Best Day Trips From Bologna

Ready to explore beyond Bologna? This guide breaks down the best day trips from Bologna, sorted into categories based on your interests.

Bologna is a city brimming with history, delicious food, and unforgettable sights. From the iconic red rooftops and medieval towers to mouthwatering pasta dishes, there’s plenty to keep you busy.

But don’t let Bologna’s charm keep you locked in—its prime location makes it the perfect base for exploring some of Italy’s most exciting day trips.

In this article, I’ve handpicked the best day trips from Bologna to help you make the most of your time in the region.

In a hurry?
These are the Bologna essentials:

🚌 Unmissable day tours from Bologna:
Emilia Romagna Food Tour
Wine Tasting on Bologna Hills
Medieval Villages Tour

🎡 Book your Bologna Tours & Tickets:
Bologna walking tour
Bologna food tour
Clock Tower ticket (Asinelli is currently closed)
Archiginnasio ticket

🛏️ Stay at:
5* Grand Hotel Majestic gia’ Baglioni
4* PHI Hotel Bologna

🚗 Getting to Bologna and around:
Rent a car
San Luca Express

Best way to go on day trips from Bologna

Most day trips from Bologna are easy to do by train, car, or organized tour. Each option has its pros and cons, and some destinations are better suited to one over the others, so check my tips under each destination.

By Car: Driving in Italy isn’t for the faint-hearted. Tolls are expensive, traffic in cities is chaotic, and roads can be a bit rough. That said, if you want total flexibility and plan to explore smaller towns or countryside spots, renting a car is worth it. I recommend checking Discover Cars for great rental deals and make sure to read my guide to hiring a car in Italy.
Organized Tours: If you’d rather not deal with parking, maps, or stress, tours are a fantastic option. They’re also a great way to learn the history and culture from local guides. I’ve linked the best-rated tours under each destination to make it easy for you.
By Train: Italy’s train network is excellent—fast, affordable, and well-connected. High-speed and regional trains run regularly from Bologna and for city-to-city trips, train travel is often the quickest way to go. Once you get to the destination you can join a walking tour for the best experience.
By Bus: For destinations that aren’t directly connected by train, long-distance buses like FlixBus offer a solid alternative.

archiginnasio bologna - Bologna, Emilia Romagna

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.

Grand Hotel Majestic gia’ Baglioni – CENTRAL AND LUXURIOUS
The only 5* hotel in Bologna with a fantastic location and incredible service.

PHI Hotel Bologna – BOUTIQUE AND ARTISTIC
A boutique hotel just off the main square where no two rooms are the same.

Paracelso Apartment – HOME WITH VIEWS
Just behind Palazzo dei Banchi this wonderful apartment boasts incredible views over Piazza Magiore.

Bologna is an absolute gem, packed with rich history, gorgeous architecture, and food that’ll make you want to stay forever. Between the medieval towers, charming porticoes, and bustling markets, there’s plenty to keep you busy.

But here’s the kicker: Bologna’s prime location makes it the perfect base for exploring even more of what Italy has to offer.

Whether you’re a foodie, history buff, nature lover, or adrenaline seeker, I’ve got you covered with the list of Bologna day trips below!

Parmesan cheese seasoned with balsamic vinegar. Served on a cutting board with vinegar barrels in the background.

Day trips from Bologna for foodies

If you love food (and who doesn’t?), these day trips are a must. From the birthplace of balsamic vinegar to the home of Parmesan cheese, you’ll be stuffing your face with Italy’s finest.

So loosen your belt and get ready to eat your way through some of the best food destinations in Italy!

Modena

🚆 Train: ~25 minutes from Bologna Centrale. Trains run frequently.
🚗 Drive: 55 km (~1 hour) via A1/E35. Parking available near the center.
⭐ Visit for: Food, fast cars, and UNESCO-listed charm

Modena is one of the easiest and most rewarding day trips from Bologna. It’s the birthplace of traditional balsamic vinegar, home to Ferrari, Lamborghini, and Maserati, and packed with elegant architecture and cultural treasures.

Don’t just come for the vinegar—Modena’s old town is gorgeous, walkable, and full of surprises, from Romanesque churches to Michelin-starred dining.

Modena highlights:

Explore the UNESCO-listed Piazza Grande and 12th-century cathedral
Taste real Aceto Balsamico Tradizionale di Modena at a family-run acetaia
Visit the Enzo Ferrari Museum in Modena or the Ferrari Museum in nearby Maranello
Wander the Palazzo dei Musei, home to works by Tintoretto, Correggio, and Bernini
Dine at Osteria Francescana (or try one of Massimo Bottura’s other restaurants)

Best tours of Modena

There are no full-day Bologna-to-Modena group tours, but it’s easy to hop on a train and join a local tour or experience once you arrive:

Private Walking Tour of Modena – Explore the city’s rich history and hidden corners
Balsamic Vinegar Tour – Visit a traditional acetaia and learn how Modena’s signature export is made
Home Cooking Experience – Learn to cook ricotta tortelloni and tagliatelle from scratch

Book in advance, especially during weekends and peak season.

Parma

🚆 Train: ~50 minutes from Bologna Centrale. Trains run regularly.
🚗 Drive: 99 km (~1.5 hours) via A1.
⭐ Visit for: Parmigiano-Reggiano, Parma ham, and elegant architecture

Parma is a dream for food lovers—and a must-do day trip from Bologna. This elegant city is the birthplace of Parmigiano-Reggiano and Prosciutto di Parma, both with Protected Designation of Origin (PDO) status. Beyond the food, Parma offers colorful streets, boutique shops, and a surprisingly rich cultural scene.

Parma highlights:

Visit a Parmigiano-Reggiano dairy and see how the iconic cheese is made
Tour a Parma ham producer and learn about the curing process
Admire the Parma Cathedral, a Romanesque masterpiece with frescoes by Correggio
Catch a performance (or just tour) the Teatro Regio, one of Italy’s most famous opera houses
Wander around Piazza Garibaldi and soak in the city’s refined charm

Best Tours of Parma

For the ultimate foodie experience, book a Bologna-to-Parma food tour. These tours usually include transport and tastings at multiple locations, like dairies, ham producers, and balsamic vinegar cellars:

Emilia Romagna Food Tour – A full-day experience featuring Parmigiano, Prosciutto, and wine
Parmigiano & Parma Ham Tour – Dive into the production of the region’s two most iconic exports
Parmigiano, Prosciutto & Balsamic Vinegar Tour – Great if you want to sample all the regional hits in one day

These experiences often include transport from Bologna—perfect if you want to eat and drink without worrying about the drive.

Bologna daytrips winery - Bologna, Emilia Romagna

Bologna Hills Wineries

🚆 Train: Not suitable
🚗 Drive: ~30–60 minutes depending on location
⭐ Visit for: Sparkling Pignoletto, scenic hills, and cellar-door tastings

The Emilia-Romagna region isn’t just a food haven—it’s also famous for its wines, especially Pignoletto, a light and refreshing sparkling white with DOC status.

The Colli Bolognesi (Bologna Hills) are dotted with family-run wineries where you can tour the vineyards, explore cellars, and of course, sip the finished product.

Public transport options are limited, so the easiest and most enjoyable way to visit is on a guided tour. That way, you can relax and enjoy the tastings without a designated driver.

Winery highlights:

Try Pignoletto straight from the source in the Bologna Hills
Visit a scenic winery with views across the Bologna Hills
Explore the charming art village of Dozza, known for its wine and street murals
Tour cellars and vineyards, meet the winemakers, and taste different varietals

Best Tours & Experiences

Whether you want a half-day escape into the hills or a full wine-and-food adventure, these are some of the top-rated winery tours from Bologna:

Wine Tasting on Bologna Hills – Sample local varietals and enjoy panoramic views
Wine Tour with Tasting in Dozza Village – Combine wine with culture in this picturesque hill town
Emilia Excellence Food and Wine Tour – A full-day immersion into the region’s best food and wine

Tours include transport—so you can toast without worry.

Bologna daytrips dozza - Bologna, Emilia Romagna

Bologna day trips to nearby towns

Bologna’s got plenty of charm, but the towns around it are just as interesting. Whether you’re into history, art, or just a change of scenery, these day trips will give you a taste of Italy’s variety.

From the romantic streets of Verona to the ancient mosaics of Ravenna, these day trips promise unforgettable experiences just a stone’s throw away from Bologna.

Dozza

🚆 Train: 1h30min to Imola, then bus.
🚗 Drive: 34 km (~40 min).
⭐ Visit for: Colorful murals, medieval charm, and panoramic views.

Dozza, a stunning medieval hilltop village, is often hailed as one of the most beautiful places in Italy—and it’s easy to see why. The village sits perched over the Sellustra Valley, with brightly painted houses showcasing works by contemporary artists.

The village hosts the Muro Dipinto Festival every two years in September, where artists come to add new masterpieces to the mix.

As well as admiring the murals, you can wander through the charming cobbled streets, visit historical churches, and explore museums and galleries.

Dozza Highlights:

Admire the murals painted during the Muro Dipinto Festival, which transforms the village every two years.
Explore the Rocca di Dozza, a 14th-century castle that offers rich history and panoramic views.
Wander through the charming streets, where colorful facades and artistic expressions bring the village to life.
Step into local churches and museums scattered through the village.

Best tours of Dozza from Bologna

Medieval Villages Tour – This private tour from Bologna combines Dozza with a visit to Brisighella, another beautiful hilltop town. This tour also includes a visit to the historic Rocca di Dozza.

Reggio Emilia

🚆 Train: ~22 minutes.
🚗 Drive: 73 km (~1h11min).
⭐ Visit for: Medieval buildings, modern art, and food that you’ll never forget.

Reggio Emilia is small but mighty. The Cathedral is full of Roman mosaics, and the Maramotti Collection is a must for contemporary art lovers (founded by Max Mara, the fashion mogul).

When hunger strikes, dive into Parmigiano Reggiano and balsamic vinegar—the region’s tastiest exports.

Reggio Emilia Highlights:

Admire the Roman mosaics in the Reggio Emilia Cathedral.
Check out contemporary art at the Maramotti Collection.
Taste Parmigiano Reggiano and local balsamic vinegar (you’ll thank us later).
People watch at Piazza Prampolini, the heart of the historic town center.

Best tours of Regio Emilia

Emilia Flavors and Local Wines Tour – A private tour that takes you through Reggio’s foodie hotspots, including a visit to a dairy farm, vinegar factory, and vineyards, with tastings of Parmigiano Reggiano, balsamic vinegar, and local wines.

Ravenna

🚆 Train: 1 hour.
🚗 Drive: 80 km (~1h27min).
⭐ Visit for: Byzantine mosaics, UNESCO monuments, and ancient history.

Ravenna is an open-air museum with stunning Byzantine mosaics that will stop you in your tracks. Visit the Basilica di San Vitale and Mausoleum of Galla Placidia for the most dazzling mosaics in Italy.

Wander through narrow streets, uncover ancient Roman ruins, and explore the Archaeological Park to learn about the city’s rich history.

Ravenna Highlights:

Get lost in the colorful Byzantine mosaics of San Vitale, one of the finest examples of early Christian art.
Visit the Mausoleum of Galla Placidia, a UNESCO site renowned for its stunning mosaics.
Stroll through Piazza del Popolo for coffee and people-watching.
Check out the Archaeological Park and ancient Roman ruins.

Best tours of Ravenna from Bologna

Ravenna UNESCO Monuments Guided Tour – See all the iconic monuments with a guide who knows all the history.
Ravenna Private Day Trip – If you want a more personal touch, this private tour lets you explore Ravenna at your own pace.

Mantua

🚆 Train: 1h12min (with a change in Modena).
🚗 Drive: 110 km (~1h36min).
⭐ Visit for: Renaissance architecture, grand palaces, and romantic lakeshores.

The UNESCO Historic Center of Mantua is filled with beautiful palaces, grand squares, and charming cobblestone streets, offering a perfect blend of history and charm.

Admire architectural masterpieces like Palazzo Ducale and Palazzo Te, or stroll along the romantic shores of Lago di Mezzo.

Mantua Highlights:

Stroll through Piazza Sordello, a historic square surrounded by impressive buildings.
Visit Palazzo Ducale, a grand palace that is a testament to the city’s Renaissance grandeur.
Wander through the magnificent Palazzo Te gardens, a Renaissance masterpiece known for its stunning art and landscaping.
Relax by Lago di Mezzo, a serene lake offering scenic views and peaceful surroundings.

Best tours of Mantua

Mantua Guided Walking Tour – A private walking tour that delves into Mantua’s architecture and its fascinating historical past.
Mantua Old City Walking Tour – A guided tour offering insights into Mantua’s ancient past, exploring the city’s stunning Renaissance landmarks.

Florence

🚆 Train: 37 minutes from Bologna Centrale. Trains run frequently.
🚗 Drive: 120 km (~1 hour 46 minutes) via A1/E35.
⭐ Visit for: Art, architecture, and the Renaissance.

Florence is an essential day trip from Bologna for anyone who loves art and history. As the birthplace of the Renaissance, it offers everything from Michelangelo’s David to the iconic Duomo with its terracotta dome. Cross the Ponte Vecchio, wander through Piazza della Signoria, and dive into centuries of culture at the Uffizi Gallery.

Don’t just come for the sights—Florence’s vibrant atmosphere, pedestrian-friendly streets, and world-class dining make it an unforgettable destination.

Florence highlights:

Relax in Piazza della Signoria and enjoy a gelato or a coffee in one of the many cafes
Admire Michelangelo’s David at the Accademia Gallery
Explore the Uffizi Gallery, from Botticelli’s The Birth of Venus to da Vinci’s Annunciation
Cross the Ponte Vecchio, a bridge lined with jewelry shops
Visit the Florence Cathedral and climb the dome for stunning views of the city

Best tours of Florence

Florence is easily reachable by train and a guided tour once there will help you get the most out of your day:

David and Accademia Gallery Tour – Skip the line and get up close with Michelangelo’s masterpiece
Uffizi Gallery Tour – A deep dive into the art that defined the Renaissance
Florence Walking Tour – A scenic walk through the city’s historical streets and landmarks

Padova

🚆 Train: 1 hour from Bologna Centrale. Trains run regularly.
🚗 Drive: 118 km (~1 hour 43 minutes) via A13.
⭐ Visit for: Art, history, and stunning medieval architecture.

Padova is a charming yet often overlooked gem, making it a fantastic day trip from Bologna. The city is home to the Basilica of Saint Anthony, famous for its Byzantine-style architecture and intricate artwork. Don’t miss the Scrovegni Chapel, whose frescoes by Giotto are an essential part of the early Renaissance. Prato della Valle, one of Europe’s largest squares, offers a beautiful spot to relax and soak in the city’s atmosphere.

Padova’s small size and rich history make it perfect for a relaxing yet culturally packed visit.

Padova highlights:

Visit the Basilica of Saint Anthony, a pilgrimage site with stunning architecture
Admire the frescoes of the Scrovegni Chapel, one of Italy’s most important art sites
Wander around Prato della Valle, a massive square with 78 statues
Discover the charming historic center and the University of Padova, one of the oldest in the world
Explore the beautiful Botanical Garden, a UNESCO World Heritage Site

Best tours of Padova

Walking Tour with Scrovegni Chapel – Dive into the history of Padova and explore the chapel’s impressive frescoes
Padova Pizza Cooking Class – Learn to make authentic Italian pizza while discovering the city’s culinary culture

San Marino

🚆 Train: 56 minutes to Rimini, then a 50-minute bus ride.
🚗 Drive: 129 km (~2 hours) via E45.
⭐ Visit for: Medieval charm, panoramic views, and rich history.

San Marino, the world’s oldest surviving micro-state, is a fascinating destination nestled atop Mount Titano. With stunning views of the surrounding plains and as far as the Adriatic Sea, this tiny republic is packed with history and dramatic landscapes. Explore its iconic medieval towers, visit the State Museum, and immerse yourself in its unique culture.

Don’t miss the climb to the three towers—Guaita, Cesta, and Montale—for breathtaking vistas. San Marino’s quaint streets and ancient architecture make it one of the most charming day trips from Bologna.

San Marino highlights:

Explore the historic Guaita, Cesta, and Montale towers
Visit the State Museum, showcasing the country’s history and art
Wander through the charming streets of the city center
Take in sweeping views of the Adriatic Sea and rolling hills from Mount Titano
Discover the Palazzo Pubblico, the seat of San Marino’s government

Best tours of San Marino from Bologna

Since public transport isn’t ideal, I highly recommend joining this private guided tour from bologna:

Private San Marino Day Tour with Lunch – Explore the city and enjoy a delicious lunch at a traditional trattoria while learning about the country’s fascinating history

Verona

🚆 Train: 52 minutes from Bologna Centrale. Trains run frequently.
🚗 Drive: 144 km (~1 hour 53 minutes) via A1/E35 and A22/E45.
⭐ Visit for: Romance, history, and stunning architecture.

Verona is an enchanting city, known for its romantic connections to Shakespeare’s Romeo and Juliet. The city offers much more than just the famous balcony—stroll across the Ponte Castelvecchio, visit the Arena (one of the largest amphitheaters in Italy), and take in the breathtaking views from Castle San Pietro.

Verona’s rich history and beautiful architecture make it the perfect getaway for lovers and culture seekers alike. Be sure to sample local delicacies like tortellini di Valeggio and sip on the region’s famous Amarone wine.

Verona highlights:

Visit Juliet’s house and the iconic balcony
Catch a performance at the Arena di Verona, one of Italy’s most famous amphitheaters
Stroll across the scenic Ponte Castelvecchio
Explore the beautiful Castle San Pietro for panoramic city views
Sample Verona’s local wines and dishes, like tortellini di Valeggio

Best tours of Verona

I recommend catching a train to Verona and join a guided tour once there:

Verona City Sightseeing Tour – See the city’s highlights, including the Arena and Juliet’s House
Romeo and Juliet Tour – Visit all the locations tied to the famous love story, with insights into their history

Venice

🚆 Train: 1 hour 19 minutes from Bologna Centrale.
🚗 Drive: 157 km (~1 hour 50 minutes) via A13.
⭐ Visit for: Canals, historic landmarks, and Venetian charm.

Venice is a city like no other. With its labyrinth of canals, historic landmarks, and unique charm, it’s one of Italy’s most famous and unforgettable destinations. Cruise down the Grand Canal in a gondola, visit the stunning St. Mark’s Basilica, and take in the beauty of the Doge’s Palace.

Whether wandering through narrow alleyways or admiring the Rialto Bridge, Venice’s picturesque atmosphere is perfect for a day trip from Bologna. Don’t forget to sample Venetian specialties like seafood risotto and tiramisu.

Venice highlights:

Visit St. Mark’s Basilica and St. Mark’s Square
Take a gondola ride through the canals for an iconic Venetian experience
Explore the Doge’s Palace and its impressive architecture
Walk across the beautiful Rialto Bridge
Wander through the narrow streets and hidden squares, soaking in the atmosphere

Best tour of Venice

Getting to Venice by train is easy and convenient. Once there join this guided tour:

Legendary Venice Tour – The ultimate Venice tour that includes all the must-see attractions from St Mark’s Square and Basilica to Doge’s Palace, the Grand Canal and the Bridge of Sighs among many others.

modena ferrari - Bologna, Emilia Romagna

Adventure day trips from Bologna

For those who prefer their days packed with thrills, these adventures are for you. From fast cars in Motor Valley to adrenaline-pumping rides at amusement parks, there’s no shortage of excitement just a short drive from Bologna.

Ready for some heart-racing fun? Let’s go!

Motor Valley

🚆 Train: 30 minutes to Modena, 20 minutes to Imola
🚗 Drive: 55 km (~50 minutes) to Modena, 40 km (~40 minutes) to Imola
⭐ Visit for: High-speed thrills, iconic car brands, and a touch of Italian engineering genius

If you’ve got a need for speed, the Motor Valley is your playground. Nestled between Modena and Imola, this is where Ferrari, Lamborghini, Maserati, and Ducati reign supreme.

It’s a mecca for gearheads, but even if you don’t know your horsepower from your torque, the area’s fascinating history and world-renowned racetracks are sure to leave you impressed.

From factory tours to test-driving a Ferrari, the Motor Valley is packed with must-see attractions for anyone into high-end motorsport and luxury cars.

Motor Valley highlights:

Visit the Museo Enzo Ferrari and dive into Ferrari’s iconic history
Take a tour of the Ducati factory and museum
Explore the Lamborghini Museum and factory
Check out Imola’s famous racetrack and the Museo Checco Costa
Visit the Modena race track
Test drive a Ferrari in Modena for the ultimate speed experience
Swing by Maserati showroom and factory to see engineering excellence up close

Getting to the Motor Valley from Bologna

Best tours of the Motor Valley from Bologna

Modena and Imola are easily accessible by train, but the race tracks are not in the city center so you’ll also need to grab a taxi or public bus.

If you’d like to visit the Lamborghini factory and museums you’re best off renting a car. Or, for the ultimate experience, check out these tours and experiences:

Test Drive a Ferrari in Modena – Live the dream and get behind the wheel of a Ferrari
Lamborghini and Ferrari Tour – Explore the Lamborghini and Ferrari factories, museums, and more
Pagani, Lamborghini, and Ferrari Tour – A high-octane tour covering three legendary brands
Ducati, Lamborghini, and Ferrari Tour – A full-throttle tour combining Ducati, Lamborghini, and Ferrari

Gardaland

🚆 Train: 1h45min via Verona
🚗 Drive: 156 km (~2 hours)
⭐ Visit for: Thrilling rides, adrenaline-pumping excitement, and fun for all ages!

Gardaland, one of Italy’s premier theme parks, is a must for thrill-seekers. With a variety of roller coasters, water rides, and themed areas like the Valley of the Kings, it’s an action-packed day trip from Bologna. You’ll find adrenaline-charged rides such as the Blue Tornado, the Oblivion dive coaster, and the heart-stopping Space Vertigo.

The park is perfect for young adults and anyone who loves high-speed thrills. Be sure to check out the many themed zones for a fun-filled experience.

Gardaland highlights:

Fun for all ages, but especially for thrill-seekers
Adrenaline-packed roller coasters like Blue Tornado and Raptor
The terrifying Oblivion dive coaster
Thrills in the themed areas, such as the Valley of the Kings
Plenty of water attractions to cool off during summer

Gardaland from Bologna

There are no direct trains to Gardaland from Bologna so renting a car is best. If you do want to go by public transport you’ll need to take the train to Verona’s Porta Nuova station and change for Peschiera del Garda or Desenzano del Garda stations and take a bus or taxi the final distance.

Gardaland Entry Ticket – Skip the lines and make the most of your day at this legendary amusement park!

rollercoaster 2 - Bologna, Emilia Romagna

Mirabilandia

🚆 Train: 2h20min
🚗 Drive: 86 km (~1h26min)
⭐ Visit for: High-speed thrills, extreme coasters, and water fun!

Mirabilandia, located just outside Ravenna, is the largest amusement park in Italy. This park is perfect for adrenaline junkies with a range of thrilling roller coasters like iSpeed and Katun. Plus, if you want to cool off, Mirabeach offers water-themed attractions that are sure to hit the spot.

A fantastic choice for those looking for non-stop action and excitement, Mirabilandia is one of the best day trips from Bologna for an exhilarating adventure.

Mirabilandia highlights:

iSpeed and Katun, two of the park’s most thrilling roller coasters
Fun water attractions in Mirabeach
Shows and family-friendly rides

Getting to Mirabilandia from Bologna

There are no direct trains to Gardaland from Bologna so renting a car is best. Mirabilanidia is 10km south of Ravenna, with daily trains to the city from Bologna. From Ravenna take bus line 176 to the park. If driving, take the E45 and A14.

Mirabilandia Entry Ticket – Grab your ticket and dive into the ultimate amusement park experience!

sirmione scaglieri castle garda lake - Bologna, Emilia Romagna

Day trips from Bologna for Beach and Nature Lovers

Need a breather from the city? These day trips are all about fresh air, scenic views, and maybe a little sand between your toes.

Whether you’re hiking around Lake Garda or chilling at the beach in Rimini, you’ll find your happy place in nature, just a quick trip from Bologna.

Lake Garda

🚆 Train: 2.5 hours
🚗 Drive: 198 km (~2h48min)
⭐ Visit for: Beautiful landscapes, water activities, and charming lakeside towns.

ake Garda, the largest lake in Italy, offers stunning natural beauty and a range of outdoor activities. The clear waters, majestic mountains, and rolling hills create a perfect backdrop for a day of exploration.

Visit lakeside towns like Sirmione, Garda, and Malcesine for medieval castles and colorful streets, or take a boat cruise to soak in the scenic views.

Lake Garda is an ideal spot for nature lovers and anyone looking to enjoy water sports, sailing, and a relaxing atmosphere.

Lake Garda highlights:

Scenic boat cruises around the lake
Charming lakeside towns with medieval castles
Outdoor activities like sailing, windsurfing, and kayaking
Explore the charming lakeside town Sirmione

Getting to Lake Garda from Bologna

As with Mirabilandia, you’ll need to take the train to Verona and change for Peschiera del Garda or Desenzano del Garda stations to get to the lake from Bologna. Renting a car is also a great option as it gives you the freedom to explore on your own.

Best tours of Lake Garda

Unfortunatelly there are no guided tours from Bologna but there are lots of excellent tours around Lake Garda:

Lake Garda Sunset Cruise – A stunning evening tour around the lake with magnificent views
Lake Garda Full-Day Tour – Explore the best of Lake Garda in one comprehensive day trip

Rimini

🚆 Train: 56 minutes
🚗 Drive: 118 km (~1h21min)
⭐ Visit for: Beaches, Roman history, and coastal charm.

Rimini is a stunning seaside destination offering sandy beaches, lively beach clubs, and a mix of fun watersports like jet-skiing and windsurfing.

The city’s historic heart is filled with Roman monuments like the Arch of Augustus and the Surgeon’s House. You can also stroll along the picturesque Piazza Cavour and admire the architecture of the Malatesta Temple.

If you want a mix of beach relaxation and history, Rimini makes for a great day trip from Bologna.

Rimini highlights:

Relax on Rimini’s beautiful Adriatic beaches
Explore ancient Roman ruins like the Arch of Augustus and Surgeon’s House
Stroll through Piazza Cavour and admire historic landmarks
Enjoy the beach clubs and bars