Bologna, Italy: 27 Best Things to Do and See

The Red, the Learned, and the Fat. These are the adjectives that describe another beautiful Italian city I visited, and that is Bologna. Bologna is located in the Italian region of Emilia-Romagna and is a city full of students, history, and excellent food. In this guide I will share with you Bologna, Italy: 27 Best Things to Do and See.

Bologna is called ‘the Red’ because of the red-orange facades and terracotta roofs found on houses essentially throughout the city. ‘The Learned’ is due to the oldest university in the world and the presence of many students even today, and ‘the Fat’ undoubtedly corresponds to the excellent local cuisine (and also to how you’ll look after a holiday in Bologna 🤭).

When to Visit Bologna

The most pleasant weather in Bologna is in spring (April, May, June) and autumn (September, October), but I understand you’ll probably go in summer. In the summer months, expect temperatures exceeding 30 degrees Celsius. The good thing is that Bologna is lined with countless characteristic porticoes where you can hide from the scorching sun.

TIP: Read about where to go for a holiday in Italy.

Bologna: where to Stay

In Bologna, I recommend staying near the city center:

• The Social Hub Bologna,
• Royal Hotel Carlton,
• Vista Fiera Bologna.

Getting around Bologna

You can easily walk all over Bologna, but there are also city buses. A single ticket costs 1.5 euros, is transferable, and is valid for 75 minutes. A day pass costs 6 euros. Tickets can be bought at vending machines, newsstands, by credit card, or via the Muver app.

If you have a paper ticket, you need to validate it on the bus; if you transfer, you must validate it again on the next bus.

If you don’t want to bother with getting a traditional ticket, you can buy a ticket contactless with a credit card at the machines inside the bus. However, there’s a limit of 1 card = 1 passenger. So you can’t buy tickets for the whole family with one card.

How to get from the Airport to the City Center

An important question for every tourist — how to get from the airport to the city center. From Bologna Airport, you have several options:

• Marconi Express: An automatic train (monorail) that covers the distance from the airport to/from the city center (to Bologna Centrale station) in 6 minutes. It runs every 5 to 10 minutes. A ticket costs 12.80 euros (return 23.30 euros). Tickets can be purchased at self-service machines near baggage claim, directly at the entrance to the train station, or by credit card at the entry and exit turnstiles.
• Marconi Express Bus No. 949: During the summer, additional bus services were added, as the Marconi Express train only has 50 seats and is always full of tourists. This service runs every half hour from the airport to Piazza Malpighi stop and vice versa. The journey takes about half an hour, as the bus goes directly to/from the airport without other stops. The price is the same as for the train, and if you have a Marconi Express train ticket, you can also use it on the bus. You can find where and how to buy tickets on the official website.
• Bus Navetta Aeroporto: Bus line number 944 Navetta Aeroporto runs from the terminal to Ospedale Maggiore hospital. However, the Ospedale Maggiore stop is still quite far from the city center, so you’ll have to transfer to another regular public transport connection. The fare costs 4 euros, and you can buy a ticket again at vending machines at the airport, by credit card inside the bus, or via the Roger app.
• Buses 81 and 91: The cheapest alternative are the regular city buses No. 81 or 91, which depart from the Birra stop, located about a 10 to 15-minute walk from the airport. Don’t worry, I won’t make you cross four-lane roads just to save a few euros. You can easily reach the stop after a few meters of sidewalk from the airport. A ticket costs 1.5 euros and can be bought at the local newsstand (right opposite the stop) or directly by credit card inside the bus. However, the journey takes longer (around 30 to 40 minutes).

27 Best Things to Do and See

If your travels take you to Bologna, you mustn’t miss this list of 27 tips on what to see and do in Bologna.

Le Due Torri

The most iconic landmark of the city is undoubtedly the Two Towers. These medieval towers, Asinelli and Garisenda, were built in the 12th century and served to defend the city. The Asinelli Tower is accessible to the public and offers a breathtaking view of the city (however, it is undergoing repairs in July 2024, so it is temporarily inaccessible).

Piazza Maggiore

Piazza Maggiore is the main square in Bologna, surrounded by significant historical buildings such as Palazzo dei Notai, Palazzo d’Accursio, and Palazzo del Podestà. The square is a hub of social activity and often hosts various cultural events and markets.

Piazza Del Nettuno and Fontana Del Nettuno

Piazza del Nettuno is adjacent to Piazza Maggiore, and here you’ll find the majestic Fontana di Nettuno, created by the sculptor Giambologna in the 16th century. The statue of Neptune is impressive and has become one of the city’s most famous symbols.

Basilica Di San Petronio

Basilica di San Petronio is one of the largest churches in the world and dominates Piazza Maggiore. Construction began in the 14th century but was never fully completed. The basilica’s interior is richly decorated and houses many significant works of art, including the fresco “The Last Judgment” by Giovanni da Modena.

Salaborsa

Salaborsa is a modern public library located in Piazza del Nettuno. The building features a fascinating glass floor, beneath which archaeological excavations from various historical periods can be seen.

Via dell’Archiginnasio

On Via dell’Archiginnasio, you’ll find the historic Archiginnasio building, which was the original seat of the University of Bologna, the oldest university in the world, founded in 1088. The building houses the famous Anatomical Theater and the municipal library with a rich collection of manuscripts and rare books.

Little Venice and the Finestrella Window

Did you know that Bologna has its own Venice? Well, perhaps not as breathtaking as the real one, but still a nice sight. The Finestrella is a small but picturesque corner of the city where you can see the Canale di Reno through a window. This view resembles Venetian canals and reveals the city’s hidden water network. There’s often a queue for this small window. 😄

Santuario Della Madonna Di San Luca

The Santuario della Madonna di San Luca is a pilgrimage site located at the top of Colle della Guardia hill. Tourists can reach it via a covered arcade walkway, which is the longest in the world, measuring almost 4 km (or by bus). The basilica offers a magnificent view of Bologna and the surrounding landscape.

Jewish Ghetto

The Jewish Ghetto in Bologna is a quarter where the Jewish community lived separately from other inhabitants from the 16th to the 18th century. The area is located near Piazza Maggiore and still features narrow streets and characteristic houses. Several guarded entrances led into the ghetto. They were opened in the morning and then sealed again at dusk. There is also a Jewish museum here, which documents the history and culture of the Jewish community in Bologna.

Basilica Di San Domenico

Basilica di San Domenico is an important church where Saint Dominic, the founder of the Dominican Order, is buried. The church is known for its works of art, including the pulpit by Nicola Pisano and sculptures by Michelangelo.

Basilica Di Santo Stefano

Basilica di Santo Stefano is a complex of several churches and chapels, known as the Seven Churches. The complex is one of the oldest and most significant pilgrimage sites in Bologna.

Chiesa Di Santa Maria Della Vita

Chiesa di Santa Maria della Vita is a Baroque church known for its magnificent architecture and splendid works of art. The most significant is the group of sculptures Lamentation over the Dead Christ by Niccolò dell’Arca.

Torre dell’Orologio

Torre dell “Orologio, or in translation, the Clock Tower, is a historic tower located in Piazza Maggiore. The tower is part of Palazzo d” Accursio and offers a magnificent view of the city.

Mercato Di Mezzo

Mercato di Mezzo is a traditional market in the heart of Bologna, where you can taste many local foods and specialties. The market is a popular spot for both locals and tourists.

Università Di Bologna

The Università di Bologna is the oldest university in the world, founded in 1088. It has a rich history and has significantly contributed to the development of education and science. For example, Dante Alighieri, Francesco Petrarca, Erasmus of Rotterdam, and Nicolaus Copernicus studied here. The campus is spread throughout the city and includes many historic buildings, libraries, and museums.

Giardini Margherita

Giardini Margherita is the largest public park in Bologna, offering a peaceful environment for relaxation and an escape from the city’s hustle and bustle. The park is a popular spot for picnics, walks, and sports activities. In addition to beautiful nature, you’ll also find various cafes and children’s playgrounds here.

Characteristic Porticoes in Bologna

The porticoes in Bologna are a unique architectural feature of the city, comprising over 38 kilometers of covered walkways. These walkways are even on the UNESCO list. The longest of them leads to the aforementioned Sanctuary of Madonna di San Luca. The arcades are truly beautiful and some are nicely decorated, providing excellent shelter from the sun (or rain), but unfortunately, they also become a refuge for the homeless and beggars.

Palazzo d’Accursio

Palazzo d’Accursio, also known as Palazzo Comunale, is Bologna’s historic town hall, located in Piazza Maggiore. The building has an impressive facade and interior, housing art collections, frescoes, and historical artifacts.

Museo Di Palazzo Poggi

Museo di Palazzo Poggi is a university museum offering a rich collection of scientific and artistic exhibits. The museum is located in a historic building and includes exhibits from the fields of natural sciences, anatomy, astronomy, and other disciplines.

Pinacoteca Nazionale

Pinacoteca Nazionale is the national art gallery, located in the former monastery of Saint Ignatius. The gallery contains a rich collection of Italian art from the Middle Ages to the Baroque period, including works by the famous Bolognese painter Guido Reni.

Museo Civico Archeologico

Museo Civico Archeologico is the civic archaeological museum, located in the city center. The museum offers an extensive collection of archaeological finds from Etruria, Rome, and ancient Egypt, including significant exhibits such as Roman mosaics and Egyptian mummies.

Excursions in the Surroundings

Bologna has a convenient location for traveling to nearby cities. You can get everywhere by train or bus, and if you’re traveling by car, there’s certainly no debate. Head out to explore other parts of Italy, for example, take a road trip through Tuscany or visit these cities:

TIP: For excursions, you can use the travel portal GetYourGuide.

Florence

Florence, the capital of Tuscany, is the cradle of the Renaissance and home to many artistic treasures, including Michelangelo’s famous David. It is primarily known for its historic center, amazing museums, galleries, and iconic structures like the Santa Maria del Fiore Cathedral with Brunelleschi’s impressive dome. Regular train services (Trenitalia) or Flixbus run from Bologna to Florence.

Rimini

If you’re tired of sightseeing and want to relax on the beach and swim in the sea for a change, then I recommend visiting the town of Rimini. You’ll be there by train from Bologna in 1 hour and 30 minutes. It’s a popular seaside resort on the Adriatic coast. Besides its long sandy beaches, it also offers historical monuments, including the Arch of Augustus and Tiberius Bridge.

Many local beaches are paid, offering services like bars, sun loungers, umbrellas, and refreshments, but you’ll also find public and free beaches here. One beautiful and clean one is right next to the harbor.

Ravenna

Ravenna is known for its magnificent mosaics from the Byzantine Empire, which adorn local churches and monuments. The city was once the capital of the Western Roman Empire and still preserves many historical treasures, such as the Basilica di San Vitale.

Modena

Modena is a city in the Emilia-Romagna region famous for its culinary specialties, including balsamic vinegar and Parmesan cheese. It is also known as the home of the famous Ferrari car brand and has a beautiful historic center with a cathedral and Piazza Grande.

Pisa

Who doesn’t know Pisa? It is famous for its Leaning Tower, which is part of the cathedral complex in Piazza dei Miracoli. Besides this iconic structure, the city also offers other historical monuments and a pleasant atmosphere.

TIP: All necessary information about the Leaning Tower can be found HERE.

San Marino

San Marino is further from Bologna, but if you have the time and means to travel, it’s also worth a visit. San Marino is a small state completely surrounded by Italy. It is primarily known for its ancient castle and picturesque streets. It is probably the oldest and still existing republic in the world.

What to Taste in Bologna

My travels in Italy are also mainly about food, and Bologna is truly a gastronomic center. Many traditional Italian dishes originate precisely from here. Be sure to try:

• Gelato: You mustn’t miss gelato in any Italian city, and Bologna is no exception. You’ll find ice cream parlors on every corner. Be sure to try the pistachio flavor. 🤤
• Tagliatelle al Ragù: This dish is often incorrectly referred to as Bolognese spaghetti; in reality, traditional ragù is served with wide tagliatelle noodles.
• Lasagne alla Bolognese: Traditional Bolognese lasagna is layered with pasta, ragù, béchamel, and Parmigiano-Reggiano cheese.
• Mortadella: The famous Bolognese cured sausage, often served as an appetizer or found in sandwiches.
• Tortellini: Small filled pasta rings, often served in broth (tortellini in brodo) or in a cream sauce.
• Pignoletto: A local sparkling white wine, known as frizzante.

Final Tip: If you’re heading to Naples for the world’s best pizza at the renowned pizzeria L´Antica Pizzeria da Michele, be prepared to wait 2-3 hours for a table. And why am I talking about Naples when this article is about Bologna? Well, because there’s also a branch of this restaurant in Bologna, and there was no queue there. 😉

Frequently Asked Questions