Awe-inspiring architecture. Porticos to stroll through around every corner. Delectable food. There are so many top attractions and events in Bologna.
Located between Florence and Venice, Bologna is often overlooked for its more famous neighbours. But with a trip to this Italian city, you’ll feed your stomach, mind and soul.
Feed your stomach and your soul
If the only reason you’ve heard of Bologna is for Spaghetti Bolognese, it’s time for a change (P.S. – it’s called Ragu here and they don’t eat it with spaghetti). This beautiful Italian city is home to bustling squares like Piazza Maggiore, wonderful architecture whether you stroll under its porticos, gaze up at the two towers or head inside the Basilica di San Petronio. You’ll sample Italian cuisine unique to the city, experience the vibrant student culture and dive into the arts if you stick around for a festival or two. Just don’t ask for the Bolognese.
Become a Bolognese native for your stay
Sip on an Aperol in Quadrilatero. Enjoy a cappuccino in the morning in Pizza Maggiore. Take in the views from Santuario di Madonna di San Luca. Being in Bologna isn’t about being a tourist. It’s about slipping into the life of a local. These are six of our favourite spots to do exactly that:
Piazza Maggiore
The beating heart of Bologna
The heart of Bologna and right in the centre of the action, this huge square is home to old medieval buildings including the Basilica di San Petronio – the sixth biggest church in Europe. The Fountain of Neptune is in the northeast corner of the square – it’s so good it’s been copied in city’s all around the world. The Sacrario dei Partigiani (the Partisan Wall) is a moving World War II memorial.
Insider tip: Holidaying in Bologna is all about sampling local Italian life. Hitting Piazza Maggiore in the morning for an espresso or cappuccino with the crowds is the best way to start.
The Quadrilatero
Come for the atmosphere. Stay for aperitivo.
Take a few steps from Piazza Maggiore and you’re in foodie heaven. The oldest market in Bologna is all about the Italian’s love for food. This compact district was once Roman Bologna and today is packed with market stalls, happening cafes and gourmet delis.
Insider tip: If it’s your first time in Italy, don’t miss aperitivo. Typically served between 6pm and 8pm, you’ll sip on white wine, Campari or Aperol and be served tantalising small plates of Italian goodness. For free. You just pay for the drinks. And there’s nothing like aperitivo in Quadrilatero.
Santuario di Madonna di San Luca
Views. Views. Views.
This hilltop church is a beautiful landmark itself, but the panoramic views are the real draw. The best lookout point is from the rooftop of the church up the spiral staircase – you’ll need to pay for the pleasure but it’s €5 well spent (€3 for kids). On the way make sure you walk under the 666 arches of the Portico San Luca.
Bologna University Quarter
A little history
Founded in 1088 Bologna University is the oldest in the western world. The students add to the city’s lively atmosphere, and you can check out their digs too with a visit to the University Quarter. Don’t miss the Archiginnasio anatomical theatre, where students as early as the 15th century observed human cadavers being dissected. It’s said to be the oldest in the world.
MAMbo – Museum of Modern Art Bologna
A walk through Italian modern art
Take a tour through the history of post-World War II Italian art at this intriguing museum. On the site of a former bakery, it’s temporarily hosted the Morandi Museum since 2012 – dedicated to Giorgio Morandi with 250 works from the celebrated Italian artist.
And make sure you don’t miss
As well as our six favourite spots to hang out like a local, don’t miss a picnic and a stroll around the weekly public markets in Montagnola Park, shopping Italian style at Via dell’Indipendenza or some history at Bologna Archaeological Museum. And don’t forget to check out the two towers – the tallest of the many towers in the city – although the only one you can go up (Asinelli) is currently closed for maintenance.
Festivals
The locals of Bologna love a festival. We’re talking art, food, books and a little religion.
Art City White Night
The city is the canvas
Bologna
February
For one night only, the city becomes an open air art exhibition. As the Arte Fiera – Bologna’s art fair – finishes, the Saturday night sees installations, performances and concerts popping up across the city throughout the night for Art City White Night.
Bologna Children’s Book Fair
Feeding young minds
Bologna
April
Over 1,400 exhibitions are all dedicated to promoting a love of reading in children. There’s a treasure trove of literary adventures just waiting for your kids to discover.
Il Cinema Ritrovato
Showcasing the city’s history of cinema
Bologna
June – August
Italy’s grandest rediscovered film festival is held in Piazza Maggiore and showcases classic, restored and silent films. It’s a true immersive experience.
Mortadella Festival
Celebrating a sausage
Bologna
September – October
Mortadella is a sausage/luncheon meat that’s famous in Bologna and one of the city’s top foods. And they love it here, so much so that there’s a festival dedicated to it. Expect a range of dishes featuring the delicacy, plus plenty of local wine too.
Festa di San Luca
A religious procession
Bologna
October
This religious festival honours the Madonna of San Luca with a procession from the Sanctuary of the Madonna of San Luca to the Cathedral of San Pietro. The icon of the Madonna is carried in the procession and stays in the cathedral for one week before another procession carries it back.
Bologna Jazz Festival
Ya like jazz?
Bologna
November
The finger clicking sounds of jazz permeate the city’s streets for this month long jazz festival. There are around 50 live concerts around the city, as well as educational events, conferences and exhibitions.
Bologna Hotels
Treat yourself to a little luxury. Enjoy views over the city from your rooftop terrace. And get some real Italian hospitality. These are some of the best hotels in Bologna.
Hotel Corona d’Oro
City centre gem
A beautiful building and a fantastic location close to Piazza Maggiore, makes this 4-star hotel a real gem. The lobby, restaurant and terrace are oh so ornate and wonderfully Italian.
Albergo Garisenda
Italian hospitality at its finest
This 2-star offering is right at the centre of the city, in the shadow of the two towers. It’s a family run spot with true Italian hospitality.
Acquaderni Rooms
Super central and self-catered
These self-catering apartments are centrally located just 300m from Santa Maria della Vita (a church not to miss) and close to Piazza Maggiore.
Hotel San Donato – Bologna Centro
Rooftop vibes
Just five minutes on foot from Piazza Maggiore and at the heart of the University Quarter, this 4-star hotel features a rooftop bar and terrace overlooking the city.
Bologna Price Guide
Whether you’re eating out, taking in the sights or getting around, expect to spend:
Average meal: €15-€20
Pint of beer: €5
Local transport ticket: €1.50
Mid-range hotel: €80-€120 per night
Forget Florence. Venice who? Bologna is your new Italian must-visit. It’s got the food, it’s got the culture and the architecture is uniquely Bolognese. It’s time to get planning your next Italian adventure.
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