Climb its 498 sketchy stairs to reach the 97-meter summit, where you’ll be treated to a 360-degree view over the city and surrounding landscapes.
Peer westward for the grandeur of Piazza Maggiore and the magnificent Basilica of San Luca. To the south, you’ll enjoy the rolling hills of Emilia Romagna. Lean over the northern railing if you dare, spotting the leaning Garisenda Tower and the bustling Piazza de Porta Ravegana below.
Book your ticket with audio guide
Marvel at the Archiginnasio & Anatomical Theatre
The Archiginnasio was once the main building of the University of Bologna, the oldest university in the Western world. Start in its atrium and admire the Renaissance frescoes.
The standout attraction here is the Teatro Anatomico, an ornate lecture hall made of spruce wood, which hosted anatomy lectures. Crafted entirely from spruce wood, the room is an anatomical theater masterpiece with spellati statues showing a hinted humor in their live dissection poses.
Before you exit make sure to take a peek at the library as well.
Book your visit with audio guide and tasting
Seasonal things to do in Bologna
Visit the Christmas Markets
Bologna’s Christmas markets bring a delightful touch of festivity to the city during the holiday season. Dotted throughout Bologna, they offer a variety of experiences and treats.
Here are a few of my favorites:
- The Santa Lucia Fair, nestled under the beautiful porticoes of the Church of Servi on Strada Maggiore, is Bologna’s oldest Christmas market. This charming fair dates back centuries and is renowned for its selection of nativity scene figurines and festive decorations.
- Minghetti Square hosts the French Christmas Village, where you can indulge in typical French products and regional specialties. From artisanal cheeses to delicate pastries, it’s a little slice of Paris right in the heart of Italy.
- For a more eclectic experience, head to the Christmas Fair on Via Altabella. This market offers a fantastic array of jewelry, sweets, and gifts, perfect for finding that special present.
- Lastly, the traditional Antiques Fair under the Voltone del Podestà is a treasure trove of unique and vintage items. If you love discovering one-of-a-kind antiques and collectibles, this market is the place to explore.
Try Certosino, Bologna’s Christmas Cake
Step aside, Panettone and Pandoro! Bologna takes the cake—literally—with its traditional Christmas delight known as certosino or pan speziale.
This succulent, dark cake is the ultimate indulgence during the holidays, and trust me, one bite will have you questioning your loyalty to other festive desserts.
If you’re wondering what heaven tastes like, imagine a rich concoction of honey, almonds, pine nuts, dark chocolate, candied fruits, cinnamon, and a generous drizzle of wine syrup.
Celebrate New Year’s Eve in Piazza Maggiore
Piazza Maggiore is the vibrant center of Bologna, playing host to the city’s largest New Year’s Eve celebration.
The highlight of the night is the burning of the Vecchione a symbolic figure representing the old year. As the clock strikes midnight, the puppet is set alight, symbolizing the farewell to past worries and welcoming a fresh start.
Celebrate Carnival
Winter in Bologna brings the lively and colorful Carnival. The city becomes a kaleidoscope of costumes, parades, and exuberant celebrations you won’t want to miss.
Take this opportunity to feast on traditional sweets like sfrappole, crispy fried dough doused in sugar, which pairs perfectly with a hot espresso on a chilly day.
Things to do in Bologna for foodies
Bologna is, known as Italy’s gastronomic capital, and offers plenty of culinary delights to warm your heart (and belly) in the colder months. Here’s your guide to the unmissable foodie experiences.
Do a cooking class
When in Bologna, do as the Bolognese do—cook! Italian food is almost a religion here, deeply rooted in family traditions and regional pride.
Join this cooking class and unlock the secrets of Bologna’s mouth-watering cuisine. You’ll step into a local’s cozy kitchen, exchanging small talk and big flavors, as you learn how to prepare authentic dishes from scratch, like tortellini and fresh pasta.
The best part? You get to enjoy your creations with a glass of wine. And you’ll head home with the ability to whip up a taste of Italy whenever you please.
Join a food tour
Winter is the perfect time to stroll through Bologna’s culinary landscape. Join this guided food tour to explore the city’s rich gastronomy.
You’ll start your day with an Italian breakfast before indulging in fresh pasta, sampling aged balsamic vinegar, tasting regional cheeses, and gelato. Along the way, you’ll discover secret dishes and learn where to find the best Parmigiano Reggiano. You’ll visit a traditional bottega too.
Book your food tour of Bologna
Discover FICO Eataly
FICO Eataly World is allegedly the largest food theme park on the planet. Undoubtably a paradise for food lovers it features 45 restaurants, food factories, gardens, and even farms. Here, Michelin-starred chefs rub shoulders with traditional artisans.
With vast indoor spaces FICO is the perfect destination for a cold winter day. You can simply explore or dive deeper by joining a course on pasta, mortadella, gelato, pizza or wine. Book your ticket and taste your way through an Italian culinary odyssey.
Book your foodie adventure at FICO:
Admission ticket
Pasta course
Mortadella course
Gelato course
Pizza course
Wine course
Take a food journey through Quadrilatero
Embark on a journey through the Quadrilatero, Bologna’s ancient market district, nestled behind the Palazzo dei Banchi near Piazza Maggiore. Winter doesn’t diminish the bustling energy here!
Venture down Via Calcoliere and discover street food gems like Murtadela for divine mortadella bites, Piadineria la Piadeina for tasty piadine, or Tigellino for a delicious tigella snack.
When you need a break, cozy up in a cafe or bar for a warming lunch or a winter aperitivo. In this area, it’s common to grab a bite from a local deli and enjoy it with a glass of wine in a welcoming bar.
For the ultimate Bologna food experience, consider joining this market tour that takes you through Mercato delle Erbe and Mercato di Mezzo.
Indoor things to do in Bologna
When the temperatures drop, Bologna offers a plethora of indoor attractions to keep you warm and entertained. Here are a few unmissable spots to explore during the chilly season:
Dive into Art at Pinacoteca Nazionale
The Pinacoteca Nazionale di Bologna, located in the former Jesuit novitiate on Via delle Belle Arti, boasts a vast collection of Emilian paintings from the 13th to the 18th century, showcasing renowned local and non-Bolognese artists like Giotto, Raphael, Annibale Carracci, and Guido Reni.
With its eight themed sections dedicated to specific periods and artistic movements, the National Gallery offers a comprehensive exploration of Emilian painting throughout history, spanning the Gothic, Renaissance, and Baroque eras.
It’s a perfect winter retreat, providing an opportunity to immerse oneself in the region’s rich artistic heritage and indulge in the beauty of centuries-old masterpieces, all while enjoying the warmth and coziness of the gallery.
Modern Art Gallery (MAMbo)
MAMbo, also known as the Modern Art Gallery of Bologna, is a purpose-designed museum that offers contemporary art enthusiasts a compelling escape from the winter cold.
The museum was established in 2007, with a mission to showcase modern and experimental art from the second post-war period to the present day. Recent exhibitions have featured artists like Ludovica Carbotta, Sean Scully, and Italo Zuffi.
Enjoy an aperitivo
In Bologna, an aperitivo is not just a drink—it’s a way of life. And who wouldn’t want to wash down their early evening with an Aperol Spritz and a plate of savory treats?
The locals surely know how to brighten up those winter afternoons, so go on and indulge join the fun. The Ghetto Ebraico is the perfect neighbouhood for pre-dinner drinks. Check out Camera a Sud, La Prosciutteria Bologna and Le Vie Dei Briganti.
Explore More Museums and Galleries
For those seeking further solace indoors, Bologna offers a rich array of museums and galleries. There are over 50 of them, but these are my favorites.
- Museum of the History of Bologna: This museum outlines the city’s history through artifacts, documents, and multimedia installations, offering insights into Bologna’s past.
- Archaeological Museum of Bologna: It exhibits collections that cover prehistoric, Etruscan, and Roman periods, featuring archaeological finds from the region.
- Music Museum at Palazzo Sanguinetti: This museum is housed in a 16th-century palace, showcasing a variety of musical instruments and historical artifacts that highlight the city’s musical heritage.
- Palazzo Albergati: A historical palace hosting art exhibitions showcasing works by renowned artists, it provides an opportunity to explore both art and architecture.
- Palazzo Fava: Featuring temporary exhibitions and cultural events, the palace offers a glimpse into the city’s historic architecture and hosts art displays.
More things to do in Bologna
Climb to the Sanctuary of the Madonna di San Luca
Take a stroll along the iconic Portico di San Luca, a UNESCO World Heritage site boasting the longest portico in the world. The walk culminates at the Sanctuary of the Madonna di San Luca, offering breathtaking views of Bologna.
If the air gets too cold or walking just doesn’t appeal to you, you can take the San Luca Express from Piazza Maggiore or book a guided tour for a deeper exploration.
Book your visit:
Visit the Ghetto Ebraico
Once a bastion for the Jewish community during the Middle Ages, it now buzzes with quirky shops, cafes, and bars.
Sip on a velvety brew of coffee or savor a heartwarming mug of mulled wine after a refreshing stroll in the chilly air—trust me, it’s an experience not to be missed. La Prosciutteria or Camera a Sud are my top choices to unwind and sip your troubles away in the cozy ambiance of the Ghetto.
See the 7 churches in St. Stephen Square
Piazza San Stefano is home to the Basilica of San Stefano, also known as the Sette Chiese (Seven Churches). This initially a complex of seven churches, with only four preserved today.
This historical maze of interconnected ecclesiastical structures seamlessly integrates Romanesque, Lombard, and ancient Roman architectural features.
Feel the speed at the Motor Valley
Bologna’s Motor Valley is a dream destination for automotive enthusiasts. This 50km stretch is home to iconic brands like Ferrari, Lamborghini, Maserati, and Ducati, along with revered racetracks.
Explore the Imola race tracks and the Museum of Checco Costa, get a dose of Lamborghini history in the Museo Ferruccio Lamborghini, along with a shot of Maserati magnificence.
And, for all the adrenaline junkies, buckle in for a Ferrari test drive at the Modena race track.
Book your adventure:
Test drive a Ferrari in Modena
Lamborghini and Ferrari tour
Pagani Lamborghini and Ferrari tour
Ducati Lamborghini and Ferrari tour
Climb the Torre Prendiparte
Dating back to the 12th century, Torre Prendiparte also known as Coronata Tower is the second tallest tower in Bologna.
Climb up 12 floors to the panoramic terrace boasting breathtaking views of the city’s charming rooftops and rolling hills in the background.
Winter holidays and events in Bologna
While Bologna dons its winter cloak, the city comes alive with a myriad of events and festivities. These events add a festive flair to your visit but might also affect operating hours and availability of shops, attractions, hotels, and restaurants. So mark your calendars for these key dates.
Here’s a quick guide to help you navigate Bologna’s winter festive season
8th of December – The Immaculate Conception (Festa della Concezione Immacolata)
Museums, shops, and attractions stay open.
24th of December – Christmas Eve (La Vigilia di Natale)
Early closures. Essential dinner reservations.
25th of December – Christmas Day (Natale)
Limited shop, restaurant, and tour operations. Reserve Christmas lunch.
31st December – New Year’s Eve (La Vigilia di Capodanno)
Early closures. Essential dinner reservations. Celebrate in Piazza Maggiore.
1st of January – New Year’s Day (Capodanno)
Shop, restaurant, and tour hours may vary.
6th of January – The Epiphany (La Befana)
Shop, restaurant, and tour hours may vary.
School holidays
Dates vary. Expect more visitors, with Italian and European school breaks between Christmas and the Epiphany. Booking ahead is recommended.
14th of February – Valentine’s Day (San Valentino)
Opening times are normal. Dinner reservations are advised.
Carnevale
Exact dates vary. Expect costumes and numerous street events.
Bologna winter temperature and weather
Bologna experiences winter from December 21st to late March, with November often hinting at wintry vibes and March heralding the onset of spring.
Winter temperatures in Bologna range from cold to mild, with humidity occasionally amplifying the chill factor. The mercury can hover around 0 °C (32 °F) even during daytime, particularly in January, known as the coldest month.
In recent years, the once-frequent fog has tapered off, and the city sees weak or absent winds with a moderate number of rainy days—although winter tends to be the driest season.
Month | Max&Min Temperature | Average Rainy Days | Average Sunshine hours |
---|---|---|---|
December | 1°C/ 34°F – 6°C/ 43°F | 5 days | 3 h |
January | -1°C/ 30°F – 7°C/ 45°F | 5 days | 3 h |
February | 1°C/ 34°F – 10°C/ 50°F | 5 days | 5 h |
March | 5°C/ 41°F – 14°C/ 57°F | 6 days | 6 h |
Does it snow in Bologna?
Bologna no longer sees abundant snow in the winter, light snowfall may occur and quickly melt away.
Two days will give you a perfect sample of all that Bologna has to offer. You can delve into the main sights, enjoy a food tour, and visit museums and galleries.
How many days in Bologna in winter
But if you have the luxury of time, consider extending your stay to three days and savor more of the city’s delights. After all, nothing beats the magical evening atmosphere of Bologna during this time of year.
Getting to Bologna
By Air: Touch down at Bologna Guglielmo Marconi Airport, the primary gateway to the city. Catch the Aerobus service or book this private transfer to swiftly venture into the cozy heart of Bologna.
By Train: Bologna Centrale station is well connected to various Italian and European destinations and a short walk from the city center.
By Car: While Bologna is car-friendly, parking within the city center can be a test of patience. If renting a car opt for public parking on the outskirts, like those found in Pilastrino or Stazione.
By Bus: For a hassle-free journey from other Italian cities, hopping on a bus is both convenient and cost-efficient.
Getting around Bologna
Bologna is an easy city to get around by foot, especially in the charming old town area. The city’s covered walkways, known as porticoes, provide shelter from the elements, making strolling through the city center a delightful experience.
Cycling is a popular way to navigate Bologna, thanks to the slow traffic flow. If walking isn’t for you, opt for this bike tour, or segway.
Bologna boasts a reliable bus system that connects all major attractions. Opting for the hop-on, hop-off bus is an excellent way to visit the city’s landmarks while enjoying informative commentary on the area’s history.
Additionally, the San Luca Express, a tourist train departing from Piazza Maggiore, offers a scenic journey passing key sights en route to the Basilica of San Luca.
What to pack for winter in Bologna
As you pack, keep in mind the changeable weather—waterproof boots, cozy layers, a snuggly coat, and a trusty umbrella are your fairy godparents in this winter wonderland.
RELATED:
Are you considering a winter trip to Italy?
This guide will help you plan a memorable winter trip to Italy and show you what to expect.