A Weekend in Bologna – A Delightful 2 & 3 day Bologna Itinerary

Known by its nicknames La Dotta (the educated one), La Rossa (the red one), and La Grassa (the fat one), Bologna is like the ultimate triple threat: brains, beauty, and a love for food that will make you swoon.

Strolling through its cobblestone streets, you’ll be charmed by the iconic red-brick architecture, but the real showstopper here (at least for me) is the food.

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To make sure you don’t miss a thing, I’ve put together some no-nonsense, easy-to-follow 2 & 3 days itineraries for the perfect weekend in Bologna.

You’ll hit the must see attractions like the Asinelli Tower and Archiginnasio, stumble upon a few hidden gems, and, of course, eat your body weight in tortellini, tagliatelle al ragù, and the city’s finest aperitivos.

Trust me, you’ll leave with a richer sense of Bologna’s history, culture, and, most importantly, its flavors.

How many days in Bologna

Spending 2 to 3 days in Bologna is ideal to fully experience this vibrant city. In this time, you can explore all the main sights, indulge in a food tour, visit museums and galleries, or even walk up to the Sanctuary of Madonna di San Luca for breathtaking views.

If you’re short on time, you can cover Bologna’s highlights in just 1 busy day in Bologna, but staying overnight allows you to soak in the city’s enchanting evening vibe.

With 3 or more days, you can dive deeper into the city’s incredible cuisine, explore beyond the historic center, and even take day trips to nearby gems like Modena or Parma.

Optimal advice? Give yourself at least 2 days—you won’t regret it!

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.

Ultimate Weekend in Bologna Itinerary

I’ve packed all the must-see sights, hidden gems, and drool-worthy experiences into these handy 2-, and 3-day Bologna itineraries making sure you experience the best of Italy’s foodie capital in a weekend.

You’ll get a mix of iconic landmarks, off-the-beaten-path discoveries, and plenty of opportunities to eat your weight in pasta, mortadella and other delicious treats (trust me, stretchy pants are a must).

Whether you’re here to climb medieval towers, devour bowls of tagliatelle al ragù, or simply soak up Bologna’s laid-back, under-the-radar charm, these itineraries have you covered.

2 days in Bologna Itinerary

With a long weekend in Bologna, you’ll have plenty of time to explore the city’s highlights at a relaxed pace. With three days in Bologna you’ll also be able to do a cooking class and a day trip of choice.

If you actually have 2.5 days in Bologna and are arriving on a Friday afternoon, start your weekend getaway with this food tour then follow the below 2-day itinerary on Saturday and Sunday.

Day 1 – Historic City Center

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. You’ll learn so much about Bologna’s history and culture.

Book this Bologna walking tour

8:00 AM – Breakfast

Kick-start your morning with a classic Italian breakfast—pair a steaming coffee with a fresh brioche. If you’re arriving from the train station, stop by Forno Brisa. Otherwise I recommend Impero or Pappare’ closer to the city center.

Most attractions in Bologna don’t open until 9:00 or 10:00 AM, giving you plenty of time to relax, enjoy your meal, and prepare for the day ahead.

9:00 AM – See the city from above

The twin towers of Bologna, also known as Le Due Torri, are iconic symbols of the city. But only the taller Asinelli Tower is open to the public. Climbing its 498 sketchy stairs is a challenge, but you’ll be rewarded with a magnificent 360-degree view of the entire city of Bologna from a height of 97 meters.

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 Asinelli Tower ticket with audio guide
Book your Clock Tower ticket with audio guide

10:00 AM – Explore Piazza Maggiore & Nettuno

Piazza Maggiore is Bologna’s vibrant heart and Piazza Nettuno is it’s little sidekick. Born in the 1200s, it grew from hosting one of Europe’s largest markets into the grand square seen today.

Full of history, charm, and coffee spots, it’s the perfect place to people-watch or dive into Bologna’s rich past.

Book this Bologna walking tour

Here’s a quick guide to the highlights:

• Basilica di San Petronio: This massive Gothic basilica dominates the square. It was meant to outshine St. Peter’s in Rome but never quite got finished. Even so, it’s stunning! Step inside to find frescoes, chapels, and the world’s oldest organ.
• Palazzo dei Notai: Right next to the basilica, this was once the headquarters of Bologna’s Notary Order. Its brick facade, topped with crenellations, hides 15th-century frescoes you can still see inside.
• Palazzo d’Accursio: Once a public grain store, it later became Bologna’s town hall. Today, it houses:
  • Clock Tower: Climb for fantastic views of Piazza Maggiore and the twin towers beyond—an easy climb with unbeatable scenery.
  • Salaborsa Library: Check out glass floors revealing Roman ruins below.
  • Art Museum: Compact but worth a peek for history buffs.
• Fontana del Nettuno: Sitting in Piazza Nettuno, this bronze-and-marble fountain shows the god Neptune flexing his power, symbolizing papal authority. Strike a pose—it’s practically begging for a photo.
• Palazzo del Podestà: This was the city’s first council building, with vaulted arcades that were a hub for artisans and notaries. Be sure to:
  • Stand under the Voltone del Podestà and test its wild acoustics—whisper into one corner and someone across the way will hear you.
  • Spot Torre dell’Arengo, where bells once called citizens to important meetings.
• Palazzo Re Enzo: Behind Palazzo del Podestà, this medieval “new palace” became a prison for King Enzo of Sardinia. Inside, you’ll find displays of old war equipment on the ground floor and the stunning Sala del Trecento, now a fascinating municipal archive.
• Palazzo dei Banchi: The “new kid” in the square, built to hide messy backstreets and markets. Its graceful facade of 15 arches connects to the nearby Mercato di Mezzo. Stroll along its portico, the Pavaglione, like Bologna’s wealthy citizens once did—rain or shine.

11:00 AM – Visit the Basilica di San Petronio

The magnificent Basilica di San Petronio is Bologna’s biggest church, named after the city’s patron saint. Originally intended to surpass St. Peter’s Basilica in Rome, its construction was never completed due to rivalries, but it still claims the title of the world’s largest brick-built church.

What to see inside:

• Three naves and 22 chapels filled with art and history.
• The Chapel of the Three Wise Men decorated with frescoes by Giovanni da Modena.
• The world’s oldest functioning organ.
• The longest sundial in the world, measuring 67.27 meters made from gold.
• Pro tip: Don’t miss the terrace (accessible by stairs or elevator) for breathtaking views of Piazza Maggiore.

12:00 PM – Climb the Torre del Orologgio

Perched above Piazza Maggiore, the Clock Tower has kept Bologna on time since the 13th century. With its massive 6.40-meter-wide clock—one of the largest in Italy—the tower had to be raised by 10 meters in the 15th century to accommodate the impressive mechanism.

From the top, enjoy stunning 360° views of Piazza Maggiore, the Basilica di San Petronio, and Bologna’s iconic towers set against its rolling hills. A climb well worth the reward!

Access is included with a Palazzo d’Accursio museum ticket;

• Take the elevator or stairs to the frescoed Sala Farnese
• Climb the restored staircase (don’t miss the balcony for a close-up of the clock).
• The final steep flight, part of the original structure, requires a waiver before ascending.

Book your Clock Tower ticket with audio guide

1:00 PM – Lunch in the Quadrilatero

Hidden behind Palazzo dei Banchi, the lively Quadrilattero is a sensory delight. Vendors shout their specials, colorful produce tempts you, and the air is filled with delicious aromas.

The Quadrilatero is the perfect spot for a lunch filled with local flavors:

• Indulge in ragù over freshly made pasta or try the tortellini.
• Savor melt-in-your-mouth mortadella.
• Choose a trattoria on Via degli Orefici for a sit-down meal
• Head to Via Calzolerie for quick and delicious street food.

For a deeper dive into Bologna’s food scene, you can join a food tour that visits both Mercato di Mezzo and Mercato delle Erbe, offering a curated experience of the city’s gastronomic treasures.

Book your food tour

2:30 PM – Visit the Archiginnasio & Anatomical Theatre

Stroll down the Pavaglione Portico to reach the magnificent Archiginnasio, the former main building of the University of Bologna. Built in the 16th century, it houses:

• Frescoed Courtyard: Filled with beautiful coats of arms and memorial inscriptions.
• Staircases and Corridors: Adorned with over 6,000 heraldic shields from former students and professors.
• Library of Bologna: One of Italy’s largest libraries, housing rare books and manuscripts (accessible to registered users only.).
• Sala dello Stabat Mater: A grand hall known for its stunning vaulted ceilings and historical significance.
• Teatro Anatomico: The star attraction, an ornate lecture hall carved entirely from spruce wood.

The Teatro Anatomico once hosted medical lectures, with spellati (flayed) wooden statues depicting human anatomy, astrological ceiling motifs, and a distinctive marble table used for dissections.

Book your Archiginnasio visit with audio guide

3:30 PM – St. Stephen Square and the 7 churches

Escape the busy Quadrilatero and follow Via Santo Stefano to reach the peaceful Piazza Santo Stefano. Stop at Agricola e Vitale for a glass of wine or coffee while gazing at the stunning Basilica of Santo Stefano that dominates the square.

The Basilica, known locally as Sette Chiese (Seven Churches), fills the eastern side of the piazza. This remarkable complex weaves together Romanesque, Lombard, and ancient Roman architecture in a maze of connected buildings. Though originally seven churches stood here, four survive today, including mysterious underground crypts.

The star attraction is the Chiesa del Santo Sepolcro, a 5th-century church built over an ancient Temple of Isis. Its unique octagonal shape mirrors Christ’s tomb, with an impressive pulpit marking its center.

4:30 PM – Stroll & shop

Bologna is filled with charming artisan and vintage shops with a rich history and unique finds. Some of my favorites are:

• Profumi e Veleni (“Perfumes & Poisons”): This unforgettable shop fills the streets with its enchanting fragrances—impossible to miss!
• La Coroncina (1694): Bologna’s oldest shop, still run by the founding family. It’s perfect for unique gifts and souvenirs you won’t find elsewhere.

For more retail therapy (and bigger pants), explore:

• Via San Felice, Via Indipendenza, and Via Rizzoli for a mix of styles.
• Galleria Cavour for high-end and luxury fashion.

And don’t forget to stop by Cremeria Cavour for some of the best gelato in town.

6:00 PM – Aperitivo in the Jewish Ghetto

Walk through the narrow streets of the Ghetto Ebraico, where Bologna’s Jewish community once lived in confinement during medieval times. On Via dell’Inferno (Hell Alley), the synagogue once stood at number 16.

It’s hard to picture the dark history here, as this area has transformed into one of the city’s liveliest neighborhoods. Today, this vibrant neighborhood is a hub of quirky shops, vintage boutiques, street art, bars, and restaurants filled with progressive locals and students.

In the evening, the colorful streets fill with life and its the perfect place to grab an aperitivo at a cozy bar. Sip a Pignoletto (local sparkling white wine) or a classic Spritz, paired with small bites at:

1. Camera a Sud for a cozy, vintage vibe.
2. La Prosciutteria for cheese and cured meats.
3. Or upgrade to an apericena (drink + buffet) at Lab16 or Caffè Zamboni if you’re in the mood for a hearty selection.

7:30 – Dinner

End the day with a proper Bolognese dinner. Try one of these beloved trattorias:

• Osteria dell’Orsa: For authentic classics in a relaxed setting.
• Trattoria di Via Serra: An award-winning spot with a focus on seasonal, local ingredients.
• Antica Osteria del Mirasole: A slightly higher-end option perfect for indulging in high-quality Emilian dishes (allow 2 hours for dinner).

Day 2 – Scenic Bologna and Foodie Paradise

Your second day begins with the must-see Porticoes and the breathtaking Sanctuary of the Madonna di San Luca. Once you’ve soaked in the beauty, the choices open up!

Will you dive into modern art at MAMbo, admire stunning works from the 13th to the 18th century at the Pinnacoteca, or relax in one of Bologna’s charming parks? And when it comes to food, will you opt for a tasty food tour, an engaging cooking class, or a visit to a food-themed park?

Today is a bit of a puzzle, and you hold the reins. Just be sure to check the times for any guided tours and opening hours so everything fits together perfectly the way you want!

8:00 AM – Visit the Sanctuary of the Madonna di San Luca

Get ready for an unforgettable adventure today! You’ll explore the charming Portico di San Luca, a UNESCO World Heritage site that spans an impressive 3.8 kilometers. With 664 beautifully crafted arches, it is the longest portico in the world!

There are several ways to reach the Sanctuary of the Madonna di San Luca. Choose the one that fits you best depending on time and effort:

• Walk (3h – 4h): The walk to the Sanctuary is just shy of 4km (convert for us) and it typically takes about 1 to 1.5 hours to reach the top and just over an hour to get back. While the initial stroll is lovely, be prepared for a steep climb at the end with quite some stairs.
• Ride the San Luca Express (1.5h – 2h): If walking isn’t your thing or you prefer a quicker option, no problem! San Luca Express can whisk you up to the sanctuary in about 30 minutes. It departs every half hour from Piazza Maggiore, but be sure to grab your tickets in advance, especially in the busy summer months.
• Walk + Ride (2 – 2.5h): For the best of both worlds, why not walk one way and ride the San Luca Express back? Or rather the other way around so you avoid the uphill battle. It’s a fantastic way to experience the sights without the strain. You can either catch the San Luca Express or catch an Uber directly from your hotel (but the Uber won’t take you along the porticoes so I don’t recommend it both ways!)
• Join a guided tour (2.5h): If you’re looking for a more immersive experience, This Porticoes & Madonna di San Luca Tour. A guide will provide fascinating insights into the history and architecture, ensuring you don’t miss anything.

While you stroll through (or drive along) the porticoes, keep an eye out for:

• Arco del Meloncello: An elegant 18th-century arch that allows pedestrians to cross the road smoothly, helping pilgrims continue their journey without interruption.
• Painted Arches: Look up to see beautiful frescoes decorating some of the portico arches, telling stories of history and faith.
• Charming Vistas: Enjoy glimpses of the surrounding hills and countryside, the landscape only gets more beautiful as you climb.

Once you reach the top, you’ll discover the Sanctuary of the Madonna di San Luca. Inside, you’ll find stunning frescoes and artwork by famous Italian artists such as Creti, Reni, Pestrini, Mazza, and Bigari. However, the real showstopper may just be the incredible views!

11-ish AM – Brunch

After your invigorating trek to the Sanctuary of the Madonna di San Luca, it’s time to indulge in a delightful brunch. Bologna is a food lover’s paradise, and you have some fantastic choices!

• Uno Caffé Olistico: If you plan to visit the Pinnacoteca Nazionale di Bologna afterward, this charming café is your perfect pit stop. They serve a mix of healthy and hearty options, so you can feel good about fueling up for your next cultural adventure. 
• Forno Brisa: Head to Forno Brisa as you make your way to MAMbo (Museo d’Arte Moderna di Bologna). This beloved artisanal bakery offers mouthwatering pizza and flaky pastries that are simply irresistible.
• Vetro at Le Serre dei Giardini: Vetro at Le Serre dei Giardini is nestled in the beautiful Giardini Margherita. This café offers delicious brunch dishes in a peaceful and inspiring setting. Afterward, enjoy a leisurely stroll through the park.

12:30-ish PM – Gallery or Park

After a delightful brunch, you’ve got a couple of fabulous options: immersing yourself in art or soaking up some sun in the park. So, what will it be?

• Pinnacoteca Nazionale di Bologna: If you’re in the mood for some classic art, head over to the Pinnacoteca Nazionale. This gallery is a treasure trove of Italian masterpieces. You’ll find works from some of the greatest artists, all neatly lined up and ready to speak to your soul.
• MAMbo (Museo d’Arte Moderna di Bologna): If contemporary art sets your heart aflutter, make your way to MAMbo. This museum is all about bold, edgy works that challenge your thinking (and sometimes even your sanity!).
• Giardini Margherita: Feeling more like lounging in the great outdoors instead? Giardini Margherita is a perfect escape from the hustle and bustle of the city. Grab a spot on the grass, soak up some sun, enjoy a leisurely stroll around the charming pathways and don’t miss out on the pond filled with turtles.

4:00-ish PM – Cooking class, food tour or FICO Eataly

Now that you’ve taken in all the art and fresh air, it’s time to decide on your next delicious adventure! Choose from a food tour, a hands-on cooking class, or a visit to the food lover’s paradise at FICO Eataly.

Food tour

Uncover Bologna’s best-kept secrets on this food tour that brings you into the heart of local life. You’ll get a chance to indulge in over 15 tastings of incredible food and wine!

You’ll start with Tigella, a versatile and iconic dish served as a pre-aperitivo. Then, savor a variety of cold cuts, cheeses, and bread from the Bologna area, all paired with local wines at the city’s oldest osteria.

As you stroll through the historic center, you’ll indulge in two beloved homemade pastas—Tortellini and Tagliatelle—at a traditional Osteria Bolognese, perfectly complemented by even more local wine.

To wrap up your adventure, you’ll visit the best gelateria in town for an unforgettable gelato!

Book your Food Tour with a local

Cooking Class

Nothing says Italy like Italian food which is almost a religion for the locals. So why not join a cooking class!

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. You’ll 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 dishes with a glass of wine for dinner. Plus you’ll learn the skills to recreate these meals at home.

Book your cooking class

FICO Eataly

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.

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 or wine course.

3 days in Bologna itinerary

With three days in Bologna, you’ll have the perfect opportunity to dive deeper into this charming city. You can keep the two-day itinerary for exploring the highlights while adding a cooking class or a day trip for the perfect a long weekend in Bologna.

Feel like taking it easy? Feel free to skip any stops that don’t pique your interest and linger over aperitivos and bolognese cusine instead.

If you actually have 2.5 days in Bologna and are arriving on a Friday afternoon, start your weekend getaway with this food tour, then follow the above 2-day itinerary.

Day 1 – Historic City Center

The historic center of Bologna is small and easy to navigate on foot, making it the ideal to explore on a walking tour to get acquainted with the main sights and learn about the city’s history and culture.

8:00 AM – Breakfast
Start your day with a classic Italian breakfast—pair a hot espresso with a fluffy brioche. If you’re coming from the train station, stop by Forno Brisa; otherwise, Impero or Pappare’ closer to the heart of the city are great choices.

9:00 AM – Take in the Views
The inconic Asinelli Tower offers breathtaking views over the city but is unfortunately closed for maintenance. While works continue you can enjoy panoramic views from other scenic spots:

• Clock Tower (Palazzo d’Accursio): Open daily, offers stunning views over Piazza Maggiore. (included int his itinerary in just a bit) | Book your ticket with audio guide
• Bell Tower of Cattedrale di San Pietro: Offers gorgeous sights of Bologna’s rooftops, open on Saturdays.
• Torre Prendiparte: A medieval tower providing sweeping city views, open Sundays.

10:00 AM – Explore Piazza Maggiore & Nettuno
Wander over to Piazza Maggiore, the lively heart of Bologna, where you can soak up the history and charm.
Highlights include:

• Basilica di San Petronio: The largest brick church in the world, adorned with incredible art and the world’s oldest organ.
• Fontana del Nettuno: This impressive fountain features Neptune flexing his muscles, symbolizing papal authority.
• Palazzo del Podestà: Once the city’s council building, this site boasts vaulted arcades that served artisans and notaries. Test the acoustics under the Voltone del Podestà—whisper in one corner and hear it travel! Also, check out Torre dell’Arengo, where bells summoned citizens to meetings.
• Palazzo d’Accursio: Climb the Clock Tower for unbeatable views and check out the Salaborsa Library with its glass floors revealing Roman ruins.

11:00 AM – Visit the Basilica di San Petronio
Step inside this monumental basilica to explore its towering chapels and beautiful frescoes. Don’t forget to check out the longest sundial in existence! For a stunning perspective, head up to the terrace for views over the square.

12:00 PM – Climb the Torre del Orologgio
Ascend the Clock Tower for incredible 360° views of Bologna’s red rooftops. It will be a climb to remember, rewarding you with breathtaking sights. | Book your ticket with audio guide

1:00 PM – Lunch in the Quadrilatero
Hidden behind Palazzo dei Banchi, the Quadrilatero is your lunch spot filled with local flavors. Treat yourself to fresh pasta with ragù or sample mouthwatering mortadella. You might even consider joining a food tour of Mercato di Mezzo and Mercato delle Erbe for a deeper dive into Bologna’s culinary treasures!

2:30 PM – Visit the Archiginnasio & Anatomical Theatre
Make your way to the Archiginnasio to admire its frescoed courtyard and intricate library. The highlight is the Teatro Anatomico, an ornate lecture hall where historical medical lectures took place. | Book your visit with audio guide

3:30 PM – St. Stephen’s Square and the Seven Churches
Escape to the tranquil Piazza Santo Stefano. Grab a drink at the nearby Café while soaking in the architectural marvels of Sette Chiese, where four stunning churches stand intertwined.

4:30 PM – Stroll & Shop
Wander through Bologna’s artisanal shops, from Profumi e Veleni with its enchanting fragrances to La Coroncina, the oldest shop in Bologna for unique gifts. Don’t forget to stop at Cremeria Cavour for some of the best gelato in town!

6:00 PM – Aperitivo in the Jewish Ghetto
Experience the lively atmosphere of the Ghetto Ebraico. As the sun sets, choose a cozy bar for your aperitivo. Sip on the local sparkling wine, Pignoletto, or a classic Spritz while nibbling on prosciutto and local cheeses.

7:30 PM – Dinner
Conclude your day with a proper Bolognese meal at one of these popular trattorias:

• Osteria dell’Orsa for a laid-back experience.
• Trattoria di Via Serra known for its fresh, seasonal ingredients.
• Antica Osteria del Mirasole for a more upscale dining option; be sure to allow a couple of hours for the meal!

Day 2 – Scenic Bologna and Culinary Delights

On your second day, immerse yourself in the breathtaking Porticoes and pay a visit to the Sanctuary of the Madonna di San Luca. After indulging in some scenery, the real fun begins! Whether it’s modern art, tranquil parks, or engaging food experiences, you hold the reins today.

8:00 AM – Visit the Sanctuary of the Madonna di San Luca
Begin your day with a walk through the stunning Portico di San Luca, a UNESCO World Heritage site. Choose your adventure: either trek the 3.8 km portico yourself, hop on the San Luca Express, or take a guided tour. Keep an eye out for beautiful frescoes along the way! Once you arrive, soak in the stunning views and impressive art inside the sanctuary.

Book: Guided tour | San Luca Express ticket

11:00 AM – Brunch
After your invigorating trek, reward yourself with a hearty brunch! Consider Uno Caffé Olistico for a healthy mix or head to Forno Brisa for irresistible pastries. Vetro at Le Serre dei Giardini provides a serene outdoor setting for a leisurely meal.

12:30 PM – Gallery or Park
Post-brunch, choose between art and nature:

• Pinnacoteca Nazionale di Bologna: A treasure of classic Italian art that will captivate you.
• MAMbo: Explore bold contemporary art to challenge your creative outlook.
• Giardini Margherita: Relax in this beautiful park, perfect for a leisurely stroll or simply lounging under sunshine.

4:00 PM – Cooking Class, Food Tour, or FICO Eataly
Now’s the time to embark on your next culinary adventure!

• Food Tour: Join a tour that unveils Bologna’s best-kept gastronomic secrets with over 15 tastings, from local cold cuts to irresistible gelato!
• Cooking Class: Get hands-on in a local’s kitchen, crafting beloved Bolognese dishes like tortellini while enjoying wine. | Book your cooking class
• FICO Eataly: Explore the largest food theme park in the world, with countless culinary options, cooking classes, and courses to immerse yourself in Italian flavors. | Admission ticket | Pasta course | Mortadella course

Day 3 – Day trip or Culinary Experiences

With your final day, you have the flexibility to either relax, revisit anything you may have missed, or take a day trip to one of the nearby gems such as Modena for balsamic vinegar tastings, Ferrara for Renaissance architecture, or Ravenna for its stunning mosaics.

If you’re keen to stay in Bologna, consider arranging one or two culinary experiences or a food tour you didn’t manage earlier. The food scene here is so diverse that you could eat something new every day and never exhaust your options!

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 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.
• 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.

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.

• 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?
• 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!

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.