Bologna Guide

Bologna, a culinary delight and cultural gem. Nestled in the heart of Italy, Bologna boasts rich history, vibrant architecture, and outstanding cuisine, making it a must-visit destination for food lovers and culture seekers alike. You can further customise your trip by attending a Bologna FC football match, with tickets available in our Serie A Tickets section(coming soon).

1 Day Itinerary

Morning:

Piazza Maggiore

Start your day at Bologna's main square, Piazza Maggiore. Admire the grandeur of Basilica di San Petronio, the 10th largest church in the world, and take a quick stroll around the square to see the Palazzo d'Accursio and Palazzo del Podestà. You’ll get a feel for the heart of Bologna here.

Asinelli Tower

Next, head over to the iconic Torre degli Asinelli, the taller of Bologna’s two medieval towers. Climb the 498 steps to the top for a stunning panoramic view of the city. This is a perfect spot to get some fantastic photos.

Archiginnasio of Bologna

Just a short walk away, visit the Archiginnasio, one of the most important buildings of the University of Bologna, the oldest university in Europe. Don’t miss the impressive Teatro Anatomico, a beautifully carved wooden anatomical theater used for medical teaching in the 17th century.

Afternoon:

Lunch: Osteria dell'Orsa

This osteria is famous for its traditional dishes like tagliatelle al ragù (the original Bolognese sauce!) and tortellini in brodo (stuffed pasta in broth). It has a cosy atmosphere and offers a true taste of Bologna.

Santuario di San Luca

After lunch, take a short trip (either by bus or walk if you’re feeling adventurous) to the Sanctuary of the Madonna di San Luca, which sits on a hill overlooking Bologna. If you’re up for a walk, you can climb the Portico di San Luca, the longest portico in the world, stretching 4 km from the city center to the basilica. Once at the top, enjoy breathtaking views of the countryside.

Quadrilatero District

Return to the city center and explore the Quadrilatero, Bologna's historic market area. Wander through the narrow streets, browse local food shops, and try some local delicacies like cured meats, cheeses, and balsamic vinegar. It’s a great area for buying souvenirs, tasting some gelato, or sipping a coffee at an outdoor café.

Evening:

Basilica of Santo Stefano

Visit the Basilica di Santo Stefano, also known as the “Seven Churches,” a unique complex of religious buildings dating back to Roman times. The peaceful courtyards and ancient architecture make it a perfect spot to unwind at the end of the day.

Aperitivo in Mercato delle Erbe

Head to the Mercato delle Erbe, a lively indoor market with stalls offering fresh produce, wines, and snacks. Enjoy a traditional Italian aperitivo (pre-dinner drink with small bites) at one of the trendy bars inside the market.

Dinner: Ristorante Da Cesari

A family-run restaurant offering authentic Bolognese cuisine in a warm, rustic setting. Must-try dishes include veal cutlets and tortellini al tartufo. Their wine selection is excellent, and the staff are very friendly.

After Dinner:

If you have any energy left, take a late evening stroll around Via Zamboni or enjoy a gelato at Cremeria Funivia, one of the top gelato spots in the city.

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