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When people mention Italian food, Bologna always comes to mind. The capital of Emilia-Romagna is famous as Italy’s culinary capital, known for its pasta dishes, cured meats, and gelato. But aside from its rich culinary tradition, there are plenty of things to do in Bologna. From church-hopping and admiring its architecture to finding out the so-called “seven secrets”, you won’t run out of activities.
Whether you’re visiting for the first time or looking for day trips from nearby cities like Florence or Venice, here’s a guide to the best things to do in Bologna.
How to Get to Bologna
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By Air
Bologna Guglielmo Marconi Airport is the city's only airport, located six kilometers from the center. It is one of the busiest in Italy, welcoming millions of passengers annually. Most Italian and low-cost European airlines operate regular flights here.
From the airport, reach the city by train, bus, or taxi. Buses start as early as 5:00 AM, with the last trips around midnight.
By Train
Bologna Centrale is the main train station in the city, providing access to several high-speed trains and regional trains. Located in the heart of the city, getting in and out by train is made easier. In addition, the train station is also conveniently near most hotels and popular attractions, making it easy for visitors to enjoy different things to do in Bologna.
As one of the major train stations in the country, visiting Bologna from other cities is easy. From Milan, high-speed trains to Bologna can take about an hour. It takes about an hour and 30 minutes from Venice while it only takes less than an hour to get to Bologna from Florence. Although Rome may be far from Bologna, getting to Bologna takes about 2 and a half hours from the Italian capital.
By Car
Bologna is accessible via the Autostrada A1 and Autostrada A14, which connect most northern and southern Italian cities. From Rome, driving takes roughly 4 hours; from Florence, about 1 hour 20 minutes; and from Venice, about 1 hour 40 minutes. Travel times vary with traffic, seasons, and holidays.
Things to Do in Bologna
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1. Climb the Asinelli Tower
Climb the Asinelli Tower, the taller of Bologna’s iconic Two Towers (the Garisenda Tower is not open to the public). Ascend 498 steps to the top for a panoramic view of the city. Book tickets in advance, as they sell out quickly.
2. Stop by Piazza Maggiore
Bologna’s Piazza Maggiore is the heart of the city, located in the historic center. It’s the perfect starting point for sightseeing or meeting friends. Start your day here and watch the square come to life as nearby shops and cafes open and people arrive. Grab a coffee or a drink at a cafe and observe the regular hustle and bustle of the city.
3. Visit the Basilica of San Petronio
Stop by the San Petronio Basilica, an iconic landmark near Piazza Maggiore. Its half-brick, half-marble facade was left unfinished. Inside, find ancient organs, frescoes, and tranquil side chapels. The terrace offers city views, though it is lower than the Asinelli Tower.
4. See Different Works of Art at the Museum of Modern Art
Take a break from historical and religious sites and visit the Modern Art Museum, housed in a former bakery. Also known as MAMBO (Museum of Modern Art Bologna), the museum holds several permanent collections of precious artworks, organized into different themes. It also hosts temporary collections from local and foreign artists.
5. Explore the Markets of Quadrilatero
For food lovers, this is one of the most fun things to do in Bologna. The streets of Quadrilatero house the oldest markets in the city, filled with fresh produce and local eats. This is the best place to kickstart your food crawl and discover what makes Bologna Italy’s culinary paradise. Try freshly made pasta, balsamic vinegar, sumptuous cured meats, and delicious wine. Several casual dining restaurants and cafes are also in the area for a more fulfilling meal.
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6. Walk Along the Porticos
The porticos of Bologna are a defining landmark: covered walkways stretching up to 40 kilometers, dating back to the Middle Ages. From the porticos at Piazza Santo Stefano to the wooden ones on Via Marsala, each serves its own purpose. Locals use them for a cup of espresso or to walk their pets when it rains. Walking along these historic porticos is a must in the city.
7. Ride the Bologna City Red Bus
While Bologna is walkable, the City Red Bus offers a convenient way to see the city in one sitting. These red buses operate as a hop-on hop-off service, letting you board and alight at designated stops for the duration of your ticket. It’s ideal for those on day trips from Milan or other cities, as it covers Bologna’s highlights in a single ride.
8. Join a Food Tour of Bologna
Bologna is Italy’s culinary capital, but knowing where to start can be overwhelming. Group or private food tours solve that. Led by an expert foodie guide, you learn the city’s culinary history. Tours typically visit a pasta factory to see fresh pasta made and taste it, plus stop at different restaurants and markets.
9. Watch a Movie at Piazza Maggiore
Every summer, Piazza Maggiore becomes an open-air cinema for the Il Cinema Ritrovato film festival, screening restored and classic films. What began as a small three-day event has grown into one of Bologna’s major annual attractions. In 2018, the festival featured 500 films over nine days, drawing both cinephiles and casual viewers. The setting—the city’s main square—allows tourists and locals to enjoy movies together under the night sky.
10. Enjoy a Delicious Cup of Gelato
Whether on a food tour or just exploring the streets, a cup of gelato is a must. Ask locals for their best recommendations. Cremeria Cavour near Piazza Cavour is a popular choice for classic flavors like pistachio, hazelnut, and caramel panna cotta.
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11. Head up to the Sanctuary of the Madonna Di San Luca
Along with the Two Towers, the Sanctuary of the Madonna Di San Luca is one of Bologna’s iconic sites. Visit this hilltop basilica by walking the Portico San Luca, the longest in the world, or by taking the express bus. Inside, see frescoes and decorations, including a painting of the Virgin Mary said to have been painted by Luke the Evangelist. From the sanctuary, enjoy panoramic views of Bologna.
12. Become a Chef for a Day at a Cooking Class
Take the flavors of Bologna home by learning to make your favorite Bolognese dishes at a cooking class. Options range from restaurant-based sessions to classes held in family homes. Many classes begin with a market visit to purchase fresh ingredients, then move to the kitchen where an expert chef teaches the secrets of perfect pasta. You’ll prepare classic dishes like tagliatelle al ragù or tortellini under professional guidance. At the end, you may receive a certificate as a souvenir of your culinary achievement. Classes typically last a half-day, and you’ll eat the meal you’ve prepared. This hands-on experience turns a tourist visit into a lasting skill.
13. Shop at La Piazzola Market
La Piazzola Market has operated since 1251, originally as a cattle market. Today, over 400 stalls sell clothes, pottery, souvenirs, jewelry, and spices. The lively atmosphere can be overwhelming for window shoppers, but it’s an ideal place to practice haggling.
14. Learn About the History of Bologna at the Archaeological Museum
Located in the heart of the city, the Museo Civico Archeologico houses a wide collection of artifacts, sarcophagi, and other treasures from different eras. Exhibits include terracotta urns and vases from the Roman era, as well as ancient artifacts from Velzna. The museum is conveniently located near Piazza Maggiore, making it easy to incorporate into your itinerary.
15. Try its Local Specialties
From fresh pasta to sweet gelato, Bolognese cuisine is simply one of the world’s best. While the Italian Riviera is famous for its pesto and seafood, Bologna has plenty of must-try dishes. Try an authentic tagliatelle al ragù, parmigiano reggiano paired with a tangy Balsamico di Modena. For a quick snack, grab a piadina, a flatbread rolled or folded with ham, cheese, and vegetables. Additionally, you can ask locals or your hotel concierge for off-the-radar recommendations.
16. Go on a Day Trip Outside the City
If you’re staying in Bologna for a few days or more, day trips let you discover new towns and make the most of the region. Visit Rimini for its beaches, Verona for the Romeo and Juliet house, and Modena for its balsamic vinegar. Florence, the cradle of the Renaissance, is an hour and 20 minutes away by car.
17. Hunt Down Bologna's Hidden Canals
For those seeking unusual things to do in Bologna, finding its hidden canals is a fun way to explore the city. Like Venice, Bologna used to be a canal city, with canals dating back to the Middle Ages. Over time, these canals were replaced by roads, but you can still find a few at specific locations: Via Piella, Via Capo di Lucca, and the bridge at Via Malcontenti.
18. Discover the Seven Secrets of Bologna
Like hunting for the hidden canals, finding the seven secrets is one of the best things to do in Bologna. Known by heart by locals, these intriguing landmarks each have a fascinating story. From the secret behind Neptune’s Fountain to a broken vase at the Asinelli Tower, you’ll discover a different side of Bologna. This is best done on a group tour, as your guide will explain the history behind each one.
19. Marvel at the Oratory of Battuti
The Oratory of Battuti is a smaller but richly decorated place of worship within the Sanctuary of Santa Maria della Vita, near Piazza Maggiore. Inside, find Baroque paintings, sculptures, frescoes, and statues. The space is known for the Death of the Virgin, an intricate ensemble of statues by Alfonso Lombardi. Due to the room’s acoustics, the oratory also hosts musical programs and concerts.
20. Take a Walk at Via Drapperie
At Via Drapperie, you’ll find fresh fruits, produce, cured meats, flower stalls, and more. The street is lined with cafes and hole-in-the-wall restaurants, making food options endless. After a meal, it also serves as a perfect afternoon stroll. Whether you’re hunting for good cheese or simply exploring the city, a leisurely walk across Via Drapperie is one of the best things to do in Bologna.
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21. Taste Bologna’s Cured Meats
Aside from its pasta, Bologna is famous for its cured meats. These savory delicacies can be enjoyed as is or over a glass of Prosecco. They are widely available in most markets, stalls, and restaurants. Try their mortadella, a sausage made of heat-cured pork and flavored with pepper grains and pistachios. Bologna sausage is a similar cured meat, though it is made of pork fat.
22. Relax at San Pellegrino Park
Step away from Bologna’s cobbled streets for the grassy fields of San Pellegrino Park. The park offers panoramic views of Bologna and San Luca, especially beautiful in spring when wildflowers bloom. Head there in the afternoon to escape the summer heat, or bring snacks and drinks for a picnic.
23. Eat Your Heart Out at Mercato Delle Erbe
Mercato Delle Erbe is a large indoor market for a food crawl, offering fresh fruits, vegetables, meat, and other local products. Part of the market is converted into a food court where you can sit down and eat. Visit Mercato Delle Erbe for a one-stop place for Bologna’s best eats.
24. Visit Bologna’s Jewish Quarter
The Jewish Ghetto (Ghetto Ebraico) offers vintage shops, boutiques, quirky cafes, and bars. Often overlooked for more touristy areas, it’s a good escape from crowds. Look for colorful street art and murals, then stop for coffee or an Aperol spritz at a cafe.
25. Explore the Archiginnasio of Bologna
Visiting the Archiginnasio is one of the most fascinating things to do in Bologna. This complex houses the Archiginnasio Municipal Library and the Anatomical Theatre. The theatre is the main highlight: a small room with wood-carved figures of famous doctors and an ornate table where students once witnessed dissections and surgery demonstrations.
Where to Stay
Hotel Astoria
Photo from Hotel Astoria Booking.com Page
Address: Via Fratelli Rosselli 14, 40121 Bologna, Italy
Price: Starts at 98 USD per night
Hotel Astoria offers affordable rooms and facilities near the Museum of Modern Art and Parco della Montagnola. It is within walking distance of restaurants, cafes, and shopping centers. Rooms are practical and comfortable, with free WiFi and private bathrooms. The hotel also features an inner courtyard where guests can relax or dine.
Aemilia Hotel Bologna
Photo from Aemilia Hotel Bologna Booking.com Page
Address: Via Giovanna Zaccherini Alvisi 16, 40138 Bologna, Italy
Price: Starts at 121 USD per night
Offering clean, modern rooms with flat-screen TVs, air conditioning, and free WiFi, Aemilia Hotel Bologna is a central option. Its location makes it easy to sightsee or go on a food crawl. Some rooms also have a picture-perfect view of the city.
Grand Hotel Majestic gia' Baglioni
Photo by Grand Hotel Majestic gia' Baglioni Booking.com Page
Address: Via Indipendenza 8, 40121 Bologna, Italy
Price: Starts at 403 USD per night
For luxury accommodation, stay at the Grand Hotel Majestic gia' Baglioni. This five-star hotel is within walking distance of Piazza Maggiore, the Two Towers, and Bologna Centrale Train Station. Housed in a restored 18th-century palace, rooms feature luxurious classic decor with Murano glass lamps. Its in-house restaurant, Ristorante I Carracci, serves regional cuisine, and the cellar offers hundreds of Italian and foreign wine labels.
Best Time to Visit Bologna
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The best time to visit is April to May and September to October. Weather is warm and perfect for outdoor activities and al fresco dining. Rainfall is minimal. Prices for hotels, airfare, and tours are cheaper than in summer. September to October is truffle season, making it ideal for food tours; restaurants and markets highlight truffle and other seasonal ingredients.
December to February is best for budget travelers: everything is cheaper. Outdoor activities are limited, but Christmas markets are the highlight. Seasonal delicacies include Lambrusco sparkling wine, nougat, and Certosino Christmas cake. Markets offer trinkets and handmade crafts for souvenirs, gifts, and ornaments.
June to August is high season: crowds are larger, weather is hot and humid. Some shops and restaurants may have different hours due to summer vacation. Hotel prices and airfare are more expensive. If visiting then, book everything in advance to avoid overpaying.
Visit Italy's Food Capital, Bologna!
With its rich cuisine, beautiful porticos, and thriving markets, Bologna is one of the most beautiful cities in Italy. It delights foodies, architecture enthusiasts, and the curious traveler. Aside from its delectable pasta dishes, cured meats, and other Italian classics, Bologna’s history and landmarks shouldn’t be overlooked. There are also other interesting things to do in Bologna if you’re not too much into food: open-air film festivals, intriguing secrets hidden behind statues and walls, and museums to visit.
