10 Best Things to Do in Bologna, Italy: The City of Porticos

Italy is full of amazing cities, but one of the most overlooked is Bologna. Make the most of your time in Italy by visiting this stunning city and taking in the best of Bologna. To help you start your planning, let’s take a look at the best things to do in Bologna, Italy.

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Top Things to See in Bologna

When I first hopped on the train to Bologna, I really didn’t know much about the city, other than it offers the most porticos, or covered walkways in all of Italy. As it turns out, there is a lot to do in Bologna. I’d go so far as to say it’s one of the most underrated Italian cities. So what are the can’t miss sights in Bologna? Let’s take a look!

1. Take a Walking Tour of Bologna

While I always enjoy walking tours, as they are a great way to get acquainted to new cities. Bologna is one city I highly recommend you don’t miss. The reason? There are all kinds of “secrets” built into the city that you’re likely to miss on your own. Check out this fabulous Bologna City Walking Tour.

2. Hunt Down the Secrets of Bologna

Bologna is a city of mysteries and symbolism. In fact, this is part of what really inspired my love for the city. It is cleverly designed with small details that the average tourist will overlook. That’s precisely why you should take a walking tour as mentioned above, but even if you decide not to, make sure to find some of these quirky little secrets spread throughout the city.

Learn about the Secrets of Bologna.

3. Visit Basilica di San Petronio

Perhaps the most interesting is San Petronio Basilica in the center of the city that has a beautiful lower exterior and a very plain upper layer. Apparently it was going to be larger than the Vatican, and so the Vatican ordered houses be built around it to limit the expansion efforts which led the architect to abandon it leaving it unfinished.

4. Climb the Two Towers or Le Due Torri

One of the iconic landmarks of Bologna, the Towers of Bologna should not be missed. Appreciate them from the outside, or head in to climb the 498 stairs to a unique view of the city.

These towers were built back in 1100s and were in essence built during a battle between two families to show who had more money and power. Fun fact: The one that is now broken off and leaning was the one that won in their battle!

5. Admire the Piazza Maggiore

The central square of Bologna, Piazza Maggiore, has been the center of political and social life in Bologna since the 13th century. It is one of the oldest and largest squares in Italy and features many of the most important buildings in Bologna, including the Basilica of San Petronio.

6. Feast on Delicious Bologna Food

Being in the heart of Italy, you’ll have to prepare to eat some of the best food that you’ve tasted in your life! While you can certainly seek out the local restaurants on your own, I highly recommend you tap into the local knowledge with a food tour with a local. You’ll taste the best pasta, cheese, wine, and beyond!

Alternatively, you can sign up for a cooking lesson with a local to learn to make Italian delicacies in your own kitchen!

7. Check Out the Fountain of Neptune

Located in the Piazza del Nettuno, right next to Piazza Maggiore is the beautiful Fountain of Neptune. This fountain is made out of marble and bronze by Flemish sculptor Giambologna. It dates back to the 1560s and is still an icon of the city.

Fun Fact: Neptune is considered to have ruled the seas, and if you check out around his feet, there are four small angels. Each one represents a river on the continents that were known at this time: the Gange in Asia, the Nile in Africa, the Amazon in South America, and the Danube in Europe.

8. Walk under the Miles of Porticos in Bologna

What sets Bologna apart from many Italian cities are the miles and miles of porticos in the city. These covered walkways are considered a UNESCO World Heritage Site covering 62km with 40km in the city center. This also makes the porticos one of the highlights of Bologna.

Best Day Trips from Bologna

If you’re looking for more awesome Bologna activities, you’re in luck – there a few key day tours you won’t want to miss while in the city. Here are the two best day trips from Bologna to factor into your itinerary.

9. Do a Full Day Bologna Food Experience

Alternatively, you can do a full day Bologna food experience which includes visiting local factories that produce world-renown items like Parmigiano-Reggiano cheese, Modena balsamic vinegar, prosciutto, and wine! Of course there will be plenty of samples, along with a multi-course Italian lunch with wine pairings!

10. Visit the Ferrari, Lamborghini, and Pagani Factories

Take the opportunity to travel from Bologna to Motor Valley, home of many of Italy’s iconic car manufacturers. Here you can visit the factories and explore the museums to learn all about Ferrari, Lamborghini, and Pagani. You’ll also have the option to experience the track like a Formula 1 driver and test drive a Ferrari or Lamborghini!

Where to Stay in Bologna

To best explore the center of Bologna, stay in a hotel nearby. This will put you in walking distance of all of the best things to see in Bologna making it easy to get around (and eat all that delicious Italian food!).

One of the best budget hotels in Bologna is Casa Isolani – Santo Stefano, which is located right in Piazza Maggiore. For mid-range, I recommend checking out Antica Casa Zucchini B&B, which is located centrally and one of the best bed and breakfasts in Bologna. If you’re able to treat yourself, stay at the luxury Grand Hotel Majestic gia’ Baglioni.

Search All Hotels in Bologna

Continue Planning Your Trip to Italy

Now that you know what to see in Bologna, Italy, it’s time to continue planning your adventure! Here are some additional useful posts to make the most of your time in Italy:

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10 Best Things to Do in Bologna, Italy: The City of Porticos