35+ Best Things to Do in Bologna, Italy (2024)

Bologna is beautiful city in Italy that is full of history, delicious food and pretty architecture. Here you'll find a wonderful guide of 35 best things to do in Bologna in 2024 to ensure you enjoy your trip.

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What is Bologna, Italy Known For?

What a city! Bologna is well-known for its traditional cuisine, its traditional academic atmosphere, and its historical architecture. It is not at all unjustified that it is famously called La Grassa, which means: The Fat. They make good food here! Pasta, Bolognese sauce, sausages, and lasagne, to name a few of all those specialties that come from Bologna.

This isn’t just about the food: Bologna is also called La Dotta (The Learned), its microcosm and cradle belonging to the University of Bologna, the oldest in the Western world. This powerhouse of academia gives the city an ambience of intellectual and cultural life, infectious and electric.

Let's not forget to mention the architecture! The medieval towers, like the Asinelli and Garisenda, and the city’s extraordinary network of porticoes (over 62 kilometers! UNESCO World Heritage Site designation notwithstanding), are impressive. And fun to walk under, whatever the weather.

Nicknamed ‘La Rossa’ (meaning The Red) because of its red terracotta tiled roofs and its political past, Bologna’s personality is as colorful as its skyline. Its eclectic music scene and nightlife, driven by a buzzing student population, ensure that the city never sleeps.

How Do You Pronounce Bologna, Italy?

The correct pronunciation of Bologna, Italy is "boh-LOH-nyah."

Where is Bologna, Italy?

Geographically, Bologna – my darling Bologna – is, north of Florence, in a part of Italy called Emilia-Romagna.

Bologna occupies a central position in the Po Valley, seated at the foot of the Apennine Mountains near the middle of the region.

Proximity to Other Cities:

• North of Florence (a mere 100 kilometers or 62 miles—practically neighbors!).
• South of Venice (about 150 kilometers or 93 miles—a weekend getaway, anyone?).
• Southeast of Milan (about 200 kilometers or 124 miles—a stone's throw in Italian terms).

Bologna, Italy Map

The following is a map of Bologna, Italy which includes Modena and a list of locations to some of the best places to visit.

How to Get to Bologna, Italy?

Here’s how you can reach this vibrant destination:

Airport in Bologna, Italy

We will start our conversation with Bologna’s main airport, Guglielmo Marconi Airport (BLQ). The airport is located almost 6 km northwest of the city center - perfect for travelers

Another thing I like about the Guglielmo Marconi Airport is that both short and long-distance routes are operated. There are connections between Bologna and almost every major European city and some cities in America using different major airlines. Although some of these flights stop in other cities, like Munich, there are still many airlines that fly directly to Bologna from big European cities: British Airways, Lufthansa, Ryanair, and Turkish Airlines.

You can reach the city from the airport by taking the Marconi Express monorail in a mere 7 minutes, landing right at Bologna Centrale railway station, and on the Aerobus service, which arrives in the city every 11 minutes, you’ll be in the center of the city in about 20 minutes.

Train Stations in Bologna, Italy

And then there are trains, of course! Bologna is one of Italy’s largest railway hub, and the central station, Bologna Centrale, is among the busiest in the country. It’s also excellently connected with almost every major city with the country’s high-speed trains by Trenitalia and Italo.

Just under half an hour from Florence, 1-1.25 hours of travel time from Milan, or between 1.5 and 2 hours from Rome. Piece of cake!

The main train station is basically right in the city center, a 15-minute walk from Piazza Maggiore, Bologna’s historic old center. It’s a major stop for both north-south and east-west train lines in Italy.

Also, international trains from Germany, the Netherlands, France, Austria, Hungary, and many other countries pass through Bologna Centrale on their way to Rome or Milan or on to the east coast of Italy and ultimately to Greece. Take a night train from Berlin, Amsterdam, Paris, or Vienna and wake up in a whole new city! So cool!

By Car

By car, you can reach Bologna by simply following one of the major motorways: A1 from Milano or Firenze, A13 from Venezia and Padova, and A14 from Ancona, Rimini, and Ravenna.

WARNING: The city center of Bologna is within the restricted traffic zone (Zona a traffico limitato or ZTL) with restrictions from 8 AM to 8 PM. There could be problems with finding a parking area, which might be better organized outside of the central historical area and thus reached through transport or walking.

Car Rental in Bologna Italy

Renting a car in Bologna through DiscoverCars.com is easy. It's cheap and convenient. DiscoverCars.com offers many rental options. You can compare prices from different suppliers and find the best deals. Here's what you need to know:

Cost and Availability

Prices for car rentals in Bologna vary by season. February is the cheapest month, with prices around $12.36 per day. July is the most expensive, with rates at $48.39 per day.

Popular suppliers include RentalPlus, Drivalia, Felirent, RentSmart24, and Goldcar. They offer a range of vehicles. You can choose from small cars like the Fiat 500 to SUVs like the Jeep Renegade.

Rental Locations and Hours

Bologna Guglielmo Marconi Airport has many rental companies. Optimo Rent, Sicily By Car, Keddy, and Thrifty are some of them. Most offices are open from 8:00 AM to 11:59 PM. This makes picking up or dropping off your car easy.

If you prefer city rentals, there are options too. U-Save and GaldieriRent offer competitive pricing in the city. Prices can start as low as $5 per day.

Booking Tips

Book in advance to get the best rates, especially during peak travel months. DiscoverCars.com offers free cancellation, adding flexibility if your plans change.

Consider buying full coverage insurance through DiscoverCars.com. It's often cheaper than at the rental desk. This can save you money and provide peace of mind. No one wants to deal with insurance issues on vacation.

35 Best Things to Do in Bologna, Italy

Here are 35 of our best picks of things to do in Bologna, Italy!

1. Visit Piazza Maggiore

Central square with historic buildings.

2. Explore Basilica di San Petronio

Large Gothic church.

3. See the Two Towers (Due Torri)

Iconic medieval towers.

4. Check out Archiginnasio of Bologna

Historic university building.

5. Make a pilgrimage to Santuario di Madonna di San Luca

Hilltop basilica.

6. Discover the Fountain of Neptune

Magnificent Renaissance fountain.

7. Tour the University of Bologna

Oldest university in the world.

8. Visit Museo Civico Archeologico

Archaeological museum with ancient artifacts.

9. Walk through the Portico di San Luca

Longest portico in the world.

10. Explore Palazzo Re Enzo

Historic palace in Piazza Maggiore.

11. Admire the artwork in Pinacoteca Nazionale di Bologna

National art gallery.

12. Stroll around Giardini Margherita

Beautiful public park.

13. See the Asinelli Tower

Climb for panoramic views.

14. Visit the Museo di Palazzo Poggi

University museum with diverse collections.

15. Discover the secrets of Biblioteca Salaborsa

Public library with archaeological finds.

16. Explore Santo Stefano

Complex of seven churches.

17. Check out the Bologna Museum of Modern Art (MAMbo)

Contemporary art museum.

18. Tour the Palazzo d'Accursio

Historic city hall with art exhibits.

19. Admire the architecture of Teatro Anatomico

Historic anatomical theatre.

20. Visit the Jewish Museum of Bologna

Explore Jewish history and culture.

21. See the Oratory of Santa Cecilia

Renaissance frescoes.

22. Discover the Botanical Garden and Herbarium

University-owned garden with diverse plants.

23. Explore the Medieval Museum

Artifacts from Bologna’s medieval period.

24. Walk along Via Zamboni

Street lined with historic university buildings.

25. Visit the Museo Morandi

Art museum dedicated to Giorgio Morandi.

26. Tour the Lamborghini Museum (in Modena)

Located nearby, showcases luxury cars.

27. See the Ferrari Museum (also in Modena)

Nearby museum dedicated to Ferrari’s history.

28. Explore the Ducati Museum

Celebrates the famous motorcycle brand.

29. Discover the Museum of the History of Bologna

Detailed city history exhibits.

30. Visit the Sanctuary of Santa Maria della Vita

Baroque church with famous sculptures.

31. Enjoy a performance at Teatro Comunale di Bologna

Historic opera house.

32. Explore the Quadrilatero

Historic market district.

33. Check out Palazzo Fava

Art exhibitions in a historic palace.

34. Discover the Culinary Institute of Bologna

Cooking classes and food tours.

35. Tour the Ducati Factory

Guided tours of the motorcycle factory.

The Best Tours in (and around) Bologna, Italy

These tours offer history, food, and unique experiences. Explore Bologna fully.

Bologna: City Center Walking Tour

Walk through Bologna's history. Visit the Asinelli Tower, Neptune Fountain, and Basilica of San Petronio. Get to know the city's main landmarks.

Bologna: 3-Hour Secret Food Tour

Dive into the Quadrilatero area. Taste Parmigiano Reggiano, Prosciutto di Parma, handmade pasta, and balsamic vinegar. End with wine and gelato at Bologna's oldest tavern.

Bologna: Traditional Food Tour

Take a food journey with a local guide. Enjoy tagliatelle al ragu, mortadella, and more. Perfect for food lovers.

Stay Hungry Stay Bologna: Cooking Class and Wine Tasting

Join a cozy cooking class. Make two types of pasta from scratch. Enjoy pizza, wine tasting, and tiramisu.

From Bologna: Emilia Excellence Food Tour

Tour the Emilia-Romagna region. Visit a dairy factory, a winery, and learn about balsamic vinegar. Includes a regional lunch.

Bologna: Lamborghini Museum Entrance Ticket

Explore the Lamborghini Museum. See classic and latest models. A must for car enthusiasts.

Where to Stay: The Best Hotels in Bologna, Italy

Here are some of the best hotels in Bologna, Italy, categorized for different preferences:

Budget-Friendly Hotels

Hotel Cosmopolitan Bologna

Featuring free parking, WiFi, and a complimentary shuttle service to the trade fair, this accommodation sits close to the exhibition center and Tangenziale motorway. Guests will enjoy its modern facilities and an on-site restaurant offering local and international dishes.

Aemilia Hotel Bologna

Situated 15 minutes on foot from the city center, this hotel features contemporary rooms featuring free WiFi and HD TVs, as well as a restaurant featuring local cuisine and Italian classics.

Families Hotels

Savoia Hotel Regency

Situated in a palazzo-style building dating back to the 18th century, this hotel is encircled by a verdant park and an outdoor swimming pool, as well as a restaurant with vintage décor and live music. Additional family-friendly perks include suites for bigger groups and a sun terrace.

UNAHOTELS San Vitale Bologna

The hotel is situated approximately 1.5 km south of the city center and offers guest rooms catering for families, free WiFi, and a gym. It offers good facilities at a convenient location, making it a good choice for family vacations.

Boutique Hotels

Art Hotel Orologio

The hotel is in the center of the historical city, with rooms simply and aesthetically decorated, free bicycle use, and an overlooking view of Piazza Maggiore.

Hotel Cavour

This place is on the other side of Bologna, with a small terrace overlooking the towers, an inner courtyard, and smartly furnished rooms. It is the boutique experience.

Luxury Hotels in Bologna

Royal Hotel Carlton

This hotel features a wellness center with a beauty salon, elegant rooms, and a gourmet restaurant located close to the train and city center guaranteeing an easy access to the points of interest and attractions.

Starhotels Excelsior

Despite its location opposite Bologna Train Station, this 5-star luxury hotel is nothing short of modern inside, both in interiors and technology. The gourmet restaurant in-house and the free gym facility even make it an irresistible choice for luxury travelers visiting Bologna.

The Food in Bologna, Italy

Bologna, Italy is a city so famous for its food, it’s affectionately called ‘La Grassa’ or ‘The Fat’. Here’s a roundup of some of the city’s culinary delights that you absolutely cannot miss.

Pasta Dishes

Tagliatelle al Ragù – The holy grail of Bolognesi cooking. Long, flat ribbons of tagliatelle (narrow egg-based pasta) bathed in a meat ragù. Think Bologna’s authentic and meaty meat sauce – but made only with the finest ingredients and using only the most carefully selected cuts – meat, onions, carrots, celery, tomato paste, wine, broth.

Tortellini in Brodo: These tiny, ring-shaped pasta purses of meat and cheese, so named because they are said to resemble a woman’s navel, are served luxuriously burbling in a light, meaty broth. This dish is a favorite during Christmas/Easter/New Year - awesome in a bowl.

Lasagna alla Bolognese – everything you thought you knew about lasagna is wrong. How wrong? Lasagna alla Bolognese is ragù and béchamel sandwiched between layers of green, spinach pasta. And it’s awesome.

Meat and Cheese

Mortadella – Heaven. This big sausage, often with pistachio embedded in it, is a wonderful Swiss-army knife of flavor. When thinly sliced, it makes for a great sandwich or charcuterie board winner; when turned into a mousse, it gives silky, chicken-liver mousse a run for its money.

Prosciutto di Parma – made here in nearby Parma, this is a dry-cured ham, thinly sliced and delicate – served best simply, with some good bread.

Parmigiano Reggiano (Parma-Reggio cheese) – The ‘King of Cheese’ that is aged two or three years to develop its full mouth-filling flavor and wonderful complexity. It is the kingpin of Bolognese food – and rightly so; it is the ultimate cheese! It is the best cheese in the world!

Unique Local Dishes

Cotoletta alla Bolognese – This dish consists of a breaded cutlet of veal pounded and fried thin, with prosciutto and shavings of Parmigiano Reggiano on top, and finished with a sliver of butter. Decadence on a plate!

Balanzoni – green pasta stuffed with ricotta, parmesan, eggs, spinach, and mortadella or pork loin, and served with butter (seasoned with sage) or rich ragù – every bite is a revelation all over again.

Broth with Passatelli – Made with breadcrumbs, egg, Parmesan, and nutmeg, this peasant pasta was once a rustic food but is now a much-loved comfort dish.

Street Food and Snacks

Piadina – A ubiquitous flatbread, served stuffed with prosciutto, cheese, and vegetables of all kinds, which you can find in prepared form or on the grill, hot off the griddle (where it is also sold as street food). A filling, enjoyable item.

Caldarroste – roasted chestnuts, often eaten in the autumn and winter season. The ideal snack while visiting Bologna’s historic streets and taking in the sights.

Crema Fritta – Little cubes of custard cream breaded and fried. This Carnival delicacy is delicious in any season.

Sweets

Torta di Riso: Rice cake drizzled with a chocolate glaze, flavored with vanilla, almonds, and lemon zest, available in most bakery shops and homes throughout the city. It’s the perfect end to any meal. Or, really, any time of day.

The Best Restaurants in Bologna, Italy

Here is a list of some of the best restaurants in Bologna, Italy, ranging from inexpensive to fine dining:

Budget-Friendly:

• 2 Cuochi - Traditional Italian and Emilian dishes. Affordable. Perfect for a casual meal.
• Mò Mortadella Lab - Specializes in mortadella sandwiches and quick bites. Great value.
• Indegno - La Crescentina 2.0 - Pizza and crescentina. Typical Emilian dishes at budget prices.

Mid-Range:

• Hostaria San Carlino - Italian and Northern-Italian dishes. Cozy atmosphere.
• Da Cesari - Family-run. Classic Bolognese and Mediterranean cuisine.
• Trattoria di Via Serra - Authentic Emilian dishes. Welcoming environment.
• Al Sangiovese - Mediterranean and Northern-Italian dishes. Good balance of quality and price.

Fine Dining:

• I Carracci Restaurant - In the Grand Hotel Majestic. Elegant dining. Diverse menu.
• Ristorante Corbezzoli - Italian and seafood dishes. Stylish setting. Perfect for special occasions.
• Ristorante Garganelli - Upscale Italian and seafood cuisine. Refined experience.
• Massimiliano Poggi - Innovative Italian and seafood dishes. Luxurious atmosphere.
• Ristorante Ensama Pesce - High-end seafood. Slightly outside Bologna. Exceptional dishes. Worth the trip.

Weather in Bologna, Italy

Bologna has different weather throughout the year. Each season brings its own charm.

Spring (March-May)

Spring in Bologna is wonderful. Temperatures ranging from the low to mid-40s Fahrenheit and go up to the mid-70s, for an average of 57 degrees Fahrenheit. Temperatures are still mild and dry, which makes its outdoor living and cultural visitations superb. Especially in April and May, when all flowers start blooming and food and wine festivals begin.

Summer (June-August)

Bologna summers are hot. August is the warmest month – temperatures are highest at around 88°F average-wise and lowest at about 65°F. The weather is also the driest. Best season for visiting. Crowded and expensive. Pack some sunscreen.

Autumn (September-November)

I think autumn is the best season for visiting Bologna. The average temperatures go down from the low 20s°C (mid-80s°F) in September to the mid-10s°C (low-50s°F) by November, the season is very picturesque with color fading leaves, and there is a huge number of local festivals: truffles and mushrooms are harvested during this period. What’s more, it’s the wettest season of the year, especially from mid-October onwards.

Winter (December-February)

It is cold in Bologna during winter. It’s between mid-40s° Fahrenheit and lows around 30° Fahrenheit in the day; at night, it can be even colder sometimes, around 14° Fahrenheit in January. However, there is so much magic during the Christmas holidays and the New Year events, and hotel rates are great deals this time of the year.

Best Time to Visit Bologna?

The best season depends on your taste in the weather. The spring and early autumn are two seasons that offer cool and comfortable weather, and fewer tourists. During these two periods, there are more cultural activities and many exciting festivals. If you prefer hot weather and are not afraid of crowds, come for summer. For winter festivities and cool temperatures, December to February is also spectacular.

Frequently Asked Questions About Bologna, Italy

Here are a few of the most FAQs we get asked about Bologna:

Is Bologna Worth Visiting?

Yes indeed – you absolutely MUST go to Bologna! It’s such a rich city, culturally and historically; it has some show-stoppingly splendid monuments such as the Basilica di San Petronio and the majestic Sanctuary of the Madonna di San Luca, dripping in history and splendor. It’s home to the most extensive network of porticoes (covered walkways) in the world, and a UNESCO World Heritage Site. In fact, these porticoes were built to connect churches and palaces to the markets, because it was deemed impious for the citizens to venture out in the rain.

And the food! Bologna is the home of tagliatelle al ragù and mortadella, for heaven’s sake! Mercato di Mezzo and Quadrilatero are the two main street food markets, and they are a total blast. Buona vita! The nighttime is buzzing because of the big student population, and it is a really excellent starting point to take day trips to Florence and Venice.

How Long to Spend in Bologna?

Spend three days in Bologna. It's essential. Dive into its rich history. Taste its famous cuisine. Take a local cooking class. Each day packs a punch. Visit Piazza Maggiore. Explore the Anatomical Theatre. Check out nearby towns. Take culinary tours. Bologna doesn't disappoint.

How far is Bologna from Florence, Italy?

Bologna is about 100 kilometers from Florence. You can get there by train in 35 minutes on the fast line.

What to Pack for Bologna, Italy?

Pack like a pro—embrace practicality while respecting the local culture and fashion, ensuring you're perfectly prepared for your Italian escapade. Remember, every piece of gear should help you dive deeper into the adventure—not hold you back!

Clothing:

• Versatile and Comfortable Shoes: Absolutely crucial—pick shoes that are not only stylish but supremely comfortable for tackling those ancient cobblestone streets. Think loafers, ankle boots, and top-notch sneakers. Steer clear of high heels—they're a no-go for extensive explorations!
• Layers for Variable Weather: Be wildly prepared—weather can flip on a dime! Lightweight jackets, scarves, and sweaters are your best allies for layering and can adeptly handle most conditions.
• Appropriate Attire for Dining and Churches: Remember, Italians are all about style—especially at dinner or in sacred spaces. Pack a few chic outfits for evening escapades. Churches demand modesty, so ensure your knees and shoulders are covered with items like long skirts, pants, and shawls.

Essentials:

• Sunglasses and Sunscreen: Shield yourself from the sun—crucial during those blazing summer months.
• Tech Accessories: Keep your tech juiced up! A power adapter for European sockets and a portable charger are lifesavers. Don’t forget extra memory cards for that camera—snap every epic moment!
• Travel Documents and Security: Pack smart—ensure all your travel documents are secure. A travel wallet or an anti-theft bag is brilliant for safeguarding your essentials. Consider slapping a tracker like AirTags on your luggage to keep tabs on your gear during your travels.

Toiletries and Health:

• Basic Toiletries: Pack the essentials—think toothpaste, deodorant, shampoo, and conditioner. Tip: Buy items like sunscreen locally to save space in your pack.
• First Aid Kit and Medications: Toss in a basic first aid kit, pain relievers, and any must-have meds. Having copies of your prescriptions can be a lifesaver if you face any unexpected delays or emergencies.

Miscellaneous:

• Microfiber Towel: Perfect for those spontaneous beach days or active hiking adventures—these towels are light and quick to dry.
• Day Pack: An absolute must for carrying your essentials during day trips or city tours. Especially handy if you plan to check out nearby cities like Modena or Ferrara.

Tech Considerations:

• Cell Phone: Don’t leave home without it! Essential for navigation, staying connected, and capturing memories. Consider snagging an international data plan or a local SIM card once you land for seamless connectivity.

What are the Best Day Trips From Bologna?

Here are some of the best day trips you can take from Bologna:

Ravenna: Quick Escape

Train gets you to Ravenna in just over an hour. It's packed with stunning, UNESCO-listed mosaics. Must-sees include the Basilica di San Vitale and the Mausoleum of Galla Placidia.

Ferrara: Step Back in Time

Ferrara boasts Renaissance glory and a UNESCO tag. Key stops: Castello Estense and Palazzo dei Diamanti.

Modena: Dive into Flavor

Thirty minutes by train lands you in Modena. Go for the balsamic vinegar, stay for Osteria Francescana. Don't skip Modena Cathedral and the Enzo Ferrari Museum.

Parma: Food Lover’s Mecca

An hour by train, Parma tempts with its Parmigiano-Reggiano cheese and Parma ham. Highlights: Parma Cathedral and Baptistery.

Vicenza: Palladian Dreams

Train to Vicenza takes 1.5 to 2.5 hours. It’s a showcase of Andrea Palladio’s Renaissance architecture. See the Basilica Palladiana and Teatro Olimpico.

Venice: Worth the Trip

It takes a bit over two hours by train. Venice offers an unmatched blend of canals, architecture, and culture.

Cesenatico: Seaside Relaxation

Ninety minutes by train. Cesenatico features charming canals and a laid-back coastal vibe. Ideal for a relaxing day.