Bologna Travel Guide
Everything you need to plan your trip to the capital of Emilia-Romagna
Photo: the famous porticoes of Bologna
Bologna
⭐ Ranked #11 in the Italy Review Top 100 – My Most Recommended Destinations
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Latest page update: 9 June 2025
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By: Dion Protani
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Dubbed La Grassa (the fat one), La Dotta (the learned) e La Rossa (the red), Bologna lies at the very heart of life in Emilia Romagna; a beautiful regional capital that packs a heavy punch with its medieval porticoes, piazzas bursting with life and a gastronomic culture the envy of the world.
Occupying an area just to the north of the Apennine Mountains at the edge of the Po Valley, Bologna is flanked to its east and west by the fellow historic cities of Modena and Ravenna while a short distance to its north east is the UNESCO-listed Ferrara. |
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Bologna takes its nickname from three of its principal characteristics: La Grassa (the fat one) relates to the city's abundance of gastronomic delights, La Dotta (the learned) is a nod to its University which is the oldest in the world, and La Rossa (the red), relates in part to the colour of its buildings but also to its socialist political leanings.
What People Ask About Bologna
What is Bologna famous for?
What food should I try in Bologna?
Is Bologna a walkable city?
What are the towers of Bologna?
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Discover Bologna
Food in Bologna
Not everyone plans their holiday around gastronomy but many of those that do make a bee-line for Bologna. The city's culinary delights are among the most celebrated in the world with famous dishes such as Lasagne emanating from here, along with the vast local production of Parmigiano (Parmesan cheese), Mortadella (a type of pork sausage) and Prosciutto Parmigiano (Parma Ham).
It can often come as a shock how little "Spaghetti Bolognese" is to be found in the city - instead of spaghetti the favoured pasta to be eaten with the meat sauce Ragù is in fact Tagliatelle or another Bologna favourite, Tortellini which is usually eaten with a broth.
Not everyone plans their holiday around gastronomy but many of those that do make a bee-line for Bologna. The city's culinary delights are among the most celebrated in the world with famous dishes such as Lasagne emanating from here, along with the vast local production of Parmigiano (Parmesan cheese), Mortadella (a type of pork sausage) and Prosciutto Parmigiano (Parma Ham).
It can often come as a shock how little "Spaghetti Bolognese" is to be found in the city - instead of spaghetti the favoured pasta to be eaten with the meat sauce Ragù is in fact Tagliatelle or another Bologna favourite, Tortellini which is usually eaten with a broth.
Bologna University
Despite the city's medieval architecture and roots, Bologna retains a youthful exuberance which is partly thanks to its University; established in 1088 making it the longest continuously operative in the world, providing aninteresting contrast between the old and new.
During the summer there are festivals held in the city centre and throughout the year rock bands play gigs at various venues in and around the city. Perhaps in part a consequence of having the world's oldest university, Bologna has traditionally been associated with left-wing politics.
Despite the city's medieval architecture and roots, Bologna retains a youthful exuberance which is partly thanks to its University; established in 1088 making it the longest continuously operative in the world, providing aninteresting contrast between the old and new.
During the summer there are festivals held in the city centre and throughout the year rock bands play gigs at various venues in and around the city. Perhaps in part a consequence of having the world's oldest university, Bologna has traditionally been associated with left-wing politics.
Porticoes of Bologna
Nowhere is Bologna's exuberance more greatly demonstrated than on its unique network of porticoed streets. The first of these covered walkways were introduced to the city around the 13th century and there are still some examples of these wooden structures standing today. A century later and having received wide-ranging acclaim, an edict was passed that all new streets in the city had to be covered with the porticoes, made out of brick or stone and tall enough to accommodate riders on horseback.
In 2021 Bologna was added to the UNESCO World Heritage List under the heading "The Porticoes of Bologna". The inscription justly recognising the importance of the porticoes to the city's trade and its architecture. The seemingly endless archways of these walkways with their autumnal-coloured plaster work of reds, ambers and oranges are a defining feature of Bologna and of the Emilia Romagna region as a whole.
Nowhere is Bologna's exuberance more greatly demonstrated than on its unique network of porticoed streets. The first of these covered walkways were introduced to the city around the 13th century and there are still some examples of these wooden structures standing today. A century later and having received wide-ranging acclaim, an edict was passed that all new streets in the city had to be covered with the porticoes, made out of brick or stone and tall enough to accommodate riders on horseback.
In 2021 Bologna was added to the UNESCO World Heritage List under the heading "The Porticoes of Bologna". The inscription justly recognising the importance of the porticoes to the city's trade and its architecture. The seemingly endless archways of these walkways with their autumnal-coloured plaster work of reds, ambers and oranges are a defining feature of Bologna and of the Emilia Romagna region as a whole.
Bombs from above and below: 20th century Bologna
Away from the medieval centre there's a more modern aspect to the architecture; one reason for this is the heavy bombardment that Bologna suffered during World War Two, particularly during during 1943 when successive Allied bombing raids devastated almost half of the city.
Nearly 50 years later in 1980 the city suffered perhaps its greatest tragedy when a Neo-Fascist terror organisation planted a bomb at Bologna Central train station killing 85 people and wounding a further 200. A memorial now stands in the station at the point where the bomb was detonated.
Away from the medieval centre there's a more modern aspect to the architecture; one reason for this is the heavy bombardment that Bologna suffered during World War Two, particularly during during 1943 when successive Allied bombing raids devastated almost half of the city.
Nearly 50 years later in 1980 the city suffered perhaps its greatest tragedy when a Neo-Fascist terror organisation planted a bomb at Bologna Central train station killing 85 people and wounding a further 200. A memorial now stands in the station at the point where the bomb was detonated.
Sightseeing Bologna
This is an area particularly rich in medieval architecture and Bologna's extraordinary 38 kilometres of covered streets are just one such example. From Piazza Maggiore in the city centre you only need to tip your head slightly skywards to find more dramatic examples of medieval construction such as the Due Torri (Two Towers), Bologna's own leaning towers.
For those energetic and courageous enough, a great starting point for any tour of Bologna is one these towers, the Asinelli Tower which is the taller of the two and affords an extravagant view of the city and its layout.
From this lofty perch you can pick out the Via dell'Indipendenza which leads from the train station at the city's edge right into its central piazzas, Piazza Maggiore and Piazza del Nettuno. Other visible sights include the eye-catching dome of the Chiesa di Santa Maria della Vita and the cavernous Basilica di San Petronio, one of the ten largest churches in the world.
This is an area particularly rich in medieval architecture and Bologna's extraordinary 38 kilometres of covered streets are just one such example. From Piazza Maggiore in the city centre you only need to tip your head slightly skywards to find more dramatic examples of medieval construction such as the Due Torri (Two Towers), Bologna's own leaning towers.
For those energetic and courageous enough, a great starting point for any tour of Bologna is one these towers, the Asinelli Tower which is the taller of the two and affords an extravagant view of the city and its layout.
From this lofty perch you can pick out the Via dell'Indipendenza which leads from the train station at the city's edge right into its central piazzas, Piazza Maggiore and Piazza del Nettuno. Other visible sights include the eye-catching dome of the Chiesa di Santa Maria della Vita and the cavernous Basilica di San Petronio, one of the ten largest churches in the world.
Things to Do
Things to Do in Bologna
- Piazza Maggiore is the city’s main square, surrounded by grand civic buildings including Palazzo d’Accursio, Palazzo del Podestà and Basilica di San Petronio. The square hosts public events and provides access to key landmarks in the city centre.
- The Two Towers – Asinelli and Garisenda – are iconic mediaeval structures that symbolise Bologna. Visitors can climb the 498 steps of Torre degli Asinelli for views over the terracotta rooftops. The shorter Garisenda Tower leans significantly due to ground movement.
- The Archiginnasio and Anatomical Theatre showcase Bologna’s university heritage. The former library building includes frescoed halls and a wood-carved anatomical theatre used for dissections. The university, founded in 1088, is the oldest in Europe.
- Bologna’s covered porticoes stretch for over 60 kilometres and connect major areas of the city. Walking under them offers shelter and leads to sites like Sanctuary of the Madonna di San Luca, which can be reached via a continuous uphill arcade.
- Day trips to Modena or Ferrara are easy by train and offer further history and culture. Modena is known for its balsamic vinegar and car museums, while Ferrara has Renaissance walls, a castle and a well-preserved historic centre. Both are under an hour away.
Bologna Tours and Activities
- Bologna Walking Tour: Explore the city's historic centre, including Piazza Maggiore, Two Towers, and Neptune Fountain, with a knowledgeable guide.
- Food Tour: Delight in Bologna's culinary delights on a food tour, sampling local specialties such as tortellini, mortadella, and gelato.
- Cooking Class: Learn to prepare traditional Emilian dishes like tagliatelle al ragù and tortellini in brodo in a hands-on cooking class.
- Day Trip to Modena and Parmesan Cheese Factory: Discover nearby Modena's UNESCO-listed historic center and visit a Parmigiano Reggiano cheese factory.
- Balsamic Vinegar Tasting: Visit a traditional balsamic vinegar producer in Modena to learn about the production process and sample aged balsamic vinegar.
- Ferrari Museum Tour: Motorsport enthusiasts can visit the Ferrari Museum in Maranello, just outside Bologna, to see iconic Ferrari cars and memorabilia.
- San Luca Sanctuary Hike: Hike up to the San Luca Sanctuary, perched atop a hill overlooking Bologna, for panoramic views of the city and surrounding countryside.
- Bologna Segway Tour: Glide through the city streets on a Segway tour, covering more ground and seeing sights like Portico di San Luca and Basilica di Santo Stefano.
- Gelato-Making Class: Learn the art of making authentic Italian gelato from a master gelato maker in Bologna.
- Wine Tasting in the Emilia-Romagna Countryside: Take a guided tour of local wineries in the scenic Emilia-Romagna countryside, tasting regional wines like Lambrusco and Pignoletto.
Comune di Bologna
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Province: Metropolitan City of Bologna
Region: capital of Emilia Romagna Population: 390,518 (in 2024 - source) Size: 141 km² Elevation: 54 metres Top sights: Basilica di San Petronio, Two Towers, Piazza Maggiore Close by: Dozza, Imola, Vignola, Modena, Faenza, Brisighella |
UNESCO World Heritage Site
The Porticoes of Bologna
Year: 2021
The Porticoes of Bologna
Year: 2021
Where to Stay
Where to Stay in Bologna
- Art Hotel Commercianti Located in the heart of Bologna’s historic centre, this charming hotel offers comfortable rooms with views of the city’s medieval architecture, a wellness centre, and a bar. Guests appreciate the central location, excellent service, and proximity to Bologna’s main attractions, including the Piazza Maggiore and the Basilica di San Petronio. €€ (mid-range)
- B&B Il Cuore di Bologna Set just outside the town centre, this cozy bed and breakfast features modern rooms with rustic touches, a relaxing garden, and a homemade breakfast served each morning. Visitors enjoy the personal touch of the hosts, the peaceful setting, and the easy access to Bologna’s historical sites and surrounding nature. €€ (mid-range)
- Hotel Touring Situated near Bologna’s central train station, this well-regarded hotel offers comfortable rooms with scenic views of the city, a wellness centre, and a restaurant serving local dishes. Guests enjoy the friendly service, good value for money, and the short walk to Bologna’s cultural sites, including the Archiginnasio of Bologna and the Two Towers. €€ (mid-range)
- Agriturismo Ca' Nuova Located a short drive from Bologna, this agriturismo offers spacious rooms with scenic views of the Emilia-Romagna countryside, a large garden, and a restaurant serving locally sourced produce. Guests appreciate the peaceful rural setting, the authentic Emilia-Romagna experience, and the short drive to both Bologna’s attractions and nearby nature reserves. €€ (mid-range)
- Hotel I Portici Set in a historic building near Bologna’s city centre, this luxury hotel offers elegant rooms with panoramic views, a wellness centre, an outdoor terrace, and a restaurant serving high-quality Emilia-Romagna cuisine. Guests enjoy the luxurious amenities, exceptional service, and the short walk to Bologna’s cultural landmarks, including the Piazza Maggiore and the Museo di Palazzo Poggi. €€€ (high-end)
Where to Eat
Where to Eat in Bologna
- Trattoria di Via Serra: Located in a charming, slightly tucked-away street, Trattoria di Via Serra offers a cosy atmosphere and an excellent selection of traditional Bolognese dishes. Known for its homemade pasta, including tagliatelle al ragù, it’s a perfect place to experience the true flavours of the region. The restaurant’s friendly service and authentic approach to Bologna’s culinary traditions make it a favourite among locals and visitors alike. Price Guide: €€ (Affordable)
- Ristorante Da Cesari: Situated in the city centre, Ristorante Da Cesari is a family-run gem that has been serving classic Bolognese cuisine for decades. It’s famous for its rich ragù sauce, tortellini, and other regional favourites. The elegant yet welcoming environment and attentive service make it a great place for an authentic meal in the heart of Bologna. Price Guide: €€€ (Mid-range)
- Osteria dell'Orsa: A popular choice among students and locals, Osteria dell'Orsa is known for its hearty, affordable traditional meals. The restaurant offers a variety of Bolognese dishes, including pasta with ragù and crescentine (fried dough served with cured meats). The casual, lively atmosphere makes it an ideal spot for a relaxed meal with friends or family. Price Guide: €€ (Affordable)
- Ristorante I Portici: Located inside the luxurious Hotel I Portici, this Michelin-starred restaurant offers a sophisticated dining experience with a contemporary twist on Bolognese cuisine. The menu features seasonal ingredients and refined dishes such as risotto and creative pasta options. The elegant setting and impeccable service make it perfect for a special night out. Price Guide: €€€€ (High-end)
- Ristorante Al Sangiovese: Situated just outside the historic centre, Ristorante Al Sangiovese offers a rustic yet refined dining experience, focusing on traditional Bolognese dishes made with high-quality local ingredients. Known for its tortellini and other handmade pastas, it also boasts an extensive wine list featuring the best of Emilia-Romagna. Its warm, inviting atmosphere and top-notch cuisine make it a great place for a memorable meal. Price Guide: €€€ (Mid-range)
Photo Gallery
Bologna Photo Gallery
Places Close to [Place Name]
Places Close to Bologna
- Modena (approx. 40 km northwest of Bologna): A city renowned for its rich history and cultural heritage, Modena is famous for its Modena Cathedral, a UNESCO World Heritage site, and the Museo Enzo Ferrari, which celebrates the iconic car manufacturer. The city is also known for its balsamic vinegar, and visitors can explore the charming Piazza Grande and sample local delicacies in its lively cafes and restaurants.
- Ferrara (approx. 50 km northeast of Bologna): A Renaissance gem, Ferrara is known for its impressive Castello Estense, a moated castle in the city centre, and the stunning Cattedrale di San Giorgio. The city’s medieval walls and elegant squares make it a delightful place to explore on foot, while the nearby Parco Massari offers a peaceful spot to relax.
- Ravenna (approx. 80 km east of Bologna): Famous for its stunning early Christian mosaics, Ravenna is home to several UNESCO World Heritage sites, including the Basilica di San Vitale and the Mausoleum of Galla Placidia. The town is also known for its charming streets, vibrant cultural scene, and the Tomb of Dante, where the famous poet is buried.
- Imola (approx. 40 km southeast of Bologna): Known for the Autodromo Enzo e Dino Ferrari, a famous motorsport race track that hosts various events, including the Formula 1 Grand Prix, Imola is also home to the Rocca Sforzesca, a Renaissance castle. The town’s charming historic centre offers plenty to explore, including local markets, cafes, and the Museo Civico San Domenico.
- Sasso Marconi (approx. 20 km southwest of Bologna): A peaceful town nestled in the hills, Sasso Marconi is known for its picturesque landscape and rich history. Visitors can explore the Villa Spada and its beautiful park, or enjoy hiking in the surrounding Parco Regionale dei Gessi Bolognesi. The town is also a great base for exploring the nearby Appennino Bolognese.
Emilia-Romagna Top 10 - My Recommended Destinations
1. Bologna
2. Ravenna
3. Ferrara
4. Cesena
5. Parma
6. Cesenatico
7. Modena
8. Rimini
9. Brisighella
10. Comacchio
👉 Explore the Top 10 Places to Visit in Emilia-Romagna
1. Bologna
2. Ravenna
3. Ferrara
4. Cesena
5. Parma
6. Cesenatico
7. Modena
8. Rimini
9. Brisighella
10. Comacchio
👉 Explore the Top 10 Places to Visit in Emilia-Romagna
How to Get to [Place Name]
How to Get to Bologna
The same Stazione Centrale is still the city's main transport hub, connecting it to the other major cities in the region and further afield with high-speed services available. By road Bologna sits along A14 motorway linking it to the region's fellow provincial capitals of Reggio Emilia, Modena, Parma, Piacenza, Ravenna, Forlì and Cesena while Ferrara to the north is connected by the A13.
Bologna also has its own airport called Bologna Guglielmo Marconi Airport with a wide range of international destinations serviced. There are various ways of getting around the city itself including a Metro Railway system, buses and trams.
Bologna also has its own airport called Bologna Guglielmo Marconi Airport with a wide range of international destinations serviced. There are various ways of getting around the city itself including a Metro Railway system, buses and trams.
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Public transport: Metro, trams, buses
By car: Ravenna - 1 hour (78 km), Florence - 1 hour 25' (105 km) |
Fly to: Bologna Guglielmo Marconi Airport - 17 mins by car (9 km)
Connected to the Italian High Speed Train Network |
