Is Bologna Worth Visiting And How To Make The Most Of Your Trip

Planning your Italy itinerary and asking, “Is Bologna worth visiting?” Short answer: Yes. 100%.

I had the same question — and I’m glad I said yes. Bologna doesn’t get as much attention as Rome, Florence, or Venice, but it absolutely should. After visiting, I can say it’s one of Italy’s most underrated cities, especially if you’re into history, architecture, and authentic regional food.

I walked under miles of UNESCO-listed porticoes, climbed the Asinelli Tower, and ate the best tagliatelle al ragù of my life. It’s less touristy and more relaxed, which made the experience even better.

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Why You Should Absolutely Include Bologna in Your Italy Itinerary

Bologna isn’t just another stop — it’s one of the most authentic and historically rich cities in Italy. Locals call it “la rossa, la grassa, la dotta” — the red, the fat, the learned — and after visiting, I understood why that nickname nails it.

• La Dotta (The Learned): Home to the University of Bologna, the oldest in the Western world. The student energy gives the city a laid-back but intellectual vibe.
• La Rossa (The Red): Walk through Bologna and you’ll immediately notice the warm-toned buildings and terracotta rooftops. The name also nods to its left-leaning political past.
• La Grassa (The Fat): This isn’t a city to go on a diet. The food scene is unbeatable. I had the best tortellini in brodo and tagliatelle al ragù of my trip here.

🏛️ Bologna Has 2,000+ Years of History — and You’ll See It Everywhere

The first time I walked through Bologna’s old center, I was struck by how much history is crammed into one place. The city was founded by the Etruscans around 534 BC, later taken over by the Romans and named Bononia. You can still find Roman ruins hiding in plain sight — I’ll point out my favorite hidden gem later in this guide.

Fast forward to the Middle Ages, and Bologna exploded as a center of learning. The 11th-century founding of the University shaped everything — from its scholarly culture to its massive libraries and early printing history. That period also brought the famous medieval towers and miles of porticoes (some of which are now UNESCO-protected).

By the Renaissance, Bologna was booming. You’ll see it in the details — elegant architecture, frescoed churches, and wide piazzas that still host student protests and street musicians today.

Even during Italy’s unification in the 1800s, Bologna played a key role — and the history hasn’t been wiped clean. From ancient walls to Renaissance palaces, this city feels like a layered story you walk through with every step.

🍝 Bologna Food: Honestly, It’s Reason Enough to Visit

When I first came to Bologna, I thought I knew Italian food. I didn’t. This city changed the game. Bologna is often called the food capital of Italy, and that’s not marketing hype — it’s reality on a plate.

Forget what you think you know about spaghetti Bolognese. Here, it’s tagliatelle al ragù — thick ribbons of handmade pasta coated in a slow-cooked meat sauce with layers of deep flavor, not a drop of watery tomato in sight.

Then there’s tortellini in brodo — tiny, hand-folded pasta parcels filled with meats and cheese, served in a clear broth that’s as comforting as it is flavorful. I had it at a family-run trattoria and still dream about it.

You’ll also find mortadella everywhere — sliced into panini, stuffed into pasta, or just served plain with fresh bread and a glass of Pignoletto. It’s the real deal, not the supermarket kind.

And don’t skip the green lasagna — layered with spinach pasta, ragù, béchamel, and Parmigiano Reggiano. Every bite was rich, balanced, and completely addictive.

📍 Best places to try it all? Hit the Mercato delle Erbe or wander through the Quadrilatero — a foodie neighborhood packed with historic delis, street food, and old-school markets.

👉 You can book a Bologna food tour or a cooking class here — it’s one of the best ways to taste everything without guessing where to go.

🍷 Is Bologna Worth Visiting for Wine Tasting Too? Absolutely.

The food gets all the attention, but the local wines in Bologna are seriously underrated. I did a tasting session just outside the city and was surprised by the variety and how well everything paired with the food.

• Pignoletto: A dry, slightly sparkling white wine. Crisp, floral, and perfect with tortellini in brodo or antipasti.
• Lambrusco: Forget the sweet stuff from the 80s. The local version is dry, fizzy, and bold — a dream with cured meats and ragù.
• Sangiovese: Smooth and full-bodied. It’s what I ordered every time I had grilled meats or hearty pasta.

The best part? Wine tastings here are relaxed and personal. You’re not just sipping — you’re hearing stories from people who’ve been making wine for generations.

👉 You can book a Bologna wine tasting experience here — many include food pairings, small-group settings, and transport from the city center.

🏛️ Walk the Porticoes — Bologna’s UNESCO World Heritage Highlight

Bologna’s porticoes are everywhere, and after spending a few days walking under them, I get why they’re protected by UNESCO. Originally built in the Middle Ages to extend upper-floor living space, they now stretch over 60 kilometers through the city.

Some are narrow and wooden, others are wide and elegant in Renaissance style. They connect the city like arteries — from Piazza Maggiore to San Luca, offering shelter and shade in every season.

You can’t explore Bologna without walking them — and honestly, that’s part of the experience.

🎓 Visit the University of Bologna — The Oldest in the West

Founded in 1088, the University of Bologna is the oldest university in the Western world. I visited the Archiginnasio building, once the main university hall, and saw the Anatomical Theatre — an ornate 17th-century lecture room carved entirely from wood.

Even if you’re not into academic history, this place gives you real context for Bologna’s nickname, la dotta (“the learned”).

📸 Bologna Is Built for Photography

If you’re into photography, Bologna is full of photo spots. I found endless compositions — shadows under the porticoes, market chaos in the Quadrilatero, and golden-hour shots of the Two Towers. But don’t skip the quiet side streets and hidden alleys — they often tell the better story. Bring your wide lens and plenty of memory space.

🍴 Why You Should Book a Food Tour or Cooking Class in Bologna

I’ve done both — and I’d do them again. A Bologna food tour is the best way to try local specialties like tagliatelle al ragù, tortellini in brodo, mortadella, and Parmigiano Reggiano — all while exploring famous attractions, hidden gems, or walking through markets and old neighborhoods you might miss on your own.

👉 Book a Bologna food tour here — it’s especially great if you’re short on time but want to taste everything.

If you have a few hours to spare, take a Bologna cooking class. I learned to make pasta by hand from a local chef and came home with actual skills, not just photos.

👉 Find pasta-making classes in Bologna

🏎️ Visiting Bologna as a Ferrari Fan? You’re in the Right Place

Bologna is the perfect base for exploring Ferrari attractions in nearby Modena and Maranello. I took the train to Modena (about 30 minutes) and spent the day at the Ferrari Museum, surrounded by vintage models, F1 cars, and interactive exhibits.

Want to go further? Head to Maranello for the Ferrari factory tour. You can visit the assembly line, the test track (from a distance), and shop at the official Ferrari store.

🚆 No car? No problem.

Train from Bologna to Modena: ~30 min

Bus or taxi from Modena to Maranello: ~30 min

I booked a tour that included round-trip transport from Bologna, so I didn’t have to worry about trains, buses, or figuring out connections.

👉 Book a Ferrari tour – it’s easy and includes transport

📍 Top Places to Visit in Bologna (Including Hidden Gems You Might Miss)

I spent days walking around Piazza Maggiore, and nearly all of Bologna’s top attractions and hidden gems are clustered right here in the city center. You don’t need a car or complicated transport — just comfy shoes and a curiosity for architecture, history, and surprises around every corner.

⛪ Basilica di San Petronio — A Must-See in Bologna

You can’t skip this one. The Basilica di San Petronio dominates Piazza Maggiore with its half-finished facade. Inside, it houses 22 side chapels, a 15th-century pipe organ, and the longest indoor sundial in the world at 66.6 meters. It’s free to enter, though some chapels require a small fee.

🏛️ Explore Bologna’s Historic Palaces Around Piazza Maggiore

The square is surrounded by a cluster of historic buildings:

• Palazzo d’Accursio – Bologna’s old town hall. Don’t miss the façade details or the hidden museum inside.
• Palazzo del Podestà – Known for the “whispering gallery,” one of the Seven Secrets of Bologna. Stand under the arches with a friend and test it yourself.
• Palazzo dei Notai, Palazzo dei Banchi, Palazzo Re Enzo – All worth admiring for their architectural detail and historical relevance.
• Fontana del Nettuno (Neptune Fountain) – Iconic, bold, and perfect for a quick photo stop.

📚 Salaborsa Library — Books, Ruins, and Glass Floors

Inside Palazzo d’Accursio, you’ll find the Salaborsa Library. Beyond being one of the most beautiful libraries in Italy, its glass floor reveals ancient Roman ruins, wells, and cisterns. It’s free, and one of the coolest hidden gems in Bologna if you’re into archaeology and architecture.

🏰 Basilica di San Domenico — Art, Silence, and a Rare Library

The Basilica of San Domenico is less crowded than San Petronio but equally striking. It’s home to the tomb of Saint Dominic and features works by Michelangelo and Niccolò dell’Arca. The adjoining convent library holds over 90,000 volumes and offers a peaceful escape from the busier tourist spots.

🗼 The Two Towers of Bologna — Asinelli and Garisenda

These medieval leaning towers are the most recognized landmarks in Bologna. The Asinelli Tower is open for climbing and offers a panoramic view over the rooftops. The Garisenda Tower, once taller, leans too dangerously to enter.

🏛️ Bologna’s UNESCO Porticoes — Over 60 Kilometers of Covered Walkways

Bologna’s UNESCO-listed porticoes are everywhere. Originally built in the 1100s to extend living space and offer shelter, they now stretch across the city, and are one of the best ways to explore it on foot. You’ll see medieval wooden beams, Renaissance arches, and Baroque updates, all in one walk.

Don’t miss the Portico di San Luca, which stretches over 3.7 km from the city to the Sanctuary of the Madonna di San Luca. It’s the longest portico in the world and a unique pilgrimage route with 666 arches.

👉 Join a guided portico and San Luka walk

🎓 Visit the Archiginnasio — Once the Heart of the University of Bologna

Founded in the 11th century, the University of Bologna is the oldest continuously operating university in the Western world. The Archiginnasio, a 16th-century complex that housed its main departments, is open to visitors.

Step into the Anatomical Theatre (carved entirely from wood) and the decorated courtyard with over 6,000 student and professor crests. It’s a must for history buffs and anyone interested in education, medicine, or early science.

👉 Book Archiginnasio + Anatomical Theatre entry

💸 Bologna on a Budget: The Best Free Things to Do

You don’t need to spend much to enjoy Bologna. I’ve walked the city end to end on a budget, and the best part? Many of the top attractions are completely free — perfect if you’re planning a low-cost Italy trip.

🏛️ Start at Piazza Maggiore

This is Bologna’s heart — and it’s completely free to explore. Here’s what you’ll find without paying a cent:

• Basilica di San Petronio – Massive, iconic, and home to the world’s longest indoor sundial.
• Fountain of Neptune – Great photo stop, just steps away.
• Salaborsa Library – Check out the glass floor revealing ancient Roman ruins — a hidden gem.

🍅 Visit Bologna’s Markets for Local Flavor

Walk through the Palazzo dei Banchi and into the Quadrilatero, the oldest market in Bologna. Even if you don’t buy anything, it’s a feast for the senses: stalls overflowing with fresh pasta, cheese, meats, and produce — all from family-run businesses going back generations.

Not far away is Mercato delle Erbe. I grabbed a cheap lunch here more than once. It’s where locals shop and hang out, and there’s a handful of budget-friendly eateries inside.

🧱 Walk the Porticoes (and Don’t Miss These)

Bologna’s porticoes stretch for over 60 km and are free to explore. I walked the Portico di San Luca, the world’s longest, all the way to the Sanctuary of the Madonna di San Luca. The view over Bologna is worth the climb — and costs nothing.

🧠 Visit the Archiginnasio

This 16th-century building was once the main seat of the University of Bologna, the oldest in the Western world. Step inside the courtyard — it’s free — and if you want to go deeper, the Anatomical Theatre and Stabat Mater Hall are well worth a few euros.

⛪ See Michelangelo’s First David

In the Basilica di San Domenico, you’ll find an early Michelangelo sculpture — the prototype of his more famous David in Florence. It’s in the chapel to the left of the altar, and yes, it’s free to view.

⛪ Explore the “Seven Churches” of Santo Stefano

The Santo Stefano complex — known as the Sette Chiese — originally had seven interconnected churches. Today, four remain, including the Chiesa del Santo Sepolcro, built in the 5th century. There’s also a free museum inside with religious art and relics from different periods.

🌊 See Bologna’s Hidden Canals

You don’t need to go to Venice to see canals. Head to Via Piella and look through the Finestrella (little window). It’s tucked into a wall and gives you a postcard-perfect view of Bologna’s hidden waterways. One of the most surprising and Instagrammable spots in the city.

🚶‍♀️ Is Bologna a Walkable City?

Absolutely — Bologna is one of the most walkable cities in Italy. I explored everything on foot without ever needing a taxi or public transport. The historic center is compact, flat, and filled with porticoes (covered walkways), which make walking comfortable even in bad weather.

Major attractions like Piazza Maggiore, the Two Towers, and Quadrilatero Market are all just minutes apart. Whether you’re here for a weekend or a full week, you won’t need a car.

🏨 Best Areas to Stay in Bologna (Based on My Trip)

If you’re wondering where to stay in Bologna, it really depends on your travel style and budget. I’ve stayed in different neighborhoods — here’s what stood out:

🏛️ Centro Storico (Historic Center) – Best for First-Time Visitors

This is where I stayed on my first visit — and it was the right choice. You’re right in the middle of the action, steps from Basilica di San Petronio, Via dell’Indipendenza, and countless cafes. Everything is walkable. It’s ideal if you’re in Bologna for 2–3 days and want to see the highlights without worrying about transport.

👉 Check top-rated hotels in Centro Storico

🎓 Zona Universitaria (University District) – Best for Nightlife & Budget Stays

If you want energy, cheap eats, and great bars, this is the spot. It’s filled with students from the University of Bologna, so there’s always something happening. I found amazing street food and affordable aperitivo spots here. It’s a top pick for younger travelers, digital nomads, or anyone wanting to experience local nightlife.

👉 Find hostels and budget hotels in Bologna’s University District

🏘️ Bolognina – Best for Local Vibes and Budget-Friendly Accommodation

North of the train station, Bolognina surprised me. It’s more residential, less touristy, and full of authentic local restaurants. It’s also great if you’re visiting during high season and want cheaper hotels in Bologna without being far from the center. Just a 15-minute walk or a short bus ride gets you to Piazza Maggiore.

👉 Browse affordable stays in Bolognina

🌿 Santo Stefano – Best for Quiet Charm and Hidden Gems

This area feels a bit like a local secret. It’s quieter, with elegant buildings and hidden courtyards, and still close to everything — I loved walking from here to Santo Stefano’s Seven Churches. Perfect if you’re looking for a romantic Bologna stay or just want to avoid tourist crowds while still being close to the action.

👉 Book boutique hotels in Santo Stefano

🌇 Best Time to Visit Bologna, Italy

I’ve visited Bologna in every season, and honestly, there’s no bad time to go. But if you’re planning your trip and wondering when to visit Bologna, here’s what to expect:

🌿 Spring (April–June) and 🍂 Early Fall (September–October) — The Best Times

These months offer the most pleasant weather: mild temperatures, sunny days, and fewer tourists compared to summer. It’s the perfect time to walk Bologna’s porticoes, relax in outdoor cafes, or hike up the Portico di San Luca.

🌞 Summer (July–August)

Expect high temperatures and a few crowds, especially in late July. That said, Bologna is never as packed as Rome or Florence. Bring sunscreen, take breaks inside portico-shaded streets, and book accommodation with air conditioning.

❄️ Winter (November–February)

Cold but cozy. Winter in Bologna means festive lights, Christmas markets, and hearty food like tortellini in brodo. Fewer tourists = better hotel rates and quieter museums.

✈️ How to Get to Bologna, Italy

Bologna is one of the easiest cities to reach in Italy, thanks to its central location and excellent transport links.

🛬 Flying to Bologna

Fly into Bologna Guglielmo Marconi Airport (BLQ). It’s only 6 km from the city center. You can reach Bologna Centrale train station in under 20 minutes by:

• Marconi Express monorail
• Bus 944 + Bus 61 combo (cheaper option)
• Taxi or rideshare

🚂 Taking the Train to Bologna

Bologna is a major hub on Italy’s high-speed rail network. You can get there easily from:

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 and makes for one of the best day trips from Rome by train.

• Frecciarossa or Italo: ~2 to 2.5 hours from Roma Termini
• Intercity: ~4-5 hours (cheaper but slower)

From Milan to Bologna

• High-speed trains: ~1 hour from Milano Centrale
• Intercity: 2–3 hours

From Florence to Bologna

Trains to Bologna depart from Firenze Santa Maria Novella (SMN), the main train station in Florence.

Fastest route: ~35 minutes by Frecciarossa or Italo

Intercity: 1.5–2 hours

From Venice to Bologna

• From Venezia Santa Lucia station
• High-speed: ~1.5 hours | Regional: 2–2.5 hours

From Cinque Terre to Bologna

• Local train to La Spezia Centrale
• Then Frecciarossa/Italo to Bologna: ~2 hours | Intercity: 3–3.5 hours

From Amalfi Coast to Bologna

• Bus or transfer to Naples: ~1.5–2 hours
• High-speed train from Naples to Bologna: ~3.5 hours

🚗 Getting to Bologna by Car

Driving is doable, but be aware of ZTL zones (restricted traffic areas) in the city center.

• From Milan: ~2 hours
• From Florence: ~1 hour
• From Rome: ~4 hours

🚕 Check rental car options in Bologna – it’s easy

🚌 Taking the Bus to Bologna

FlixBus and other companies connect Bologna with cities across Italy and Europe. The bus terminal is near Bologna Centrale.

👉Compare prices, timetables, and seat options, all in one place, and book your bus and train tickets.

⌛ How Many Days to Spend in Bologna?

If you’re short on time, you can see the highlights in one day. Climb the Asinelli Tower, visit Piazza Maggiore, and enjoy a meal in the Quadrilatero food district.

For a fuller experience, I recommend staying at least 3 to 4 days in Bologna. That gives you time to:

• Take a Bologna food tour or cooking class
• Visit museums like MAMbo or the Archaeological Museum
• Explore lesser-known neighborhoods like Santo Stefano
• Take day trips to Modena, Parma, or Ferrara by train

Plan Your Trip to Bologna with These Trusted Travel Resources

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✈️ Flights: Use Skyscanner to compare airfare across airlines. For the best flexibility and customer service, we recommend booking directly with the airline once you’ve found the best route.

🚆 Train & Bus Tickets: Travel between Italian cities with ease. Book your bus and train tickets in advance on Omio to compare prices, timetables, and seat options in one place.

🚗 Car Rental: Want more flexibility? Rent a car through Rentalcars.com for the best rates from trusted providers. Ideal for day trips from Bologna to Modena, Parma, or the Emilia-Romagna countryside.

🎟️ Tours & Activities: Discover the best things to do in Bologna and beyond with Viator and GetYourGuide. From food tours to skip-the-line tickets, many experiences sell out fast—secure your spot early!

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The Verdict: Is Bologna Worth Visiting?

Yes—Bologna is definitely worth visiting. I’ve walked its endless UNESCO-listed porticoes, climbed its medieval towers, and eaten my way through trattorias serving the real tagliatelle al ragù. This city isn’t just a quick stop—it’s a destination in its own right.

Bologna combines authentic Italian charm with rich history, a buzzing university vibe, and hands-down some of the best food I’ve had in Italy. Think fresh tortellini in brodo, local mortadella, and deep red Lambrusco straight from nearby vineyards. It’s the kind of place where you can stumble into a tiny osteria and eat better than in most Michelin-star restaurants.

If you’re wondering, “Is Bologna worth visiting for a first-time Italy trip?” or “Is Bologna safe for solo travelers?”—yes and yes. The compact city center is walkable, safe, and packed with things to do, even in a short stay.

🚶‍♀️You won’t need a car here. Just good shoes, a hearty appetite, and maybe a food tour to get the most out of it.

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