Best Things To Do In Bologna, Italy: Top Attractions & Local Tips
Find the greatest Bologna attractions! Visit historic sites, taste local food, and experience the city’s colorful culture. This list covers famous and obscure locations.
A citizen told us, that Bologna is a city you visit to be a resident of the area, not a tourist, before our visit to Italy’s stunning red metropolis. We were excited by the idea alone.
As many of Italy’s destinations struggle with crowds and increased tourism levies, we wondered if this original, pristine, and pleasantly leisurely location remained.
If you want authentic Italy, Bologna welcomes you. We listed the greatest things to do in this undervalued treasure!
Why Bologna, Italy is a Hidden Gem
When we think of Italy, Rome, Venice, and Florence comes to mind, but Bologna should be on your vacation itinerary! You’ll love its medieval beauty, colorful streets, and lively local life.
You may walk beneath miles of gorgeous porticoes rain or shine. You may visit old towers, secret waterways, and lively piazzas full of residents and students. Bologna is a hidden treasure with so much to see and do.
Best Things To Do In Bologna, Italy: Top Attractions & Local Tips
Must-See Attractions and Things to Do in Bologna, Italy
1. Piazza Maggiore
We start our Bologna tour on Piazza Maggiore! The downtown center is full of residents and activities. I felt like I was in the center as I stepped upon the crescent one, a magnificent elevated platform of white and pink granite. Locals speak, street musicians play, and outdoor events occur.
A short, enjoyable stroll from the railway station or inner ringways got us here on foot. Famous Bologna landmarks surround the square. Palazzo D’Accursio, the city hall, and Clock Tower is impressive, but Bologna’s biggest church, Basilica of San Petronio, stands out with its incomplete exterior.
Palazzo dei Banchi adds sophistication, and Palazzo del Podestà, where we can buy maps and souvenirs, completes this outstanding complex. Visitors must see this plaza for its history, architecture, and daily life!
2. Stroll the Endless Porticoes
The endless porticoes of Bologna felt like a living museum. I felt history under my feet as we walked these shaded halls, appreciating how their unusual arches framed the city’s vibrant streets. From paintings above to old cobblestones below, the subtle details attracted us.
These UNESCO-listed porticoes, erected from the Middle Ages to the 20th century, answer both beauty and practicality they allowed the institution to expand upwards without constricting streets.
We were amazed by how well history and current blended. Locals enjoying cappuccino, conversing with friends, or strolling their dogs seemed to melt into the arches like architecture. The vivid student life posters on the walls attracted us too.
I recommend walking, although a guided tour can give context and history. The dance of light and shadows kept me reaching for my camera. Naturally, we stopped for an Aperol Spritz to enjoy the vibrant environment and timeless beauty.
3. Join a Bologna Food Tour
Bologna is the city of pasta, cheese, and all things delectable, so I had to take a food tour! The famed tortellini were served first, and I can still taste their thick, meaty broth. I stopped at a delightful, secret deli for mortadella next. What we have at home is nothing compared to heaven.
I learned from our local guide how to avoid tourist traps and select the best trattorias as we walked through the busy streets.
We laughed, told tales, and ate true Bolognese ragù. My best gelato scoops were at the gelato stop. I felt at home at the crowded markets, savoring fresh Parmesan and balsamic vinegar.
Being foodies together made the small group atmosphere even better. The tour filled my stomach and heart with memories. You must do this in Bologna—it’s worth every mouthful!
4. Explore Piazza Santo Stefano
I felt like I had found a secret nook of Bologna as we entered Piazza Santo Stefano, or Piazza delle Sette Chiese (The Square of Seven Churches). A time capsule of Romanesque beauty and interesting history, this plaza is unique.
While walking through the interconnecting churches, the oldest of which is Santi Vitale e Agricola, we marveled at its ancient stone walls, claimed to be built on Roman temple ruins.
I couldn’t resist sitting by the center’s charming well to take in the tranquility. It feels like you’ve traveled back in time in this calm, magical area.
Who doesn’t like a chapel maze? It’s a historical adventure and a calm getaway, so everyone who wants to experience Bologna’s essence should go. I recommend adding this hidden treasure to your list!
5. Pay your Respect at Basilica di San Petronio
In Bologna’s lively Piazza Maggiore, the Basilica di San Petronio is stunning! As I entered this massive Gothic masterpiece, I felt astonishment and curiosity—it’s not often you get to tour Europe’s sixth-biggest cathedral!
The renowned unfinished façade had us fascinated—its bottom half is covered in beautiful marble, while the top is raw and unembellished, giving it a gruff beauty. The world’s longest sundial proudly decorated the chapel floor and brought sunlight into this hallowed sanctuary.
We observed people marvel at the sundial’s perfection, possibly time-traveling to when it helped Bolognese residents tell time. In the calm interior, visitors from all around absorbed the art and history.
The best part? Wander in for free! Do not miss this enormous piece of medieval architecture and history in Bologna it will feel like stepping into a centuries-old novel.
6. Climb the Asinelli Tower
Climbing the Asinelli Tower is challenging, but the reward is worth it! We gasped at the 498 stairs and the breathtaking vistas at the summit.
The 97.2-meter medieval tower leans slightly off-center, making the ascent feel like a historical adventure. We thought about the tower’s origins as a defensive construction erected by the Asinelli family to impress friends and adversaries.
The peak offered a 360-degree view of Bologna’s scarlet roofs. We also saw the Basilica of San Luca on a clear day! Sunset bathed Bologna in warm, golden hues, proving why this is one of the nicest things to do there.
It seemed like standing on top of the world or just like “middle-aged Manhattan” Bologna was with 180 skyscrapers.
We daringly peered down to the Garisenda Tower below it’s shorter but leans much more! Tickets are $5.40 but reserve early because sunset spaces fill up quickly. Visiting early or before closure is calmer and more intimate. Add food sampling to the tour it’s as good as the vistas!
7. Food Therapy in Quadrilatero
Exploring the Quadrilatero is like heaven on Earth for foodies like me! Bologna’s market culture has thrived in this tiny, cobblestone district near Piazza Maggiore since the Middle Ages.
We saw huge wheels of Parmesan cheese, cured ham legs hanging like sculptures, and vivid fruit displays.
The smell of fresh bread and boiling ragù tempts you everywhere. I had to visit Via Pescherie Vecchie, one of the area’s most lovely streets with terracotta and mustard-yellow houses, old signage, and elaborate street lighting.
Street-side tables flow onto the sidewalk, making it ideal for eating fresh tagliatelle al ragù and drinking local Sangiovese wine. I learned that these streets were formerly full of fish merchants due to the canals beneath, but now they’re full of cheese, fresh pasta, and other delicious treats.
8. Go to the World’s Oldest University
The world’s oldest university, the University of Bologna, shocked me when we arrived. We began with the Palazzo Poggi Museum, whose eclectic exhibitions wowed us.
Every nook had a surprise, from old maps to military architecture to human anatomical exhibits. Like an inquisitive student again! Our next stop was the Botanic Garden and Herbarium.
Since 1568, this beautiful green landscape has been one of Italy’s most quiet and relaxing spots. The herbal area smelt great, and we saw uncommon plants.
You may take guided tours of the university’s history, but we thought that meandering about the ancient campus was enough to sense its enchantment. Century-old arches and huge courtyards make this building stunning.
9. The Clock Tower
I spent a fantastic day at The Clock Tower, one of Bologna’s most famous sights! Rising above Piazza Maggiore, the antique steps are worth the climb. We had stunning city views from two patios, excellent for photographs.
The red roofs that make Bologna “La Rossa.” are seen. A $10.80 ticket gets you into the tower and City Art Collections. I was delighted by the city’s twenty-six frescoed chambers with exquisite artwork.
Magical mix of history, art, and culture. If you want adventure, see the sunset from up there—it’s stunning.
10. Visit Bologna’s Museums
When visiting Bologna, we concluded we had to visit its museums—each one more amazing than the previous one! From Renaissance treasures to avant-garde masterpieces, Bologna’s museums provide a great opportunity to experience the city’s history and modernity.
We explored three of the city’s top museums and why you shouldn’t miss them!
Bologna’s National Art Gallery
First, visit the Bologna National Art Gallery (Pinacoteca Nazionale) in a spectacular 17th-century Jesuit edifice. No, it’s not Florence, but that’s its beauty! It’s calmer and more relaxed, so you can stand and enjoy Raphael, Tintoretto, and Parmigianino without selfie sticks.
We appreciated the tranquil atmosphere, and exploring these Renaissance masterpieces without rushing was delightful.
Even if you don’t like religious art from the 13th to 18th centuries, these Italian masters’ abilities will wow you. It’s free with the Bologna Welcome Card, so art lovers save!
Bologna’s Modern Art Museum
Next, we changed things at MAMbo – Bologna Modern Art Museum. After so much history, it was nice to spend an afternoon with vivid, modern art.
In a huge former bakery, MAMbo’s permanent collection spans nine topics, tracing contemporary art from the 20th century to current.
We loved the Giorgio Morandi exhibition, which showed the still-life painter’s renowned works and subtle themes. For those seeking something new and adventurous, it’s a welcome change.
MAST Museum
Finally, we visited the MAST Museum, a vibrant, modernist facility commemorating Bologna’s roots in industry and technology. A mechanical museum is intriguing, despite your expectations!
The Innovation Gallery’s interactive displays are entertaining for all ages, and the photography shows on the region’s life and work were amazing. And it’s free! Even if you’re hesitant to visit an industrial museum, it’s a fun way to learn about Bologna’s past.
11. The Neptune Fountain
The Neptune Fountain, or “Il Gigante,” is a Bologna must-see! This 3.40-meter bronze statue was commissioned by Pope Pius IV in 1563 and created by Giambologna.
Its vertical grandeur, with Neptune standing above dolphins, mermaids, and cherubs and water splashing from 38 nozzles once the city’s water source impressed me. If you look closely, Neptune’s left thumb adds a playful touch to the sculpture! Comedy from the 16th century!
The fountain represents Bologna’s history and customs as well as its beauty. Walking around the fountain twice before a test is said to bring luck. I had to try it, hoping it works for life’s tests!
12. Archiginnasio and Anatomical Theatre
The magnificent Portico del Pavaglione takes us back in time as we approach Palazzo dell’Archiginnasio, the University of Bologna’s majestic, ancient core. We join decades of students who have passed through this 16th-century architectural masterpiece!
I’m immediately drawn to the 6,000 bright coats of arms on the walls, each symbolizing a student family that had lived here. Imagine a vibrant history lecture in art.
Our ticket lets us into the Anatomical Theatre, a fascinating and frightening place where medical students learn anatomy by candlelight. Imagine seeing dissections in this wooden amphitheater!
The Stabat Mater Hall, steeped in musical tradition, is where Rossini’s renowned piece first echoed. This place evokes the past! The $3.24 ticket includes everything and is good Monday through Saturday from 10 AM to 6 PM.
Where to Eat in Bologna
Trattoria da Me
If you’re in Bologna and seeking real Italian food, visit Trattoria da Me! I had their $16.18 ragu tagliatelle, which had rich tastes and a pleasant atmosphere, great for a cold evening.
Cheese ice cream was delicious who knew cheese could be so creamy and sweet? We got seconds since the pocket bread was fresh and wonderful.
Osteria dell’Orsa
Osteria dell’Orsa offers Bologna’s best local eating! We tried it, and the lasagna and ravioli were amazing.
Yes, it was excellent enough to make you smile with every bite. The atmosphere was warm and the personnel greeted us like old friends.
Where to stay in Bologna
Hotel Brun
Hotel Brun is a Bologna must-stay! I discovered this delightful 4-star gem in Saragozza, close to Piazza Maggiore.
We appreciated the air-conditioned, comfortable rooms with minibars and coffee machines (ideal for morning espressos before sightseeing). We were near Quadrilatero Bologna and Santa Maria della Vita, so we were amid the action.
Grand Hotel Majestic gia’ Baglioni
My stay at the Grand Hotel Majestic Gia’ Baglioni put me in the center of Bologna! The nice personnel made us feel like VIPs from the start.
We had a delicious breakfast buffet with vegan and Mediterranean options. After seeing Quadrilatero Bologna and Via dell’ Indipendenza, the hotel’s sauna and hammam were great for relaxing.
Final Thoughts
Bologna captivated us! We visited for the pasta but stayed for the porticoes, medieval towers, and unvarnished local spirit. Every moment seemed like a culinary discovery, whether we were eating tortellini or hiking the Asinelli Tower. The city delights the senses and makes you want to stay. Bring your camera, stretchy jeans, and wonder—Bologna awaits!
FAQs
What is Bologna Italy best known for?
Bologna’s inviting environment and rich cultural, historical, and artistic history are famous worldwide. Beautiful cathedrals, museums, parks, porticoes, and ancient squares, with world-renowned Bolognese cuisine.
Is Bologna in Italy worth visiting?
It is! I usually recommend having Bologna in your Italy itinerary because of its world-famous food, attractive medieval architecture, gorgeous porticoes, and old university.
