Bologna, Italy
Locavy ratings
Party
3.5/5
Sightseeing
3.5/5
Relaxation
3/5
Value
4/5
Transport Links
4/5
Experiences
3/5
Party
3.5/5
Sightseeing
3.5/5
Relaxation
3/5
Value
4/5
Transport Links
4/5
Experiences
3/5
At a glance
Bologna, a medieval city nestled in the heart of Italy, is renowned for its distinctive red buildings and its role as the birthplace of authentic Bolognese cuisine.
Party
Bologna’s vibrant nightlife centers around the university district, where you’ll find a number of lively bars and clubs. The city’s substantial student population ensures a vibrant nightlife scene throughout the year, making it an ideal destination for those seeking exciting evenings out.
Sightseeing
Bologna’s beauty truly shines when you ascend the Asinelli tower, offering unparalleled panoramic views of the city. Another fantastic way to explore the city’s amazing sights is by taking a guided walking tour, allowing you to delve into Bologna’s rich history and architectural wonders with the insights of a knowledgeable guide.
Relaxation
Bologna’s natural slow-paced atmosphere makes it an ideal destination for a relaxing city break. Visitors can leisurely explore local markets, savoring the relaxed vibe, and indulge in people-watching at the charming Piazza Maggiore. It’s the perfect place to unwind and soak up the local culture at your own pace.
Value
Bologna offers excellent value for travelers when compared to other major cities in Italy. While it may not be as budget-friendly as some cities in the Puglia region, it remains notably more affordable than neighboring cities like Florence, Milan, and Venice.
Transport links
Fly
Train
Drive
Fly
Bologna Guglielmo Marconi Airport is the primary airport for those visiting Bologna, located just 20 minutes from the city center. Additionally, an express train can transport you from the airport to the city center in just 7 minutes, ensuring a hassle-free arrival.
Train
Bologna boasts an extensive train network that connect it to the rest of the country. If you’re arriving by train, Bologna Centrale is the main station, but it’s not directly in the city center, so you may need to use public transport to reach your final destination.
Drive
Unfortunately, driving in Bologna’s city center requires a permit. This is crucial if you plan to stay there. However, renting a car isn’t usually needed, as public transport is excellent for exploring nearby attractions.
Experiences
Bologna offers a range of experiences for travelers. Explore the city’s museums, with Pinacoteca Nazionale di Bologna and Museo Geologico Giovanni Capellini being top picks. Climb the iconic Asinelli Tower for panoramic views of the city. Additionally, indulge in Bologna’s rich culinary scene with a food tour through local markets, where you can savor regional delicacies.
Best Things To Do
1. Uncover Bologna's Secrets on a Walking Tour
Discover the rich history and captivating stories behind Bologna’s streets and landmarks with a guided walking tour—a perfect way to delve into the city’s unique character.
Be sure to wear comfortable shoes as Bologna’s historic streets can be uneven, so good footwear is essential.
2. Wander Through the Old Town
Get lost in the picturesque cobbled streets of Bologna’s historic old town, where terracotta buildings create iconic Italian vistas, and key attractions beckon around every corner.
Explore the old town in the early morning or late afternoon to avoid the crowds.
3. Ascend the Asinelli Tower
Climb the Asinelli Tower, an enduring symbol of Bologna that has graced the skyline for over 900 years. The reward: unparalleled panoramic views of the charming red city.
Consider climbing the tower in the evening to witness a breathtaking sunset over Bologna.
4. Visit Quadrilatero Market
Immerse yourself in Bologna’s oldest market, the Quadrilatero, where street food vendors tempt with an array of delectable treats, from fresh fish to fragrant cheeses, and local bakeries offer authentic Italian bread.
Try local specialties like mortadella, tortellini, and Parmesan cheese at the market stalls.
5. Embark on Day Trips
Take advantage of Bologna’s strategic location with captivating day trips to nearby gems like Parma, Modena, and Ravenna, or explore the charming towns and villages that surround the city, particularly convenient with a rental car.
If you plan to visit multiple attractions in one day, consider purchasing a Bologna Card for discounted access and skip-the-line privileges.
6. Marvel at the Basilica di San Petronio
Step inside the Basilica di San Petronio, Bologna’s principal church, adorned with art and steeped in culture. Note that photography is prohibited inside the Chapel of the Magi.
Respect the rules regarding photography inside the basilica.
7. Uncover Bologna's Hidden Canals
Navigate the enchanting network of historic canals weaving through Bologna, offering scenic beauty and a fascinating glimpse into their centuries-old role in powering watermills.
Join a guided tour to learn more about the history of Bologna’s canals and their role in the city’s development.
8. Visit Bologna's Museums
Delight in a day of cultural exploration at Bologna’s renowned museums, including the Pinacoteca Nazionale di Bologna (National Art Gallery), Museo Geologico Giovanni Capellini (Paleontological Museum), and the Museum of the History of Bologna.
Many museums offer free admission on the first Sunday of the month. Check the schedule to make the most of your visit.
9. Visit the Sanctuary of the Madonna di San Luca
Ascend the hill to the Sanctuary of San Luca, an exquisite place of worship overlooking the city, brimming with history and culture. Convenient buses run between the Basilica and the city center throughout the day.
Take bus #20 from the city centre to reach the sanctuary if you prefer not to climb the long porticoed path on foot.
10. Experience Piazza Maggiore
Immerse yourself in the timeless charm of Piazza Maggiore, one of Italy’s oldest squares, graced by the Basilica di San Petronio. Enjoy events, markets, and people-watching from the nearby bars, cafes, and restaurants.
Enjoy a leisurely evening at one of the square’s outdoor cafes to savor the vibrant atmosphere and watch the city come alive.
1. Uncover Bologna's Secrets on a Walking Tour
Discover the rich history and captivating stories behind Bologna’s streets and landmarks with a guided walking tour—a perfect way to delve into the city’s unique character.
Be sure to wear comfortable shoes as Bologna’s historic streets can be uneven, so good footwear is essential.
2. Wander Through the Old Town
Get lost in the picturesque cobbled streets of Bologna’s historic old town, where terracotta buildings create iconic Italian vistas, and key attractions beckon around every corner.
Explore the old town in the early morning or late afternoon to avoid the crowds.
3. Ascend the Asinelli Tower
Climb the Asinelli Tower, an enduring symbol of Bologna that has graced the skyline for over 900 years. The reward: unparalleled panoramic views of the charming red city.
Consider climbing the tower in the evening to witness a breathtaking sunset over Bologna.
4. Visit Quadrilatero Market
Immerse yourself in Bologna’s oldest market, the Quadrilatero, where street food vendors tempt with an array of delectable treats, from fresh fish to fragrant cheeses, and local bakeries offer authentic Italian bread.
Try local specialties like mortadella, tortellini, and Parmesan cheese at the market stalls.
5. Embark on Day Trips
Take advantage of Bologna’s strategic location with captivating day trips to nearby gems like Parma, Modena, and Ravenna, or explore the charming towns and villages that surround the city, particularly convenient with a rental car.
If you plan to visit multiple attractions in one day, consider purchasing a Bologna Card for discounted access and skip-the-line privileges.
6. Marvel at the Basilica di San Petronio
Step inside the Basilica di San Petronio, Bologna’s principal church, adorned with art and steeped in culture. Note that photography is prohibited inside the Chapel of the Magi.
Respect the rules regarding photography inside the basilica.
7. Uncover Bologna's Hidden Canals
Navigate the enchanting network of historic canals weaving through Bologna, offering scenic beauty and a fascinating glimpse into their centuries-old role in powering watermills.
Join a guided tour to learn more about the history of Bologna’s canals and their role in the city’s development.
8. Visit Bologna's Museums
Delight in a day of cultural exploration at Bologna’s renowned museums, including the Pinacoteca Nazionale di Bologna (National Art Gallery), Museo Geologico Giovanni Capellini (Paleontological Museum), and the Museum of the History of Bologna.
Many museums offer free admission on the first Sunday of the month. Check the schedule to make the most of your visit.
9. Visit the Sanctuary of the Madonna di San Luca
Ascend the hill to the Sanctuary of San Luca, an exquisite place of worship overlooking the city, brimming with history and culture. Convenient buses run between the Basilica and the city center throughout the day.
Take bus #20 from the city centre to reach the sanctuary if you prefer not to climb the long porticoed path on foot.
10. Experience Piazza Maggiore
Immerse yourself in the timeless charm of Piazza Maggiore, one of Italy’s oldest squares, graced by the Basilica di San Petronio. Enjoy events, markets, and people-watching from the nearby bars, cafes, and restaurants.
Enjoy a leisurely evening at one of the square’s outdoor cafes to savor the vibrant atmosphere and watch the city come alive.
10 Things You Need to know
1.
Unlock Bologna with the Welcome Card
The Bologna Welcome Card grants you free access to most city attractions, making it an essential for visitors to Bologna.
6.
Discover Bologna on Foot
Bologna is a very compact city, meaning it is best explored on foot. Unless you’re planning on travelling out of the city, there isn’t a great need to use public transport.
2.
Monday Closures
Keep in mind that many attractions, including markets and museums, are closed on Mondays in Bologna.
7.
Carry some Cash
The markets, as well as many of the shops and cafes, don’t take card so it is advised that you take cash with you when visiting Bologna.
3.
Secure Dining Reservations
Reservations are recommended, especially on weekends when tourists flock to Bologna from nearby towns and cities.
8.
Optimal Stay Duration in Bologna
Plan for a 2-3 day stay in Bologna to fully enjoy its attractions, as longer visits may require excursions beyond the city.
4.
Tipping Etiquette in Bologna
While appreciated, tipping is not expected in Bologna as it is in some other European destinations.
9.
Central Accommodation
Immerse Yourself in Bologna’s Heart: Choose accommodations in the city center to be near the action, historic landmarks, and vibrant dining.
5.
Drink Bottled Water
Locals and visitors prefer bottled water over tap water, so be aware that you may not receive tap water in restaurants.
10.
Respectful Dress Code for Churches
When visiting Bologna’s churches, dress respectfully by covering shoulders and avoiding overly revealing attire.
6.
Discover Bologna on Foot
Bologna is a very compact city, meaning it is best explored on foot. Unless you’re planning on travelling out of the city, there isn’t a great need to use public transport.
7.
Carry some Cash
The markets, as well as many of the shops and cafes, don’t take card so it is advised that you take cash with you when visiting Bologna.
8.
Optimal Stay Duration in Bologna
Plan for a 2-3 day stay in Bologna to fully enjoy its attractions, as longer visits may require excursions beyond the city.
9.
Central Accommodation
Immerse Yourself in Bologna’s Heart: Choose accommodations in the city center to be near the action, historic landmarks, and vibrant dining.
10.
Respectful Dress Code for Churches
When visiting Bologna’s churches, dress respectfully by covering shoulders and avoiding overly revealing attire.