Is Bologna Worth Visiting And How To Make The Most Of Your Trip
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Is Bologna Worth Visiting?
Planning your Italy itinerary and wondering whether or not to include Bologna? Is Bologna worth visiting? YES!!! This Italian city is overshadowed by many other destinations in Italy, but it is full of history, culture, and some of the best food in the country. Here are some tips to help you get the most out of your visit.
Below you can find useful resources for planning your trip to Bologna. These are brands and services I trust and use myself. Click on the links to check them out.
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Compare the prices for your flights on skyscanner, although I recommend booking directly with the airline of your choice for better customer service.
Find the best tours and activities on viator and getyourguide. Some of them fill up quickly, so click on the links and secure your spot now.
Avoid paying high roaming charges. Stay connected with an eSIM from airalo.
No matter where you go: Never travel without travel health insurance.
Everything else that you might need to plan your trip to Bologna, you will find on my page of Travel resources.
Reasons To Include Bologna In Your Italy Itinerary
Bologna is known as “la rossa, la grassa e la dotta” (the red, the fat and the learned). The nickname reflects the city’s history, culture, and food. “The Red” refers to the city’s red-tiled roofs and red-painted buildings, as well as its history of left-wing politics. “The Fat” is a testament to Bologna’s rich culinary traditions and its reputation as a food capital of Italy. “The Learned” celebrates Bologna’s status as home to the oldest university in the Western world, the University of Bologna.
More Than 2000 Years Of History
Bologna’s history goes back over 2,000 years. Originally founded by the Etruscans around 534 BC, it later became a Roman colony known as Bononia. Remnants of the ancient city can still be seen in the city centre. I will tell you about this hidden gem later.
The city flourished during the Middle Ages, especially in the 11th century, when it established itself as a major center of learning with the founding of the University of Bologna, the oldest university in the Western world.
During this period, Bologna grew in size and influence, becoming an important center for education, politics, and commerce.
Throughout the Renaissance, Bologna continued to flourish, with its stunning architecture and vibrant art scene reflecting its wealth and status. The city’s famous porticoes and medieval towers were built during this period.
In the 19th century, Bologna was at the heart of the Italian unification movement and finally became part of the newly unified Italy in 1860. Today, Bologna’s history is visible in its well-preserved architecture, from the ancient city walls to the medieval towers, making it a living museum of Italy’s past.
Bologna Food: A Good Reason Alone To Visit Bologna
One of the many reasons to visit Bologna is for its food. Bologna is often called the gastronomic capital of Italy and for good reason. If you want to taste the best Italian food, you should try the food of Bologna.
The city is the birthplace of some of the country’s most beloved dishes, starting with the iconic tagliatelle al ragù, commonly known as spaghetti Bolognese.
In Bologna, the pasta is handmade, rich, and served with a slow-cooked meat sauce that’s more about depth of flavor than the heavy tomato-based sauces you might expect.
Then there’s tortellini, those little packages of pasta traditionally filled with a mix of meats and cheeses, often served in a delicate broth, making them a comforting dish that’s perfect year-round.
Mortadella, the original inspiration for what we know as Bologna sausage, is a local favorite, and you’ll find it in everything from sandwiches to pasta dishes.
Bologna is also known for its lasagna, which is layered with green spinach pasta, ragù, bechamel sauce, and Parmigiano-Reggiano—each bite a symphony of textures and flavors.
And let’s not forget about the cheeses and cured meats that fill the Mercato delle Erbe and the delicatessens in the Quadrilatero district. Parmigiano-Reggiano and Prosciutto di Parma are a must in any Bolognese kitchen, adding the perfect finishing touch to many dishes.
Whether you’re sitting down for a meal in a traditional trattoria or browsing through the bustling food markets, the culinary experiences alone are worth visiting Bologna.
Is Bologna Worth A Visit For Wine Tasting?
Bologna is famous for its food, but its wines are just as impressive and worth exploring.
The Emilia-Romagna region, where Bologna is located, produces some fantastic wines that perfectly complement the city’s signature dishes.
Pignoletto is a crisp and refreshing white wine with fruity and floral notes that pairs beautifully with tortellini in brodo.
Lambrusco is a sparkling red wine that can be dry or sweet. It’s not the overly sweet stuff you may have heard of. The local Lambrusco has a balance of bright acidity and fruity flavors, making it a great accompaniment to hearty meat dishes and rich cheeses.
Sangiovese is another popular wine in the area. It has a fuller body, ideal for pairing with ragù or grilled meats.
What makes wine tasting in Bologna so special is not only the quality of the wines but the experience itself. The locals’ deep knowledge and passion for their wines means that when you visit Bologna, you’ll often get more than just a drink – you’ll get a story, a bit of history, and a true taste of Bologna.
The Porticoes: Unesco World Heritage Site In Bologna
The porticoes are a defining feature of the city’s architecture. Originally built in the Middle Ages to provide more living space and shelter, these covered walkways have become a symbol of Bologna.
As you walk under them, you’ll notice how they seamlessly blend different architectural styles, from medieval wooden arches to grand Renaissance designs.
Combined with Bologna’s mix of medieval towers and Renaissance palaces, the porticoes make the city’s architecture stand out.
Visit Bologna For The Oldest University In The Western World
The University of Bologna, founded in 1088, is not just Italy’s oldest university but also the world’s oldest continuously operating institution of higher education.
Visiting Bologna For Photography
The city is a photographer’s dream. With its deep history, lively markets, and striking architecture, Bologna is full of photo photos. Capture everything from the iconic Two Towers to the charming, lesser-known alleyways that each have their own story.
Taking A Food Tour And A Cooking Class
Bologna is the best city in Italy for taking a food tour or cooking class.
A food tour allows you to immerse yourself in the local cuisine, sampling iconic dishes like tagliatelle al ragù and tortellini, while exploring charming markets, famous attractions, and hidden gems you might miss on your own.
Take it a step further with a cooking class, where you can learn traditional recipes and techniques from local experts. You’ll make pasta from scratch and learn the secrets behind Bologna’s famous dishes.
Both experiences will give you a deeper knowledge of Bologna’s food culture and leave you with new skills to impress your family and friends back home.
Traveling To Bologna For Those Who Love Ferrari
Are you considering a visit to the Ferrari Museum or Ferrari Factory during your trip to Italy? Bologna could be a great base for exploring the world of Ferrari.
Modena, home to the Museo Ferrari, is just a short drive away. At the Ferrari Museum, you can see an impressive collection of Ferrari cars, learn about their history, and even take a test drive.
Another nearby destination is Maranello, where the Ferrari factory is located. You can tour the factory, visit the official Ferrari store, and immerse yourself in the world of Ferrari.
If you don’t want to rent a car, there are frequent trains between Bologna and Modena. The train ride from Bologna to Modena takes about 30 minutes. From Modena, you can get to Maranello by bus or taxi. The bus ride takes another 30 minutes. Alternatively, a taxi is a convenient option if you prefer a direct route.
Top Places To Visit In Bologna And Hidden Gems
Most of Bologna’s top attractions and some hidden gems can be found in Piazza Maggiore.
No visit to Bologna is complete without a visit to the Basilica di San Petronio. This massive church boasts an unfinished facade and houses 22 chapels and stunning frescoes. Inside, you’ll find the world’s longest sundial, at 66.6 meters, and the oldest working organ, dating back to the 15th century.
Palazzo d’Accursio, Palazzo del Podestá, Palazzo dei Notai, Palazzo Re Enzo, Palazzo dei Banchi and the Neptune Fountain are all located around Piazza Maggiore.
Palazzo d’ Accursio is the town hall. There are some interesting details on its facade that should not be missed.
Salaborsa is part of the Palazzo d’Accursio and houses the city library. The main hall of the library is a stunning piece of architecture that you shouldn’t miss. In Salaborsa you’ll also find ruins of ancient buildings, wells, and a cistern, evidence of the city’s long history.
Palazzo del Podestá hides one of the seven secrets of Bologna. Perhaps you will be the one to solve a centuries-old mystery.
The Basilica of San Domenico is one of the most striking churches in Bologna. It also houses a convent with a library that boasts an impressive collection of 90,000 volumes.
You can’t visit Bologna without seeing the famous Two Towers. The Asinelli Tower and Garisenda Tower are iconic, with the Garisenda originally taller but partially destroyed to avoid collapse.
Bologna’s porticoes stretch over 60 kilometers, mostly in the city center, and 12 of them are UNESCO World Heritage Sites. Originally built to extend the floors of buildings and provide shade, the porticoes date back to the late Middle Ages and represent a variety of architectural styles. They’re an important part of the city’s charm and history, having served both social and commercial purposes since the 1100s.
In particular, the Portico di San Luca extends beyond the city to the Sanctuary of San Luca on a hill, adding to Bologna’s unique landscape.
Bologna is home to one of the oldest universities in the world, founded in the 11th century. The Archiginnasio, a 16th-century building that was once the main center of the university, is particularly impressive. Its beautiful courtyard is decorated with frescoes and sculptures.
Bologna On A Budget: Free Things To Do In Bologna
Bologna is a great place to start exploring Italy, especially if you are traveling on a budget. There are plenty of free things to do in Bologna.
Starting from Piazza Maggiore, you can visit the Basilica of San Petronio, Salaborsa, and the Fountain of Neptune free of charge.
After admiring the Basilica of San Petronio, go through the pedestrian passage of Palazzo dei Banchi and you will find yourself in the Quadrilatero.
The Quadrilatero is the oldest market in Bologna, dating back to the Middle Ages. Even if you’re only in the city for a day, it’s a must. You’ll find stalls selling fresh fruit, vegetables, cheese, fish, homemade pasta, and other local specialties, many from family-run businesses that have been around for generations. It’s a foodie’s paradise and a great place to take photos.
Also visit the Mercato delle Erbe for its lively atmosphere and variety of fresh, local produce and specialty foods. It’s a bustling market where you can find everything from colorful fruits and vegetables to delicious cheeses and charcuterie. It’s the perfect place to soak up the local culture and grab a bite at one of the food stalls or cozy eateries.
Walk under as many porticoes as you can. Go to the symbol of Bologna: the Two Towers.
Visit the Archigimnasio: the oldest university in the Western world.
Continue your walk under the Portico di San Luca to the Sanctuary of the Madonna di San Luca for an amazing view of Bologna and the surrounding area.
Visit the Basilica of San Domenico to see the prototype of Michaelangelo’s David, which can be seen in the Accademia Gallery in Florence.
Santo Stefano in Bologna, known as “sette chiese” or “seven churches,” is a fascinating complex of religious buildings from different periods. Originally seven churches, only four remain today, including the crypts. The most outstanding is the Chiesa del Santo Sepolcro, built in the 5th century on the site of an ancient temple to Isis. There’s also a museum with a variety of artwork from different eras, and the best part is that it’s free.
You don’t have to go to Venice to see the canals. Bologna has its own canals as well. Look through the Finestrella for the most surprising view.
Is Bologna A Walkable City
Yes, Bologna is definitely a walkable city. The historic center is compact and easy to navigate on foot, with most of the main attractions, shops, and restaurants within a short walking distance of each other. The city’s layout is perfect for strolling, and you’ll find plenty of charming streets, squares, and porticoes to explore.
Best Areas To Stay In Bologna
The best areas to stay in Bologna depend on what you’re looking for:
The historic center (Centro Storico) is perfect for first-time visitors or if you are in Bologna for a short visit. You’ll be close to major attractions such as Piazza Maggiore, the Two Towers, and the Basilica of San Petronio. The area is bustling with restaurants, shops, and vibrant street life. Staying here means you can explore the city on foot and visit most of its attractions in a short time.
The University District (Zona Universitaria) is located around the University of Bologna. It has a youthful and lively atmosphere thanks to the student population. It’s full of affordable restaurants, bars, and trendy shops. It’s a great place to go if you want to experience Bologna’s vibrant nightlife and youthful energy.
Bolognina, although a little further from the city center, is becoming increasingly popular for its local atmosphere and more affordable accommodations. It’s a great choice if you’re visiting Bologna on a budget or if you want a more authentic, less touristy experience while still being accessible to the main attractions.
The Santo Stefano area is known for its picturesque streets and historic charm. It’s a bit quieter and more residential, offering a peaceful stay with easy access to the historic center. It’s ideal if you prefer a more relaxed environment but still want to be close to the city’s highlights.
Best Time To Visit Bologna
I would say there is no bad time to visit Bologna.
During the spring (April to June) or early fall (September to October) the weather is pleasant—mild and sunny—perfect for exploring the city’s streets, porticoes, and outdoor cafes. Spring brings blooming gardens and outdoor events, while early fall offers cooler temperatures and fewer tourists.
Summer can be quite hot and crowded, though it never gets as crowded as Rome or Venice to name a few.
Winter is chillier and less lively, though it has its own charm with fewer crowds, cozy eateries, and out-of-a-fairy-tale Christmas decorations.
How To Get To Bologna Italy
Getting to Bologna, Italy, depends on your starting point and travel preferences. Here are the main options:
Flying To Bologna
Bologna Guglielmo Marconi Airport (BLQ) is Bologna’s international airport. It is located about 6 km northwest of the city center. You can fly directly to Bologna from many major European cities.
You can get from Bologna airport to Bologna Centrale (the main train station) by train, bus, or taxi in less than 20 minutes.
How To Go To Bologna By Train
Bologna is connected by direct trains to the main cities in Italy and many other European cities.
From Rome To Bologna By Train
High-speed trains depart from Roma Termini station in Rome. The Frecciarossa trains, operated by Trenitalia, are the fastest and most comfortable option. They travel at speeds up to 300 km/h (186 mph). Italo trains provide another high-speed train service offering similar travel times and comfort.
The high-speed journey from Rome to Bologna takes approximately two to two and a half hours.
Intercity trains are a slower and often cheaper option. They make more stops and usually reach Bologna for 4-5 hours.
From Milan To Bologna By Train
Most trains to Bologna depart from Milano Centrale, the main train station in Milan.
Trenitalia (Frecciarossa) and Italo high-speed trains travel from Milan to Bologna for about just an hour.
The journey with the slower intercity trains takes between two and three hours.
From Florence To Bologna By Train
Trains to Bologna depart from Firenze Santa Maria Novella (SMN), the main train station in Florence.
Frecciarossa and Italo high-speed trains travel from Florence
to Bologna for a little over half an hour.
The journey with the intercity trains takes between an hour and a half and two hours.
From Venice To Bologna By Train
The trains to Bologna depart from Venezia Santa Lucia station, which is located on the main island of Venice. It’s easily accessible by Vaporetto (water bus), water taxi, or by foot from various parts of the city.
The high-speed train (Frecciarossa, Italo, Frecciargento) journey from Venice to Bologna takes approximately an hour and a half.
The regional trains’ ride takes anywhere from two to two and a half hours.
From Cinque Terre To Bologna By Train
The Cinque Terre is composed of five villages (Monterosso, Vernazza, Corniglia, Manarola, Riomaggiore), all connected by regional trains. You’ll first need to take a local train from your Cinque Terre village to La Spezia Centrale, which is the nearest major train station. This journey takes around 10-20 minutes, depending on your starting village.
From La Spezia Centrale, you can catch a direct train to Bologna. Frecciarossa and Italo high-speed trains reach Bologna in about two hours. Intercity trains cover the distance in three to three and a half hours.
From The Amalfi Coast To Bologna By Train
From the towns of Amalfi, Positano, or Ravello, you’ll first need to get to Naples. You can take a SITA bus to Naples, which takes about 1.5-2 hours. A more comfortable but expensive option is a private transfer, which takes about an hour and a half.
From Naples, take a high-speed train (Frecciarossa or Italo) to Bologna. The trip takes about three and a half hours.
To Bologna By Car
Bologna is in the heart of Italy and is well-connected to Italy’s highway network. The A1, A14, and A13 highways all lead to Bologna, making it accessible from various parts of the country. From Milan, it takes about 2 hours; from Florence, about 1 hour; and from Rome, about 4 hours.
If driving, be aware that Bologna’s city center has restricted traffic zones (ZTL), and driving there requires a special permit.
Traveling To Bologna By Bus
Companies like FlixBus offer services to Bologna from various Italian and European cities. The bus station is located near Bologna Centrale train station.
Local and regional buses connect Bologna with nearby towns and cities.
How Many Days In Bologna
When deciding how many days to plan for your Bologna travel, it depends on what you’re hoping to get out of the trip.
If you’re just passing through and want to see the highlights, even a day trip might suffice—you could explore the must-sees in the heart of Bologna, climb the Asinelli Tower for panoramic views of the city, and enjoy a few meals at some of the city’s famous trattorias.
However, Bologna offers temptations for everyone. If you have three to four days, you can dive deeper into the local culture, and visit the hidden gems and some of the excellent museums, like the Archaeological Museum or the Museum of Modern Art (MAMbo).
Plus, with more time, you can take a Bologna food tour or even a cooking class, which is one of the best things to do while you’re in Bologna.
And if you’re using Bologna as a base to explore the Emilia-Romagna region, you’ll need even more time—day trips to nearby cities like Modena, Parma, and Ferrara are easily accessible.
So, while you can “do” Bologna in a day or two, I’d recommend at least three to four days to truly appreciate the city and its surroundings.
The Verdict
Is Bologna worth visiting? Absolutely, Bologna is worth visiting for its history, culture, and, of course, food you won’t find elsewhere in Italy. Bologna has something for everyone, and though tourists are often overlooking Bologna, Bologna may surprise you.
Bologna is a city renowned for its well-preserved medieval architecture, and vibrant atmosphere with an abundance of cafes, bookshops, and lively squares. The culinary scene in Bologna makes the trip to Bologna well worth including in your itinerary on your next visit in Italy.
Bologna is a safe city and its smaller size means you can see Bologna highlights by foot. So, pack your bags and plan your time in Bologna as a part of your next trip to Italy.
Find everything you might need for your Bologna trip: accommodation, flight and train tickets, food tours, cooking classes, free tours, self-guided tours, e-sim, etc. all in one place on my Travel Resources page.
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