Italy

Bologna

Bologna: red porticoes, bold food, and a buzzing student soul.

Local time: UTC+1
Population: 0.4M
Safety

Cost of a day

$$$$$

Expensive

Food$$$$$About $78 a day: light breakfast, cheap lunch, mid-range dinner
Stay$$$$$3-star hotel about $182 a night for two
Transport$$$$$About $10.3 a day: 4 public transit rides

Exchange rate

🇪🇺 EUR =

Rates from 2026-10-23, refreshed monthly.

Getting in

BLQBologna / Borgo Panigale AirportMain airport, about 6 km northwest of the centre.

How	Cost	Time
Bus #81/#91Bologna Centrale	€1.5	30-40 min
Board at Birra stop, a 10 min walk from the terminal.
Marconi Express monorailBologna Centrale	€12.80	7 min
Pay contactless at the gate; queues can be long.
TaxiCity centre	€15-20	15-25 min
Fixed-ish fare; agree before you ride.
Uber / ride appCity centre	check locally	15-25 min
Availability is limited in Bologna.

Estimates, checked October 2026. Wikivoyage: Bologna

Getting around

Walk the centre; use TPER buses for longer hops.

MetroNo metro yet; a tram network is under construction.
Bus ★TPER buses cover the city. Single ticket €2.30, valid 75 min; €2.50 on board. Day pass about €9. Buy at tabacchi or newsstands.
Taxi / ride appsTaxis are metered. Uber is limited; local apps work better.
Rental carDriving in the centre is restricted; cars are banned in parts during the day.
Walking ★Walking is easy and pleasant. Bike hire is cheap, about €1–2 per 15 min.

Recommended stay★ 1 night (2 days)

One night suits you, as the main squares, the cathedral and arcaded streets connect on foot within a day.

Best for

FoodRagù, tortellini and market grazing all day.
CulturePorticoes, piazzas and the oldest university.

Weather by month

8°1°Jan🌧 6d

11°3°Feb🌧 8d

15°5°Mar🌧 8d

19°8°Apr🌧 9d

22°13°May🌧 13d

28°18°Jun🌧 8d

32°21°Jul🌧 7d

31°20°Aug🌧 8d

25°16°Sep🌧 9d

20°12°Oct🌧 9d

13°6°Nov🌧 10d

9°2°Dec🌧 8d

Average daily high / low (°C), sea temperature and rainy days. Typical figures, not a forecast.

Climate

Four clear seasons: cold, damp winters and hot, humid summers, with the best weather in spring and autumn.

Best time: April to June and September to OctoberMild days around 19–25°C, good for walking the porticoes.
July and August are hotHighs near 31–32°C with warm nights. Plan indoor sights at midday.
Winter is cold and dampJanuary highs near 8°C and lows around 1°C. Bring a warm coat.
Rain in spring and autumnMay has the most rain days, around 13. Carry a small umbrella.
Summer is fairly dryJuly and August see around 7–8 rain days, often short storms.
What to packComfortable walking shoes, layers, and a light rain jacket in spring and autumn.

Landmarks 10

Must-see · 8

1
Two Towers
Bologna's medieval skyline is defined by these two leaning brick towers, the taller Asinelli and the leaning Garisenda, and they are the city's most recognizable icon. Climb the Asinelli for sweeping views, but book ahead and go early to avoid queues and heat.
2
Piazza Maggiore
This vast central square is the heart of Bologna, ringed by the Basilica of San Petronio and the Palazzo del Podestà. Visit in the morning for the best light and fewer crowds, and linger in the evening when locals gather.
3
Archiginnasio of Bologna
The former university building holds the stunning anatomical theatre, a wood-panelled room that is one of Bologna's great interiors. It is a short walk from Piazza Maggiore; check opening hours as the theatre can close for events.
4
Porticoes of Bologna
Bologna's miles of covered arcades are a UNESCO-listed feature of the city and make walking pleasant in any weather. Wander them on foot through the old town, and use them to reach San Luca on the long porticoed climb.
5
San Luca Sanctuary
This hilltop sanctuary sits at the end of the world's longest portico, a rewarding walk with views over the city. Take the walk or the San Luca Express from the centre, and allow a half day for the round trip.
6
Basilica of San Petronio
The unfinished facade and vast interior of Bologna's main church dominate Piazza Maggiore. Entry to the church is free but modest dress is required; a small ticket gives access to the terrace and museum.
7
Santo Stefano
This complex of seven interconnected churches is one of Bologna's most atmospheric religious sites. It is a quiet, free stop near the Two Towers, best visited on a weekday morning.
8
University of Bologna
Founded in 1088, it is the oldest university in continuous operation and shapes the city's lively student character. Walk the central streets around it and look for the historic seats and courtyards.

Cultural

Museum 1

Christian 4

University 2

Historical Square 1

Old Town 1

Ancient Site 1

Day trips from Bologna

Florence · 33 min by train

★★★★★ · Full day · 106 km from Bologna

Best way: Direct high-speed and regional trains run frequently from Bologna Centrale to Firenze Santa Maria Novella in about 33 minutes, dropping you near the centre.

Frequent high-speed and regional trains run direct from Bologna Centrale to Firenze Santa Maria Novella in about 35 to 60 minutes, so no change is usually needed.

Train ★33 min · from €10
Bus1 h 11 · from $5-$15
Car1 h 23 · taxi ≈ €160

What to see

Duomo and Brunelleschi's dome
Uffizi Gallery
Ponte Vecchio
Accademia Gallery (Michelangelo's David)
Piazzale Michelangelo for sunset views

8 landmark quests to check off here

Good to know

Book Uffizi and Accademia tickets ahead, as they sell out in peak season.
Trains run often, so a same-day return is easy.

Parma · 55 min by train

★★★★☆ · Half day · 100 km from Bologna

Best way: Regional and high-speed trains run direct and frequently to Parma in about 55 minutes, a short ride into the centre.

Regional and high-speed trains run direct and frequently from Bologna Centrale to Parma in about 40 to 60 minutes.

Train ★55 min · from $10-$80
Bus1 h 20 · from $5-$15
Car1 h 17 · taxi ≈ €150

What to see

Parma Cathedral and Baptistery
Piazza Garibaldi
Teatro Regio
Parco Ducale
Parmigiano-Reggiano dairy visit

Good to know

Parma is known for its food, so plan a lunch or ham-tasting stop.
Check the timetable, as some services are less frequent off-peak.

Ravenna · 58 min by train

★★★★☆ · Full day · 82 km from Bologna

Best way: Regional trains take about an hour, but the 25 daily services are the fewest of these trips, and some require a change at Faenza.

Regional trains take about 1 to 1.25 hours; many services run direct, but some require a change at Faenza.

Train ★58 min · from €8
Bus2 h 15 · from $12-$23
Car1 h 07 · taxi ≈ €130

What to see

Basilica di San Vitale mosaics
Basilica di Sant'Apollinare Nuovo
Neonian Baptistery
Mausoleum of Galla Placidia
Tomb of Dante

2 landmark quests to check off here

Good to know

Ravenna's UNESCO-listed early Christian mosaics are the main draw, so allow time to see them.
Check whether your train is direct or needs a change at Faenza before you go.

Modena · 18 min by train

★★★☆☆ · Half day · 54 km from Bologna

Best way: Regional trains run direct and frequently to Modena in about 18 minutes, making it an easy half-day trip.

Regional trains run direct and frequently from Bologna Centrale to Modena in about 20 minutes.

Train ★18 min · from €5
Bus45 min · from $2-$7
Car51 min · taxi ≈ €80

What to see

Modena Cathedral and Piazza Grande (UNESCO site)
Ghirlandina Tower
Enzo Ferrari Museum
Mercato Albinelli food market
Traditional balsamic vinegar producer visit

2 landmark quests to check off here

Good to know

Modena's historic centre and cathedral are compact and walkable from the station.
Book Ferrari-related museum visits ahead if you want a specific time slot.

Ferrara · 20 min by train

★★★☆☆ · Half day · 49 km from Bologna

Best way: Regional trains run direct and frequently to Ferrara in about 20 minutes, and the flat city is easy to explore by bike.

Regional trains run direct and frequently from Bologna Centrale to Ferrara in about 35 to 50 minutes.

Train ★20 min · from €5
Bus1 h 07 · from $2-$8
Car46 min · taxi ≈ €80

What to see

Castello Estense
Ferrara Cathedral
Palazzo Schifanoia
Via delle Volte medieval lanes
City walls by bike

1 landmark quest to check off here

Good to know

Renting a bike from the station is the easiest way to see the city.
Ferrara is quiet on weekday afternoons, so visit earlier in the day for better atmosphere.

Times and prices are typical one-way estimates (train and bus: Omio / Rome2Rio route data; taxi: local tariff × road distance, tolls extra). Exact prices are on the booking page.

Plans

Bologna rewards visitors with medieval porticoes, lively piazzas and some of Italy's best food. Pick how long you have and what you enjoy most. Prices checked October 2026; ≈ marks estimates.

How long?

What do you enjoy most?

Day trip · Culture

The classic Bologna day: main square, towers, porticoes and a church complex.

Stay: Historical Centre. Walk to Piazza Maggiore, the porticoes and most trattorias. Best for first-timers.

Tickets & tours: ≈ EUR 8
Taxis: ≈ EUR 32

Day 1

Piazza, towers and porticoes

Tickets ≈ EUR 8 pp · taxis ≈ EUR 32

Approximate route · map © OpenStreetMap contributors

1

09:00–09:45 · Free to enter the square

Piazza Maggiore Landmark quest

Start here to get your bearings.

Open Always open
2

09:50–10:20 · Free entry; small charge for some areas, check on the day

Basilica of San Petronio

On the square. Daytime opening; check on the day.

Open Daytime; check on the day
Taxi · 153 m · ≈ 5 min · ≈ EUR 8
3

10:30–11:15 · Small entry fee for the Anatomical Theatre; check on the day

Archiginnasio of Bologna Landmark quest

Short walk. Closed some days; check on the day.

Open Usually morning to afternoon; closed some days, check on the day
Taxi · 439 m · ≈ 6 min · ≈ EUR 8
4

11:30–12:15 · Around EUR 5 to climb the Asinelli tower; check on the day

Two Towers (Due Torri) Landmark quest

Climb in the morning for clearer views. Check hours on the day.

Open Climb usually daytime; check on the day
Taxi · 664 m · ≈ 7 min · ≈ EUR 8
5

12:30–13:00 · Free entry

Santo Stefano complex

Lunch nearby, then visit the complex.

Open Daytime; check on the day
Taxi · 977 m · ≈ 8 min · ≈ EUR 8
6

14:00–15:00 · Free

Porticoes of Bologna walk

Always open. Easy walking.

Open Always open

Day trip · Budget

Free sights and cheap eats, all on foot in the centre.

Stay: Historical Centre. Walk to Piazza Maggiore, the porticoes and most trattorias. Best for first-timers.

Tickets & tours: ≈ EUR 8
Taxis: ≈ EUR 40

Day 1

Free sights and cheap bites

Tickets ≈ EUR 8 pp · taxis ≈ EUR 40

Approximate route · map © OpenStreetMap contributors

1

09:00–09:45 · Free to enter the square

Piazza Maggiore Landmark quest

Free to wander. Always open.

Open Always open
Taxi · 156 m · ≈ 5 min · ≈ EUR 8
2

10:00–11:00 · Free to walk; food paid per item

Quadrilatero food streets

Cheap snacks from market stalls in the morning.

Open Market stalls mostly morning to early afternoon; shops vary
Taxi · 981 m · ≈ 8 min · ≈ EUR 8
3

11:30–12:15 · Free to walk the area

University of Bologna Landmark quest

Outdoor areas always open. Free to walk.

Open Outdoor areas always open
4

12:30–13:15 · Free

Via Zamboni student quarter walk

Student quarter. Cheap lunch spots.

Open Always open
Taxi · 988 m · ≈ 8 min · ≈ EUR 8
5

14:00–15:00 · Free

Porticoes of Bologna walk

Always open and free.

Open Always open
Taxi · 196 m · ≈ 6 min · ≈ EUR 8
6

18:00–19:00 · Roughly EUR 6–12 per drink; check on the day

Aperitivo in the centre

Budget-friendly early evening. Prices vary.

Open Usually early evening
Taxi back to your hotel · 202 m · ≈ 6 min · ≈ EUR 8

1 night · Food ★ Recommended length

One tasty day: market grazing, pasta class and an evening food scene.

Stay: Historical Centre. Walk to Piazza Maggiore, the porticoes and most trattorias. Best for first-timers.

Tickets & tours: ≈ EUR 78
Taxis: ≈ EUR 40
Hotel: EUR 90–220

Day 1

Markets, pasta and aperitivo

Tickets ≈ EUR 78 pp · taxis ≈ EUR 40

Approximate route · map © OpenStreetMap contributors

Taxi from your hotel · 161 m · ≈ 5 min · ≈ EUR 8
1

09:30–10:30 · Free to walk; food paid per item

Quadrilatero food streets

Go early for the stalls. Graze as you walk.

Open Market stalls mostly morning to early afternoon; shops vary
Taxi · 514 m · ≈ 7 min · ≈ EUR 8
2

11:00–11:45 · Free to enter; food paid per item

Mercato delle Erbe

Short walk west. Good for a quick bite.

Open Market daytime; food counters into the evening; check on the day
Taxi · 476 m · ≈ 6 min · ≈ EUR 8
3

14:00–17:00 · Roughly EUR 50–100 per person; check on the day

Pasta-making class

Book ahead. Classes usually run morning or afternoon.

Open Classes usually morning or afternoon
4

18:30–19:30 · Roughly EUR 6–12 per drink; check on the day

Aperitivo in the centre

Early evening in the centre. Prices vary, check the board.

Open Usually early evening
Taxi · 862 m · ≈ 8 min · ≈ EUR 8
5

20:00–21:00 · Free to walk; drinks paid separately

Piazza Santo Stefano evening scene

Warm evenings only. Casual dinner outdoors.

Open Evenings
Taxi back to your hotel · 981 m · ≈ 8 min · ≈ EUR 8

1 night · Culture ★ Recommended length

Our pick for first-timers: the main square, the towers and the porticoes in one day.

Stay: Historical Centre. Walk to Piazza Maggiore, the porticoes and most trattorias. Best for first-timers.

Tickets & tours: ≈ EUR 8
Taxis: ≈ EUR 40
Hotel: EUR 90–220

Day 1

Piazza, towers and porticoes

Tickets ≈ EUR 8 pp · taxis ≈ EUR 40

Approximate route · map © OpenStreetMap contributors

1

09:00–09:45 · Free to enter the square

Piazza Maggiore Landmark quest

Start here to get your bearings.

Open Always open
2

09:50–10:20 · Free entry; small charge for some areas, check on the day

Basilica of San Petronio

On the square. Daytime only, check on the day.

Open Daytime; check on the day
Taxi · 153 m · ≈ 5 min · ≈ EUR 8
3

10:30–11:15 · Small entry fee for the Anatomical Theatre; check on the day

Archiginnasio of Bologna Landmark quest

Closed some days, check on the day.

Open Usually morning to afternoon; closed some days, check on the day
Taxi · 439 m · ≈ 6 min · ≈ EUR 8
4

11:30–12:15 · Around EUR 5 to climb the Asinelli tower; check on the day

Two Towers (Due Torri) Landmark quest

Climb in the morning for clearer views. Check opening on the day.

Open Climb usually daytime; check on the day
Taxi · 384 m · ≈ 6 min · ≈ EUR 8
5

14:00–15:00 · Free

Porticoes of Bologna walk

Always open. Easy walking after lunch.

Open Always open
Taxi · 977 m · ≈ 8 min · ≈ EUR 8
6

15:15–15:45 · Free entry

Santo Stefano complex

Daytime, check on the day.

Open Daytime; check on the day
Taxi back to your hotel · 971 m · ≈ 8 min · ≈ EUR 8

1 night · Budget ★ Recommended length

Cheap and walkable: free squares, porticoes and market food.

Stay: Historical Centre. Walk to Piazza Maggiore, the porticoes and most trattorias. Best for first-timers.

Tickets & tours: ≈ EUR 8
Taxis: ≈ EUR 48
Hotel: EUR 90–220

Day 1

Free sights and cheap eats

Tickets ≈ EUR 8 pp · taxis ≈ EUR 48

Approximate route · map © OpenStreetMap contributors

Taxi from your hotel · 825 m · ≈ 7 min · ≈ EUR 8
1

09:30–10:00 · Free

Via dell'Indipendenza walk

Walk from the station end into the centre.

Open Always open
Taxi · 839 m · ≈ 8 min · ≈ EUR 8
2

10:15–11:00 · Free to enter the square

Piazza Maggiore Landmark quest

Free to wander. Sit on the steps.

Open Always open
Taxi · 156 m · ≈ 5 min · ≈ EUR 8
3

11:15–12:15 · Free to walk; food paid per item

Quadrilatero food streets

Cheap bites from the stalls, mostly morning to early afternoon.

Open Market stalls mostly morning to early afternoon; shops vary
Taxi · 981 m · ≈ 8 min · ≈ EUR 8
4

14:00–14:45 · Free to walk the area

University of Bologna Landmark quest

Outdoor areas always open and free.

Open Outdoor areas always open
5

15:00–15:45 · Free

Via Zamboni student quarter walk

Student quarter, cheap cafes.

Open Always open
Taxi · 793 m · ≈ 7 min · ≈ EUR 8
6

18:30–19:30 · Roughly EUR 6–12 per drink; check on the day

Aperitivo in the centre

Early evening. Compare prices before you sit.

Open Usually early evening
Taxi back to your hotel · 202 m · ≈ 6 min · ≈ EUR 8

2 nights · Food

Market grazing, ragù and tortellini, with a pasta class and an evening food scene.

Tickets & tours: ≈ EUR 138
Taxis: ≈ EUR 72

Day 1

Arrive, Quadrilatero and aperitivo

Tickets ≈ EUR 8 pp · taxis ≈ EUR 24

Approximate route · map © OpenStreetMap contributors

1

12:00–12:20 · Free

Bologna Centrale station area

Walk or take the shuttle bus to the centre, about 20 minutes.

Open Station open long hours
Taxi · 2 km · ≈ 10 min · ≈ EUR 8
2

13:00–14:00 · Free to walk; food paid per item

Quadrilatero food streets

Market stalls are best morning to early afternoon. Graze as you go.

Open Market stalls mostly morning to early afternoon; shops vary
Taxi · 156 m · ≈ 5 min · ≈ EUR 8
3

14:15–15:00 · Free to enter the square

Piazza Maggiore Landmark quest

Sit on the steps and watch the square.

Open Always open
Taxi · 210 m · ≈ 6 min · ≈ EUR 8
4

18:30–19:30 · Roughly EUR 6–12 per drink; check on the day

Aperitivo in the centre

Early evening. A drink usually comes with snacks; prices vary.

Open Usually early evening

Day 2

Food tour and market lunch

Tickets ≈ EUR 60 pp · taxis ≈ EUR 24

Approximate route · map © OpenStreetMap contributors

1

09:30–12:30 · Roughly EUR 50–80 per person; check on the day

Bologna food walking tour

Morning departure. Book ahead; confirm the meeting point.

Open Usually morning or afternoon departures
Taxi · 438 m · ≈ 6 min · ≈ EUR 8
2

13:30–14:30 · Free to enter; food paid per item

Mercato delle Erbe

Food counters run into the evening. Check on the day.

Open Market daytime; food counters into the evening; check on the day
Taxi · 355 m · ≈ 6 min · ≈ EUR 8
3

15:00–16:00 · Free

Porticoes of Bologna walk

Walk off lunch under the arcades.

Open Always open
Taxi · 986 m · ≈ 8 min · ≈ EUR 8
4

19:00–20:00 · Free to walk; drinks paid separately

Piazza Santo Stefano evening scene

Warm evenings only. Casual food and drink.

Open Evenings

Day 3

Pasta class and last bites

Tickets ≈ EUR 70 pp · taxis ≈ EUR 24

Approximate route · map © OpenStreetMap contributors

1

10:00–13:00 · Roughly EUR 50–100 per person; check on the day

Pasta-making class

Afternoon classes also run. Book ahead.

Open Classes usually morning or afternoon
Taxi · 349 m · ≈ 6 min · ≈ EUR 8
2

14:00–14:30 · Free entry; small charge for some areas, check on the day

Basilica of San Petronio

Daytime; check on the day.

Open Daytime; check on the day
Taxi · 911 m · ≈ 8 min · ≈ EUR 8
3

15:00–15:30 · Free

Via dell'Indipendenza walk

Easy walk back toward the station.

Open Always open
Taxi · 882 m · ≈ 8 min · ≈ EUR 8
4

16:00–16:20 · Free

Bologna Centrale station area

Allow extra time for trains.

Open Station open long hours

2 nights · Culture

Piazzas, porticoes, the oldest university and the San Luca walk.

Tickets & tours: ≈ EUR 22
Taxis: ≈ EUR 73

Day 1

Centre icons on foot

Tickets ≈ EUR 3 pp · taxis ≈ EUR 24

Approximate route · map © OpenStreetMap contributors

1

12:00–12:20 · Free

Bologna Centrale station area

About 20 minutes on foot to the centre.

Open Station open long hours
Taxi · 2 km · ≈ 10 min · ≈ EUR 8
2

13:00–13:45 · Free to enter the square

Piazza Maggiore Landmark quest

Start here to get your bearings.

Open Always open
3

14:00–14:30 · Free entry; small charge for some areas, check on the day

Basilica of San Petronio

Daytime; check on the day.

Open Daytime; check on the day
Taxi · 153 m · ≈ 5 min · ≈ EUR 8
4

15:00–15:45 · Small entry fee for the Anatomical Theatre; check on the day

Archiginnasio of Bologna Landmark quest

Closed some days. Check on the day.

Open Usually morning to afternoon; closed some days, check on the day
Taxi · 864 m · ≈ 8 min · ≈ EUR 8
5

16:15–16:45 · Free entry

Santo Stefano complex

Daytime; check on the day.

Open Daytime; check on the day

Day 2

Towers, university and San Luca

Tickets ≈ EUR 13 pp · taxis ≈ EUR 33

Approximate route · map © OpenStreetMap contributors

1

09:00–09:45 · Around EUR 5 to climb the Asinelli tower; check on the day

Two Towers (Due Torri) Landmark quest

Morning for clearer views. Climb usually daytime; check on the day.

Open Climb usually daytime; check on the day
Taxi · 711 m · ≈ 7 min · ≈ EUR 8
2

10:15–11:00 · Free to walk the area

University of Bologna Landmark quest

Outdoor areas always open.

Open Outdoor areas always open
3

11:15–12:00 · Free

Via Zamboni student quarter walk

Student quarter walk.

Open Always open
Taxi · 6 km · ≈ 23 min · ≈ EUR 13
4

14:00–16:00 · Free to walk; small charge for some transport

Sanctuary of San Luca and portico walk

Portico always open; church daytime. The climb is long; take your time.

Open Portico always open; church daytime
Taxi · 5 km · ≈ 21 min · ≈ EUR 12
5

18:30–19:30 · Roughly EUR 6–12 per drink; check on the day

Aperitivo in the centre

Early evening back in the centre.

Open Usually early evening

Day 3

Porticoes and departure

Tickets ≈ EUR 6 pp · taxis ≈ EUR 16

Approximate route · map © OpenStreetMap contributors

1

09:30–10:30 · Free

Porticoes of Bologna walk

Any time of day.

Open Always open
Taxi · 1175 m · ≈ 9 min · ≈ EUR 8
2

11:00–12:30 · Around EUR 6; check on the day

Pinacoteca Nazionale

Closed Monday. Check on the day.

Open Closed Monday; daytime other days, check on the day
Taxi · 2 km · ≈ 10 min · ≈ EUR 8
3

13:00–13:20 · Free

Bologna Centrale station area

About 20 minutes on foot.

Open Station open long hours

2 nights · Budget

Free sights, cheap eats and walkable streets. Most of this plan costs little.

Tickets & tours: ≈ EUR 13
Taxis: ≈ EUR 84

Day 1

Free centre walk and market lunch

Tickets ≈ EUR 8 pp · taxis ≈ EUR 32

Approximate route · map © OpenStreetMap contributors

1

12:00–12:20 · Free

Bologna Centrale station area

Walk to the centre; it is about 20 minutes.

Open Station open long hours
Taxi · 2 km · ≈ 10 min · ≈ EUR 8
2

13:00–13:45 · Free to enter the square

Piazza Maggiore Landmark quest

Free to wander.

Open Always open
Taxi · 156 m · ≈ 5 min · ≈ EUR 8
3

14:00–15:00 · Free to walk; food paid per item

Quadrilatero food streets

Cheap bites from market stalls, mostly morning to early afternoon.

Open Market stalls mostly morning to early afternoon; shops vary
Taxi · 168 m · ≈ 6 min · ≈ EUR 8
4

15:15–16:15 · Free

Porticoes of Bologna walk

Always open and free.

Open Always open
Taxi · 196 m · ≈ 6 min · ≈ EUR 8
5

18:30–19:30 · Roughly EUR 6–12 per drink; check on the day

Aperitivo in the centre

One drink with snacks is a cheap dinner. Prices vary.

Open Usually early evening

Day 2

Towers, students and the park

Tickets ≈ EUR 5 pp · taxis ≈ EUR 32

1

09:00–09:45 · Around EUR 5 to climb the Asinelli tower; check on the day

Two Towers (Due Torri) Landmark quest

Climb usually daytime; check on the day. Small ticket.

Open Climb usually daytime; check on the day
Taxi · 630 m · ≈ 7 min · ≈ EUR 8
2

10:15–11:00 · Free

Via Zamboni student quarter walk

Free walk.

Open Always open
Taxi · 2 km · ≈ 10 min · ≈ EUR 8
3

11:30–12:30 · Free

Giardini Margherita

Sunny afternoons are best; bring a picnic.

Open Daytime; check on the day
Taxi · 2 km · ≈ 11 min · ≈ EUR 8
4

13:00–14:00 · Free to enter; food paid per item

Mercato delle Erbe

Budget lunch. Check hours on the day.

Open Market daytime; food counters into the evening; check on the day
Taxi · 1290 m · ≈ 9 min · ≈ EUR 8
5

15:00–15:30 · Free entry

Santo Stefano complex

Daytime; check on the day. Entry is usually free.

Open Daytime; check on the day

Day 3

San Luca walk and departure

Tickets ≈ EUR 0 pp · taxis ≈ EUR 20

1

09:00–11:00 · Free to walk; small charge for some transport

Sanctuary of San Luca and portico walk

Portico always open; church daytime. Free walk, long climb.

Open Portico always open; church daytime
Taxi · 5 km · ≈ 21 min · ≈ EUR 12
2

12:00–12:30 · Free

Via dell'Indipendenza walk

Easy walk back toward the station.

Open Always open
Taxi · 882 m · ≈ 8 min · ≈ EUR 8
3

13:00–13:20 · Free

Bologna Centrale station area

Allow extra time for trains.

Open Station open long hours

Swap in instead

Day trip to Modena by train for balsamic and the food market; check times on the day.
Swap a museum morning for a walk up to San Luca under the long portico; check opening hours.
Take a train to Ferrara or Parma for a half-day of Renaissance streets and food.

Getting around

No metro yet; a tram network is under construction.
TPER buses cover the city; single ticket €2.30, valid 75 min, €2.50 on board.
Day pass costs about €9; buy tickets at tabacchi or newsstands.
Taxis are metered; ride apps like Uber are limited, local apps work better.
Driving in the centre is restricted; cars are banned in parts during the day.
Walking is easy and pleasant; bike hire is cheap, about €1-2 per 15 min.

Where to stay

Historical Centre · ≈ EUR 90–220 a night
Walk to Piazza Maggiore, the porticoes and most trattorias. Best for first-timers.
Bologna Centrale · ≈ EUR 70–160 a night
Next to the station for day trips to Florence or Modena; 15 minutes on foot to the centre.
University Quarter · ≈ EUR 65–150 a night
Lively bars and cheap eats around Via Zamboni; good budget base, can be noisy at night.
Saragozza · ≈ EUR 70–170 a night
Quieter residential area near the station and Porta Saragozza; good value, still walkable.

Food & drink

Order tagliatelle al ragù, not spaghetti bolognese; locals eat tortellini in brodo too.
Try a plate of mortadella and crescentine (fried dough) at a casual osteria.
The Quadrilatero market streets near Piazza Maggiore are good for a cheap grazing lunch.
Book dinner ahead on weekends; popular trattorias fill up fast.
Aperitivo around 18:00–19:00 often comes with snacks; check the price before ordering.

Tips

Often called 'La Grassa' (The Fat One) because of its incredible food; authentic Tagliatelle al Ragù is mandatory
Walk under the 40 kilometers of covered porticoes (a UNESCO World Heritage site)
Climb the Asinelli Tower for incredible views of the red-roofed city
Order 'Tortellini in Brodo' rather than 'Spaghetti Bolognese', which does not exist here
A large student population keeps the nightlife vibrant and relatively affordable

Sources for prices and hours

Taxi costs are estimates from straight-line distance and the metered fare. Map positions are approximate.

Tours & activities

Take this tour to unlock 2 landmark quests

Piazza Maggiore

Two Towers

Walk the medieval centre with a local guide
See Piazza Maggiore and the Two Towers
4,111 reviews · 4.5 rating

Top ratedSmall group

City Center Walking Tour

GetYourGuide · ★ 4.5 (4,111)

$31View tour

Take this tour to unlock 2 landmark quests

Piazza Maggiore

Porticoes of Bologna

Taste Bologna's food under the porticoes
Learn the city's food culture from a local
2,089 reviews · 4.8 rating

Food includedLocal expert

Walking Food Tour with a Local Expert

GetYourGuide · ★ 4.8 (2,089)

$100View tour

Take this tour to unlock 1 landmark quest

Piazza Maggiore

Make fresh pasta and ragu yourself
Finish with spritz, wine and gelato
1,340 reviews · 4.9 rating

Hands-onMeal included

Handmade Pasta Class, Ragu, Spritz, Wine & Gelato

GetYourGuide · ★ 4.9 (1,340)

$89View tour

Take this tour to unlock 3 landmark quests

Two Towers

Archiginnasio of Bologna

Piazza Maggiore

Climb for a sky view of the towers
Visit the Archiginnasio and the old centre
159 reviews · 4.8 rating

Tower viewEntry included

Bologna Walking Tour with Tower Sky View and Archiginnasio

GetYourGuide · ★ 4.8 (159)

$55View tour

Take this tour to unlock 2 landmark quests

Porticoes of Bologna

Two Towers

Cycle the historic centre and porticoes
Discover quiet corners away from the crowds
63 reviews · 4.6 rating

Bike tourSecret spots

Bike Tour of Historic Center and Secret Spots

GetYourGuide · ★ 4.6 (63)

$50View tour

Souvenirs

Traditional balsamic vinegar

EUR 45–80100ml · shop prices

A dark, syrupy vinegar made from cooked grape must and aged in wooden barrels. It is a specialty of the Emilia-Romagna region, where Bologna is the capital.

Where: Tamburini, Via Caprarie

Look for the Tradizionale DOP label, and choose the 12-year grade for the best quality.

Parmigiano Reggiano

EUR 10–22250-500g · estimate

A hard, aged cheese with a protected DOP origin, made in Emilia-Romagna. Bologna's markets and delis are famous for selling it.

Where: Tamburini or cheese shops in the Quadrilatero

Check that it is vacuum-sealed and ask how to store it so it stays fresh on the trip home.

Flights

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Luggage storage

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Cost of a day

Exchange rate

Getting in

Getting around

Weather by month

Climate

Landmarks 10

Must-see · 8

Two Towers

Piazza Maggiore

Archiginnasio of Bologna

Porticoes of Bologna

San Luca Sanctuary

Basilica of San Petronio

Santo Stefano

University of Bologna

Cultural

Museum 1

Christian 4

University 2

Historical Square 1

Old Town 1

Ancient Site 1

Day trips from Bologna

Florence · 33 min by train

What to see

Good to know

Parma · 55 min by train

What to see

Good to know

Ravenna · 58 min by train

What to see

Good to know

Modena · 18 min by train

What to see

Good to know

Ferrara · 20 min by train

What to see

Good to know

Plans

Quadrilatero food streets

Mercato delle Erbe

Pasta-making class

Aperitivo in the centre

Piazza Maggiore Landmark quest

Basilica of San Petronio

Archiginnasio of Bologna Landmark quest

Two Towers (Due Torri) Landmark quest

Santo Stefano complex

Porticoes of Bologna walk

Piazza Maggiore Landmark quest

Quadrilatero food streets

University of Bologna Landmark quest

Via Zamboni student quarter walk

Porticoes of Bologna walk

Aperitivo in the centre

Quadrilatero food streets

Mercato delle Erbe

Pasta-making class

Aperitivo in the centre

Piazza Santo Stefano evening scene

Piazza Maggiore Landmark quest

Basilica of San Petronio

Archiginnasio of Bologna Landmark quest

Two Towers (Due Torri) Landmark quest

Porticoes of Bologna walk

Santo Stefano complex

Via dell'Indipendenza walk

Piazza Maggiore Landmark quest

Quadrilatero food streets

University of Bologna Landmark quest

Via Zamboni student quarter walk

Aperitivo in the centre

Bologna Centrale station area

Quadrilatero food streets

Piazza Maggiore Landmark quest

Aperitivo in the centre

Bologna food walking tour

Mercato delle Erbe

Porticoes of Bologna walk