bologna places to visit at night

15 Unmissable Things To Do In Bologna At Night

Landing at Bologna Airport ? You can find Bologna right in the middle of northern Italy between the Ligurian Sea and the Adriatic Sea. Bologna is located in the Emilia Romagna Region of Northern Italy. Emilia-Romagna is between Florence and Venice and is one of the most prominent areas of Italy. It may be an underrated city, but you should add Bologna to your list of things to do on your trip to Italy.

The city of more than 400 thousand residents boasts a mixed culture of over 150 different nationalities. Since the middle ages, dating back to the 3rd millennium BC, there have been settlements in the area. But in the 7th century, the Etruscan peoples came and founded the site they named Felsina.

The last large walled city in Europe, Bologna, Italy is the historic center of Italy with a plethora of baroque, renaissance, and medieval buildings in the city. Piazza maggiore is an important plaza within walking distance of the walls. In this historic center filled with local bars, live bands, and medieval buildings, you will feel like you stepped back in time.

Food tours are especially perfect at night in Bologna, to try the best Italian food just about anywhere that serves food. If you look in the Bologna nightlife guide, you will see that people from the western world like to eat so there are Bologna hotels serving their own food that include aged balsamic vinegar and other delights. You can even hear eclectic live music.

Night owls love Bologna because there is always something going on at all times of the day and night. Just take a walk down the narrow streets in the historic center of Bologna to find some of the best things to do after dark. But first, drop off your suitcases, backpacks, or some of your terrific shopping purchases at a Bologna luggage storage site for safekeeping.

Bologna Hotel Touring

This may not seem like a very interesting thing to do in Bologna, Italy, but you should visit the Hotel Touring during your visit to Bologna. It is located on the quiet streets in the historic centre and features a stellar view from its rooftop terrace. Enjoy a meal of handmade pasta with a few drops of balsamic vinegar (the best!) for a modern twist as you look out over the Italian cities.

Bologna is a city that is easy to navigate. Why not take public transit and head to Matis? Near Casteldebole train station, to the west of the Bologna city centre, students flock to Matis for techno and hip hop from both international and local DJs. Following the very latest music trends, the main club nights are, of course, Fridays and Saturdays and often hosts large dinners with live acts. Although you may not hear any country music, it does not matter because if you like loud music, crowds, and dancing, you will love Matis.

Bologna Bar Wolf

Follow your ears (and the locals) to the Wolf Bar where you can hear live music, drink Italian beers, and stuff yourself on pasta with more of that traditional balsamic vinegar. They also have amazing cocktails as well as burgers and other delicious items like pizza, paninis, and gelato. You can enjoy avant-garde performance art, folk-rock, experimental funk, and fun people at Bar Wolf, which has been jamming since 1960.

Osteria del Sole

Osteria del Sole is the oldest bar in the country, founded in 1465, and is one of those famous places in Bologna you should not miss when you visit. You can find happy hour at Osteria del Sole all night long, every night of the week. Join the locals as well as tourists drinking Italian liqueurs and eating whatever food they bring. Yes, you have to bring your own food because all they serve is liquor.

Cantina Bentivoglio

Cantina Bentivoglio is different. It is almost always packed and it is hard to decide whether it is a jazz club or a restaurant. But they serve delicious food, over 500 types of wine, and play live jazz music every night. During the summer, you will find the music outside for the Salotto del Jazz Festival. But you should reserve a spot because the locals and travelers love this place.

National Art Gallery of Bologna (Pinacoteca Nazionale di Bologna)

Museums in Bologna are always a highlight. See some Renaissance artwork at this famous museum located in the city center. It is housed in the same building as the Academy of Fine Arts so you really get two museums in one, which is a lot of art. They are open until 7 PM and feature special works like The Last Supper by El Greco from 1568 and a Polyptych by Giotto from 1330. The oldest is a painting done by Vitale da Bologna in the 130s.

Bologna Restaurants

If this is your first trip to the Italian city of Bologna, you have to try some authentic Italian food while you are in town. The best Bologna restaurants include tiny diners and cafes as well as large and prestigious eateries. The delicious food of Bologna is more than just some homemade pasta with meat sauce and parmesan cheese though. Try some traditional Bolognese dishes like risotto alla Milanese, tortelli di zucca, and panettone. A few snacks like cheese, bread, and cured meats can even make a delicious meal.

Many people visit Bologna just for the food and wine so leaving without trying some of the local tastes would be a shame. In fact, if you take a food tour at the start of your visit, you will know where to go to get the best food for the rest of your stay.

Take a Bologna Food Tour

While you are out on your food tour, make sure you stop at the Cremeria Santo Stefano where you can get the best gelato in Bologna. There are many food tours available in Bologna from the Secret Food Tours to the Food Tour and Wine Tasting. Try the four-hour Classic Bologna tour with Sara of Taste Bologna. Or learn how to make some of the famous pasta dishes with a cooking class.

The Secret Tour includes breakfast and coffee, a sample of charcuterie, Parmigiano Reggiano, handmade pasta, and balsamic vinegar. Try the Bologna Food Experiment that includes a full day of touring the Bologna province of food factories, delicious cuisine, and wine tasting at a wine bar.

Ferrari Museum

Whether you are a car lover or not, you should plan a visit to the Ferrari Museum where you can learn the history of this eclectic vehicle while you are in Bologna. The Ferrari is the most well-known Italian sports car and this museum features 25 of the best. This includes a Formula One racing car, road vehicles, and prototypes that can only be seen in this museum. It is only open until 7:00 PM so plan your time wisely.

Piazza Santo Stefano

In the heart of the city, you will find the Square of the Seven Churches. The Basilica here got its name from the seven religious buildings that were built here. Although there are only four left, it is still a must-see. You can visit the Chiesa della Trinita, Santi Vitale e Agricola, Santo Sepolcro, and the Crocefisso and check out artifacts that date back to the 8th century.

Piazza Maggiore

Also known as Maggiore Plaza, this popular spot is the main square in the city of Bologna and features medieval buildings like City Hall and Basilica di San Petronio, the main cathedral with its two towers. At night, the buildings of the Piazza Maggiore are especially magnificent. Take a seat at one of the bars or Bologna restaurants and listen to the history of the square that has been there since the 1300s.

See the Fountain of Neptune all lit up, which is one of the main symbols of the city, and the Biblioteca Salaborsa Bologna Public Library. The streets surrounding the square are crammed with stalls and restaurants selling produce, ham, and giant wheels of cheese. Piazza Maggiore is the locals' favorite piazza. In July and August, they host an open-air cinema showing movies nightly for all to see.

The Two Towers of Bologna are considered to be the symbols of the city, located at the intersection of the five gates of the mura dei torresotti, the old ring wall. Constructed in 1109 and 1119, these two leaning structures are named for the families who constructed them, the Asinelli and the Garisenda.

According to the locale, it started as a competition to see which family was the most powerful although the family of the tallest one, Asinelli, was not mentioned in documents until 70 years later. The Asinelli Tower is almost 319 feet tall while the other is just 157 feet tall. The Asinelli is the only one you can visit and it has 498 stairs to climb with no elevator.

University of Bologna

Open until 7 PM, the University of Bologna is the oldest educational establishment in the world, opened in 1088. It is also known as Alma Mater Studiorum, which means "the nourishing mother of study" in Latin. There have been students from all over the world studying at this important college. Some of the famous scholars include Dante, Erasmus, and four different Popes.

Bologna Porticoes

If you just want to see some really cool illuminated porticoes (ancient porches), the Bologna Porticoes is where to go. Located in the Cavour Galleria, these porticoes are considered to be a UNESCO World Heritage Site. You probably will not want to walk through all 39 miles but seeing the details and ornate craftsmanship lit up at night is breathtaking. This is a marvelous free activity too!

Sanctuary of the Madonna of San Luca

On top of Colle della Guardia, the Sanctuary of the Virgin of Saint Luke (Sanctuary of the Madonna of San Luca) is one of the most photographed buildings in Bologna. The basilica church sits up on a hill in the forest about 985 feet above the city. You can take the road up or walk through the roofed arcade that has more than 650 arches.

Visit Bologna at Night

Bologna comes alive at night and you can see things you would never see here during the day. One of the locals' favorite things to do in Bologna at night is to drink and listen to live music. Wherever you decide to go, you will hear great stories of the city and its history from the iconic Two Towers to the oldest university in the world, the University of Bologna.

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Bologna at night: highlights around the city, the landmarks and attractions

by Noel | | Amazing food experience , Ancient and historic sites , Architecture , food or wine experience , Italy , Lifestyle Travel , Markets and street food , Night time views and tours , Photo essay , Slow food | 10 comments

Exploring Bologna’s Enchanting Nightlife: A Journey into the After-Dark Charms of the City (2023)

As the sun sets and darkness descends, Bologna transforms into a captivating city that comes alive with an enchanting nightlife. Exploring Bologna at night is a thrilling experience that unveils a different side of the city, where ancient architecture is beautifully illuminated, lively squares buzz with activity, and the tantalizing aromas of local cuisine fill the air.

Whether you’re seeking vibrant entertainment, delectable food and drinks, or simply a magical ambiance, Bologna offers a myriad of opportunities to make your nights unforgettable. Join us as we delve into the nocturnal wonders of this vibrant Italian city and discover the allure of Bologna at night.

Things to do in Bologna at night (highlights tour of the city, piazza and landmarks)

Surprisingly there are a lot of things to do in Bologna when the sun sets and all the porticoes, piazzas, restaurants and markets are lit up for night-time fun and after hours activity around the city.

I love walking around cities at night-time especially very old medieval districts like Bologna in Emilia-Romagna . Hoping that things would quiet down in the historic center from all the bustle and crowd, I was really surprised that things actually picked up after hours with all these outdoor cafes magically starting to appear in the piazzas and many narrow streets in the Quadrilatero (the ancient food market), one of the famous outdoor markets of Bologna .

I supposed that many of the Bolognese getting off work wanted to enjoy some time after work, do some shopping and the typical paseggiata (evening stroll) that is typical in many Italian cities like Bologna. Even better when you can combine apperitivo (happy hour) with some friends or family to spend some time outdoors in this wonderful environment that is pedestrian friendly.

It feels more festive at night when the streets and piazza are full of people walking, eating and lounging or doing their late night market shopping with markets open for shoppers finding fresh ingredients for the night’s meal.

When is the best time to visit Bologna in Italy?

The popular time to visit Bologna is during the summer time when the weather is pleasant from day time to evening. But, the better time frame to visit Bologna is during the shoulder season in spring and fall when the weather is pleasant and not hot or cold.

Also, the tourists are not crowding the city so much during these shoulder season so prices are competitive for hotels, activities and even eating around the city. Daily temperatures during the spring time range in the low to mid 70s and in the fall season average temperatures range mid 60s to mid 70s during the day time.

For an amazing view of Bologna from above, you need to visit the two towers of Bologna during the day-time for spectacular views.

What to see and do in Bologna at night

With the main streets, piazza and historic district lit up in the main corridors, there’s plenty of areas to hang out, shop, eat and people watch around the historic district of Bologna.

Evening at the Quadrilatero in Bologna

Visiting Quadrilatero district at night

One of the popular Bologna attractions, the Quadrilatero is active and filled with locals looking to hang out, eat and drink at the local bars and restaurants. While the evenings are still warm in Bologna at night, it was fun to be outdoors and enjoy the lively areas around the historic district and try some of the local specialties and amazing cuisine that Bologna known for.

Bologna by night is more dramatic with all the street, markets and cafes coming alive and spilling into the narrow streets. It makes sense that everything is open at night-time from the specialty shops and markets, the bars and cafes and including all those delicious gelato stands that seem to be on almost every corner.

If you are looking popular places to eat in the Quadrilatero of Bologna, check these out

If you’re ready for a break and checking out the places to eat around the Quadrilatero, check out these popular favorite spots?

Tamburini: Tamburini is an iconic delicatessen and eatery that has been serving locals and visitors since 1932. This historic establishment offers a wide selection of high-quality cured meats, cheeses, fresh pasta, and other traditional Italian delicacies.

Osteria del Sole: Osteria del Sole is one of the oldest and most beloved taverns in Bologna. It has a unique concept where patrons can bring their own food and purchase drinks from the bar. The atmosphere is lively and authentic, making it a favorite among locals.

Mercato di Mezzo: Located in the heart of the Quadrilatero, Mercato di Mezzo is a bustling food market that features a variety of stalls and eateries. Here you can find everything from fresh produce and seafood to street food and gourmet specialties.

All’Osteria Bottega: All’Osteria Bottega is a popular trattoria known for its traditional Bolognese cuisine. The menu focuses on local ingredients and classic dishes such as homemade pasta, ragu, and tagliatelle. The cozy atmosphere and attentive service make it a great choice for a memorable dining experience.

Drogheria della Rosa: Drogheria della Rosa is a charming restaurant located in a former pharmacy, characterized by its rustic décor and warm ambiance. The menu offers a fusion of traditional Bolognese and Mediterranean flavors, with a focus on using fresh, seasonal ingredients.

Salumeria Simoni: Salumeria Simoni is a gourmet food shop and eatery that offers a wide selection of artisanal cured meats, cheeses, wines, and other Italian specialties. You can either purchase products to take away or enjoy a delicious meal in the cozy dining area.

Trattoria Anna Maria: Trattoria Anna Maria is a family-run restaurant that has been serving authentic Bolognese cuisine for over three generations. The menu features hearty dishes like tortellini in brodo, lasagna, and traditional meat-based mains. The warm and welcoming atmosphere adds to the overall dining experience.

Wine shop open for business in the Quadrilatero

What do you think about dropping into on a wine store like the one above which features locally grown wines from the region. While your shopping, you can also pick up some snacks, dessert or chocolates conveniently being sold for those that have a late night craving.

The Quadrilatero market area in Bologna’s historic center

Bologna at night is lively at the Quadrilatero and the market open to late night shoppers. It seems like everyone is out tonight, at least the night when I was walking around the central district. In any case, that’s what I love about this city – it is so alive, energetic with every table filled with joyous sounds of the beautiful Italian language being spoken, almost with abandon along with those hand gestures.

Every street in town and all the piazzas are filled with people enjoying their time outside before they have to go home for the night and call it a day.

Another popular market is busy with after work gatherings and finding places to eat good Italian food

The streets and porticoes of Bologna at night

Later in the evening when the crowds start to dwindle and everyone is trying to catch the last commuter train or bus out-of-town, the arcades or porticoes are all of a sudden quiet and eerily lit up. I seem to be the only one walking around the city this late and have all the streets to myself which creates a differing mood with the images I’m capturing .

That’s fine with me, I can explore with no distractions and crowds and that makes for better photo opportunities, especially with few cars on the roads.

Quiet streets in the historic center of Bologna

Strolling Piazza Maggiore in the evening

Portico and stores along the Piazza Maggiore

Visiting Piazza Maggiore

Late at night the main piazza Maggiore is empty from the many throngs of people sitting on the steps of the basilica and lounging around the square – all is quiet now. The eerie shot of neon lights below next to the basilica of San Petronio casts a strange glow juxtaposed next to the medieval façade of the church.  What a bizarre composition (I’m thinking) while I take the shot.

You can’t help visiting one of the popular attractions in Bologna and seeing it alive with crowds or sleepy depending on the weather late at night. That’s what is fun about exploring at night time because you never know quite what to expect from seeing it during the day time and how it changes completely at night.

Here are some of the main attractions and places to visit at the main square of Piazza Maggiore below:

Basilica di San Petronio: This impressive basilica dominates one side of Piazza Maggiore. It is one of the largest churches in the world and features a beautiful blend of architectural styles. Inside, you can admire stunning artwork and intricate details.

Palazzo d’Accursio: Located on the eastern side of the square, Palazzo d’Accursio is an elegant palace that served as the seat of Bologna’s government. It now houses the Municipal Art Collection and the City Hall. The palace’s courtyard and interior are worth exploring.

Palazzo dei Notai: Situated adjacent to Palazzo d’Accursio, Palazzo dei Notai is a historic palace that once hosted the Notaries’ Guild. Its façade is adorned with Gothic architectural elements, and it is now home to the Notary Archives.

Palazzo dei Banchi: On the northern side of Piazza Maggiore, you’ll find Palazzo dei Banchi. This Renaissance-style building features an arcade on the ground floor, which is lined with various shops and cafes. It provides a delightful setting to relax and soak in the atmosphere.

Neptune Fountain (Fontana del Nettuno): Standing at the western end of Piazza Maggiore, the Neptune Fountain is a famous landmark of Bologna. The statue of Neptune, created by Giambologna, symbolizes the city’s maritime power. It’s a popular spot for photos and a meeting point for locals and tourists.

Palazzo del Podestà: Located next to the Basilica di San Petronio, Palazzo del Podestà is a medieval palace that now houses the city’s Archaeological Museum. The museum displays artifacts from Bologna’s rich history, including Etruscan and Roman artifacts.

Archiginnasio of Bologna: Just a short walk from Piazza Maggiore, the Archiginnasio is a former seat of the University of Bologna, one of the oldest universities in the world. Its stunning interior features a grand anatomical theater and an impressive library.

Two Towers (Due Torri): While not directly in Piazza Maggiore, the Two Towers are a must-see attraction nearby. These iconic medieval towers, Asinelli and Garisenda, are a symbol of Bologna and offer panoramic views of the city from the top.

These are some of the prominent sights to explore around Piazza Maggiore in Bologna. The area is rich in history, art, and architecture, offering visitors a captivating glimpse into the city’s past and cultural heritage. Even if you can just see them at night time, it is beautiful to experience from the outside.

Neon glows next to the Basilica San Petronio

Piazza Maggiore at night in Bologna

It’s getting late and I pass through some of the beautiful porticoes in the city lit up with some of the most chic boutiques and designer stores lining the main corridors of the Archiginnasio arcades in the historic district.

Bologna porticoes at night time

Exploring the porticoes of Bologna

One of the cool things to do in Bologna at night is to walk through all the lit up porticoes and you can see all the illuminated details and craftsmanship as you pass a series of them from simple to ornate and painted surfaces.

On the way back to my hotel, I spot a beautiful light fixture with a detailed metalwork on one of the medieval buildings. I love seeing these little details that just pop out in the night when typically, they would be hidden during the daytime or look insignificant. I had to stop take a picture and admire all the beautiful artistry of this signpost.

Most of the beautiful porticoes that are lit up at night in Bologna are amazing to walk through and see the stunning frescoes and details. Here are the most stunning porticoes for you to visit at night time.

Portico di San Luca: The Portico di San Luca is an iconic symbol of Bologna and a must-visit. It stretches over 3.5 kilometers, connecting the city center with the Sanctuary of the Madonna di San Luca atop a hill. At night, the portico is illuminated, casting a beautiful glow on the path, creating a magical and mystical atmosphere.

Portico del Pavaglione: Located on Via dell’Indipendenza, the Portico del Pavaglione is a historic and vibrant portico that houses numerous shops, cafes, and restaurants. At night, the arches of this portico are illuminated, showcasing the lively ambiance and bustling activity that defines this popular area.

Portico di San Giacomo Maggiore: The Portico di San Giacomo Maggiore is a stunning arcade that leads to the Church of San Giacomo Maggiore. Its elegant columns and arches create a picturesque setting. At night, the portico is delicately lit, highlighting its architectural details and creating a serene atmosphere.

Portico del Mercato di Mezzo: Situated near Piazza Maggiore, the Portico del Mercato di Mezzo is a covered walkway that leads to the Mercato di Mezzo, a vibrant food market. At night, the portico is adorned with lights, casting a warm glow on the bustling market stalls and creating a lively and inviting ambiance.

Portico di San Pietro: The Portico di San Pietro is a picturesque arcade that connects Via Santo Stefano with Via Zamboni. It is known for its elegant arches and intricate architectural details. When illuminated at night, this portico exudes a romantic and enchanting atmosphere.

Portico di San Rocco: Located near the University of Bologna, the Portico di San Rocco is a charming arcade that leads to the Church of San Rocco. The arches and columns of this portico are beautifully illuminated at night, creating a peaceful and intimate setting.

Exploring these porticoes at night offers a unique perspective on the architectural beauty of Bologna. The soft lighting enhances the charm and elegance of these structures, allowing you to appreciate their historical and aesthetic significance in a whole new light.

Light fixture detail in Bologna’s historic district

More inside tips to visiting Bologna at night time.

Here are some insider tips to make the most of your visit to Bologna at night:

Safety First: Like any city, it’s essential to prioritize your safety. Stick to well-lit and populated areas, be aware of your surroundings, and take necessary precautions with your belongings.

Explore Piazza Maggiore: Bologna’s main square, Piazza Maggiore, is particularly enchanting at night. Take the time to admire the beautifully lit Basilica di San Petronio and the impressive Palazzo Comunale. The square often hosts live performances and events, adding to the lively atmosphere.

Try the Traditional Cuisine: Bologna is renowned for its culinary delights, and experiencing the local cuisine is a must. Head to the Osterie, trattorias, and gelaterias to savor traditional dishes like tagliatelle al ragù, tortellini, and creamy gelato. Don’t miss out on the opportunity to taste the city’s famous culinary treasures.

Experience Bologna’s Nightlife: Bologna boasts a vibrant nightlife scene with a range of bars, pubs, and clubs to suit every taste. Explore the lively streets of Via del Pratello and Via Zamboni, known for their student-oriented nightlife, or enjoy a drink in the trendy neighborhood of Via del Tipografo.

Take a Nighttime Walking Tour: Joining a guided walking tour at night is a fantastic way to explore Bologna’s hidden corners and learn about its rich history and legends. Local guides will provide fascinating insights, making your experience even more immersive.

Capture the Magic: Bologna’s architecture and atmospheric streets offer fantastic opportunities for photography. Don’t forget to bring your camera or smartphone to capture the city’s stunning nighttime scenery.

Check Event Listings: Before your visit, check local event listings to see if there are any concerts, festivals, or cultural events happening during your stay. These events can enhance your experience and offer a deeper glimpse into Bologna’s artistic and cultural scene.

By keeping these tips in mind, you’ll be well-prepared to embrace the charm and excitement of Bologna at night. Enjoy the city’s gastronomy, vibrant atmosphere, and architectural wonders as you create unforgettable memories in this enchanting Italian destination.

Where to stay in Bologna

There’s so many fantastic choices of places to enjoy and base yourself in the city which is walkable, so being central is key in visiting all the main attractions and markets in town. Here are some of our favorites below.

Hotel Touring

Located in the historic district and a four star hotel with excellent and comfortable rooms, breakfast service and even a top level hot tub with views for soaking away your tired feet at the end of the day.

Savoia Hotel Regency

Located in a two hectare park, gorgeous swimming pool and grounds, this elegant boutique hotel is comfortable, family friendly and includes a breakfast service. In a more quiet and residential area but still accessible to public transportation, it is a haven in a dense and noisy city to explore and base yourself in.

UnaHotels Bologna Centro

Located next to the central railway station and a short walk to the historic district, the convenience of this modern and comfortable hotel makes it an easy stay at very affordable prices.

Check out some of these other  best rated hotels and inns here  for current prices and availability while staying in Bologna.

Are you hungry to eat in Bologna?

When you visit Bologna, you’ll have the opportunity to indulge in a variety of iconic and mouthwatering dishes. Here’s an overview of the must-try foods in Bologna:

• Tagliatelle al Ragù: Traditional Bolognese pasta featuring long, flat ribbons of egg pasta smothered in a rich meat-based sauce.
• Tortellini en Brodo: Small, ring-shaped pasta filled with a delightful blend of meat, cheese, and herbs, served in a savory broth.
• Mortadella: Renowned Italian cured meat, similar to bologna, made from finely ground pork seasoned with aromatic spices.
• Prosciutto di Parma: Thinly sliced, air-dried ham from the nearby Parma region, esteemed for its delicate flavor and tender texture.
• Parmigiano Reggiano: A hard, aged cheese crafted from cow’s milk, renowned for its sharp, nutty taste and versatility in various dishes.
• Grana Padano: Another hard cheese akin to Parmigiano Reggiano but possessing a milder flavor.
• Crescentine: Fluffy fried bread commonly served with cured meats, cheeses, and spreads.
• Tigelle: Small, round breads cooked on a special iron and typically filled with savory ingredients.
• Torta di Riso: A classic Bolognese dessert made with rice, eggs, sugar, and lemon zest, baked until golden and creamy.
• Amaretti: Almond-flavored cookies boasting a crispy exterior and a chewy interior, often enjoyed alongside a cup of coffee.
• Ragù alla Bolognese: A slow-cooked meat sauce prepared with a medley of ground meats, tomatoes, vegetables, and fragrant herbs.
• Salsa Verde: A zesty and herbaceous sauce comprising parsley, capers, garlic, anchovies, and olive oil, commonly paired with boiled meats.
• Treat yourself to creamy gelato, available in an array of flavors ranging from classic chocolate and vanilla to unique combinations like pistachio and stracciatella.

Remember, these are just a few highlights of the diverse and delectable Bolognese cuisine. Exploring the local markets, trattorias, and osterie will unveil even more culinary treasures in this gastronomic city.

Check out all these videos on the popular foods to eat in Bologna below for inspiration for the best dishes and eats around the city.

Check out these top 10 restaurants to experience in Bologna

How to get around Bologna at night 

Getting around Bologna at night is convenient and offers several transportation options:

Walking: Bologna’s city center is compact and pedestrian-friendly, making walking an excellent way to explore the city at night. Stroll through the historic streets, enjoy the illuminated landmarks, and immerse yourself in the lively atmosphere.

Public Transportation: Bologna’s public transportation system operates during the night as well. Buses and trams provide reliable and affordable options for getting around the city. Check the schedules and routes in advance to plan your journey.

Taxis and Rideshares: Taxis are readily available in Bologna, and you can find taxi stands in popular areas. Additionally, ridesharing services like Uber and Lyft operate in the city, providing a convenient and comfortable way to travel at night.

Bicycles: Bologna is a bike-friendly city, and bike-sharing services are available for those who prefer cycling. Rent a bike and pedal through the illuminated streets, taking in the sights and sounds of the city at your own pace.

Nighttime Tours: Consider joining a guided nighttime tour of Bologna. These tours often include transportation, allowing you to explore the city’s highlights and hidden gems while learning about its history and culture.

Remember to familiarize yourself with the schedules and availability of transportation options to ensure a smooth and enjoyable experience as you navigate Bologna at night.

If you enjoyed the post, please check out these other posts of Bologna

Visiting Bologna’s outdoor markets and specialty food venues

Bologna agriturismo tour and cooking class

The towers of Bologna

A first impression of Bologna in Emilia Romagna

Conclusion to visiting Bologna at Night

Experiencing Bologna at night is a captivating adventure that unveils the city’s enchanting allure under the shimmering lights. From the illuminated medieval towers and architectural marvels to the lively squares and bustling streets, Bologna offers a vibrant and unforgettable nightlife scene. Whether you’re savoring traditional cuisine, immersing yourself in the lively atmosphere of local bars and cafes, or simply strolling through the romantic alleys, Bologna at night promises a unique and memorable experience. So, embrace the magic of the city after dark, indulge in its rich culture and gastronomy, and create lasting memories of your nocturnal journey through the heart of Bologna.

I hope that you enjoyed touring Bologna at night and seeing the highlights around the city.   If you enjoyed this post, please check out my other sites on Facebook and Instagram on Bologna and some pictures of my recent travels. Thanks for visiting today and checking out beautiful Bologna, Italy .

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10 Comments

When we lived in the UK, we’d pop over to Italy for the odd weekend. It’s a little bit more expensive to do that from the Canary Islands. But we’re prepared to make an exception for Bologna after seeing your beautiful photos of its nocturnal scene, Noel.

Such a great city-and I love way you’ve captured its essence at night. I visited a few years ago and took lots of photos–but alas with a not-so-good camera that wasn’t very good at low light shots :(. Thanks for helping me revive the memory!

I took my boyfriend to Bologna about two years ago. We ate well, we drank well and we really enjoyed the city – it’s beautiful by night, and you’ve captured it perfectly!

Gorgeous! I love the colors and the way you’ve brought history to life.

The lighting and framing on the market area photo is excellent. Thanks for sharing!

My best friend studied abroad in Bologna and had a great time. Now I see why! How beautiful.

My 10 year old daughter and I were in Bologna this past July, I have pictures of almost all the same buildings and light fixtures – haha! Thank you so much for bringing me back there today! We both loved getting “lost” and just discovering little nooks and crannies of this often overlooked Italian city. Most importantly, I thought the food was so delicious!

Walked these streets last night and they’re even better in person, especially when interspersed with stops for gelati 🙂

Ah yes that is the best way to do it with Gelati stops, why didn’t I think of that 🙂

I agree walking by such old buildings in the moonlit night is an endearing experience. Nice photos!

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Hi, I'm Noel, a writer and photographer based in San Francisco and Hawaii. I write about delicious food and wine indulgences, thoughtful luxury, and adventure travel. I share camera tips and techniques while exploring new and unusual places around the world. My site explores culture and history, art and architecture, world heritage sites, exotic locals, along with nature tours and natural landscapes worldwide. Quite a mixed bag of curiosities and quirky interests, just like myself.

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• Bologna Nightlife: 10 Most Happening & Classy Places For Partying Like The Italians Do

22 Jun 2023

You may have read about Bologna being an underrated city or you may have not heard about it all. Honestly, we don’t blame you. This Italian city is quite underrated despite its gorgeous attractions and rich culture. However, it is the Bologna nightlife that makes the city so happening and worth highlighting on your personal world map. But, if you’re wondering what exactly is there to do in Bologna at night, keep reading along because we’re always happy to help!

The city has got literally plenty of places for you to groove, let your hair down, pamper your taste buds, and soothe your ears with the best music in the country!

10 Best Places For Enjoying Bologna Nightlife

Here’s a list of the 10 best places to visit in Bologna at night and witness the city at its best. We’re sure this Bologna nightlife guide will come in quite handy for you!

• Osteria del Sole
• Freakout Club
• Bravo Caffe
• Drogheria Della Rosa
• Hotel Touring
• Impero Caprarie

1. Osteria del Sole

Image Source

Unlike the many BYOBs that you have in your city, this bar in Bologna flaunts a BYOF (Bring Your Own Food) concept, though optional. All you have to do is make sure you have bought a drink from here while you soak up the vibes of the ancient Italian inn. But needless to say, this is the place to be if you wish to experience the best nightlife in Bologna.

Timings: 10:30 AM to 9:30 PM from Monday to Thursday, and 10:30 AM to 10:00 PM on Friday & Saturday Location: Vicolo Ranocchi, 1, 40124 Bologna BO, Italy

Must Read: 10 Things To Do In Bologna For Experiencing The True Charm Of Italy

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2. Swine Bar

With a rustic ambiance, this bar and restaurant in Bologna outshines the rest without a doubt. The music here is upbeat, the food super delicious, and the vibes really vibrant. And just in case you’re a whiskey lover, jump for joy because this place boasts the classic American whiskey tradition with an extensive collection on the menu.

Timings: 3 PM to 12 AM from Sunday to Friday, and 3 PM to 1:00 AM on Friday & Saturday Location: 808 SW Taylor St, Portland, OR 97205, USA

If hip hop and techno is something that suits your music taste, then Matis is the place to be. One of the only night clubs in Bologna that bring live acts together with international & local DJs, Matis helps all its guest to keep in touch with the latest music trends. You must stop by here if you’re looking for an out of the world yet a Bolognese style experience.

Timings: 10:00 PM to 4:00 AM on Friday and Saturday Location: Via Rotta, 10, 40132 Bologna BO, Italy

Suggested Read: Italy In December: Top 6 Places That Take You Through The Best Of This Winter Paradise!

4. Freakout Club

A small space that dedicatedly plays metal, punk, and underground music, the Freakout Club is hands down amongst the most famous places to visit in Bologna at night. It is located in the Cirenaica neighborhood and is mostly a part of every other Bologna nightlife guide. So, don’t look beyond if you’re around this place.

Timings: 10:00 PM to 1:30 AM on all the days Location: Via Emilio Zago, 7c, 40128 Bologna BO, Italy

5. Bar Wolf

Opened back in 1960, this bar in Bologna will make you fall in love with Italy. With eclectic music, mouth-watering pasta dishes, and an array of burgers and salad options on the menu, it makes for a perfect place if you are looking for cheap places to visit in Bologna at night. So, while you’re here, let the beer flow from the tap and food be served at your table.

Timings: 7:15 AM to 3:00 PM and 7:15 PM to 1:00 AM on all the days Location: Via Giuseppe Massarenti, 118, 40138 Bologna BO, Italy

Suggested Read: 16 Enchanting Beaches In Italy For A Perfect Vacation

6. Bravo Caffe

If live music is what gets you high then the Bravo Caffe is the best place for you to witness and enjoy the Bologna nightlife. This place has music nights on most days of the week and is famous across the city for making hand rolled pasta. Also, its extensive collection of wine is sure to sweep you off your feet and leave your taste buds craving for more.

Timings: 7:15 PM to 2:00 AM on all the days Location: Via Mascarella, 1, 40126 Bologna BO, Italy

Located in the heart of the University Zone, this is one of the oldest and the best night clubs in Bologna, Italy. Some of the most famous artists have played here like Jimi Hendrix, which adds to the popularity of the place. If you’re up for a clubbing experience, head down right here.

Timings: 11:30 PM to 4:00 AM on Wednesday, Friday and Saturday Location: Via Zamboni, 1, 40125 Bologna BO, Italy

Suggested Read: 10 Best Hostels In Italy That Are Perfect For An Affordable Sojourn

8. Drogheria Della Rosa

There are some places in Bologna that boast a unique Italian charm and this is one of them. With no mention of menu or prices, it’ll pamper you with surprises galore. Some of their talked about dishes are the lasagna and beef fillet. So, if you wish to do nothing but gloat on a gastronomical ride, stop be here with your loved ones in the evening.

Timings: 1:00 PM to 3:00 PM, and 8:30 PM to 11:30 PM on all the days Location: Via Cartoleria, Bologna, Emilia-Romagna, 40124, Italy

9. Hotel Touring

Flaunting the most famous rooftop in Bologna, Hotel Touring is a place you cannot afford to skip when you’re out on the roads during the evening. The secluded locale adds to the quaint ambiance of the restaurant and the views of the city makes up for the unique experience. All you have to do is ask the management that you wish to dine at the top and you’d be right away comforted with absolutely privacy and bliss.

Timings: NA Location: Via dè Mattuiani, 1, 40124 Bologna BO, Italy

Suggested Read: 6 Stunning Churches In Italy That Look Straight Out Of An Artist’s Dream!

10. Impero Caprarie

Situated in the heart of Bologna, this restaurant is a one of its kind eatery in the whole city. Offering a fine dining experience amidst a vibrant ambiance, Impero Caprarie needs to be on your list of experiencing the unique flavors of nightlife in Bologna. If you are wondering why, ask the locals or check out the reviews online, you won’t be surprised!

Timings: 7:30 AM to 9:30 PM from Monday to Thursday, and 7:30 AM to 11:30 PM on Friday & Saturday Location: Via Caprarie, 4, 40124 Bologna BO, Italy

Further Read: Shopping In Italy: 6 Best Places For The Shopaholics To Indulge In An Extravaganza

The nightlife in Bologna is surely one of the top reasons for why you must visit it on your next trip to Italy with TravelTriangle. Be it clubbing or dining at a rooftop, this city will let you experience it all just like the Italians do!

Disclaimer: TravelTriangle claims no credit for images featured on our blog site unless otherwise noted. All visual content is copyrighted to its respectful owners. We try to link back to original sources whenever possible. If you own the rights to any of the images, and do not wish them to appear on TravelTriangle, please contact us and they will be promptly removed. We believe in providing proper attribution to the original author, artist or photographer.

Please Note: Any information published by TravelTriangle in any form of content is not intended to be a substitute for any kind of medical advice, and one must not take any action before consulting a professional medical expert of their own choice.

Frequently Asked Questions About Bologna Nightlife

What is Bologna known for?

Bologna is known as a food lovers paradise and is popular for its pasta dishes, meats, cheeses, and wines. This beautiful city of Italy is also loved for its beautiful architecture and amazing coastline.

When is the best time to visit Bologna?

The months between March to October is considered the best time to visit Bologna. However, the month of July and August should be avoided if you are not very good at handling the summer heat.

What is there to do in Bologna?

Here are a few unique things to do in Bologna for a wonderful experience of the city: 1. Climb the Leaning Tower Of Bologna 2. Visit Santuario di Madonna di San Luca 3. Explore The Famous Central Square at Piazza Maggiore 4. Have The Traditional Italian Experience at Aperitivo 5. Visit the Bologna Archaeological Museum

Where in Bologna has the best nightlife?

Nightlife in Bologna is vibrant and lively, but often underground as most of the nightclubs and bars are established underground. Le Serre dei Giardini Margherita, Cafe delle Drapperie, Celtic Druid, and Tre Santi are some of the must-visit places for amazing nightlife.

Is Bologna safe at night?

The city of Bologna is mostly safe even at night but it’s always wise to practice a little caution while traveling in a foreign land.

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THE 10 BEST Bologna Nightlife Activities

Nightlife in bologna.

• Bars & Clubs
• Bar, Club & Pub Tours
• Dance Clubs & Discos
• Gay Clubs & Bars
• Jazz Clubs & Bars
• Coffeehouses
• 5.0 of 5 bubbles
• 4.0 of 5 bubbles & up
• 2.0 of 5 bubbles & up
• Santo Stefano
• Borgo Panigale
• Good for a Rainy Day
• Good for Couples
• Budget-friendly
• Good for Kids
• Hidden Gems
• Good for Big Groups
• Adventurous
• Honeymoon spot
• Good for Adrenaline Seekers
• Things to do ranked using Tripadvisor data including reviews, ratings, photos, and popularity.

1. Osteria Del Sole

2. Irish Pub Celtic Druid

3. Birra Cerqua

4. Black Cat Pub

5. Harvest Pub

6. Caffe Rubik

7. Bottega PortaNova

8. Bar onda marina

9. Vanilia & Comics

10. Enoteca La Fermé

11. Covo Club

12. Vinologico

13. Il Mistico Cocktail & Wine

14. Lestofante

15. Camera Jazz & Music Club

16. Bologna Tour

17. Locomotiv Club

18. Numa Club

19. Macondo

21. Lasuite Cafè

22. Mojo Hand

23. Cassero LGBTI Center

24. Zapap Tap Room

25. Bar Formula 1

26. Bar Volare

27. Binario69

29. Wine Passion

30. bar tabacchi de dci di cicognani gianfranco e csnc, what travelers are saying.

• Bologna Tour
• Info Tourist Bologna
• Luca Bolo Tours
• Rosotravel - Bologna City Tours
• Francesco Antonelli Emilia-Romagna Tour Guide
• Osteria Del Sole
• Birra Cerqua
• Bottega PortaNova
• Enoteca La Fermé
• Irish Pub Celtic Druid
• Vanilia & Comics
• Caffe Rubik

• Travel magazine

Best Things To Do In Bologna At Night

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August 23, 2021

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Wondering what to do in Bologna at night? Bologna has so much to offer when the sun goes down! It’s a fun and friendly city, with evening entertainment covering everything from live music, cozy trattorias , eclectic bars, and world-class restaurants. Nightlife in Bologna is not to be missed, and despite Bologna’s historic past, the city feels young and alive, and you truly get a sense that you’re surrounded by so many smiling people. Things to do in Bologna at night are endless and depending on your taste, there will always be something for you . From pretty bars with the best aperitivo in Bologna to unconventional cafes, breweries, and classy wine bars, you’ll be sure to have a good time in the city. Here's my Bologna nightlife guide; complete with the best Bologna nightlife areas, the best bars in Bologna, and where to eat in Bologna.

urbanitaly.com

Osteria del Sole

Since 1465, this old tavern in Bologna has been serving locals their drinks in their traditional bar. Once inside Osteria del Sole , you’ll go on a journey through time - the bar is over 500 years old - all the while sipping a delicious glass of wine. Everything remains the same here; including the walls, the courtyard, the garden, and the stairs that lead to the cantina, which undoubtedly makes it one of the coolest places to spend a night in Bologna. The place is home to a great wine list - for both red and white lovers - beer on tap, and other Italian liqueurs and digestives such as grappa and locally produced Montenegro. There’s a bring your own food (BYOF) policy too, so if you’re wondering what to do in Bologna at night be sure to grab some cheese, bread, or cured meats from the Quadrilatero food market and head over to Osteria del Sole. Spend the second half of your day in Bologna soaking up the food and culture of the city here, in true local style.

www.puntarellarossa.it

Bar Maurizio

Your Bologna evening entertainment simply wouldn’t be complete without a sipping a spritz under the porch of Bar Maurizio and watching a spontaneous stand-up comedy or live music show. For many locals, as well as the students in Bologna, Bar Maurizio is considered the best bohemian bar in town. If you like good vibes, tiny spaces, and a clientele of people discussing the great philosophies of life with a backdrop of live entertainment, this is the spot for you. Fall in love with an utterly mesmerizing place and a Bologna hidden gem with a great atmosphere. Drink alongside Italian artists, academics, and people who simply enjoy a drink as you gather together over live jazz and local bands. Wondering what to do in Bologna at night on a budget? Bar Maurizio is both reasonably priced and is centrally located; perfect for a relaxed night in the city.

zero.eu/en/luoghi

Bar Miki e Max

Miki e Max is not just a bar, but a place to spend time mindfully and observe the local life of the city that flows through it. The owners are direct, but don’t let that intimidate you; it’s simply part of the philosophy and charm of the place. In no way refined, the unique bar which serves up a variety of drinks deserves a visit for those who wish to go beyond the superficial and touristy of nightlife in Bologna. It’s for those who desire instead to enter into the realms of a truly local Bologna spirit . Order a glass of wine and watch people pass by. See the elderly and the young happily coexist, hear the sounds and exchanges of both jokes and insults, and see locals dip pieces of bread into the most indescribable-looking broths. The old pinball machine continues to trill, but times have changed a little for this original symbol of student protesting. Holding onto its 70’s style atmosphere, Miki e Max is one of the top local things to do in Bologna at night, so don’t miss it if you’re seeking an authentic night in the city.

www.bolognatoday.it/

Parco Del Cavaticcio

During summer, the beautiful and vast Parco Del Cavaticcio flourishes into a hub of music and culture. Now an integral part of the new cultural and entertainment hub of Bologna, which includes MAMbo, Cassero, and a film library, the Parco Del Cavaticcio becomes the home of Bologna festivals. Opening with the Bio Parco in June, which presents a series of concerts held for the Biografilm Festival, Parco Del Cavaticcio becomes host to many important names as part of an international Avant-Garde, new Italian rock, and hip-hop scene. A great spot to experience something new, Parco Del Cavaticcio is one of the top things to do in Bologna at night. Pass through the Giardino del Cavaticcio; a thin, covered strip of lush greenery that occupies a few hundred meters of the place where the old port of Bologna once stood. Linked to the Cavaticcio canal, the area is a great place to wander through and is one of the top free Bologna night attractions.

Osteria Dell'Orsa

Whether you show up to Osteria Dell'Orsa at lunchtime or dinner, the atmosphere is always alive and well at “The Bear.” A spot loved by locals, Osteria Dell'Orsa has flourished over the years from its humble beginnings as an alternative punk hangout into the now traditional osteria with a shop next door selling handmade pasta to take away. The perfect spot to mix with the locals on wooden communal tables, a night at “The Bear” could bring anything from live bands to poetry readings to heated philosophical discussions. The pasta of the day could be artichoke lasagna or gnocchi with courgettes. Italy is the epicenter of freshly prepared pasta and the gastronomic paradise city of Bologna is no exception. Don’t miss this reasonably priced pasta spot from your Bologna evening entertainment guide.

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10 Best Things to Do After Dinner in Bologna

Where to go in bologna at night.

There’s no shortage of things to do after dinner in Bologna, from people-watching to late-night shopping and wild nights on the town. The historic northern city has a thriving cultural scene, and the action doesn’t stop when the sun goes down.

If you’re not ready to hit the hay after a long day of sightseeing, you’ll find after-dark pursuits for different tastes and budgets. We’re covering Bologna ’s top nocturnal activities, so you can make the most of this eclectic city at night. Here’s what to do and where to go in Bologna after hours.

Piazza Maggiore

Bologna’s energetic main square.

Piazza Maggiore is Bologna’s bustling main square and a lively meeting place for socializing locals. While its grandiose Renaissance-era edifices attract most sightseers during the day, it’s still a captivating place to visit at night.

A string of buzzy cafés lines the well-illuminated square, switching from caffeine- to booze-based beverages after sunset. Keep an eye out for the evening street performers, who dazzle passersby with novelty acts and impromptu musical gigs. If you haven’t seen it yet, take a short detour to the 16 th -century Fountain of Neptune and admire its spurting mermaids.

Location: Piazza Maggiore, 40124 Bologna, Italy

Mercato Delle Erbe

Bologna’s primary produce market.

Mercato delle Erbe is the city’s biggest produce market and a great place to roam after sunset. The sprawling complex is your best bet for picking up high-quality foodstuffs. It houses a multitude of small local stalls selling everything from artisanal cheese to fresh fruit and vegetables. Bologna is Italy’s gastronomic capital and many fresh ingredients get traded here.

It’s common to spot locals doing their weekly grocery run at night, so the evening is as good a time as any to visit. Most vendors keep trading right up until midnight. For more grocery shopping, try Mercato di Mezzo (also open late), where you’ll find pizzerias and laidback bars.

Location: Via Ugo Bassi, 25, 40121 Bologna, Italy

Open: Monday–Saturday from 7 am to midnight (closed on Sundays)

Phone: +39 33 5597 1753

10 Best Local Restaurants in Bologna

10 Things to Do in Bologna on a Small Budget

Bologna Travel Essentials

Quadrilatero, a historic retail district with a broad array of stores.

Bologna’s Quadrilatero is a historic trading quarter and the oldest open-air market in Italy. Its artisanal and mercantile traditions date back to the Middle Ages when crafting guilds traded a broad range of essential wares. Aside from a few flashy modern storefronts, its narrow alleyways retain their original medieval charm.

Throughout the district, traditional handicraft stores sell artisanal knickknacks while high-end brands (think Gucci and Prada) flog expensive leather goods. Pop into Galleria Cavour for a wide range of exclusive designer apparel. Many stores belong to families who have been in the business for hundreds of years. Some (but not all) stores trade until late.

photo by Francesca ( CC BY 2.0 ) modified

Cremeria Cavour

Bologna’s popular ice cream parlor.

Cremeria Cavour is your go-to venue for a decadent post-dinner gelato in Bologna. Overlooking the tranquil Piazza Cavour, this perennially popular creamery serves the most mouthwatering cold desserts in town. While gelato is the bestseller, you’ll find other sweet delicacies like Sicilian granita, mascarpone, and various cream-smothered cakes.

As it’s become a local landmark since opening in 2008, you should expect to queue. The small, contemporary-styled interior doesn’t offer any seating, so most punters step outside to eat on the benches in Piazza Cavour. Not sure what to order? The pistachio mascarpone gets rave reviews.

Location: Piazza Camillo Benso Cavour, 1d, 40124 Bologna, Italy

Open: Tuesday–Saturday from noon to 11.30 pm, Sunday from 11 am to 11.30 pm

Phone: +39 05 1656 9365

Teatro Duse

Bologna’s premier theater hall.

Theater aficionados flock to Teatro Duse to catch a sophisticated selection of concerts, ballets, and musicals. The historic performing arts center has been operating since the mid-16th century when pupils at a local college held Carnival and New Years’ performances. Shows run regularly nowadays, though English language gigs are hard to come by.

The tiered 999-seat theater hall retains its original grandeur with a stunning 20th-century frieze and crystalline chandelier. However, the building has changed hands several times over the centuries. As recently as 2011, a group of entrepreneurs bought the space to save it from closure. Can’t find something you like? You can also give Il Celebrazioni Theater a try.

Location: Via Cartoleria, 42, 40124 Bologna, Italy

Phone: +39 05 1231 836

photo by Biopresto ( CC BY-SA 3.0 ) modified

Movie theater Odeon

A charming retro-style movie theater.

Movie theater Odeon is a top spot for movie buffs to watch a flick in Bologna city centre. While mainstream Bologna movie theaters focus on the latest blockbuster hits, Odeon mostly screens lesser-known, hard-to-find movies. The quadruple-screen multiplex features endearing vintage decor, and there’s a lively open-air bar and café right outside.

Odeon forms part of the Movie theater Circuito Bologna, a conglomerate of 4 local movie theater houses spread throughout the city. The group sells tickets online and screens most movies in Italian. Parking can be a bit of a challenge due to its location in the historical center.

Location: Via Mascarella, 3, 40126 Bologna, Italy

Phone: +39 05 122 7916

University District

A bustling nightlife district popular among local students.

The University District is a thriving nightlife hub among Bologna’s spirited student population. Home to one of the world’s oldest universities, Alma Mater Studiorum, the district attracts uni students from Europe and around the world. Unpretentious bars and clubs lie peppered around the area, offering low-cost beverages to their youthful clientele.

Most of the action takes place on Via Zamboni and delle Belle Arti, but you’ll find bopping venues as far south as Ghetto Ebraico. Older revelers might prefer the more mature nightlife scene in Bologna’s Historic Center. The district’s thickest concentration of bars reside on (or around) Via Pratello and Via dell’Indipendenza.

Location: Via Zamboni, Bologna, Italy

Osteria del Sole

The oldest bar in bologna.

Osteria del Sole is Bologna’s oldest watering hole, tucked away on a quiet alleyway in the historic center. The lively bar has served drinkers since 1465. These days, a healthy mix of locals and out-of-towners come here to quaff Romagna region wines and socialize.

Charming old-world decor, top-notch drops, and a warm, friendly vibe make Osteria del Sole a brilliant place to imbibe. No food is available onsite, but you’re welcome to bring your own nibbles to enjoy with a bottle or 2. Pull up a pew on the outdoor patio to people-watch while you sip.

Location: Vicolo Ranocchi, 1/d, 40124 Bologna, Italy

Open: Monday–Saturday from 11 am to 9.30 pm (closed on Sundays)

Phone: +39 34 7968 0171

Serre dei Giardini Margherita

An alternate culture events space.

Serre dei Giardini Margherita is an eco-conscious cultural space built in an abandoned zoo south of Bologna city centre. During the day, the center welcomes art aficionados with ad hoc workshops and exhibitions. Remote workers come to use its creativity-minded co-working space, while garden lovers can admire the onsite greenhouse project.

The center hosts a rotating roster of evening events, from movie theater nights to orchestra performances and live DJ gigs. Keep an eye on its website to see what’s on while you’re in town. An onsite bar and eco-friendly restaurant take care of the catering.

Location: Via Castiglione, 134, 40136 Bologna, Italy

Open: Monday–Friday from 8 am to midnight, Saturday–Sunday from 9 am to 1 am

Phone: +39 35 1521 9104

photo by Francesco Pierantoni ( CC BY 2.0 ) modified

Numa Club Bologna

The biggest club in bologna.

Numa Club is Bologna’s liveliest late-night disco venue. Located in an industrial area northeast of the city centre, the booming techno palace puts on wild parties every weekend. A mostly young clientele – Bologna has a sizeable student population – frequent the warehouse-like venue, raving away until the early morning hours.

The iconic spot has garnered a legendary reputation for its next-level laser and lighting setup (not to mention the epic sound system). Arrive early and be prepared to wait because its ever-increasing popularity has led to lengthy queues. Other solid clubbing options in Bologna include Qubò, Link, and the LGBT-friendly Cassero.

Location: Via Alfieri Maserati, 9, 40127 Bologna, Italy

Open: Friday from 9 pm to 4.30 am, Saturday from 9 am to 4 am (closed Tuesday–Friday and Sunday)

Phone: +39 05 136 3591

This article includes opinions of the Go Guides editorial team. Hotels.com compensates authors for their writing appearing on this site; such compensation may include travel and other costs.

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10 Things to Do in Bologna at Night

Bologna is as lively by night as it is by day. In a centuries-old city, but with a young spirit, there are endless fun plans to enjoy. I'll tell you about them.

Sonsoles Jimenez

11 min read

Bologna by night | JJ Merelo

Magic envelops Bologna when night falls. The illuminated city invites you to stroll through it to discover a different image of its architectural treasures. Don't worry, you won't be alone on the way. This Italian city is a vibrant city where the night is enjoyed inside bars and entertainment venues , but also on the terraces.

But there are many more things to do in Bologna when night falls. You will notice how music is felt in a special way in this city , from opera to jazz, country or rock. Music that can accompany you while you taste the delights of Bolognese cuisine in a traditional osteria or in a restaurant.

1. Walk through the illuminated center

Early evening is a good time to take a leisurely stroll through Bologna. Without so many people coming and going, you will be able to admire the beauty of its main monuments. I suggest you start in the heart of the city, in Piazza Maggiore. The dim and warm lighting of the buildings that give it life create an intimate and cozy atmosphere .

Look at the imposing basilica of San Petronio , one of the largest in the world. You'll see how the lights create a very unique effect on its half-clad facade. And looking towards it, don't miss another of Bologna's emblems: the fountain of Neptune. The evening is also a good time to stroll through the porticoes of the city , which are a World Heritage Site.

Discovering Bologna when the sun has already gone down is always a good idea: for a first contact if you have just arrived, to relax after an intense day of sightseeing or to take the best pictures of your stay . Do not hesitate, it is one of the best tours in Bologna that you can plan during your stay.

But if you have enjoyed an intense day walking around the city or perhaps visiting the best museums in Bologna you always have a more comfortable alternative: take a ride on one of its tourist buses .

Book a tour of Bologna

2. Don't miss the sunset over Bologna

Watching the sun set over the horizon and stain the rooftops of Bologna with reddish reflections is a spectacle not to be missed. It is the best way to start enjoying the Bolognese night. If during the day the best panoramic views are those seen from the Asinelli tower , with its almost 100 meters high, to enjoy the sunset you will have to go a little further away from the city center.

My recommendation is to go up to the sanctuary of the Madonna di San Luca . This temple is located on top of a promontory surrounded by woods. You can reach it from the historic center following an imposing and steep porticoed gallery. It is the longest in the world, with four kilometers long and more than 600 arches.

You are probably thinking about the effort involved in the walk. But it's worth it because the sanctuary has a panoramic terrace that gives you a 180º view and offers one of the best images of Bologna illuminated. But if you don't feel like it or can't get too tired, you can always go up by public transport and walk down.

Another possibility is the viewpoint of San Michele in Bosco. This monumental complex also stands on a hill, but it is next to the historic center. You can get there by bus, although my advice is to walk to enjoy the beautiful park that surrounds it. Once on the terrace, you will have the rooftops of the city at your feet and you will see up close how they change color as the sun goes down.

Book a vespa tour

3. Immerse yourself in the atmosphere of Quadrilatero

Want to feel like a real Bolognese? Then you should start your evening in the Quadrilatero. This medieval neighborhood of narrow streets is a meeting point and a place to have a quiet drink before dinner or to continue the party in one of the entertainment venues of the city.

What is so special about the Quadrilatero? You will find a good number of traditional taverns and terraces where you can enjoy a good local wine accompanied by an aperitif. In fact, this is one of the most deeply rooted traditions in the city. Accompany the dishes with prosecco, a sparkling red wine, or with a spritz, a cocktail made with dry white wine and sparkling water or tonic.

You can also enter the Mercato di Mezzo . For centuries this has been the most important shopping area in Bologna. In this market , you can have a drink or a meal in one of the establishments that offer authentic delicatessen and that close at midnight. If you want to enjoy one of Bologna' s most special gastronomic tours , this is the place to be.

Getting to the Quadrilatero is easy, this always lively neighborhood is in the very heart of the city . Its pedestrian alleys stretch from Piazza Maggiore to the Asinelli and Garisenda towers. The Mercato di Mezzo is just a stone's throw from the Basilica of San Petronio.

Book a food tour in Bologna

4. Get lost in the university quarter

Undoubtedly, the liveliest area of the Bolognese nightlife is where the students are concentrated. The university district is full of life during the day, but especially when night falls. If you want to have fun without spending too much , this is the perfect place for it.

Along via del Pratello, via Belle Arti and a few others you can enjoy yourself in small pubs with a youthful and alternative atmosphere, but also in typical Irish pubs and craft breweries . But if there is a meeting point, that is Piazza Verdi, at the end of via Zamboni, where it is common to see students having a drink in the street. If the weather is not good, around the square there are many entertainment venues ideal for taking refuge.

What differentiates the university district from other leisure areas is not only the joy of the students, but also the multicultural atmosphere that you can breathe here day and night . It should not be forgotten that Bologna is one of the major destinations for students of the Erasmus Program .

At this point, a small explanation of why this university atmosphere. In case you didn't know, the University of Bologna is the oldest in the western world, it was founded back in 1088. More than a thousand years of history.

5. Live the party in the trendiest clubs

Do you like to dance, do you prefer to have a more relaxed drink in a lounge? Whatever you're in the mood for, you're sure to find it. Bologna is a city where you can go out at night every day of the year and find the best atmosphere you can imagine.

The best thing is that you won't have to go far or walk to get from one place to another. The historic center is one of the heart of Bolognese walking . In fact, around Via dell'Indipendenza, the main street of the city, you will find some of the most fashionable nightclubs and discos in Bologna for years, such as the famous QUBO'Disco .

If you have enough strength to last until the early hours of the morning, do not mind moving away from the center and want to enjoy very different alternatives, you are also spoiled for choice. If you like rock or indie music, you can stop at Kovo Club, Lokomotiv or Estragon . And, to see great DJ's perform, don't miss the ExForno Mambo.

6. Enjoy Bologna's gastronomy

Need to get your strength back for a night out? Take advantage of dinner to taste some of the delights of Bolognese cuisine. Throughout the city there are plenty of restaurants and taverns where you can dine quietly and try some typical dishes .

What can you ask for? If you are in Bologna, you must try the tagliatelle al ragù , i.e. pasta accompanied by the well-known authentic Bolognese sauce . More ideas for dinner: risotto with red wine; tortellini in brodo, that is, in poultry broth; or passatelli, which is also a soup, but with thick noodles made with egg.

If you find these dishes too hearty for a dinner, you always have the alternative of having something quicker in a tavern. What's more, in Bologna the aperitivo is a deeply rooted tradition . So if you want to integrate for a while in the daily life of the city, do not miss it. It takes place around seven o'clock.

Don't know what to order? The most typical is the crescentine. It is really a starter, but can serve perfectly as an appetizer or snack. They are small buns that are accompanied by salami, cheese and local sausages. If you are not very hungry, they will serve as dinner without any problem.

Book a gastronomic tour

7. Discover the mysteries and legends of Bologna

If you are a lover of mysteries, dark legends and curiosities, you can spend some very entertaining hours trying to unveil them. The first stop may be Villa Clara .

The most gruesome stories tell that one of the former owners decided to lock up his stepdaughter in it, fearful of the girl's clairvoyant powers. Some say that her ghost still haunts the house.

The seven secrets of Bologna

The night is also a good time to discover some of the secrets of Bologna . There are seven, according to tradition. I will reveal just one. When you pass through Piazza Maggiore, take a slight detour to reach the porticoes of the Palazzo del Podestà .

You will see that on one of the arches there is a statue of St. Domenico on one side and a statue of St. Petronilo on the other. If you want to confess something to your partner without anyone knowing, this is the perfect place. They call it the arch of whispers .

If you speak softly facing the wall under one of the statues, the other person will hear it perfectly from the other base of the arch. It is one of those little curiosities that usually attracts tourists. Therefore, the night is the best time to check if it is true or not.

If you still feel like looking for one of those other secrets, I'll give you just a few hints: look for the devil in the palace in Piazza Santo Estefano , find the Canale di Reno or discover what's so special about the iconic statue of Neptune.

8. Go to the opera or the ballet

Although it may not be one of its best-known aspects, the truth is that Bologna is closely linked to classical music . And it has been for centuries. To give you an idea, Mozart himself studied here and Gioachino Rossini lived here. The city is also home to a well-known children's choir, the Piccolo Coro dell' Antoniano .

So if you are an avid music lover, check out the city' s cultural calendar . It is very easy to enjoy an event or concert of your interest. And remember one name: the Teatro Comunale . It is the classical opera house of the city. Inside you will be surprised by its decoration, but above all its magnificent acoustics. On its stage operas and ballets have been performed, but also famous musicals.

If you are lucky and your visit to Bologna coincides with one of the concerts held at the Teatro Comunale , do not stay inside alone. From the terrace you can admire the surroundings of Piazza Giuseppe Verdi . Yes, the same one where students gather to have a good time when night falls.

Book a musical tour

9. Enjoy the latest live music

Not only classical music, but also contemporary music has its place in Bologna. In fact, Bologna is the birthplace of artists such as Lucio Dalla . If you like other musical styles, there are plenty of places in Bologna where you can enjoy the best live music. Some of them are true institutions in the city, such as the Kinki Club , where the concert given by Jimi Hendrix in 1968 is still remembered.

Another of the cult places is the Cantina Bentivoglio . This is considered one of the most important jazz clubs in the world. No matter when you visit Bologna, its stage offers live music six out of seven nights a week.

Many other small wineries and less renowned restaurants also offer interesting musical evenings. It's a great plan if you want to accompany good music with the best Bolognese food .

10. Don't miss the atmosphere of the markets

Markets are part of the essence of Bologna. It is worth strolling around during the day and enjoying the lively atmosphere. But you can also spend a good time in them when night falls. Those with a restaurant area do not close until midnight and are a regular meeting point for locals and tourists.

If you fancy this plan, there are two renowned markets. On the one hand, the Mercato delle Erbe . On the other, the Mercato di Mezzo . Both are in the center and you can refuel in any of its food establishments .

Good food, good atmosphere and also interesting activities, since they also program events such as conferences or wine tastings . If the dates of your stay in the city coincide, it is one of the things to do in Bologna at Christmas . The atmosphere in them is unbeatable.

Practical tips for visiting Bologna at night

Bologna's nightlife is very intense, and you are sure to enjoy every second of it. However, it never hurts to keep in mind some recommendations :

It is important that you take into account the temperatures in Bologna . If you are making plans to enjoy Bologna in autumn or winter, keep in mind that the cold is compounded by humidity . Do not forget thermal clothing.

Although Bologna has a great nightlife all year round, don't forget that this is a university city. This means that the atmosphere tends to wane during school vacations . Even so, enjoying the nightlife is still one of the best things to do in Bologna during the summer .

Keep in mind that the opening hours of the bars and nightclubs can vary a lot . In some cases they are open every day, in others only from Thursday to Sunday. And something similar happens with the closing time. To avoid surprises, it is best to check before you go.

You can move around Bologna on foot without any problems . But if you do not feel like walking, there are several bus lines that operate at night: 14N, 20N, 25N, 61 and 62.

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16 Unmissable Things to Do in Bologna, Italy (Plus Food Tips)

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Bologna is one of the most underrated cities in Italy. Despite its beautiful historic centre, rich food culture, and lively yet relaxed atmosphere, it’s often overlooked by tourists on the usual Venice-Florence-Rome route.

This is a shame as there are so many things to do in Bologna from climbing medieval towers to fun food tours, and it makes a great base for exploring other attractions in the region.

We spent a week there and loved the mix of elegance and grittiness and, of course, all that delicious fresh pasta.

Our detailed Bologna travel guide shares our top tips for what to do in Bologna, where to eat and stay, the best day trips, how to get there, and a map with all our recommendations.

Where is Bologna, Italy?

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Bologna is the capital of the Emilia-Romagna region in northern Italy. It’s located between Florence (to the south) and Venice (to the north) and is easily accessible by train.

Towards the end of this post, I share a map and details on how to get to Bologna from major cities in Italy.

Back to Contents

Bologna has three nicknames that reflect what it is best known for.

La Dotta (The Learned)

Bologna University, founded in 1088, is the oldest university in the western world and students came from all over the world to study there.

There is still a large student population which adds to the city’s vibrant atmosphere, especially at aperitivo time.

La Grassa (The Fat)

For many people coming to Bologna is a culinary pilgrimage. The Emilia-Romagna region is where many of Italy’s top products come from—balsamic vinegar, parmesan cheese, Parma ham, and mortadella.

The food here is rich and decadent and the markets are superb. I share the best things to do in Bologna for foodies below.

La Rossa (The Red)

Originally “The Red” nickname referred to the terracotta tiled roofs of the city, which are best seen from the top of Asinelli Tower .

In later years it also alluded to the city’s leftist political leanings, especially during and after World War II when it was a stronghold of the resistance against Nazism.

The other unusual thing about Bologna is the high number of porticos that extend from almost every building.

These attractive arches were originally built from wood in the late Middle Ages to create extra living space and now have the advantage of offering protection from the rain and sun as you walk around the city.

Bologna is home to the longest portico in the world at nearly 4km. It starts just outside the city walls and extends up the hill to Santuario di Madonna di San Luca —one of the best places to visit in Bologna.

1) Take a Bologna Food Tour

The cuisine is one of the main reasons to visit Bologna, and it’s well worth taking a food tour at the beginning of your trip to learn more about the food culture. It’ll help you make the most of the rest of your stay.

We did this four-hour Classic Bologna Food Tour with Sara of Taste Bologna . We started at the city’s best coffee shop sampling unusual flavours like Caffè allo Zabaione , which was like a dessert in a mini cup, and even I, a non-coffee drinker, enjoyed it.

We continued our tour around the markets and food shops, sampling olive oil and aged balsamic vinegar (and discovering what real balsamic tastes like) and learning about the best local products.

A highlight was a stop at a fresh pasta stop where we watched the ladies making tortellini (stuffed pasta parcels) incredibly fast and even tried rolling one ourselves (not as easy as it looks!).

Lunch was a picnic feast of all the products we’d picked up at one of the oldest bars in the world.

We enjoyed our food with a glass of the local sparkling Pignoletto on a big wooden table under photos of the famous clientele who’d visited in the previous decades. Of course, our final stop was for some amazing gelato.

Bologna is a very meaty city, but as vegetarians, we really enjoyed the tour and had plenty to eat.

It was helpful to learn from Sara which products (like tigelle or even some focaccia) are made with lard which is commonly used here.

Half a day spent eating your way around an Italian city is never going to be a bad experience. Not only did we get to try some local products, but we also learnt more about the city and its delicious food.

Check availability for the Classic Bologna food tour here .

Thank you to Taste Bologna who hosted us on their wonderful food tour. 

2) Go Food Shopping in the Quadrilatero

The Quadrilatero is one of the most atmospheric areas of the city.

This cluster of narrow streets off the main square has been Bologna’s market since the Middle Ages and is still full of delis and stalls selling giant wheels of parmesan, legs of ham, and pristine piles of fruit and vegetables.

Via Pescherie Vecchie is one of the cutest streets with terracotta and yellow buildings, old signs and ornate street lamps, and restaurant tables spilling onto the pavement.

The shops used to sell fish from the canals, but now you’re more likely to find chunks of cheese and fresh pasta.

We visited the area on our food tour .

3) Eat Your Way Around the Mercato Delle Erbe

While the Quadrilatero is a good place to pick up cheese and cured meats, for fresh produce I preferred the Bologna food market, Mercato Delle Erbe.

The fruit and vegetables here are beautiful and most of them come from Italy. I was excited that strawberries from the Basilicata region were already in season in April.

There’s also an upmarket food court where you can snack on sandwiches, piadina, slices of pizza, or even have a whole meal.

We stayed in an apartment right across the road from the market, which was wonderfully convenient for shopping and quick meals.

Search for more apartments in the historic centre of Bologna here .

4) Enjoy an Aperitivo

The tradition of aperitivo—a pre-dinner drink with snacks—is strong in Bologna.

Just wander the streets from around 6pm and you’ll find plenty of bars offering everything from peanuts and crisps to buffets that are enough for a meal.

Sometimes the food is included in the price and sometimes you’ll pay €8 or €10 for a drink and buffet.

The Mercato delle Erbe and the bars opposite are good places for aperitivo in Bologna. We also liked Marsalino which from 6–9pm provides pizza toasts and crisps with your drink.

5) Try Local Specialities

Spaghetti Bolognese is not actually an Italian dish. Instead, locals eat tagliatelle al ragù , thick strips of fresh egg pasta with a meat sauce.

Another classic local dish is tortellini , meat-stuffed pasta dumplings typically served in broth.

Vegetarians should look for tortelloni (with an o rather than an i) which are larger pasta parcels stuffed with ricotta and herbs.

Make sure you get them with a sage and butter sauce as they can also be served with ragù.

For a cheap quick meal, try a piadina , a flatbread sandwich with an array of fillings to choose from. The dough is usually made from lard but a few places offer a version with olive oil instead—see my recommendations below.

The wine is also excellent. Try Pignoletto , a sparkling white like a fruitier Prosecco, or a red Sangiovese . We also enjoyed the sparkling red Lambrusco from nearby Modena.

And don’t miss the gelato—it’s so good here!

See the Restaurant section below for tips on the best places to eat in Bologna.

6) Climb Asinelli Tower

I love climbing Italian towers! Bologna’s beautiful terracotta tiled roofs are best admired from above, so make your way up the 498 steps of the medieval Asinelli Tower—one of the top things to do in Bologna.

From the top you can enjoy stunning 360º views of the smaller Garisenda tower , which leans precariously next to it, Piazza Maggiore , and the hills surrounding the city.

You must book your ticket in advance (€5 adults/ €3 children)—we booked on the Due Torri website about three hours beforehand, but at busy times book a few days ahead. I recommend going early as it gets very crowded.

7) Stroll through Piazza Maggiore

Piazza Maggiore is the main square and one of the top Bologna attractions.

Here you’ll find the Basilica di San Petronio , which was started in 1390 and is oddly unfinished—the bottom section ornate marble and the top stark brick.

Depending on the story this is either because the church ran out of money or the pope stopped construction as he didn’t like the idea of the plans for a cathedral bigger than Rome’s St Peter’s.

On the other sides of the square are grand palaces including Palazzo d’Accursio which was once the Town Hall.

If you’d like to learn more about Bologna’s history, you can take a private guided tour around the historic centre. This group Bologna City Centre Walking Tour is another option to discover hidden gems.

8) See the Neptune Fountain

Next to Piazza Maggiore is the 16th-century Neptune Fountain built by Flemish sculptor Giambologna. It is so beautiful that many cities across Europe copied it.

Despite representing a pagan god, the pope approved of the statue because Neptune is the god of water.

There used to be a port and canals in Bologna and water meant power and riches—it was an extremely rich city (and is still one of the wealthiest in Italy).

9) Visit the Seven Churches of Santo Stefano

My favourite piazza in Bologna is Piazza Santo Stefano where beautiful porticos on both sides lead to a few outdoor bars and a complex of seven churches (well, only four remain).

Entry is by donation and it’s worth a wander around the maze of interconnecting buildings and peaceful courtyards.

If you’d like to learn more about the churches, visit on a private tour .

10) Visit the Archiginnasio and Teatro Anatomico

The Archiginnasio was once the main building of the University of Bologna and dates back to the 16th century.

Here you can visit the Teatro Anatomico (€3), an ornate anatomical theatre built in 1636 entirely from wood and decorated with statues.

Lectures were once given here with a cadaver laid out on the marble slab for dissection in the centre of the room.

There’s a spy hole in the wall where the church kept tabs on classes making sure that nothing too progressive was being taught.

My favourite part of the Archiginnasio building is the gorgeous portico in the entrance courtyard with frescoes on the ceiling.

If you’d like to learn more, consider this Audio-Guided Archiginasio Tour .

11) Discover the Hidden Canals

Head north of the Two Towers and you’ll find the small remaining section of Bologna’s once extensive canals.

Look out for the Finestrella di Via Piella where you can get a framed view of the canals from a window in the wall.

If you are wondering what to do in Bologna to burn off all that pasta and gelato, there are some beautiful parks to the south of the city, perfect for walking or running as long as you don’t mind hills.

12) Santuario di Madonna di San Luca

The Santuario di Madonna di San Luca is a church upon a hill above the city and is a Bologna must see.

For us, the highlight was getting there on a 50-minute walk from the centre under the 666 arches of the Portico San Luca , the longest in the world.

Start by exiting the city from Porta Saragozza and follow the portico—it’s flat until the Arco del Meloncello and then it climbs uphill.

From the church you can enjoy views of the city and countryside. The best view is from the rooftop of the church known as the San Luca Sky Experience (€5 adults/ €3 children) which you reach by climbing a narrow spiral staircase.

If you don’t want to walk up to San Luca, you can take the San Luca Express bus , but the walk is worth it if you can.

13) Giardini Margherita

Giardini Margherita is a pleasant park just south of the city and is the closest and flattest place for a run—it’s about a 1.5km loop around it.

14) San Pellegrino Park

For a more challenging run or walk head up the hills to the Parco di San Pellegrino via the smaller Villa Spada park .

It’s only 4km from the centre, but you feel like you’re in the countryside with fields of wildflowers and views of San Luca and the city.

My early morning run up here was one of my Bologna highlights. It would be a lovely place for a picnic.

It’s worth spending a week or more in Bologna as it’s a great base for exploring the Emilia-Romagna region. We visited Modena and Ferrara , both a 30-minute train ride from Bologna.

You could also visit the elegant city of Parma (1 hour on the train) where Parma ham and Parmesan cheese originate and Ravenna (1 hour on the train) known for its exquisite mosaics. Florence is only 35 minutes away on the fast train.

If you’d prefer to take a tour, this popular Bologna Food Experience includes visits to local producers of Parmesan cheese, prosciutto ham, and balsamic vinegar (with tastings), plus a traditional multi-course lunch. 

Visiting a Balsamic Vinegar Maker

Modena is the home of balsamic vinegar and it’s also where the first few episodes of Master of None season 2 were shot, so we had to visit.

After an easy 30-minute train ride to get there, our first stop was Acetaia di Giorgio , one of the closest balsamic vinegar makers to the centre (a 30-minute walk from the train station or take a taxi).

It’s very much a family-run business. Giorgio’s family has been making vinegar for 130 years and the tradition is passed down to each generation—Giorgio is now working with his son-in-law to keep it alive.

Giorgio’s English-speaking wife Giovanna explained the vast difference between supermarket balsamic vinegar and traditional DOP balsamic vinegar which is strictly regulated for quality by a consortium.

The real stuff is made from 100% grape must with nothing added—it is cooked at a low temperature for a long time until it reduces to thick black liquid gold. It can only be made in Modena.

At the Acetaia the vinegar is aged in small wooden barrels for at least 12 or 25 years.

It’s a long, painstaking process where some of the vinegar is moved from one barrel to another as it evaporates, year after year.

Finally, we got to try the final product and it was like no vinegar we’d ever tasted, thick, sweet and intense.

The type of wood that’s used for the barrels really makes a difference—the juniper was spicy and the cherry fruity.

And the 25-year-old really does taste sweeter and richer than the 12-year-old—it doesn’t taste like vinegar at all.

Traditional balsamic is very expensive (the cheapest 12-year-old costs €45), but it lasts forever and you only need a few drops to transform a dish (try it on strawberries or parmesan).

We couldn’t resist buying a bottle—not only because it tasted so good and was a rare chance to buy real balsamic in Modena, but because we wanted to support this family who is working so hard to keep the traditions alive.

Tours are free but you must book in advance by email or phone. See the Acetaia di Giorgio website for details.

Eating in Modena

Modena has some of the best restaurants in the world including three-Michelin-star Osteria Francescana , so make sure you include a meal in your visit (and it’s a good idea to book).

We had lunch at the simple, traditional Da Danilo —the pumpkin tortelloni were good if a little sweet and we loved the ricotta tortelloni in a balsamic sauce.

We also enjoyed the local sparkling red Lambrusco wine and the thick black digestif nocino (well, it grew on me). There are lots of vegetarian options and it’s good value.

Stop by Bloom afterwards for an excellent gelato.

Exploring Modena

Modena is a pleasant city to wander and worthwhile stops are Piazza Grande , Mercato Albinelli , the Ducal Palace , and the Duomo where you can climb the Ghirlandina Tower .

It’s much less crowded than Bologna’s tower, but sadly you can’t open the windows to take photos at the top.

16) Ferrara

Ferrara is also worth a day trip to see the Estense castle surrounded by a green moat.

Honestly, we preferred the outside to the inside, which was crowded with Italian school groups, but we did enjoy the views from the tower.

We had lunch at Osteria I Quattro Angeli with views of the castle and tried the local specialities cappellacci di zucca (pumpkin stuffed pasta) with butter and sage and torta tenerina (chocolate cake).

On our list for next time are these other Bologna activities: 

• Hands-On Home Cooking Class – Learn to make tagliatelle and tortelloni.
• Gelato Museum – It’s a 30-minute drive out of the city, but it’s ideal for foodies who want to learn more about gelato and even try making their own. Reservations are essential. 
• Visit a Vineyard – Take a tour of a family owned winery.
• Explore Bologna by Bike – A Guided E-bike tour that includes food tastings.
• Discover Bologna’s Best Street Art – Find the best murals with added fun on an E-Scooter.
• Torre Pren diparte – Another tower to climb with a fantastic view. You can even spend the night in the one-room B&B here. 
• Basilica di San Petronio – For €5 you can access the panoramic terrace on top of the basilica for beautiful views. Check the timetable on their website as it’s not open all day.
• MAMbo – Bologna’s modern art museum. 
• Pinacoteca Nazionale di Bologna – Bologna’s largest traditional art museum.
• Arte Fiera – Italy’s longest running Contemporary Art Fair runs annually every February.
• Ferrari Museum – A pilgrimage for the car enthusiast in your life.
• FICO Eataly World – A foodie theme park. 
• Certosa di Bologna – A huge and beautiful cemetery just outside the city. 

You don’t need a list of the best restaurants in Bologna—you really can go almost anywhere and get a fantastic meal.

That said, here are our favourites, all of which have vegetarian options (most places do but the choice can be limited).

If you’re not familiar with restaurant etiquette in Italy, see our guide to eating in Italy .

Sfoglia Rina

I love Sfoglia Rina for a number of reasons. They make their own fresh pasta and only serve that and desserts, so it’s ideal if you don’t want an epic multi-course meal.

They open all day until 9pm so you can eat outside the usual strict Italian mealtimes. They also don’t have a cover charge and water is free (very rare in Italy).

The restaurant is housed in a cool and modern space with unusual lampshades and tables decorated with pots of fresh herbs.

Despite this it’s a casual place—the menu is on a blackboard and you write your table number and order on the notepad and give it to the waiter then pay afterwards at the till.

Most importantly, of course, the food is delicious. The menu includes traditional Bolognese dishes (tortelloni is the only vegetarian one) and a changing weekly menu of more creative plates of pasta.

There were four vegetarian options and one vegan (marked on the menu) when we visited.

We had the vegan potato capellati with a cherry tomato and sage sauce and black ravioli stuffed with peas and buffalo mozzarella mousse on the side.

Both were wonderful and it was refreshing to have a break from tortelloni which was the only thing we could eat in many places. All dishes are served with a side of vegetables and a roll.

Our torta tenerina chocolate cake was excellent and even better than the one we tried in its home town Ferrara.

The only downside of Sfoglia Rina is that it’s popular, so get there early for lunch or go outside the usual 12.30–2.30pm lunch hours.

We got in without waiting at 12 pm on a Monday but an hour later it was packed, and at the same time on a Sunday, there was a 40-minute wait.

Details:  Via Castiglione 5/B. Open daily 9am – 9pm.

Website: Sfoglia Rina

Oltre is a mix of fancy and hipster and serves traditional Bolognese food with a modern twist.

The menu is quite small and there were no vegetarian mains, but when we asked, the waiter offered us the classic tortelloni filled with ricotta in a butter and sage sauce “fuori menu” (off the menu).

We shared a creamy potato and leek soup to start then both had the tortelloni and made yummy noises with every bite—it was the best pasta in Bologna that we had on our trip.

The chocolate fondant dessert was also wonderful.

It was our most expensive meal in Bologna (€63 for two), but it’s worth it for a more upmarket experience and would be even better for meat-eaters.

Details:  Via Majani 1/A. Open Thurs – Fri 7.30pm – 11pm, Sat – Mon 12.30pm – 2.30pm/ 7.30pm – 11pm. Closed Tuesdays and Wednesdays.

Website: Oltre.

Trattoria del Rosso

Trattoria del Rosso is a simple, traditional restaurant that was recommended by our Airbnb host.

They had four vegetarian mains on the menu as well as two meat-free specials.

We had the gnocchi with vegetables—the gnocchi was good but the sauce a little dull—and the special green tortelloni with a walnut and saffron sauce, which was tasty but we couldn’t help comparing it to our perfect (but much more expensive) tortelloni at Oltre.

Overall it’s nothing special but good for a casual, affordable meal (€41 for two at the time of our visit).

Details:  Via Augusto Righi, 30. Open Mon – Sat 12pm – 3pm/ 7pm – 10pm and Sun 12pm – 3pm.

Website: Trattoria del Rosso

Ca’Pelletti

We ended up going to Ca’Pelletti twice during our week in Bologna for a break from the heavier traditional fare.

It’s a casual cafe that serves food all afternoon so you don’t have to wait until 7.30 pm for dinner.

There’s no cover charge so it’s affordable (€24 for two) and you pay at the till so it’s quicker than most restaurants.

They are lots of vegetarian options including homemade pasta, soup, salads, and piadina. I liked the salads (you can choose your ingredients) and Simon’s gnocchi was excellent.

Details:  Via Zamboni, 4 and another branch on Via Altabella, 15 C/D. Open Mon – Fri 8am – 11pm and Sat – Sun 9am – 11pm.

Website: Ca’Pelletti

Ca’Pelletti was the cheapest sit-down meal we had and the following are faster food options with a few seats or you can get takeaway.

Mercato dell Erbe

There is loads of choice in this wonderful market. We liked the piadina (see below) and pizza slices at Forno.

There’s also a vegetarian stall at lunchtime, ironically in the old butcher shop (look for the sign Ex Macelleria) that does inexpensive pasta and vegetable dishes. Sadly we ran out of time and didn’t get to try it.

Details:  Via Ugo Bassi 23. Food stalls open Mon – Sat 12pm – 2.30pm/ 7pm – Midnight and Sun 11am – 3pm. Vendors hours may vary.

Website: Mercato dell Erbe

Piadina, flatbread sandwiches, are typically made with lard, but you can ask for a vegetarian version made with olive oil at Sfarina in the Mercato dell Erbe.

They have wholemeal and white dough options plus a few vegetarian fillings including a parmigiana with grilled aubergine, tomato sauce, and mozzarella.

La Tua Piadina in the market also has vegetarian piadina, but we didn’t have time to try it.

Details:  Mercato delle Erbe – Box 24. Open Mon – Sat 10am – 11pm. Closed Sundays.

Website: Sfarina

O Fiore Mio

O Fiore Mio serves tasty pizza slices with a range of toppings. You choose the amount you want and pay by weight. Ideal for a quick meal.

Details:  Piazza Malpighi, 8e. Open daily 10am – 10pm.

Website: O Fiore Mio

Cremeria Santo Stefano

You have to eat gelato in Bologna—it’s exceptionally good and the best place to try it is Cremeria Santo Stefano.

They won an award for the best gelato in Italy and the pistachio was the best I’ve ever had (and I’ve eaten a lot of pistachio gelato in Italy!).

Simon was a fan of the caffe bianco , and the chocolate fondant is incredibly rich.

Details:  Via Santo Stefano, 70/C. Open Tues – Sun 11am – 10pm. Closed Mondays.

Website: Cremeria Santo Stefano

Sorbetteria di Castiglione

Sorbetteria di Castiglione is also a contender for the best gelato in Bologna.

They have a few unusual flavours—I loved the Dolce Emma with ricotta, caramelized figs, honey, and lemon. I’ve tried a similar flavour in a few places since but nothing comes close.

Details:  Via Castiglione 44d. Open daily 11.30am -Midnight.

Website: Sorbetteria di Castiglione

The best area to stay in Bologna is within the city walls so you’ll be within walking distance of everything.

Anywhere within a 10-minute walk of Piazza Maggiore would be ideal. If you are planning to do some day trips, it’s also worth checking the distance from the train station.

We usually rent apartments in Italy as they are more affordable than hotels. We like having more space and a kitchen for healthier breakfasts than the usual croissant.

If you are on a budget, there are some cheap holiday rentals in the Bolognina neighbourhood north of the station, but I’m really glad we chose somewhere in the historic centre.

The apartment we stayed in is no longer available. It had the perfect location opposite the Mercato dell Erbe, just a five-minute walk from Piazza Maggiore and a 15-minute walk from the train station. We walked everywhere.

A few options in a similar location include:

• Apartment in the centre of Bologna – An elegant two bedroom with three bathrooms and a small patio that can sleep up to seven people. 
• The Red Door – A quiet, two-bedroom apartment with modern decor, a spacious open plan kitchen/living room, and large terrace for al fresco dining.
• Wonderful attic with two terraces – This two-storey apartment has three bedrooms and two terraces with views, and it’s just a one-minute walk from Piazza Maggiore. You can’t get more central. 

Search for more apartments in Bologna here .

Bologna Hotels

If you’d rather stay in a hotel, I kept seeing Hotel Centrale recommended in my research for its central location near Piazza Maggiore and historic building.

For a bit more luxury, consider Hotel Corona d’Oro or the extravagant five-star Grand Hotel Majestic “Gia’ Baglioni” .

Click here to search for more hotels in Bologna .

If you only have one day in Bologna, you can easily see all the major sights in the historic centre including everything in the Historic Things to Do in Bologna section above and still have time for a delicious meal and gelato.

The city does reward a longer stay, though. Bologna is becoming a popular weekend destination from the UK and other cities in Europe.

With two or three days you could see all the historic attractions plus have time for a food tour, the walk up to San Luca, shopping, and many more delicious meals.

Ideally, you’d spend a week in Bologna, like we did, to have time to take day trips to the surrounding area.

Bologna Airport is 6km north of the city and is served by budget airlines Ryanair and Easyjet. You could also fly to Florence or Parma. Search on Kiwi for cheap flights.

The best way to travel around Italy is by train. You can check train times to Bologna on the Trenitalia website . You need to use Italian place names (i.e Torino not Turin). 

Prices for the Freccia fast trains are much lower if you book online a few months in advance. Here are some journey times for the fastest trains:

• Florence to Bologna – 35 minutes
• Venice to Bologna – 1.5 hours
• Rome to Bologna – 2 hours
• Milan to Bologna – 1 hour

We travelled from Paris to Bologna by train with a change of trains (and enough time for lunch) at Turin. The entire journey took about nine hours and was comfortable and scenic.

Read our guide to traveling between London and Italy by train for more details.

In Bologna we got around everywhere on foot.

Bologna is absolutely worth visiting, and I hope you consider a visit to Bologna on your next trip to Italy.

It can easily be combined with major destinations like Florence and Venice and will give you a break from the tourist crowds as well as an opportunity to try all that delicious food.

• Dos and Don’ts of Eating in Italy
• 29 Unusual Things to Do in Rome to Escape the Crowds
• 15 Best Day Trips From Rome
• 17 Towns Not to Miss in Puglia, Italy
• Salento, Italy: The Ultimate Travel Guide
• 17 Best Things to Do in Bari, Italy
• The Ultimate Guide to Lecce

Other Regions

• 10 Ways to Make the Most of Your Stay on the Italian Riviera
• Hiking the Path of the Gods and Visiting the Amalfi Coast on a Budget
• 16 Unmissable Things to Do in Matera, Italy
• 12 Best Places to Visit in Sicily: Western Sicily Highlights

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15 Comments

Great post! Thank you!

Reply ↓

Fantastic information! Bookmarked immediately for use in my next trip. Thank you for including Vegan options!

This is an amazing post. I will always be certain to check your site before going anywhere!!!

Looks like you missed the whispering walls.

If you visit again you must try the Gnocco fritto and a glass of lambrusco di modena.

Thank you for this! I will be in Bologna for a week at the end of September and you have given me good choices for my visit. I especially appreciate the vegetarian food options you discussed. I am not strictly vegetarian, but I am not a big meat-eater either. I will definitely drop a pin on many of these restaurants. I’ve copied site information into calendar.

Best Recommendations! esp for vegetarians! loved Cremaria Santo Stefano for the Pistachio Gelato! mmmmm and the Tortelloni at sfoglia Rina

Hallo! Nice article! I am from Bologna, and you wrote really a good itinerary. I would suggest as a cultural thing to see also “Il compianto sul Cristo Morto”, a great dramatic sculpture of the Renaissance (I don’t think you have mentioned it). Also, the “Pratello” area ist an old area worth a visit, for a dinner or an aperitiv (it is full of nice bars and restaurants). Last to mention: if you come by car be careful NOT PARKING or DRIVING in the city center. Better to ask the host or hotel receptionist, many tourists don’t see the signals and get an expensive fine. Thanks for writing about Bologna!

Thank you for the tips, Fulvia! I really hope we can return to Bologna at some point!

Great article!!! From a Bolognese Girl i think you couldn’t write better! If everyone like to visit Bologna and taste a real Bolognese experience I can advice my farmhouse: http://www.nuovacampagna.it It is a marvellous farmhouse very close to the city but in a peaceful and silent countryside area, where you can taste real home made bolognese food and wines. We have 8 elegant and delightful suites, and we are very close to the city (10 min) We are Bologna Welcome and Fico Eataly World Partners!

Thanks for such a helpful guide to Bologna. Based on your descriptions, with so much to do in Bologna, we will stay longer than the two days we were planning. This will be our third trip to Italy, and I can’t seem to get enough! This trip, we’ll arrive in and depart from Venice, explore some Northern Italy cities, and possibly fly to my ancestral region of Calabria.

I’m so glad you extended your stay! Even after spending a week there we’d like to go back to explore more of the region.

I’ve been to Italy a dozen times and it’s never enough! Enjoy! Erin

Hi Your website does not have an .english translation. Can you provide more information in .english?

The churches in Bologna have some amazing relics – most impressively is the mummified body of Catherine of Bologna sitting on a golden throne at Corpus Domini. You have to be buzzed into the back to see it and it is an absolutely incredible/bizarre thing to see. Also the university has some amazing collections of anatomical waxworks and other unique medical collections, which are definitely worth seeing.

That sounds crazy – thanks for the tip!

Great article. I have been to Rome and Milan but not Bologna. Your article inspired me to start a plan trip to Bologna next!

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10 Things to Do in Bologna at Night

Bologna is as lively by night as it is by day. In a centuries-old city, but with a young spirit, there are endless fun plans to enjoy. I'll tell you about them.

Sonsoles Jimenez

10 min read

Bologna by night | JJ Merelo

Magic envelops Bologna when night falls. The illuminated city invites you to stroll through it to discover a different image of its architectural treasures. Don't worry, you won't be alone on the way. This Italian city is a vibrant city where the night is enjoyed inside bars and clubs , but also on the terraces.

But there are many more things to do in Bologna when the night falls. You will notice how music has a special feel in this city , from opera to jazz, country or rock. Music that can accompany you while you taste the delights of Bolognese cuisine in a traditional osteria or in a restaurant.

1. Walk through the illuminated centre

Early evening is a good time for a leisurely stroll through Bologna. Without so many people coming and going, you will be able to admire the beauty of its main monuments. I suggest you start in the heart of the city, in Piazza Maggiore. The dim and warm lighting of the buildings that give it life creates an intimate and cosy atmosphere .

Take a look at the imposing Basilica of San Petronio , one of the largest in the world. You'll see how the lights create a very unique effect on its half-clad façade. And looking towards it, don't miss another of Bologna's emblems: the fountain of Neptune. Night is also a good time to stroll around the city's porticoes , which are a World Heritage Site.

Discovering Bologna when the sun has already gone down is always a good idea: for a first contact if you have just arrived, to relax after an intense day of sightseeing or to take the best photographs of your stay . Don't hesitate, it is one of the best tours in Bologna that you can plan during your stay.

But if you have enjoyed an intense day walking around the city or perhaps visiting the best museums in Bologna , you always have a more comfortable alternative: take a ride on one of its tourist buses .

Book a tour of Bologna

2. Don't miss the sunset over Bologna

Watching the sun set over the horizon and stain the rooftops of Bologna with reddish reflections is a spectacle not to be missed. It is the best way to start enjoying the Bolognese night. If during the day the best panoramic views are from the Asinelli tower , with its almost 100 metres high, to enjoy the sunset you will have to go a little further away from the city centre.

My recommendation is to go up to the sanctuary of the Madonna di San Luca . This temple is located on top of a promontory surrounded by woods. You can reach it from the historic centre by following an imposing and steep porticoed gallery. It is the longest in the world, four kilometres long and with more than 600 arches.

You are probably thinking about the effort involved in the walk. But it is worth it because the sanctuary has a panoramic terrace that gives you a 180º view and offers one of the best images of Bologna illuminated. But if you don't feel like it or can't get too tired, you can always go up by public transport and walk down.

Another possibility is the San Michele in Bosco viewpoint. This monumental complex also stands on a hill, but it is next to the historic centre. You can get there by bus, although my advice is to walk to enjoy the beautiful park that surrounds it. Once on its terrace, you'll have the rooftops of the city at your feet and you'll see up close how they change colour as the sun goes down.

Book a scooter tour

3. Soak up the atmosphere of Quadrilatero

Want to feel like a real Bolognese? Then you should start your evening in the Quadrilatero. This medieval quarter with its narrow streets is a meeting point and a place to have a quiet drink before going for dinner or continuing the party in one of the city's entertainment venues.

What's so special about the Quadrilatero? You' ll find a good number of traditional taverns and terraces where you can enjoy a good local wine with an aperitif. In fact, this is one of the most deeply-rooted traditions in the city. Accompany dishes with prosecco, a sparkling red wine, or a spritz, a cocktail made with dry white wine and sparkling water or tonic.

You can also go into the Mercato di Mezzo . For centuries this has been the most important shopping area in Bologna. In this market , you can have a drink or a meal in one of the establishments that offer authentic delicatessen and that close at midnight. If you want to enjoy one of Bologna' s most special gastronomic tours , this is the place to be.

You can't miss the Quadrilatero, a lively neighbourhood in the very heart of the city . Its pedestrianised alleyways stretch from Piazza Maggiore to the Asinelli and Garisenda towers. The Mercato di Mezzo is just a stone's throw from the Basilica of San Petronio.

Book a food tour in Bologna

4. Get lost in the university quarter

Undoubtedly the liveliest area of Bologna's nightlife is where the students congregate. The university quarter is full of life during the day, but especially when night falls. If you want to have fun without spending too much , this is the place to be.

Along via del Pratello, via Belle Arti and a few others, you can enjoy yourself in small pubs with a youthful and alternative atmosphere, but also in typical Irish pubs and craft breweries . But if there is a meeting point, it is Piazza Verdi, at the end of via Zamboni, where it is common to see students having a drink in the street. If the weather isn't good, there are many places around the square where you can take refuge.

What sets the university quarter apart from other leisure areas is not only the joyfulness of the students, but also the multicultural atmosphere that you can feel here day and night . It should not be forgotten that Bologna is one of the major destinations for students on the Erasmus Programme .

At this point, a brief explanation of the university atmosphere. In case you didn't know, the University of Bologna is the oldest university in the western world, founded back in 1088. More than a thousand years of history.

5. Party in the trendiest clubs

Do you like to dance, or do you prefer to have a more relaxed drink in a lounge? Whatever you're in the mood for, you're sure to find it. Bologna is a city where you can go out at night every day of the year and find the best atmosphere you can imagine.

The best thing is that you won't have to go far or walk to get from one place to another. The historic centre is one of the heart of the Bolognese walk . In fact, around Via dell'Indipendenza, the city's main street, you will find some of the most fashionable nightclubs and discos in Bologna for years, such as the famous QUBO'Disco .

If you are strong enough to last until the early hours of the morning, don't mind moving away from the centre and want to enjoy very different alternatives, you are also spoilt for choice. If you like rock or indie music, you can stop off at Kovo Club, Lokomotiv or Estragón . And if you want to see great DJs perform, don't miss the ExForno Mambo.

6. Enjoy Bologna's gastronomy

Need to get your strength back for a night out? Make the most of dinner to sample some of the delights of Bolognese cuisine. Throughout the city there are plenty of restaurants and taverns where you can dine in peace and quiet and try some typical dishes .

What can you ask for? If you are in Bologna, you must try the tagliatelle al ragù , i.e. pasta accompanied by the well-known and authentic Bolognese sauce . More ideas for dinner: risotto with red wine; tortellini in brodo, that is, in poultry broth; or passatelli, which is also a soup, but with thick noodles made with egg.

If you find these dishes too hearty for a dinner, you always have the alternative of having something quicker in a taverna. What's more, in Bologna, the aperitivo is a deeply rooted tradition . So if you want to integrate into the daily life of the city for a while, don't miss it. It takes place at around seven o'clock.

Don't know what to order? The most typical dish is crescentine. They are really a starter, but can be served as an aperitif or snack. They are small buns accompanied by salami, cheese and local cured meats. If you're not too hungry, they can easily serve as dinner.

Book a gastronomic tour

7. Discover the mysteries and legends of Bologna

If you are a lover of mysteries, dark legends and curiosities, you can spend some very entertaining hours trying to unravel them. The first stop might be Villa Clara .

The most gruesome stories tell that one of the former owners decided to lock up his stepdaughter in it, fearful of the girl's clairvoyant powers. Some say that her ghost still haunts the house.

The seven secrets of Bologna

The night is also a good time to discover some of Bologna's secrets . There are seven, according to tradition. I will reveal just one. When you pass through Piazza Maggiore, take a slight detour to reach the porticoes of the Palazzo del Podestà .

You will see that on one of the arches there is a statue of St. Domenico on one side and a statue of St. Petronilo on the other. If you want to confess something to your partner without anyone finding out, this is the perfect place. They call it the arch of whispers .

If you speak softly looking towards the wall under one of the statues, the other person will hear you perfectly from the other base of the arch. It is one of those little curiosities that usually attracts tourists. That's why night is the best time to check whether it's true or not.

If you're still in the mood for one of those other secrets, here are just a few hints: look for the devil in the palace in Piazza Santo Estefano , find the Canale di Reno or discover what's so special about the iconic statue of Neptune.

8. Go to the opera or the ballet

Although not one of its best-known aspects, Bologna is closely linked to classical music . And it has been for centuries. To give you an idea, Mozart himself studied here and Gioachino Rossini lived here. The city is also home to a well-known children's choir, the Piccolo Coro dell' Antoniano .

So if you're a music lover, check out the city' s cultural calendar . It is very likely that you will be able to enjoy an event or concert of interest to you. And remember one name: the Teatro Comunale . It is the city's classical opera house. Inside you will be surprised by its decoration, but above all by its magnificent acoustics. Operas and ballets have been performed on its stage, as well as famous musicals.

If you are lucky and your visit to Bologna coincides with one of the concerts held at the Teatro Comunale , don't stay inside alone. From the terrace you can admire the surroundings of Piazza Giuseppe Verdi . Yes, the same one where students gather to have a good time when night falls.

Book a musical tour

9. Enjoy the latest live music

Not only classical music, but also contemporary music has its place in Bologna. In fact, Bologna is the birthplace of artists such as Lucio Dalla . If you like other styles of music, there are plenty of places in Bologna where you can enjoy the best live music. Some of them are real institutions in the city, such as the Kinki Club where Jimi Hendrix's concert in 1968 is still remembered.

Another cult venue is the Cantina Bentivoglio . This is considered one of the most important jazz clubs in the world. No matter when you visit Bologna, its stage offers live music six out of seven nights a week.

Many other smaller, less renowned wineries and restaurants also offer interesting musical evenings. It' s a great plan if you want to accompany good music with the best Bolognese food .

10. Don't miss the atmosphere of the markets

Markets are part of the essence of Bologna. It's worth strolling around during the day and enjoying the lively atmosphere. But you can also have a good time there when night falls. Those with a restaurant area do not close until midnight and are a regular meeting point for locals and tourists.

If you fancy this plan, there are two renowned markets. On the one hand, the Mercato delle Erbe . On the other, the Mercato di Mezzo . Both are in the centre and you can refuel at any of their food establishments .

Good food, good atmosphere and interesting activities, as they also host events such as conferences and wine tastings . If the dates of your stay in the city coincide, this is one of the things to do in Bologna at Christmas . The atmosphere is unbeatable.

Practical tips for visiting Bologna at night

Bologna's nightlife is very intense, and you are sure to enjoy every second of it. However, it never hurts to keep in mind some recommendations :

It is important to be aware of the temperatures in Bologna . If you are making plans to enjoy Bologna in autumn or winter, bear in mind that the cold is accompanied by humidity . Don't forget thermal clothing.

Although Bologna has a lively nightlife all year round, don't forget that this is a university city. This means that the atmosphere tends to wane during school holidays . Even so, enjoying the nightlife is still one of the best things to do in Bologna during the summer .

Be aware that the opening hours of bars and nightclubs can vary greatly . Some are open every day, others only from Thursday to Sunday. The same applies to closing times. To avoid surprises, it is best to check before you go.

You can get around Bologna on foot without any problems . But if you don't feel like walking, there are several bus lines that operate at night: 14N, 20N, 25N, 61 and 62.

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Bologna city guide: what to see plus the best bars, restaurants and hotels

The opening of a foodie theme park will further elevate Bologna’s reputation as Italy’s culinary capital but the city has plenty more to offer, including superb art, music and medieval architecture

E urope’s oldest university town (it was founded in 1088) has been a haven for intellectuals and creative types since luminaries such as Dante and Petrarch passed through in the 14th century. Cultural capitals can ossify with time, but the constant influx of young blood into Bologna has kept the city alive. In the evenings, cafes flood with Bolognesi, from high-society ladies to stylishly scruffy undergraduates arguing politics and sipping Aperol spritzes.

Piazza Verdi attracts musicians and dreadlocked punks, while bars under the arches of Piazza Santo Stefano are a lovely spot for a sundowner. At weekends the central Via Ugo Bassi and Via Rizzoli, along with perpendicular Via dell’Indipendenza, are pedestrianised and fill with shoppers and street performers. At nightfall, crowds from the student bars along Via Zamboni and the more upscale options on Via del Pratello spill into the streets.

Bologna has several nicknames – la dotta (the learned) and la rossa (the red, for its leftwing politics) - but it is la grassa (the fat) that’s perhaps the most fitting. Food is a very big deal here, as it is throughout the Emilia-Romagna region – the home of parma ham, balsamic vinegar and parmesan. Cured meats, aged cheeses, cream, butter, game and truffles abound in this most indulgent of cuisines – and autumn, with its plentiful porcini mushrooms and sweet chestnuts, is a great time of year to visit.

Many of Italian cuisine’s heavy hitters – tagliatelle al ragù , mortadella , tortellini , lasagne alla bolognese – originate and are at their finest here. The classics still have pride of place, but in the past few years the range of restaurants has broadened. And next month sees the opening of Fico Eataly World , a long-awaited €100m foodie theme park.

WHAT TO SEE AND DO

Learn about the cuisine.

Eataly World opens on 15 November, with rides, workshops, restaurants, pastures, an orchard and a vineyard for tasting and learning about everything from dairy farming to prosciutto production. There will be tricycles to explore the 20-acre complex, entry is free, the various activities start at €10pp and a hotel will open there next year.

This may be the city’s flashiest culinary attraction, but it’s hardly the only one. For a more personal look at la cucina bolognese , book one of Rita Mattioli’s intimate cooking classes, which feel like a warm, sophisticated dinner party. Whether you’re a novice learning to roll translucent sheets of pasta or trying to reproduce a professional tiramisù , make sure to book well in advance (from €60pp, +39 348 341 0168, bolognawelcome.com ).

Davide Simoni’s family has run the Salumeria Simoni shop in the city centre for generations, and he leads tours (from €10) peppered with anecdotes about the city’s pork butchers.

Those with a sweet tooth may prefer the Carpigiani Gelato museum , which offers sessions for casual ice-cream enthusiasts (€20) and masterclasses (€45). It’s a schlep out of the centre and booking is essential. For a more spontaneous sweet treat, Il Gelatauro on Via San Vitale, Cremeria Funivia off Via Farini and Cremeria Santo Stefano on Via Santo Stefano, south of the centre, all serve sublime scoops.

Shop at the food markets

Bologna’s food markets are among the best in Italy: stalls in the Quadrilatero, the centuries-old grid of streets south of Via Rizzoli, are the place to try fine cheeses, at La Baita Vecchia Malga on Via Pescherie Vecchie; pastries, from Paolo Atti & Figli on Via degli Orefici; and anything else, from wine to charcuterie, at Tamburini on Via Caprarie. Pick up your delicacies and head to Osteria del Sole on Vicolo Ranocchi, a raucous bar dating back to 1465, where the wine is cheap and food is BYO.

Bustling Mercato di Mezzo on Via Clavature is great at any time of day for a casual bite, while Mercato delle Erbe , at the western end of Via Ugo Bassi, is where chefs load up on Emilia-Romagna ’s premium produce in the mornings. Though the rustic ambiance remains intact, the market now hosts the cool Altro? food hall and occasional live music events.

For slow food straight from the source, head to the weekly Mercato delle Terre on Via Azzo Gardino, in the courtyard of the Cinema Lumière, where more than 40 vendors offer everything from artisanal cheeses to cooking demonstrations.

Art, history and music

Those planning to visit several museums can save money with a Bologna welcome card (from €20).

There’s an impressive collection of works by Giotto, Titian, Raphael and other old masters at the Pinacoteca Nazionale di Bologna (€6 adult, €3 for 18-25s), plus contemporary art at MAMbo (€4-€6, children free). The latter also houses the Morandi Museum, a tribute to local still-life artist Giorgio Morandi. In the early evening, wing by MAMbo’s bar for a drink and a sumptuous aperitivo spread (€8 with first drink). Museo della Storia di Bologna (€10 adult, €8 19-26s, €6 6-18s) in Palazzo Pepoli has interactive, hi-tech exhibits on Bolognese society through the years. Exhibits are in Italian, but there’s an engaging English-language audio guide.

Film fans can journey back to the golden age of Italian film making at the vast library on the history of cinematography at the Cineteca di Bologna art-house theatre (Via Azzo Gardino 65).

No visit to this Unesco world city of music would be incomplete without a stop at the Museo Internazionale e Biblioteca della Musica di Bologna (€3-€5, children free) in the frescoed Palazzo Sanguinetti. Small in size, yet broad in scope, the museum displays an array of historic portraits, documents and more than 80 instruments.

Scale the heights

The Santuario della Madonna di San Luca basilica keeps an eye on Bologna from a hill 10km south-west of the centre. It can be reached on the San Luca Express , a tourist “train” running from Piazza Maggiore, but it’s more enjoyable to spend an afternoon trekking the twisting path, with its (supposed) 666 porticos, from Piazza di Porta Saragozza on the western edge of the centre. Scholars believe the demonic number is no coincidence – the final stretch can feel particularly devilish.

Back in the centre, it’s considered bad luck for students to climb le due torri (the two leaning medieval towers in Piazza di Porta Ravegnana that are a symbol of the city) before graduating, but travellers need not fear such superstition. The smaller Torre Garisenda, which leans the furthest of the two, is not open to the public, but the 498 steps to the top of Torre Asinelli (€3-€5) reward climbers with a postcard-perfect vista of the city’s red rooftops.

WHERE TO EAT

Trattoria di via serra.

Sparsely decorated and just outside the historic centre, this modest trattoria might seem an unlikely candidate for one of the most popular in town, but Flavio Benassi and Tommaso Maio’s inspired countryside dishes ensure the house is full every night, making reservations essential. The menu seldom stays the same for more than a week, but pear-stuffed tortellini slicked with butter and speckled with poppy seeds (€9.50), chestnut-flour spaghetti alla chittara with porcini and hazelnuts (€10.50), or a scoop of pistachio-dusted chicken liver pâté (€8) are not to be missed. Via Luigi Serra 9, +39 051 631 2330, Wed-Thurs 7-10pm, Fri-Sun 12-2pm and 7-10pm, trattoriadiviaserra.it

Sette Tavoli

Rotating menus served at chef Marco Spanghero’s sette tavoli (seven tables) spot highlight a different region of Italy each month. A Friulian menu might feature earthy porcini risotto (€12) or venison braised with cinnamon (€15), while an Umbrian meal might begin with tender rabbit with hazelnuts, foie gras and bitter chocolate (€12). Via Cartoleria 15, +39 051 272 900, Mon-Fri 12-3pm and 7pm-midnight, Sat 6.30pm-midnight, settetavoli.it

Drogheria della Rosa

This converted pharmacy offers an effusive welcome and some of the most soulful cooking in town. Owner Emanuele Addone can be seen day and night greeting guests and insisting they try his first-press olive oil from Lucca, or dainty, thumbnail-sized tortellini in a rich capon broth (€12). Don’t come here for a quiet, candlelit evening. Via Cartoleria 10, +39 051 222 529, daily 1-2.30pm and 8.30-11.30pm, drogheriadellarosa.it

Ristorante Pappagallo

It’s more than a century old, and the crisp white linens and tuxedoed waiters may seem a throwback, but this gastronomic icon in a palazzo by the two towers doesn’t rest on its laurels. The kitchen keeps it fresh with contemporary twists on the regional cuisine, such as a glossy Iberian pork cheek on a brushstroke of butternut squash (€22) and coffee-flavoured tagliatelle. Classics, such as the legendary spinach-tinted lasagne (€14) or saffron-hued tagliatelle (€14), are treated with equal reverence. Piazza della Mercanzia 3, +39 051 232 807, daily 11am-1am (2am on Thurs and Fri), alpappagallo.it

Ristorante La Traviata

Peek into the back on a lazy afternoon and you may spy the chefs pinching sheets of pasta into flawless tortellini. They perform other miracles with that yolk-yellow dough, the most impressive of which is the lasagne alla bolognese (€12), served once a week – a dish consisting of three kinds of meat and béchamel that still feels feather-light. Or try one of the many variations on classic lasagne – a savoury pumpkin-mushroom version is particularly good – that follow the seasons. Via Urbana 5, +39 051 331 298, Midday-2.30pm and 8-11pm, closed Sunday, on Facebook

Trattoria Valerio

This humble, family-run eatery has been dishing up cosy comfort fare like tagliatelle al ragù (€9) and polpettine con piselli (meatballs with peas, €9) since 1898. The presentation is as unpretentious as can be, but the prices are low, the portions ample, and everything is made by hand with the greatest of care. Via Avesella 10, +39 051 268 404, Midday-2pm and 7pm-9.30pm, closed Wed and Sun, trattoriavalerio.com

Berberè Pizzeria

If it’s pizza you’re after, and at a decent price (from €6) then the low-rise sourdough crusts and mostly organic ingredients (tomatoes are sourced only from select farms in Puglia and the mozzarella di bufala from Caserta, Campania) make this central eaterie stand out. Organic products are also on sale in the restaurant’s shop. Via Petroni 9c, +39 051 275 9196, Tues-Sun 12.30-3.30pm/6-11pm, Mon 7-11pm, berberepizza.it

WHERE TO DRINK

Enoteca storica faccioli.

This sophisticated nook has one of the best selections of natural wines you’ll find anywhere. Though some of these vinos are notoriously funky, the cellar here is also stocked with pleasantly nuanced, thoroughly drinkable finds. Knowledgeable staff are passionate but never pretentious, making it a pleasure to seek out lesser-known vintages from the vast menu. Via Altabella 15/B, Mon-Fri 5-9.30pm, Sat 11am-10pm, open on Sunday from October to March only (5-9.30pm), enotecastoricafaccioli.it

A bad cappuccino is hard to find in this caffeine-obsessed city, but few places elevate it to the level that this shoebox-sized gem achieves. For a decadent start to the day, try the speciality coffees with local liqueurs or Sicilian almond milk. Via Porta Nova 12, Mon-Sat 8am-6pm, ilpiaceredelcaffe.it

Biblioteca Salaborsa

When in Bologna, do as the students do and grab your morning espresso and brioche at this atmospheric library. And be sure to look up at the grand, Corinthian-columned central room that once housed the financial exchange, then down to the glass floor that exposes the 2,000-year-old ruins of the city’s ancient heart. Piazza del Nettuno 3, Tues-Sat 10am-8pm, Mon 2.30-8pm, bibliotecasalaborsa.it

Beer 4 Bunnies

A few years ago, a beer bar in this wine-loving town would have seemed heretical; now locals drinking craft brews on Via del Pratello are a common sight. Beer 4 Bunnies, the first bar/shop of its kind in the area, packs an array of lesser-known bottles and a rotating selection of drafts into a small space. Piazza San Francesco 11, Mon-Sat 4-10pm, Sun 3-9pm, on Facebook

WHERE TO STAY

I portici hotel.

Housed in the gorgeously restored 19th-century Palazzo Maccaferri, the city’s grande dame balances old world elegance with contemporary comfort. Many of the 89 rooms and suites have original frescos and views of either Via dell’Indipendenza, the portico-lined boulevard stretching from the station to Piazza Maggiore, or the atmospheric winter garden. The hotel’s Michelin-starred signature restaurant, with chef Agostino Iacobucci at the helm, serves dishes such as roast suckling pig with Swiss chard and kumquats (€30). Doubles from €120 room only (breakfast €15), iporticihotel.com

Albergo delle Drapperie

This 20-room boutique hotel in the Quadrilatero is steps away from a boisterous evening scene and a dozen excellent restaurants. Contemporary furnishings belie the building’s age. Doubles from €95 room only (breakfast €5), albergodrapperie.com

Hotel Metropolitan

Understated Asian-inspired decor gives this modern, minimalist place a Zen vibe that’s a welcome contrast to all that grandiose architecture. Suites adjacent to the upstairs courtyard, a green oasis shaded by olive trees and sheltered from street noise, are particularly coveted. Doubles from €136 B&B, hotelmetropolitan.com

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Home » Travel Guides » Italy » 15 Best Things to do in Bologna (Italy)

15 Best Things to do in Bologna (Italy)

Bologna serves as the capital of the Emilia-Romagna region of Northern Italy and has a current population of approximately 387,000. with a greater metropolitan population of just over 1 million inhabitants. Bologna occupies a central location in Italy and lies to the north of Florence, to the South of Venice and to the South East of Milan. Throughout history, Bologna has served as a major cultural and economical hub in Italy and has been ruled by the Etruscans, Celts and Romans respectively.

From the 18th century onwards, this city was part of the Papal States until the Napoleonic area in the 1700’s. Major economies in Bologna include the manufacturing industry, and a strong financial sector. Furthermore due to its location, the city also serves as a major transport hub. As a major university city and its long history, Bologna has a wonderful array of cultural sights, fantastic architecture and high quality museums.

Lets explore the best things to do in Bologna :

1. Piazza Maggiore

As the central square in Bologna, the Piazza Maggiore is located right in the centre of the city and serves as an important historical place.

This square is packed full with important buildings including the Pallazo d’Accursio, the Palazzo del Podesta, the Basilica di San Petronio and the Palazzo Comunale.

Furthermore to the north west of the square sits the Piazza del Nettuno that contains the famous Fountain of Neptune.

Admire the fantastic architecture, visit the palaces and basilica, or sit and enjoy a fine Italian meal at one of the restaurants nestled in the Porticos.

A fantastic vibe and atmosphere can be found at the Piazza and open air movies and concerts are sometimes held here.

2. The leaning towers of Bologna

Who would of thought that the famous tower at Pisa is not the only leaning tower? Bologna actually has a pair of leaning towers and one is taller than the iconic campanile! Bologna actually has a myriad of towers, but the two tall examples standing in the Piazza di Porta Ravegnana are the most legendary.

Asinelli and Garisenda are two tall towers that stand next to each other and are both named after important Italian families.

Asinelli stands at 97.2m and was used as a prison and a stronghold.

Garisenda stands only at 48m but has an extremely noticeable tilt and overhang of 3.2m.

Climb the towers for unparalleled views of Bologna and see the epic landscapes stretching for miles around.

3. San Petronio

This immense structure stands as the 10th largest church in the world by volume and presents a domineering presence in the centre of the Piazza Maggiore.

Dedicated to Saint Petronius who is actually the patron saint of Bologna, the church has a Gothic design and it is noted for both it sheer size and its unfinished front facade.

Originally constructed in 1388 through to 1479, the church has never been truly finished and its front facade is quite bizarre – the lower half features coloured marble stone work, whilst the top half remains bare and contains exposed brown brickwork.

Inside the church feels truly epic – The large brick columns adorned with decoration seem to stretch forever and the main altar draws your attention as you walk down the central aisle.

4. Archiginnasio

Listed as one of the most important buildings in Bologna, the Archiginnasio was once the main buildings of the University of Bologna and now houses the famous Anatomical Theatre.

This fantastic building was created in the 16th century and is located on the Piazza Galvani.

As a piece of historical architecture, the Achiginnasio is fantastic in its own right, but the Anatomical Theatre is undoubtedly the centre piece.

Created completely in wood, this small room has an immense amount of wood panelling and carved statues of famous medical practitioners.

Furthermore, in the centre of the room surrounded by seating platforms lies an ornate anatomical table.

This is the place where university students would have learnt about the human anatomy and watched dissections and demonstrations of surgery etc.

5. Bologna Archaeological Museum

A fine museum in the heart of Bologna, the Archaeological Museum offers a fantastic insight into the history of the city throughout the ages.

Located on the Piazza Maggiore, the museum is easily accessible and is a fascinating place to visit.

The museum hosts a huge range of collections and is split into 9 different sections, these include: Prehistoric, Etruscan, Celtic, Greek, Roman, Egyptian and Numismatic.

Each collection contains a superb display of different artefacts such as Bronze Age tools, skeletal remains, pottery, weaponry, china and marble statues.

Due to the large collection and its variety, you could spend hours admiring the displays and learning about the ancient history of the region.

6. Bologna National Gallery

Whilst some galleries display works from a variety of countries, the Bologna National Gallery contains works that are related someway to the Emilian region and the city – These paintings range in age as far back as the 13th century, up to the 18th century.

Located within the confines of the old university complex, the museum is within easy reach of the city centre and the main Piazza Maggiore.

Split into two main sections, the museum contains the Accademia Clementina and the Gallery of the Academy of Fine Arts; the first of which contains a myriad of fantastic 13th century Byzantine paintings and the latter contains later works.

Notable pieces include the Ecstasy of St. Cecilia by Raphael and Christ and the Good Theif by Titian.

7. La Piazzola Market

This historic market has been held in Bologna for hundreds of years and continues to prove increasingly popular with both the locals and tourists.

Located in the Piazza dell Agosto which can be found to the north of the city centre, the market features over 400 different stalls and is a truly fascinating sight to witness.

Here you can find practically anything for sale from clothes, shoes, fashion accessories, flowers, pottery and jewellery.

You will find the atmosphere captivating – The locals will haggle and shout, you will smell the different foods, spices and creations, and you will see the wider variety of different colour on display.

8. Monte della Guardia

The longest portico in the world leads up to the top of Monte della Guardia.

This forested hill provides a fantastic escape from the city and reaches a height of approximately 300m.

You can find the hill to the south west of Bolongna in close proximity to the Reno River.

Walk the length of the portico and climb the slopes to reach the top of this wonderful hill.

At the top you will be greeted with unparalleled panoramic views of Bologna and the surrounding regions.

Furthermore, the delightful Sanctuary of the Madonna of San Luca is perched on top of the hill and is a fantastic church to visit in its own right.

9. Santuario di Madonna di San Luca

As one of the oldest churches in Bologna, the Sanctuary of Madonna was first created in 1194 but not finished until 1765. This church sits on top of the Monte della Guardia and offers great views of the city of Bologna.

Towering over the surroundings, the main building features a central basilica and is created from an orange/pink material with green domes; its style is considered to be Baroque.

Inside, the sanctuary features a plethora of fantastic decoration and detailed frescos that depict important religious scenes.

Furthermore the is also an icon of the Virgin Mary that was supposedly painted by Luke the Evangelist.

10. Torre Prendiparte

As previously mentioned, Bologna was once full of tall, narrow stone towers during the Middle Ages – Only a handful still remain today in their original shape and design, one of which is the Torre Prendiparte.

This particular tower was constructed during the 12th century and stands at 59.50 metres high.

Located on the Piazza Prendiparte, the tower lies close to the two leaning towers and the Piazza Maggiore.

It now hosts a bed and breakfast establishment which offers a unique experience, but the levels of the tower are also still open and you can climb to the top and explore this wonderful building.

11. Oratory of Battuti

This small chapel located within the church of Santa Maria della Vita features a tremendous amount of design and decoration and is one of the rarely seen finds in Bologna – Many people simply forget it is there.

The Oratory was constructed in 1604 and was designed by Floriano Ambrosini.

Contained within the Oratory is a myriad of sculptures included statues of St. Proculus and St. Petronius, and also a variety of beautiful frescos.

If you tilt your head back, the ceiling presents you with a stunning depiction of the ascension of Madonna, and the walls feature other religious iconography.

12. Museo per la Memoria di Ustica

A slightly haunting and sombre attraction, but nonetheless an important part of the history of Bologna – The Museum for the Memory of Ustica is dedicated to the fateful Ustica Disaster.

In 1980 a Douglas DC-9 filled with 81 passengers that was heading to Palermo was torn in pieces and crashed, killing all the people on board.

This disaster remains a true mystery and the cause of the crash is still under investigation and debated highly.

Inside this museum, you can see the reconstructed remains of the DC-9 place together with a collection of photographs and possessions from the unfortunate victims.

This dedicated museum is tastefully constructed and allows you to pay tribute to those who lost their lives during the Ustica disaster.

13. St. Stephen Basilica

This historical religious complex is located in the Piazza Santo Stefano and features several different buildings including the Church of Saint John the Baptist, The Church of the Holy Sepulchre and the courtyard of Pilate.

As you walk through the first church, you might think that it is just one building, but as you step into the main arched courtyard you can see the various different buildings.

Each church has its own character, design and artwork and there is also a free museum that contains historical information about the complex.

14. Try a local dish of Tortellini

Tortellini is one of the most popular traditional Italian foods in Bologna and most local restaurants will serve this tantalizing dish.

Traditionally, Tortellini ring shaped pasta is filled with various stuffing’s such as pork, prosciutto and cheese, and served in a form of chicken or beef broth.

Mystery and intrigue surround the origins of this food but Bologna is considered to be one of the best places to experience an authentic Tortellini dish.

Consider frequenting one of the restaurants surrounding the Piazza Maggoire, or venturing down the side streets to find a local eatery not geared towards tourists.

15. Explore the Porticoes

Bologna is famed for its extensive Portico – A Portico is essentially a partially enclosed walkway that is lined with arches and columns.

As Bologna grew as a university city, so did the amount of Porticos present in the city.

It is reported that within the confines of the city centre, you can walk through 40km of corridors.

There are numerous different porticos scattered around the city but the most famous are the Bonaccorsi Arch and the walkway leading to the Sanctuary of the Madonna di San Luca.

Walk through the porticos and admire the wonderful ancient architecture.

15 Best Things to do in Bologna (Italy):

• Piazza Maggiore
• The leaning towers of Bologna
• San Petronio
• Archiginnasio
• Bologna Archaeological Museum
• Bologna National Gallery
• La Piazzola Market
• Monte della Guardia
• Santuario di Madonna di San Luca
• Torre Prendiparte
• Oratory of Battuti
• Museo per la Memoria di Ustica
• St. Stephen Basilica
• Try a local dish of Tortellini
• Explore the Porticoes

Renaissance, Romance and Ragù: three days in beautiful Bologna

Home » Destinations » Europe » Italy » Renaissance, Romance and Ragù: three days in beautiful Bologna

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Updated: 25th January 2021

Dedicated to Silvia: The star of Bologna and now a star in the sky x

‘‘A little bit of a bread, a little bit of Mozzarella?’  Chiara called back to our eager faces as we nodded, excitedly wetting our palates with some local Lambrusco and counting down the minutes until we sampled our first Emilia Romagna meal. The food was as good as the regions reputation promised, the company a perfect accompaniment, and we laughed throughout dinner until our bill was deposited, momentarily wiping away our joy at what was meant to be an affordable first meal in Bologna.

A little bit of everything extra had turned into a lot of extra Euros, and we laughed again, this time at Chiara’s sales skills and our easy fall into the upgrade scam. We couldn’t hold a grudge though, not here in Bologna, a city as loving and warm as the complimentary Limoncello shots we were gifted by Chiara on our departure.

It was the only time I felt cheated in this captivating yet somewhat underrated European city . For the locals of Bologna are some of the most liberal, kind, and friendly you will meet in  Italy , or dare I say the world. Bologna is a city that reels you into its never-ending maze of Porticos, but the prize in this maze is getting blissfully lost, and ideally never finding your way out.

Two visits to this city in six-months shows just how much Bologna clawed its way into my heart: from the unbelievably cheap daily delicious pizza slices to the epicurean dishes in family-run Osterias, Bologna fed me well – this is one of Europe’s most famous food destinations for good reason. But it also fed my soul: the intricate frescos in the western worlds oldest University, the imposing towers with their unforgettable views, the 40-kilometres of Porticos which feel like an inside-outside gallery, Bologna is a city that you feel as much as you visit.

I can wax lyrically over this city I could easily call home for hours at a time, but I’m sure you’d rather know how to make your own weekend visit to the culinary capital of Italy just as special. Here are my favourite things to do in Bologna, and from these, I’m sure you can build the perfect three day trip to Bologna… and do tell her I’ll be back soon.

Want to spend your three days in Bologna exploring more of the region? Check out my  Venice to Bologna, Parma and Modena in three days  post. 

Bologna One Day Itinerary

From Michelangelo’s sculpture work to Morandi’s paintings, Bologna is a city you could easily spend days enjoying the art and architecture off – in fact, in the Emilia Region alone there are  13 UNESCO sites , so be sure to enjoy those that are in the city.

For day one, let’s start with some of the highlights, and some gelato because it’s a totally suitable food-group to build a whole lunch out of when in Italy!

Piazza Maggiore

Set in the centre of the old town, Piazza Maggiore will forever be one of my favourite places in the city to people watch, sip on a local Lambrusco, or sneak off into the small streets nearby for a breakfast or to buy some local goods.

Here, medieval palaces sit alongside Romanesque cathedrals, and there are a few sights you can enjoy on the square itself.

Start inside the Basilica di San Petronio, which dates back to the 14th-century and is the most important church that Bologna has to offer. the most important church in the city hailing back to the 14th-century, it’s also one of the largest in Europe. Be sure to head inside, and while outside, you’ll likely notice it was never fully completed – with the marble at the bottom turning into plain brickwork higher up.

Also on the square, you’ll find Palazzo dei Banchi, a 16th-century palace, and turning through the archways here is one of my favourite streets, Via Pescherie Vecchie, 1 – ideal for a quick breakfast bite at one of the cafes.

WHERE IS BOLOGNA?

Bologna is the capital of the Emilia Romagna region, in Northern Italy. It’s roughly halfway between Verona and Florence. Getting here is easy, as Bologna is well served with connections to multiple destinations throughout Europe, and UAE and Morocco direct to its own airport, Bologna Guglielmo Marconi Airport. Please remember for those travelling into the Schengen zone from 2022 you will require an  ETIAS , the new European Travel Authorisations. For those travelling from further afield, Florence, Milan and Venice central train-stations are linked in around 90-minutes to the city.

Gelato or Food Tour

There are countless food tours you can take around Bologna, so now is the right time to do one. It’s an ideal walking introduction to the city, and most the food tours will give you an idea of where you might want to re-visit, an insight into facts and history, and perhaps most importantly, a taste of what Emilia Romagna has to offer.

The  Gelato Tour  might not seem the most obvious pick, but if you love the Italian ice-cream as much as I do, I highly suggest this one.

Pizzeria Due Torri for lunch

This low-key take-away pizzeria near the two towers is one of my go-to places for a quick bite in Bologna. The no-fuss setting, quick service, and delicious yet criminally cheap slices are worth grabbing to enjoy on one of the benches outside in the shadow of the towers, our next stop.

The Two Towers

The iconic symbol of the city, you’ll need to book a ticket in advance and be ready to climb a lot of steps, to truly appreciate the two towers

Leaning, one of them in-fact actually has more of an angle than the more famous leaning tower of Pisa, and from the top, you’ll get an incredible birds-eye view over Bologna. Yes, you’ll need to climb nearly 500 steps to get close to 100 metres above the city, but the views will be worth it. Be aware, it can get very narrow inside, so it might not be suitable for everyone.

Piazza Santo Stefano for Aperitivo

Next up, head towards another wonderful square, Piazza Santo Stefano. On the way, there are some beautiful churches to visit, such as the Church of Saints Bartholomew and Cajetan and Chiesa del Santo Sepolcro, before admiring the Abbazia Santo Stefano, a Convent and one of the most magnificent buildings in the city for me.

It should be getting close to Aperitivo time, the hours when drinks flow with free snacks and dishes to accompany them, a northern Italian tradition. To make it local to Emilia Romagna, you might opt to swap your Aperol Spritz or Negroni for local wine, like Lambrusco or Sangiovese.

Dinner at L’osteria dei Grifoni

For dinner, I suggest taking a 15-minute stroll around the back of the old-centre to L’osteria dei Grifoni, though you might need a map to find it.

This wonderful family-run restaurant is on a side-street, where a few steps will take you to the semi-underground restaurant. Menus are all in Italian, if there even is a menu, you might just be given a choice of the daily pasta’s and dishes to choose from.

Everything we ate here on two visits was sublime, and the host and candle-lit interior coupled with wooden bench seating make it an approachable and affordable dinner option.

Bologna Two Day Itinerary

Admire bologna university and walking tour.

The oldest western university in the world, Bologna University – The Alma Mater Studiorum – unsurprisingly doesn’t just sit in one orderly building but instead spreads out across various magnificent settings across the city. This makes for a nice walking trail which will bring you past lots of beautiful streets and attractions that aren’t necessarily connected to the university.

Some of the must-visit spots include the anatomical theatre, an all-wooden theatre that was used for teaching anatomy students, and the impressive library, which will literally take your breath away.

Palazzo Poggi, the Spanish College and Palazzo dell’Archiginnasio are stops well worth a visit as you walk the streets, and remember, this isn’t just a part of history, but students are still lucky enough to learn in these incredible settings even now.

A night at the theatre

The Teatro Comunale di Bologna is a masterpiece of design. An imposing entrance, lush red seating, grand balconies – a picture-perfect theatre. If you can secure tickets for a performance here then I highly recommend it.

Bologna has UNESCO listing as a city of creativity and music and where better to soak that in than this setting. Opened in 1763 and designed by renowned Antonio Galli Bibiena it’s worth visiting even if not for a show, you can try to join a tour on certain mornings by booking the night before.

Dinner at Trattoria Ana Maria

This institution of a restaurant, with walls coated into photos of previous patrons, including a few celebrities, will always hold a dear place in my heart as it’s where I enjoyed my final meal with Silvia, a true star of the Emilia Romagna tourism industry who sadly passed away.

Personal attachment aside, this slightly more upmarket restaurant, though still complete with traditional decor, served up dish after dish of delicious food – don’t forget you can have more than three courses quite happily in Italy! The lasagne was fantastic, as was the  ragù  tagliatelle (never call it, or compare it to, our embarrassing Bolognese version) and the desserts were sublime.

Enjoy drinks in Ghetto Ebraico

Nearby the to the theatre, this super cool neighbourhood is perhaps my favourite place to enjoy an evening drink in Bologna. The laughter and conversations more than spills out onto the street, so just find a bar or two that you like the look of and enjoy.

Bologna Three Day Itinerary

Eat everything at fico eatly world.

Emilia Romagna is sometimes referred to as the home of food, with culinary genius running in the blood of this region. From Parma Ham to Parmigiano Reggiano, Balsamic Vinegar to aforementioned Ragú, there are numerous dishes that the region hold claim too.

While on a longer visit to  Emilia Romagna  you could head to other cities and regions to sample the local cuisine, for those just here for a long weekend Fico EATLY world provides an answer.

Some will love it, others will think its cheating and might prefer to spend their last day hopping on quick trains to the likes of Parma itself, but this huge food ‘theme park’ just outside the city centre gives you the change to taste various Protected Designation of Origin flavours in one place.

You can dip into one of the small production rooms to see how items are made or take classes, wine-tasting, and gelato workshops. It also covers food from regions outside of Emilia Romagna and the whole country. Expect to spend a while here – it’s so vast you can actually hire bikes to cycle around the inside the building or visit the farms and outer sections. Make sure you’ve got some empty suitcase space to bring all the goodies home.

Finestrella

Once back into the centre (you might have walked or taken the bus to Fico, you’ll likely walk past one of Bolognas worse kept secrets, Finestrella.

Bologna used to have lots of canals, and in fact, many of these do still exist but have simply been built over, or hidden behind walls. The Finestrella window allows you a glimpse into this Venice like past through a small viewing spot onto one of the prettiest canals still open in the city.

Sanctuary of the Madonna di San Luca

In the afternoon, head to the Sanctuary of the Madonna di San Luca, some 300-metres above the city. You can take public transport there, or walk (an hour-ish) with the little tourist train a popular option as it leaves straight from Piazza Maggiore.

The Sanctuary is situated outside the city-centre, raised up on a green area with great views looking back to the old town. If you climbed the tower, you’ll have seen it in the distance. As well as being a notable place of worship, the beautifully curved construction offers wide vistas from the viewing platform, which you can enter for a few euros, or just walk around the buildings lower levels and grounds for free.

A stroll through the Porticos back to town

It’s rare I get to this part of an article when writing about Bologna without mentioning Porticos multiple times. These  UNESCO  covered archways are all over Emilia Romagna, and other parts of Italy, but the city of Bologna boasts over 40-kilometres of them alone!

The walk back down to the city centre is really pleasant through the porticos the whole way, with some lovely buildings to pause and photograph on the route.

Depending on when your flight is, you might want to stay at the Sanctuary for sunset and walk back down as the sun is setting, a really lovely end to three days in Bologna.

There are, of course, many more museums, galleries and attractions in Bologna that you could squeeze in and around this itinerary. I’ve purposefully left this relatively loose so you don’t have to rush and can embrace the relaxed, liberal pace of life in this University City.

One thing I’m confident on is that no matter how you spend your time in Bologna, you’ll be hard pushed not to come away singing her praises – enjoy!

Where to eat in Bologna

While I’ve detailed some of my favourite places to dine above, you truly are spoilt for choice when it comes to food in Bologna. Be sure to check off all the amazing  food experiences in Emilia Romagna , whether in the city or beyond.

Where to go after Bologna

After exploring Bologna I highly suggest you discover some more of the Emilia Romagna region.  Brisighella , a dreamy village of towers and olive oil is one of the best day trips from Bologna , while some of the smaller cities in Emilia Romagna such as Modena, Ferrara and Parma make fantastic day trips from Bologna.

Accessibility in Bologna

Bologna is an old city and has countless attractions, so it would be hard to give in-depth advice here. Many of the main attractions give accessibility details on their website and the team at Bologna Welcome, the tourism board, have a great website which discusses accessibility in the city .

Related Posts:

• Day trips from Bologna: 16 best things to do in Emilia Romagna
• Emilia Romagna Riviera 7-Day Itinerary: Beaches and Byzantine Mosaics
• Visiting Cervia, Italy: Beaches, Canals, Seafood and Storied Salt
• A Guide to Comacchio, Emilia Romagna’s Canal Town and Po Delta Gateway
• 7-Day Lombardy Itinerary in Northern Italy (Road Trip or Train)
• 10 Alternative Family-Friendly Holiday Ideas in Europe

Bologna ! Great style !

Really good and informative blog this Dan. Underrated city by many. A place that doesn’t get as much attention as some of Italian cities but definitely deserves it as their is so much to discover.

Absolutely, it’s a fave!

Thanks for this lovely article. Bologna is one of my next stops in Italy when we’ll be able to travel again. I am fascinated by the quality of food you described and learned that the area is called the home of food. I thought Italy as a whole could be labeled as it. :) Thanks to you I do have a nice list of places to find amazing food. Can’t wait to discover la trattoria Ana Maria for instance and their ragù tagliatelle!

Have a fantastic time in Bologna Sandrine, hope you enjoy it as much as I did!

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13 Top-Rated Attractions & Places to Visit in Bologna

Written by Barbara Radcliffe Rogers Updated Dec 28, 2023 We may earn a commission from affiliate links ( )

Bologna, for all its size and importance as the capital of its province and of Emilia-Romagna, is an easy city to visit, and many visitors find it one of Italy's most appealing. Those who enjoy good food certainly do; it has the reputation as Italy's gastronomic capital.

Among Bologna's main industries are the manufacture of pasta and sausages, so be sure to try some while you're here. Along with visiting Bologna's tourist attractions, spend time absorbing the city's unique character: stroll beneath its long arcades - the famed portici, peek inside its elegant old shops, notice its architectural quirks and interesting brickwork, pause in one of the numerous cafés, and soak up some of the exuberance of its many students.

Most of its popular places to visit are within walking distance of Piazza Maggiore, and the arcaded streets make walking in Bologna pleasant in all kinds of weather. Find the best things to do in the city with our list of the top things to do in Bologna.

See also: Where to Stay in Bologna

1. Piazza Maggiore and Piazza del Nettuno

2. san petronio (basilica of st. petronius), 3. santo stefano (st. stephen basilica), 4. leaning towers, 5. sanctuary and portico of the madonna di san luca, 6. enjoy bolognese food, 7. archiginnasio anatomical theater, 8. bologna's portici, 9. san domenico (st. dominic church), 10. museo civico archeologico (archeological museum), 11. oratory of battuti, 12. basilica di san pietro, 13. pinacoteca nazionale (national gallery), where to stay in bologna for sightseeing, driving in bologna, map of attractions & things to do in bologna, bologna, italy - climate chart.

It may seem as though everyone in Bologna were meeting friends at the same time in these two adjoining squares in the heart of the city. Conversation and laughter blend with the sound of water splashing in the magnificent Neptune Fountain , which gives Piazza del Nettuno its name.

Created by Giambologna in the 16th century, it is one of the finest fountains of its period. Nearly every major attraction in the city is within a few minutes' walk, as are the most important streets - among them the busy shopping street, Via dell'Indipendenza , and Via Galleria with its many old aristocratic mansions.

Elegantly arcaded Via dell'Archiginnasio runs alongside the great Basilica of San Petronius ; its still unfinished facade dominates one side of Piazza Maggiore. On the north side is the former Palazzo del Podestà (Governors Palace) with a tower, Torre dell'Arengo , dating from 1259. Under its vaulted dome, people whispering on one side can be heard by those on the opposite corner.

When construction of the massive church that dominates one side of Piazza Maggiore began in 1390, it was designed to be even bigger than St. Peter's in Rome, but never quite made it. In fact, it was never finished, and the facade remains incomplete. In the tiny museum at the back of the church, you can see the designs that were submitted for the facade, including those by the great architect Andrea Palladio.

The interior, which was finished, is often referred to as the epitome of Gothic architecture in Italy , and each of the side chapels seems like a small church. Look for the strange line cutting across the floor of the nave; it is a meridian line.

Address: Piazza Maggiore, Bologna

While Bologna has no shortage of interesting and art-filled churches, Santo Stefano is the oldest and the most atmospheric. The complex of eight buildings could be called the cradle of faith in Bologna, built by the Benedictines between the 10th and 13th centuries to house the remains of Bologna's early martyrs, Saints Vitale and Agricola.

Chiesa del Crocifisso, the principal church, has a 12th-century external pulpit and a crypt dating to 1019; octagonal Santo Sepolcro opens onto a pillared courtyard adjoining a two-story cloister. In the simple third church, look for the capitals of various styles recycled from previous Roman and Byzantine buildings and for the 6th-century mosaic floors.

Address: Via Santo Stefano 24, Bologna

Pisa's may be more famous, but Bologna has a pair of towers that appear to tilt even more alarmingly because of their narrow shape. They are the best-known of the 20 towers that remain of the more than 100 that formed Bologna's 12th-century skyline.

Although they were necessary as both watchtowers and places of refuge in case of attack, their height also became status symbols for the noble families that built them. The 48-meter Torre Garisenda leans by more than 13 meters; you can climb the 498 steps inside Torre degli Asinelli for bird's-eye views of Bologna.

Address: Piazza di Porta Ravegnana, Bologna

The basilica stands atop a hill that commands views across the city and the Po Valley landscape, its classical interior highlighted by the striking floor of inlaid black, white, and red marble floor. The chancel is lined in equally striking variegated black and white marble.

But what distinguishes this basilica from all the others in Italy is the 3.8-kilometer covered arcade that connects the sanctuary to the city . This monumental structure is the longest portico in the world , with 666 arches, and was built between 1674 and 1793 to protect the Byzantine Madonna with Child icon in its annual procession into Bologna. The icon, said to have been painted by Saint Luke, has traveled this route to Bologna's Cathedral of San Pietro since 1433, when it was brought from a hilltop convent in the hope of a miracle to stop harvest-threatening rains.

This scenic walk, beginning at Piazza di Porta Saragozza, is a favorite - and free - thing to do in Bologna on Sundays, or you can take the San Luca Express, a tourist "train" from Piazza Maggiore. For even wider views, the San Luca Sky Experience is a panoramic terrace reached by climbing into the basilica's cupola.

Address: Via di San Luca 36, Bologna, Italy

Perhaps Bologna's greatest appeal to tourists, and the source of its fame throughout Italy, is its reputation as a culinary center. It's known for tortellini, tagliatelle, and other pastas , and its classic dish, tagliatelle al ragu, is known elsewhere simply as tagliatelle Bolognese. Cured meats are a local specialty, and this region is the home of the incomparable Parmigiano Reggiano cheese.

You can experience and savor Bologna's culinary heritage. A good place to begin is in its markets and food shops . The narrow streets of the Quadrilatero, an area between Piazza Maggiore, via Rizzoli, via Castiglione, and via Farini, has been a market since Roman times, filled with little shops and outdoor stands selling all kinds of food, from garden produce, cheese, and fish to freshly made pastas and baked goods.

Opportunities to learn from Bolognese chefs and home cooks abound, from group classes to individual lessons on forming perfect tortellini. Another thing to do is join a specialized tour led by a local foodie . These will likely include visits to food markets and a number of traditional food shops, including a bakery, chocolatier, salumeria (deli), pasta maker, and gelato shop where you can sample some of Bologna's specialties.

Once the main building of the University of Bologna, the Archiginnasio is now home to one of the most unusual places in Bologna, the classroom where medical students learned anatomy by watching as corpses were dissected. It's not this bizarre aspect that fascinates today so much as the exceptional interior and its unusual wood carving.

The highlight is Ercole Lelli's Spellati (Skinless), a life-sized wood sculpture of a man with the musculature and skeletal structure rendered in minute detail. Also in this building is the Stabat Mater lecture hall, its walls decorated with coats of arms. The University of Bologna, founded in the 11th century, is the oldest university of the Western world.

Address: Piazza Galvani 1, Bologna

Official site: http://www.archiginnasio.it/english_index.html

Visitors to Bologna can't help strolling under the portici, the arcades that line so many of its streets. They are a welcome relief from the summer sun and shelter from the rain, as well as providing extra space to shops, which often display goods under them.

They began in the 11th century as overhanging upper stories of buildings in the growing city center, adding more living and storage space over the shops and businesses on the street level. As they became larger, they needed support beams and posts, and gradually the arcades grew. In the 13th century, new arcades were required to be tall enough for a rider to pass through on horseback, a rule that led to the elegant arched arcades we see today.

These portici are one-of-a-kind, constructed at different times and in different styles, often embellished with stone carving or other decoration. In all, Bologna has about 40 kilometers of these portici , the longest of which is 3.8 kilometers and leads from the city to the hilltop Sanctuary of the Madonna di San Luca. Bologna's portici are a candidate for 2021 UNESCO World Heritage Site designation.

At the death in 1221 of Saint Dominic, in this convent of the order he founded, work began on the church that took several centuries to complete. The marble tomb that enshrines his remains is reason enough to visit, carved in minute details by the greatest artists of the day, including Michelangelo and Nicola Pisano . The church's art treasures don't end here.

The outstanding wood inlay by intarsia master fra' Damiano da Bergamo in the choir was hailed by Renaissance contemporaries as the eighth wonder of the world. Each first and second Saturday of the month, at 10.30am and 3.30pm, free guided tours are offered to the chapels, choir, Inquisition rooms, St. Dominic's cell, and other places not usually open to the public.

Address: Piazza di San Domenico 13, Bologna

Even those who normally tune out at museums of antiquities will enjoy this remarkably up-to-date display of prehistoric and Etruscan finds from the surrounding area , as well as outstanding treasures from the Celtic, Greek, Egyptian, and Roman civilizations. There are only two other museums in Italy that can match its Egyptian collection .

The 15th-century Palazzo Galvani, close to Piazza Maggiore, has been skillfully repurposed to house the collections; no dry jumble of dusty relics here, but a modern museum of brilliantly displayed artifacts.

Address: Via dell'Archiginnasio 2, Bologna

Climb the stairs to the room above the church to find one of Bologna's unsung treasures, a small oratorio decorated in Baroque paintings, frescoes, and gilded carvings. Avoid a stiff neck by taking advantage of one of the benches to stretch out and look up at the perfectly splendid ceiling.

Around the room stand a group of 15 terracotta statues, Death of the Virgin , created by Alfonso Lombardi in the early 16th century. Watch for announcements of musical programs, which are held here because of the room's excellent acoustics.

Address: Via Clavature 8, Bologna

The cathedral of San Pietro has undergone many changes since its founding in 910, including the addition of a choir by Pellegrino Tibaldi in 1575 and a nave, remodeled in the grandeur of the 17th-century Baroque style.

A door at the end of the side aisle on the left leads to a collection of artistic treasures donated over the centuries to use in religious celebrations. These include items belonging to several popes and a splendid processional cross given as recently as 1996.

Address: Via Indipendenza, Bologna

The Pinacoteca has a unique mission: to preserve and display works by artists who have lived and worked in Bologna and the Emilia-Romagna region, especially from the 13th to the early 19th centuries.

Some of the works have histories of their own, many have been rescued from churches that were closed or turned to other uses, and others have been returned to Bologna after Napoleon I carried them off to the Louvre in Paris . The museum collections include works by Raphael, Perugino, Tintoretto, and other Renaissance artists.

Address: Strada Maggiore 44, Bologna

Piazza Maggiore and Piazza del Nettuno, the Basilica, the excellent Archaeological Museum, and the pair of leaning towers that lead Bologna's list of tourist attractions are all clustered within a very short distance. Two major churches, Santo Stefano and San Domenico, are only a few blocks away, making Bologna easy to visit from any central lodging. Here are some highly rated hotels in Bologna:

Luxury Hotels :

• The gleaming Grand Hotel Majestic Gia Baglioni , adjacent to the Basilica and Piazza Maggiore, has generous, well-decorated rooms in a beautifully restored historic building.
• In the middle of the old town, just under famous medieval towers, the boutique Hotel Corona d'Oro 1890 has rooms with parquet floors, marble baths, and balconies - some with tower views.
• Just off Piazza Nettuno and handy to shopping and restaurants, Art Hotel Orologio has traditional rooms in a converted historic mansion.

Mid-Range Hotels:

• Cleverly themed rooms at Al Cappello Rosso , just off Piazza Maggiore, are all different and stocked with luxuries that include slippers, robes, and a selection of different pillows.
• With bright, attractive rooms dressed in sleek, modern decor, Metropolitan Hotel is less than a five-minute walk from Piazza Maggiore, surrounded by restaurants and shops.
• Close to the train station and within easy reach of the central attractions, NH Bologna De La Gare offers 156 soundproof rooms, including nine spacious suites on the top floor with beautiful views of the city.

Budget Hotels:

• Filling the fourth floor of a classic building just off Piazza Maggiore, Panorama Hotel has large rooms with well-maintained shared baths.
• Only a short walk from the Piazza Nettuna, Albergo Centrale Bologna is a 3-star hotel with compact but comfortable rooms in the center of the city. Breakfast is included, and the hotel is surrounded by restaurants.
• The recently restored Il Canale Hotel overlooks the river and has a rooftop terrace with views over the city. An easy walk from Piazza Maggiore, the hotel has family-sized rooms.

Like most cities in Italy, the historic center is closed to automobiles. If your hotel is within this area - called the ZTL zone - be sure to ask them where to park before your arrival. The usual procedure is that they will put your license number on the ZTL whitelist for the period of your stay, which allows you to drive to and from the hotel.

More Related Articles on PlanetWare.com

Nearby Food Capitals: After sampling the local delicacies of Bologna, you may want to explore the Reggio-Emilia region's other food capitals. You can visit the home of the world-famous Parmigiano Reggiano cheese, and see the top attractions of Parma and its surrounding towns . On the way (a major highway connects Bologna and Parma) stop in Modena , home of the best balsamic vinegar.

Exploring the Adriatic Coast: When you are in Bologna, you are within easy reach of a city whose art treasures are unique in Italy. Ravenna is filled with magnificent Byzantine mosaics, most of them in eight buildings that have been declared a UNESCO World Heritage Site. Not far south on the Adriatic coast are Rimini's well-preserved Roman sites and beaches . For more general ideas to help plan your trip, see our article on the best places to visit in Italy .

More on Italy

Home » Travel » Destinations » Bologna Sightseeing: 17 Places You Must Visit

Bologna Sightseeing: 17 Places You Must Visit

Bologna may be Italy’s culinary capital, but this city has more to offer than heaping plates of pasta. If you can squeeze in some Bologna sightseeing between meals, you’ll be richly rewarded.

From hilltop basilicas to hidden window views, there are Bologna attractions to suit every type of traveler.

Architecture fans will love the UNESCO listed porticoes and grand cathedrals. View-seekers will delight at the panoramas from the top of Asinelli Tower and San Luca. And history buffs will marvel at the world-class museums filled with ancient relics and remarkably preserved frescoes.

Whatever your preference, I highly recommend spending at least three days in Bologna . This city deserves to be savored, not skimmed.

This post contains affiliate links. As an Amazon Associate, I earn from qualifying purchases. For more information, click here .

Should you buy the Bologna Welcome Card? Disclosure: I received a complimentary Bologna Welcome Card PLUS as part of my work with the Bologna tourism board. The short answer is: yes. The Bologna Welcome Card PLUS is the best city travel card I’ve encountered in terms of value and ease of use. When deciding whether or not to buy a city card, you need to consider two things: cost savings and convenience. Unlike some city cards, you don’t need to do everything  on the list of covered Bologna attractions to get your money’s worth. This post doesn’t even cover half of the included attractions, and you’d still save 4 euros by buying the Bologna Welcome Card PLUS rather than individual tickets. Add in the ability to show the card on your smartphone, and it’s a no-brainer.

Bologna Sightseeing Attractions

Quadrilatero.

The Quadrilatero is the beating heart of Bologna’s food culture. It’s been a marketplace since the Middle Ages, with narrow alleys brimming with shops and stalls selling fresh produce, meats, cheeses, pasta, and other artisan goods.

Even if you don’t plan to eat or shop, a morning stroll through the Quadrilatero is still one of the best things to do in Bologna. The glass storefronts are a visual delight, offering glimpses of curing hams and yellow tortellini, and smells of sharp cheese and soft flowers.

Getting here early will also help you avoid the tour groups and restaurant-goers that clog the streets later in the day.

Cattedrale Metropolitana di San Pietro

Also known as the Bologna Cathedral, the Metropolitan Cathedral of Saint Peter is nearly 1,000 years old. While the exterior looks fairly plain, the interior is jaw-droppingly beautiful, with towering arches and columns of white stone.

However, the impressive structure you see today is quite different from its original form. The cathedral was renovated extensively throughout the 17th and 18th centuries, though the massive bell tower was left unchanged.

The Bologna Cathedral is by far one of the best free Bologna attractions. But if you’re open to spending a bit of money, you can pay 5 euros to climb the bell tower on Saturday afternoons!

The Two Towers of Bologna

The Tower of Asinelli and the Garisenda Tower are relics of Bologna’s wealthy past. They stand (and lean) at the heart of the city, along the intersection of Via San Vitale and Strada Maggiore.

If you did your Bologna sightseeing during the 1300s, you’d see well over 100 towers reaching towards the sky. Historians believe rich families built them to defend their properties. Today, over a dozen remain standing, though Asinelli and Garisenda are the most well known.

Climbing the 97 meter Asinelli Tower is one of the most popular things to do in Bologna, despite the staggering 498 steps. Luckily, there are numerous spaces to stop and rest along the journey to the amazing view from the top.

Admission costs 5 euros and requires an advanced reservation online or at the Bologna Welcome office. Bologna Welcome Card holders can enter for free without a reservation.

RELATED: 21 Most Instagrammable Places in Europe

Museo Civico Archeologico

In a city nicknamed “the learned one”, it’s no surprise that you’ll find plenty of world-class museums. The Bologna Archaeology Museum houses Egyptian, Etruscan, and Roman artifacts inside a gorgeous palazzo.

Between the preserved mummies and suits of armor, the Archaeology Museum is one of the top places to visit in Bologna with kids. While most of the displays are written in Italian, many of the rooms have mounted pockets with laminated English language cards.

The museum is larger than it appears, with exhibits spread across multiple floors. Plan to spend at least 90 minutes here if you want to see everything. I particularly enjoyed the massive display of Roman black-figure pottery.

Admission is 6 euros and is covered under the Bologna Welcome Card.

Museo Internazionale e Biblioteca della Musica

Many visitors don’t realize that Bologna has deep musical roots. In fact, it’s been named a UNESCO City of Music thanks to its millennium-old tradition of musical study, composition, and performance.

At the International Museum and Library of Music, you’ll get closeup views of old and rare instruments, manuscripts, and even personal belongings of famous performers like Farinelli.

Anyone who loves music or played an instrument will enjoy the exhibition. And like the Archaeology Museum, the whole collection is housed inside a lovely palazzo complete with lavish frescoes and furnishings.

Tickets cost 5 euros, and admission is free with the Bologna Welcome Card.

Santuario Madonna di San Luca

If you want a fairytale experience in Italy, head to the hilltop Sanctuary of the Madonna di San Luca.

This 300-year-old basilica rises out of the forest like Cosette’s castle on a cloud. While it’s a few miles outside of Bologna’s city center, getting here is easy (and cheap!) with the Bologna Welcome Card PLUS.

Catch the green line city bus (which is actually a charming mini-train) from the Piazza Maggiore up to the monastery. It’s a beautiful ride that comes with a multi-lingual audio tour describing the city sights you pass along the way. A round trip ticket costs 10 euros and is free with the PLUS card.

If you’re after a physical challenge, you could skip the train and walk up the world’s longest portico. The 3.5km, salmon-colored Portico di San Luca stretches continuously from the Porta Saragozza to the sanctuary.

Much of the walking route is uphill, with steep climbs for the last kilometer, so bring a water bottle and comfortable shoes.

After exploring the basilica’s gardens, balconies, and interior, head to the small ticket counter near the door. 5 euros (free with the PLUS card) gives you access to the San Luca Sky Experience, a rooftop platform with insane panoramic views over Bologna and the surrounding countryside. You can even see the rolling hills of Tuscany from up here!

Save me for later!

In addition to the famous Portico di San Luca, Bologna’s city center boasts over 35km of porticoes. These covered walkways have been a part of the city’s design since medieval times, earning them a spot on the UNESCO World Heritage list.

From the distressed, dark yellow Portico della Morte, to the beautiful blue and gold stretch along Via Farini, Bologna’s porticoes are closer to art than architecture. They’re especially lovely near sunrise and sunset, when the columns’ striking shadows cut across the ground.

Finestrella

Did you know that you can find a slice of Venice in Bologna? Head to the section of Via Piella between Via Bertiera and Via Augusto Righi, and you’ll see what I mean.

On one side of the street, you’ll find a lovely canal view lined with classic Italian shutters. And on the other side, there’s… a wall.

But upon further inspection, you’ll find a small, square cutout hiding a second canal view. This secret window–the Finestrella–is one of my favorite Bologna sightseeing spots. Sometimes the Finestrella is shut, so keep your eyes peeled for the handle sticking out from the wall.

RELATED: 2 Days in Venice Itinerary for First Time Visitors

Scalinata Del Pincio

The impressive Scalinata is one of the first things you’ll see after exiting Bologna Centrale station. This elegant double staircase leads up to the Montagnola Park, which offers wonderful views over the surrounding city center.

Be sure to check out the park’s west balcony, where you’ll find pretty lampposts and a great view down the Via dell’Indipendenza.

Santa Maria Della Vita

Nestled in the Quadrilaterio, the Santa Maria Della Vita is a quiet reprieve from the surrounding hustle and bustle. Like the Cattedrale Metropolitana di San Pietro, this church’s remarkable interior features white stone, elaborate carvings, and stunning frescoes.

The Santa Maria Della Vita also houses the renowned Compianto , a 15th century collection of sculptures by Niccolò dell’Arca depicting the mourning of Christ. Admission to this area costs 4 euros, but is free with the Bologna Welcome card.

University of Bologna

Walking around a school campus is rarely on the “must do list” when exploring a new city. But when that city is home to the world’s oldest university, you need to put it on your itinerary.

Founded in 1088, the University of Bologna is one of Europe’s top academic institutions. The central campus still retains a medieval look, with stone streets and old facades. When the students sit outside, chatting over dog-eared novels and getting into heated arguments, Bologna’s nickname “the learned one” is brought to life.

Pinacoteca Nazionale

Just north of the university’s central campus, you’ll find the Pinacoteca Nazionale. Also known as the National Art Gallery, the spectacular collection of medieval and Renaissance art makes this a must visit place in Bologna.

Gilded tryptiches, towering oil paintings, and incredibly well-preserved outdoor frescoes line the gallery walls. There’s plenty to see here, but not so much that it feels overwhelming.

Tickets for the main exhibition cost 6 euros, and admission is free with the Bologna Welcome card. The gallery also hosts special exhibits for an additional fee, such as the recent Leonardo Da Vinci showcase.

Villa Ghigi Park

Who doesn’t love a good overlook point? At Villa Ghigi park, you’ll find extraordinary panoramic views of Bologna in an idyllic country setting.

With rolling hills, a vineyard, and serene walking paths, it’s hard to believe that Villa Ghigi is less than a 30 minute walk from the city center. Just follow the Via San Mamolo south, taking the western (right-hand) branch once you reach the tiny green space of Giardino Norma Mascellani Pittrice.

Shortly after the entry gate, there are multiple uphill paths you can take to reach the “Vista Panoramica” point in the southeast. Despite the hazy weather we had, the view over Bologna was hauntingly beautiful as church bells echoed across the valley.

Piazza Maggiore

At the heart of every Italian city is the piazza. And Bologna’s Piazza Maggiore is one of the best.

Beautiful porticos, palazzos, and churches form the piazza’s borders, while domes and a clock tower poke out behind the buildings. I highly recommend a morning visit, when locals cycle through on their way to work, and the sun illuminates the archway to the Quadrilatero.

Basilica di San Petronio

The vast Basilica di San Petronio dominates the south side of the Piazza Maggiore. Dedicated to Bologna’s patron Saint Petronius, it’s the most important church in the city and one of the largest in Europe.

Looking at the facade–half elaborate red and white carvings, and half plain brick–you might think it was unfinished. And that’s because it is! During construction in the 1500s, the money intended for the facade was diverted to the Archiginnasio, part of the University of Bologna’s campus.

Once inside, you’ll find a number of unique features, from the massive sun dial to the nearly two dozen small chapels containing art and artifacts.

But be advised: you’ll miss out on the interior if you don’t follow the dress code. Shoulders must be covered for everyone, and women’s shorts/pants/skirts must reach the knees (apparently men can get away with shorts that fall above the knee).

Before heading to the next Bologna attraction, there’s one more thing to do at the Basilica di San Petronio: visit the terrace for a panoramic view over Bologna!

Near the rear exit off of Piazza Galvani, you’ll find a scaffolding lift that takes you to the 54 meter high platform. Tickets cost 3 euros (free with the Bologna Welcome PLUS card). Note that the terrace doesn’t open until 10am and may be closed due to cold/bad weather.

Admission to the Basilica is free, but if you want to take photos, you’ll need to buy a 2 euro pass.

Piazza del Nettuno

Branching off the north side of Piazza Maggiore, the Piazza del Nettuno is a favorite hangout spot for locals and visitors alike. Named after the grand Fountain of Neptune that sits in the center, the piazza boasts an eye-catching geometric patterned floor.

In addition to the Fountain of Neptune, you’ll also find the Palazzo Re Enzo and Biblioteca Salaborsa, which houses an archaeological museum in the basement.

Hotel Touring Rooftop Terrace

Hotel Touring is the ideal home base for sightseeing in Bologna. It’s a beautifully updated hotel just a few minutes’ walk from the city center, so you can easily pop back for a mid-afternoon rest if you overdo it on the pasta.

Aside from the great location, comfy rooms, and stellar breakfast, the best thing about staying at Hotel Touring is the rooftop terrace.

We took every opportunity to watch sunrises and sunsets from this incredible lounge area, which offers near-360 degree views over the city. You can see everything from the Two Towers to distant San Luca from up top.

Imagine enjoying a glass of wine here after a long day of exploring Bologna. It doesn’t get much better than that!

Book your stay at Hotel Touring today!

The Best Bologna Tours

Knowing what to do in Bologna is only half the battle. If you don’t speak Italian, or want to discover some unique things to do in the city, why not take a Bologna tour ?

From Bologna food tours to private guides, here are some of the top rated experiences you can add to your itinerary:

Map of Bologna Sightseeing Spots

Click here for the full interactive map!

I hope I’ve given you plenty of ideas for what to do in Bologna! Subscribe to my newsletter for more insider travel tips.

2 thoughts on “Bologna Sightseeing: 17 Places You Must Visit”

Hi there! The UNESCO world heritage list mentions nothing in Bologna?

Hi Lisbeth, the porticoes of Bologna were officially added to the UNESCO World Heritage Site list in July 2021!

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One Day in Bologna Itinerary – How to Spend a Perfect Day in Bologna, Italy

In spite of being only the seventh most populous city in Italy, Bologna is still one of the most popular destinations in the country. Numerous attractions such as Piazza Maggiore and its arched colonnades, the remarkable Basilica di San Petronio, and the 16 th -century Fountain of Neptune are just some of the reasons for that. The city has alternatingly been known as La Grassa (the fat one; referring to its rich culinary legacy), La Dotta (the learned one, referring to the university), and La Rossa (the red one, alluding to the ever-present medieval terracotta buildings). But only by spending one day in Bologna can you truly experience each of the city’s many identities. Find the one that suits you best and fully immerse yourself in it.

Plan your trip to Bologna

1. WHAT’S THE BEST TIME TO VISIT BOLOGNA? 2. A FEW FACTS ABOUT BOLOGNA 3. ONE DAY IN BOLOGNA ITINERARY 3.1. Keep This in Mind Before Starting Your Trip 3.2. Go to Piazza Maggiore First 3.3. Visit the Basilica di San Petronio 3.4. Pay a Visit to Basilica of San Domenico 3.5. Spend an Hour or Two Exploring the Museo Civico Archeologico 3.6. Check Out Bologna’s Two Towers 3.7. Make Time for Lunch 3.8. Take the Time to visit the University of Bologna 3.9. Take the Bus or Taxi to Al Parco Giardini Margherita 3.10. Visit Palazzo Albergati on Via Saragozza 3.11. Stop at a Nearby Restaurant for Dinner 3.12. Have a Few Drinks Before Calling It a Night 4. WHERE TO STAY IN BOLOGNA? 5. DAY TRIPS FROM BOLOGNA 6. EXTRA TIPS FOR VISITING BOLOGNA

WHAT’S THE BEST TIME TO VISIT BOLOGNA?

When it comes to the world’s most popular destinations, Bologna is kind of the odd one out. Unlike many other places, where summer is the peak tourism season, in Bologna it is almost the other way around. In August in particular, most of the shops and hotels are closed due to the holidays ( Ferragosto ). Apart from that, though, the period between March and October certainly is the best time to visit Bologna. You will have numerous outdoor drinking and dining options and warm weather accompanying your trip.

If you want to skip the crowds, avoid early fall, when most tourists visit the city. This makes it hard to find a hotel room unless you book months in advance. Other tricky/expensive periods include the Cosmoprof week (March 15th – 21st), the Cersaie week (September 24th – 30th), and the Trade Fair week (October 15th – 23rd). If you have a choice, you can also visit Bologna in early spring (March and later) or in winter, for example around Christmas time.

A FEW FACTS ABOUT BOLOGNA

First off, what is Bologna known for? There are several things, but the University of Bologna takes the cake as number one. It is the oldest university in Europe (founded in 1088), older than Cambridge and Oxford! Its alumni include people such as Dante Alighieri, Albrecht Durer, Petrarch, Copernicus, Pope Alexander VI, and many others.

Another thing Bologna is famous for is its arcades . At 38 kilometers in the city center alone, Bologna has more arcades than any other city in the world. They give the city a unique character, but also serve a practical purpose: pedestrians can walk under the arcades and never get wet, no matter the weather.

Bologna sausage (obviously) gets its name from the city of Bologna. The sausage is derived from mortadella , which can be traced back to the 15 th century, with one document potentially mentioning it as early as 1376. The Romans ate a similar sausage called farcimen mirtatum (myrtle sausage).

The city center of Bologna is 100% pedestrian on weekends, with the city’s three major streets closed to traffic. Few people know of the fact that Bologna is full of small canals, which were used by merchants to transport goods. A good place to see the canals is the famous Piella street .

ONE DAY IN BOLOGNA ITINERARY

Welcome to a city of great food, stunning architecture and rich history. Welcome to Bologna! Spending a day in this place means you will have plenty of sightseeing opportunities, so a good itinerary will always be handy to have. Follow these steps to have a great time and experience this incredible part of Italy – these are the top sights and things to do on your one day in Bologna.

TIP:  To experience Bologna like a local, we highly recommend private tour !

Start your day on Piazza Maggiore

Surrounded by gorgeous medieval and Renaissance buildings, Piazza Maggiore , Bologna’s main square, is a perfect example of the city’s varied and interesting architecture. Located in the very heart of Bologna, the eclectic square has been the focal point of Bologna’s social and political life since the 13 th century, which makes it one of the oldest squares in the country .

Expect to spend 1 to 2 hours here because many important sights line this wonderful square. These include the Basilica of San Petronio and the fountain of Neptune , an important symbol of Bologna. But more on them in the next part of this itinerary.

Visit the Basilica di San Petronio

Basilica di San Petronio is a large Gothic basilica overlooking Piazza Maggiore. Its brick and marble façade is still unfinished , even though construction began in 1390. In fact, the basilica remained unconsecrated for more than five-and-a-half centuries, until 1954. By volume, this is the tenth-largest church in the world at 132 meters long and 66 wide. It is also the largest brick church in the world . The basilica is dedicated to Saint Petronius, the patron saint of Bologna.

After spending some time exploring the church, don’t forget to also check out Neptune’s Fountain , facing Piazza Maggiore from Piazza del Nettuno (Neptune’s Square). The fountain, made of marble and bronze, was built between 1563 and 1566 and symbolizes the power of the pope ruling the world like Neptune rules the oceans.

Pay a visit to Basilica of San Domenico

Since most museums open at 10, you may want to try to squeeze in a couple of the more prominent nearby Bologna attractions first. There are many fascinating churches, such as the Sanctuary of Santa Maria della Vita or Basilica Santa Maria dei Servi .

But there are also many palaces to explore, primarily Palazzo d’Accursio (a city hall/government building from the 14 th century with a fine art museum & self-guided tours), Palazzo dei Banchi , and Palazzo del Podesta, all three of which are located on Piazza Maggiore.

So, start with the palaces and then make your way south. About 500 meters south of Piazza Maggiore and Basilica di San Petronio (7 minutes on foot), you will come across the Basilica of San Domenico , an impressive historic basilica with a gorgeous Romanesque façade. Since it’s open for all to visit, you can go inside and admire the numerous sculptures, paintings, and the remains of Saint Dominic.

Spend an Hour or Two Exploring the Museo Civico Archeologico

Next, head to Via dell’Archiginnasio near Basilica di San Petronio to visit Museo Civico Archeologico . The Civic Archaeological Museum is one of the most prestigious institutions in Bologna, housing priceless Etruscan, Roman, and Egyptian artifacts in a gorgeous palace from the 1400s. Located just off Piazza Maggiore , the museum has been open to the public since the late 19 th century.

Most of the artifacts come from a series of excavations in Bologna and its surroundings, as well as a generous donation by Pelagio Palagi , a notable Italian painter. There are many fascinating exhibits, and the museum is easy to tour, so this will be a very enjoyable visit indeed.

Check Out Bologna’s Two Towers

Bologna’s two leaning towers are widely recognized as the main symbol of the city. One of the towers is called Torre Garisenda , and the other one Torre degli Asinelli . The latter is the taller one, almost 100 meters tall (97.2). While the tower is open to the public, the climb can be challenging. However, the view is quite beautiful. There is also a local legend stipulating that students who climb the tower will never graduate.

Torre Garisenda is two times shorter than its neighbor (at 47 m), although it is more tilted. If you intend to climb the tower, you will have to purchase tickets in advance at the tourist information center (Bologna Welcome) on Piazza Maggiore or from the official website.

The towers are surrounded by a complex of medieval religious buildings from the 8 th century, something you should also take the time to check out.

Make Time for Lunch

TIP: Keep exploring the city with City Center walking tour !

You will probably be famished after climbing the 500 steps to the top of Torre degli Asinelli. Once you’re back on solid ground, it may be a good idea to take a lunch break to regain your energy. Pizzeria Due Torri is the closest eatery. Its prices are very affordable and it’s not a tourist trap, so it’s a great place for a quick bite.

If you’d like to sit down for a proper meal, consider Cluricaune Irish Pub , also very casual and affordable. It’s like a large sports bar with TVs, great beer, and typical pub grub like burgers, sausage with coleslaw, fish and chips, and so on.

Sfoglia Rina is also right next to the towers and serves great pasta, so if you’re in the mood for something quintessentially Italian, go for this. Osteria dell ‘ Orsa is a short walk north and is immensely popular with all kinds of tasty food, so definitely consider it, too.

Take the time to visit University of Bologna

As stated previously, University of Bologna is the oldest university in the world, so it should find its place on pretty much any Bologna itinerary. You can visit the university anytime from Monday to Saturday afternoon, so plan accordingly.

You will very quickly see that the university is quite beautiful, especially the Archiginnasio , which was its center until 1803. Then there’s the impressive Palazzo Poggi, which has a wonderful museum showing how science evolved to what it is today, the botanical gardens, the Specola astronomical observatory, and much more.

Fascinating frescos, intricate carvings and numerous other works of art are everywhere. It really shows just how special this place is. Honestly, you could spend the whole day just exploring the university, but even a short visit will leave you in awe.

Take the Bus or Taxi to Al Parco Giardini Margherita

For a break from museums and monumental buildings, visit one of Bologna’s most popular public parks, Al Parco Giardini Margherita . It has a beautiful little lake, large open lawns, and plenty of lush trees. To get there, you can get a taxi/Uber, or hop aboard bus 32 at the Porta San Donato station behind the University. Exit at Porta Santo Stefano (4 stops total) and take a short walk south.

The park is at its most beautiful in spring and early summer , when the trees are in bloom and everything is green and peaceful. The summer heat does take its toll on the greenery, but it is still a great place to relax and spend an hour or two with friends or family. The little lake is filled with fish and turtles that you can watch from the shore as you enjoy a few moments of peace and quiet.

Visit Palazzo Albergati on Via Saragozza

One more museum to go! Catch a bus (32 again) from Giardini Margherita to Aldini (4 stops), then take a short 3-minute walk north on Via Malpertuso until you reach Palazzo Albergati , located on the street corner.

The place is worth a visit for its large exhibition of Andy Warhol’s works , as well as for the palace itself. It has a remarkable structure, beautiful ceilings, amazing wall paintings, and kitschy baroque stucco. The construction of the palace, belonging to one of Bologna’s most important families, began in 1519 . If you’re into contemporary art, you will love seeing the famous portraits of Mick Jagger and Marilyn Monroe in this uniquely historic setting only 20 minutes away from the city’s shopping district.

Stop at a Nearby Restaurant for Dinner

When you are in Bologna, one of the culinary capitals of the world, known for its Bolognese sauce and numerous other dishes, you want to experience the best that the city has to offer. For that, you’ll need to get off the beaten track and check out the small unassuming taverns in modest surroundings. In short, you’ll have to eat like the locals . There are several great places like that within two to three minutes of Palazzo Albergati.

One of them is Osteria Bottega , an amazing place facing a long red-brick wall on Via Santa Caterina. It is a very casual place, with a focus on excellent food and a great atmosphere. Since the place can get busy, consider making a reservation. They serve outstanding local food such as Tortellini al brodo and Tagliatelle al ragù.

Trattoria del Tempo Buono is also a great place to sit down, with classic Italian dishes but also seafood on the menu. Donatello puts a bit more emphasis on meat dishes and this part of Italy specifically, and its wonderful atmosphere will make sure you enjoy your meal every time.

Have a Few Drinks Before Calling It a Night

What you want to do next depends on your own tastes and preferences. If you like beer, whiskey, live music, and a charming, chill atmosphere, then Black Cat Live Music Pub is your place. Marino, the pub’s owner/bartender is a minor local celebrity, with a winning, amiable personality.

Lime Bar is a lovely place to sit down for a drink and just relax a bit, and Celtic Druid Irish Pub certainly stands out too, not just because of its name but because of its good beer and tasty bites, too.

If you prefer a proper nightclub, dancing and partying, you need to check out Covo Club. It may be a bit out-of-the-way (2 miles from the city center), but when it comes to places to be and things to do in Bologna for young people, Covo Club takes the cake. It is the oldest indie rock venue in Italy and has even been featured in Rolling Stone magazine.

WHERE TO STAY IN BOLOGNA?

Grand Hotel Majestic gia’ Baglioni

Via Indipendenza 8

If you’re not sure where to stay in Bologna, check out Grand Hotel Majestic gia’ Baglioni and eliminate all doubt. Instead of touring and taking photos of gorgeous palaces, you can stay at one. The exquisite 18th-century palace surroundings of Grand Hotel Majestic gia’ Baglioni cast a spell with their antique furnishings in the very heart of the city, only 250 m from Piazza Maggiore. Book a room here and you will feel (and be treated) like royalty!

BOOK A ROOM HERE

Hotel Corona d’Oro

Via Oberdan 12

Hotel Corona d’Oro is Bologna’s golden crown, just down the street from Torre degli Asinelli. It is a historic hotel (dating back to 1890) but equipped with all the modern amenities, including free Wi-Fi, flat-screen TVs with satellite television, and a minibar in each room. A number of the hotel’s elegant and comfortable rooms offer great views of the two towers . When you stay at the hotel, there are several things you can count on, including free bicycles and a rich complimentary breakfast.

Boutique Hotel Liberty 1904

Via Giuseppe Massarenti 98

Located only a short 10-minute walk from the city’s University district, Boutique Hotel Liberty 1904 has everything you need to make your stay in Bologna as enjoyable and convenient as possible. The spacious air-conditioned rooms are all equipped with a flat-screen TV and a private bathroom with free toiletries and a hairdryer. It is a great value property, with a variety of options for breakfast (complimentary) and friendly, accommodating staff . Several of the hotel’s rooms have a balcony where you can enjoy panoramic views of the city or watch the stars at night.

Combo Bologna

Via De’ Carracci 69/14, 40129 Bologna

Located only 800 meters from Bologna Train Station, Combo_Bologna is a modern, charming hostel with a beautifully designed orange and black front facing a large open area filled with trees and tables where you can sit down and relax. The interior is stylish and comfortable, with plenty of activities available in the shared areas. The rooms are all air-conditioned and free Wi-Fi is available throughout the property.

DAY TRIPS FROM BOLOGNA

Food, art, history, higher learning, architecture – that’s primarily what Bologna is famous for. For all the other things to do in Bologna and the Emilia-Romagna region, you may want to consider booking one of the numerous organized tours and day trips from Bologna.

Less than two hours by car from Bologna is a unique day trip destination – San Marino. One of the smallest sovereign countries in the world has been independent since the year 1600, whereas the city of San Marino was founded in 301. You can see that there will be a lot of sightseeing to do here, and the whole place is really beautiful, too. A unique and fascinating day trip, that’s for sure!

For something completely different, there is the Private Ravenna Tour with Transport from Bologna , exploring the numerous UNESCO World Heritage Sites in a city famous world-over for its numerous breathtaking mosaics and unparalleled architectural wealth. Check out these and other offers in our separate article, where the best day trips from Bologna are compared and reviewed.

Less than an hour from Bologna is the Mecca of the automobile industry – Maranello is the town in which Ferrari has its headquarters. Yes, THAT Ferrari! You can check out the company’s museum, book a test drive of one of these incredible machines, and generally learn about this iconic brand. When it comes to cars, there is no bigger name than Ferrari, so if you’re at all a car fan, you will absolutely love coming here.

Montevegilo

A lovely little town right next to Bologna, Monteveglio is a great place to visit. That’s especially the case if you just want a relaxing day with a bit of wonderful nature for good measure. Moneveglio Abbey Park offers plenty of soothing hiking trails for everyone. However, the town is located in a wine region, so you can enjoy some wine tasting, too! Of course, excellent food is also easy to find. Just perfect for a slow and relaxing day out.

EXTRA TIPS FOR VISITING BOLOGNA

-Start your day early, around 8 AM, and allow yourself a flexible schedule in case something catches your eye. The sheer number of attractions can seem confusing, but it is all manageable as long as you accept that and just focus on having a great time.

-You should always carry enough cash in Bologna, mostly for little shops, hole-in-the-wall type establishments, and traditional tavernas.

-If you want to use a taxi, make sure to negotiate your fee in advance. Also, it is considered courteous to leave a generous tip.

-Tips are customary in all bars and restaurants, 10 – 15% is OK.

-The rules of etiquette mean a lot to the locals. Make sure to greet everyone present as you enter a shop or an office.

PIN FOR LATER!

If you have any other propositions for this One Day in Bologna Itinerary, feel free to share them in the comments below!

Make sure you have everything you need

What to pack for your next trip.

Make your next trip as simple and as enjoyable as possible by packing smart. It’s amazing how much stress top travel items can save you, so choose carefully. Things like lightweight travel backpacks, for example, are ideal for short trips and allow you to move around with ease, and a passport holder will make sure you keep your documents safe at all times. Check our travel checklist guide for 2021 to make sure you haven’t missed anything, and travel to your next destination in style and with maximum comfort.

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Anca is a travel writer and the founder of One Day Itinerary - the biggest collection of travel itineraries for those who are time-limited or just want to maximize their time while traveling. Although she easily becomes homesick for Croatia, she thinks travel is essential to her happiness. She has traveled to more countries than she is years old and doesn’t plan on changing that fact. In her travel guides she aims to inspire people to travel whenever they have a spare day (or two).

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Visit Bologna Like a Smartie: 19 Mistakes to Avoid On Your 1st Bologna Trip

Last Updated: February 16, 2022

*FYI - this post may contain affiliate links, which means we earn a commission at no extra cost to you if you purchase from them. Also, as an Amazon Associate I earn from qualifying purchases. Check out our Privacy Policy and Disclosure. for more info.

This article about mistakes to avoid when you visit Bologna was produced in collaboration with  Emilia Romagna Tourism  and  Bologna Welcome , who hosted me during their Blogville campaign. I hope you enjoy these tips!

If you’ve  stalked me on Instagram lately , or had the misfortune of hearing me rave in person, you might know about my latest travel crush: a small, delicious city by the name of Bologna, Italy.

Save this post for later on Pinterest:

I must admit, for about two weeks after I returned, I was insufferable. My visit to this city turned me into a relentless robot programmed to start every sentence with “when I was in Bologna…”

I even caught myself hand rolling tagliatelle one night in my tiny Munich kitchen, trying in vain to recreate the magic. Honestly speaking, I’m surprised I still have friends.

But hey, now that the dust has settled and I’ve eaten the last of my kilogram of tortellini I smuggled home in my suitcase, I’m ready to finally speak coherent sentences about my time in Bologna.

… So why “mistakes” then? Well, let’s just say, after a week attempting to live like a local, I was able to make my fair share of them. And while Bologna is a wonderful city best savoured slowly, it’s also one where easy mistakes can ruin your finely laid plans.

And so, here’s a Bologna travel guide to help you make the most of your time in Emilia Romagna’s tasty capital, filled with silly mistakes you should avoid. Enjoy!

19 Mistakes to Avoid When You Visit Bologna, Italy

Take the following as your Bologna guide to “what not to do”. When you visit Bologna for yourself, remember to avoid…

1. Disobeying the “Bologna food commandments”

Forgive my dramatics, but when I first sat down to write this list of mistakes, I realized most of them were food-related, so I’ve grouped them all here as what I would like to call the top “ Bologna food commandments”. Here we go… Remember, when in Bologna:

Thou shalt not order a Spaghetti Bolognese.

While I love a good spag bol when I’m at home, one of the quickest things I learned in Bologna was that no, there is no such thing as a spaghetti bolognese here.

First off – their meat sauce is known as ragù (it’s delicious minced meat simmered slowly to perfection with tomatoes, red wine, celery, carrots and onions).

Secondly, having spaghetti with ragù is considered a crime – the structural integrity of those flimsy little noodles can’t uphold the rich sauce.

SO, remember: if you want the best “spaghetti bolognese” of your life, march into a Bologna restaurant and get yourself a “tagliatelle al ragù “.

Thou shalt not ask for ‘baloney’.

I know: it’s confusing. Having grown up in North America, where the word “BOLOGNA” stood for a mysterious circular pink meat, it’s easy to think you could step into any eatery and ask to try some local baloney for yourself.

What you actually want is mortadaella, a sausage similar in taste to North American baloney, but much better in texture and depth of flavour. Usually it’s served in cubes or thin slices (which is when it most resembles American baloney).

Thou shalt not ask for other “Italian” food you might know from home…

Fettuccine alfredo, spaghetti and meatballs, etc. are not things here. If you really want to get beat up, try ordering a Hawaiian pizza 😉 Just joking… although this video of Neopolitans reacting to pineapple pizza will never not be funny to me.

Thou shalt not order a cappuccino after 11am, and certainly not after a meal.

While a post-meal coffee is common practice in Italy, if you want to quickly and surely horrify an Italian person, ask for a cappuccino when the waiter comes round.

Because consuming a bunch of milk after a heavy meal (and outside of breakfast) is considered strange, you might get a few weird looks (or made fun of, which yes, has happened).

Thou shalt not order a pepperoni pizza.

This will give you a pizza topped with peppers. Yes, this was learned through personal experience once upon a time. Fret not, my little pepperoni, what you want instead is a pizza with spicy salami.

Thou shalt not order a latte. 

A latte is “milk” in Italian. Servers will have no qualms with serving you a literal glass of milk if you order a latte, and yes I’ve witnessed this happening. Ask instead for a latte macchiato (milk “marked” with a shot of espresso).

BONUS TIP: The “to go” coffee culture really isn’t big here, so don’t expect every cafe to have takeaway options. Most likely you’ll want to stand at the bar and have your coffee quickly as the locals do (it costs extra to sit down).

2. Booking accommodation in noisy, central areas

Okay so with food out of the way, let’s talk about another common mistake: staying somewhere noisy.

The truth is, Bologna is…….. lively.

This is great when you want to be out having fun. It is NOT great however when it’s 3am, and you can hear some guy shouting Ed Sheeran so loudly, he’s practically in your bedroom.

Bologna is a fun city full of people who want to have a good time (especially students!). This inevitably means that some hotspots are always going to be loud and busy. If you’re a light sleeper, I’d recommend finding accommodation on a quiet street, well out of the way of hotspots. Bologna is small and walkable, so even if you stay a little farther away from the main hubs, you’re never too far from important Bologna points of interest. When in doubt, stalk reviews!

[Of course, I was willing to put up with 3am Ed Sheeran given that our view looked like this]:

3. Not getting up early

Bologna is a city that rewards early risers, from gorgeous pink sunrises to empty streets ripe for frolicking.

Therefore, avoid saving ALL of your sightseeing for the peak afternoon hours. Like in any other big city, this is a sure recipe for crowds, line-ups and awkwardly waiting for people to move. Instead, capitalize on one of the best things to do in Bologna: exploring before all the other sleepyheads escape their beds. I visited the Basilica of San Petronio as soon as it opened and literally had the whole place to myself!

4. Relying too much on public transport

In my opinion, Bologna sightseeing is best enjoyed on foot! And while there is plenty of public transport in the city, bus travel doesn’t  really do Bologna justice, so take advantage of the city’s walkability and walk as much as you can.

PS: Take some time to walk down little side streets and get a little lost too. Scattered all around the city are palatial buildings obscured by gates, little gardens hidden from plain sight and so much more than meets the eye.

5. Riding the bus wrong (and not validating tickets)

While I didn’t take the bus much in Bologna (apart from getting to/from the airport), a quick search on forums reveals a surprising number of visitors who get dinged by unforgiving officials for riding the bus wrong, so I needed to include it here!

Without sugarcoating, buses in Bologna can be confusing . Not only do you need a ticket, you need to validate it properly in order to avoid a fine.

While in theory, there ARE some (cash only) machines on buses where you can buy tickets on board, there are several accounts of them  often not working  or simply not existing  on certain buses .

Your better bet is to pre-buy tickets at either the electronic machines at train/bus stations OR just look for a “Tabacchi” shop (marked with a big T) and validate your tickets once on board.

NOTE: Ticket validation is serious business in Bologna! On my airport bus, we were horrifically delayed so lots of people got in through the back door. To ensure that everybody had properly validated tickets, we banded together like the Care Bears and passed everyone’s ticket down a line to get them stamped. I can’t lie to you, it was extremely cute.

6. Relying on card payments

Bologna, from what I noticed, is still pretty cash-heavy.

Although many establishments will take card these days, it’s a safer bet to just have some cash on you at all times to be safe, especially for smaller shops (which might require a minimum spend for card usage) and especially for public transportation.

7. Assuming everyone speaks English

We English speakers are extremely spoiled during our travels.

In most places I’ve visited, basic English is pretty much a given. In Bologna, I felt this was less so. While most younger students and those working in service spoke some English, there were definitely quite a few instances where I would get replies in frustrated Italian.

This is kind of fun though – take it as your opportunity to practice the fluid sing song of Italian conversation. For what it’s worth, no one ever scoffed at my attempts, but honestly, 99% of my interactions came in gelato shops, and “Straciatella” is kind of pronounced the same no matter where you go.

Anyways, remember: brush up on some basic Italian to make your life easier!

8. Missing some of Bologna’s more offbeat sights

Another key mistake that visitors often make is they hit up all the main hotspots and leave behind the wealth of cool, offbeat sights that Bologna has to offer.

Here’s my opinion: don’t restrict your Bologna sightseeing solely to the most popular places in the city! Most visitors to Bologna will frolic to the usual suspects like the Quadrilatero, Piazza Maggiore and the Due Torri, but there are a lot more things to do in Bologna than just those.

Here are some suggestions for what to see in Bologna beyond the most popular attractions (some of which are adequately creepy):

Santuario di San Luca: Not totally offbeat, in fact it’s quite famous, but a lot of visitors miss the Santuario di San Luca because they think it’s too far or not worth a visit. To me, the Santuario di San Luca is a real Bologna must see. Not only does it have the longest portico in the world leading up to it, seeing the sandy pink church surrounded by lush green trees is quite the sight. If you’re daunted by the prospect of walking up, do as I did and take the (very touristy) San Luca Express, a little toy train that whizzes you all the way up for 10 euros.

The Church of Santa Maria della Vita : In the heart of the Quadrilatero is this little church, just off of Piazza Maggiore where you’ll find the famous Compianto del Cristo Morto (Lamentation over the Dead Christ), well-regarded as one of the most magnificent examples of Italian sculpture.

Istituto di Anatomia Umana Normale: Some of the oldest wax anatomical models are on display here for free, which is either awesome or terrifying depending on your preferences, but it’s nonetheless a macabre and interesting sight that most tourists miss.

Saint Catherine of Bologna : While “mummified nun on a golden throne” sounds like a great premise for a horror film, I assure you this is a real thing you can see and visit in Bologna. Housed in the Chiesa della Santa, the only thing creepier perhaps is the fact that you need to ring a mysterious doorbell to be buzzed in to see Catherine (who has perched upright on her throne for 500 years) for yourself. Oh, she’s also apparently surrounded fingers, toes and skulls. Needless to say, I couldn’t bring myself to do this, but you can learn more here.

Museum for the Memory of Ustica: While not that well known outside of Italy, June 1980 marked one of the greatest tragedies in Italian history, and one that remains shrouded in mystery, controversy and conspiracy to this day: the Ustica Massacre. Aerolinee Itavia Flight 870 was a flight bound for Palermo from Bologna. Shortly before landing, the plane crashed near the island of Ustica, killing all 81 on board. This museum was opened as a memorial for the victims of the crash. Most notably, it contains the actual wreckage of the plane, alongside haunting pieces meant memorialize the victims.

Bologna’s street art : One little thing I loved keeping an eye out for while in Bologna was the countless murals, graffiti and street art around the city. There are certainly huge murals outside of the city center, but even in the central areas, I noticed artists often made use of closed shop gates to paint a cool design (another reason you should get up and explore early!) If you want to see some of Bologna’s street art for yourself, this Italian website  has a full map of big murals around Bologna for you to check out.

Forte Torre Chiesa Evangelica:  This church is a little out of the way, but I needed to include it because it’s so cute. The Forte Torre Chiesa Evangelica is a darling pink church I randomly came across while walking back into town from the San Michele in Bosco. I’m quite confident in any other city, it would be Instagram-famous, yet here it is, blissfully untapped.

9. Skipping the spectacular interiors of buildings

This sounds like an obvious tip, but a necessary one.

Throughout the week, as I stalkerishly perched from my window overlooking Piazza Maggiore, one baffling phenomenon I consistently witnessed was that people would pass through the square, snap some selfies, then scurry off, not actually entering the many buildings surrounding the square.

Don’t do this!!!

Bologna is certainly beautiful to admire from the outside, but the real treasures are contained within walls. Here are a few gems you need to make a point to visit and check out from the inside:

Biblioteca Salaborsa: Located right by the Fountain of Neptune, this public library is best known for its glass floor which showcases Roman ruins (which you don’t see too many of in Bologna) BUT I find the spectacular architecture and beautiful ceiling more worthy of my drool.

Sala Farnese:  Located in the  Palazzo d’Accursio  alongside the Biblioteca Salaborsa is the nicest view over Piazza Maggiore that you can get for free. All you need to do is walk in and take two flights of stairs up, following the signs for the “Sala Farnese”. The view from here is a real Bologna must-see.

Basilica of Santo Stefano: If you find yourself in Piazza Santo Stefano, don’t forget to head inside the Basilica, which is actually a complex of multiple churches, hence its nickname “The Seven Churches”. This is a truly unique sight that I haven’t seen anywhere else in the world. Be sure to put it on your list!

Basilica of San Domenico: What if I told you Bologna has its own Michelangelo original…… and nobody knows about it?! Thanks to my local friend Silvia from Bologna Uncovered, I got to check out Bologna’s Basilica of San Domenico, a gorgeous church with an angel candle holder designed by Michelangelo himself.

The Archiginnasio and its Anatomical Theatre: Last but not least, while this isn’t a hidden gem by any means, I would urge you to take the time to thoroughly explore the Archiginnasio and pay the small 3 euro fee to visit the Anatomical Theatre. It’s an eerie place. After all, this is where some of the first human dissections for scientific/research purposes were performed! If that makes you feel queasy, the Archiginnasio is also filled with some gorgeous ceilings and artwork to admire.

10. Showing up without booking in advance

Next: I need to let you know that Bologna is not a great city to attempt spontaneity, that is, if you’re really keen to see some of the city’s top attractions.

The starring attraction, Asinelli Tower for example must be reserved in advance… and trust me: the line gets looooong. To avoid disappointment, reserve a time slot in advance to climb the tower here . I suggest choosing one early in the morning. We went in the middle of the day and it was far too crowded for my liking!

The same principle applies to popular restaurants: always make a booking in advance!

11. Missing out on awesome free viewpoints

So yes, the view from the Asinelli Tower IS amazing, but there are some others in Bologna that are great as well, with the bonus of being completely free! Here are two that I highly recommend you check out:

San Michele in Bosco: A mini hike if you choose to walk it, but you do go through a nice part of town and the view is of course unbeatable.

Sala Farnese: Located right in the middle of the city, gazing over Piazza Maggiore. To access it, simply walk into the Palazzo d’Accursio, look for the stairs, head up two flights and turn left. You’ll see some signs that will point you in the right direction!

12. Missing the “Seven Secrets of Bologna”

Guidebooks and online articles seem to love talking about the extremely mysterious Seven Secrets of Bologna , little hidden ‘easter eggs’ that are scattered around the city for those clever enough to discover them. Many of these are “hidden in plain sight” types of secrets, from centuries-old inscriptions about cannabis, walls next to Piazza Maggiore that whisper, Venetian canals and um… hidden sculptural odes to male “virility” on Bologna’s most beloved statue.

While I didn’t have time to seek out all these secrets for myself (though some I did – can confirm: Neptune is well endowed),  I love this blog post via La Brutta Figura , who systematically researched and went to see each of these secrets for herself. Spoiler: some might not exist!

13. Driving around the city center without a permit

Kind of niche advice for anyone who’s renting a car, but beware: driving in the city centre as a tourist is only allowed with a permit. Learn more here.

14. Visiting Bologna restaurants and expecting them to be just like restaurants back home

Coming from a land of convenience, free water and online bookings (I love you Canada ), there were a few things that really struck me on my first few visits to Italy. I was reminded of them again while in Bologna, a place where dining out is a popular past time. I know one of the key activities in Bologna is eating, so don’t be naive and make sure you know the following:

Take note of restaurant hours:  Unlike in North America, where there are restaurants open at all hours of the day, restaurants in Bologna adhere to pretty rigid mealtimes/operating hours, usually from 12-3pm for lunch and 7:30-11pm for dinner. Trying to find an excellent sit-down meal outside of these hours will be tough, so do your research and note down the hours of that bucket list restaurant of yours. NOTE: Many restaurants are also often closed on Mondays, so it’s best to check before “saving that place for Monday” (not that I… know… from… personal… experience… *sob*)

Make reservations: This was a doozy. Trying to find a table for dinner on Saturday night was like the literal Hunger Games. Let me tell you right now: any place that you’ve read about on a blog, website or Tripadvisor, I guarantee there are many others who read that same article and are buzzing to eat at that exact same spot. Make a reservation or risk being turned away by 5 places in 5 minutes! (true story)

Water isn’t free:  Tap water isn’t really a thing here. They don’t drink it. When you order water at a restaurant (even if it’s just regular still water) you’ll be paying by the bottle.

There’s a “coperto charge” : A “coperto” charge, or cover charge, is a prominent part of most restaurant bills. Don’t be shocked – it’s not a scam, think of it as a service charge plus a charge for bread. It’s typically charged per person.

Service might not be as quick as you’re used to:  I actually love this about Italian service – they don’t rush you at all and are usually quite slow at bringing out dishes. This means more time to chat and enjoy! That said, it’s a little different to the quick service I’m used to at home, so it’s a good one to keep in mind. PS: you also have to actively ask the server for your bill, they won’t bring it out in a non-subtle attempt to shoo you out like they often do in North America.

Assuming every restaurant will be good: There’s a silly, naive belief among us North Americans that Italy is a food haven where around every corner there’s a life-changing restaurant. As much as I would like to indulge this utopian fantasy, it’s simply not true. Italy (and Bologna), much like any other place in the world, has bad restaurants as they do good ones. SO, don’t expect to just stumble upon a random place and have sky high expectations. I did this one lunch and was very sad. You need to research, lest you be woefully let down. If you want a list of dependable eats, check out this roundup of delicious osteri from my local friend Silvia, who runs a great Bologna blog filled with locals tips and secrets.

15. Overtipping

This is kind of a contentious issue, and one that you can Google at length if you enjoy petty Internet arguments & angry people telling each other they’re wrong, BUT it is a generally accepted fact that you don’t need to tip as much in Italy as you may do in North America.

Some say tips aren’t expected at all (unless with exceptional service), but again – opinions vary. What I will say is you will never need to tip as much in Bologna as you do back home (where 15-20% is the norm).  I usually just round up, and even once when I did this, the waitress was very very surprised and happy at my measley 2 euro tip. Basically, don’t stress too much about tipping in Bologna, it’s not generally expected, though I’m sure it’s welcome.

My Go-To Travel Favourites:

🧳 Eagle Creek: My favourite packing cubes

💳 Wise: For FREE travel friendly credit cards

🍯 Airalo: My go-to eSIM

🏨 Booking.com: For searching hotels

📷 Sony A7IV: My (amazing) camera

✈️ Google Flights : For finding flight deals

🌎 WorldNomads: For travel insurance

🎉 GetYourGuide: For booking activities

16 thoughts on “Visit Bologna Like a Smartie: 19 Mistakes to Avoid On Your 1st Bologna Trip”

Great list, I feel like you could take a lot of these general tips and apply them elsewhere too! It took me a long time to understand the rituals around eating in a restaurant in Italy. What some of us in North America may see as blase, it’s really about sitting, enjoying company and eating delicious food. This is truly a great list for any traveller – but, what I really want to know – is how much pasta did you actually take home 😉

Wow, what a phenomenal post! The food just looks delicious! That tagliatelle al ragù looks so yummy 😛

OMG I love your commandments – hilarious!

Love this one. So funny! I’ve experienced some of these myself in other places in Italy. Ordering a cappuccino after a certain hour in the morning, not to mention after meals is indeed not recommended if you want to look like know something… Great tips, bookmarking ASAP 🙂

I had no idea about the coffee culture there! That’s a massive heads up about ordering a cappuccino. Also Lols big time about the ‘latte’ and being brought a glass of milk. Great content 🙂

I’m hoping to go to Bologna next year so I was overjoyed to come across your post. I’d never have known about half of these points myself had I not read this 🙂

Bologna is my favourite Italian city:)

Such an interesting post and amazing pics!

LOVE the list! I would add (and this applies to many, if not most places in Italy) their *interesting* way of lining up, or figuring out who is next. If you’re from the UK, Canada, or the US, you might be downright shocked at people “cutting” you in line or going before you to pay when you’re clearly standing right there waiting to pay. There is some kind of hidden code here and I have yet to crack it. If someone “cuts” you in line, it’s really best to just let it go, and make eye contact with the counter person. If you have to, say “Scusi” in a very forthright manner and wave your money around. That should do the trick.

Christina!! This is such a helpful blog post. I’m hoping to visit Italy in 2020 and this will be our first time out of the country *gasps*. I studied a year of Italian (but very rusty), so I’ll need to freshen up on that.

Love the tip about tagliatelle al ragù.. seems funny tho! I hope no one would ever order bologna, but you never know.. I am SUCH a sucker for mortadaella – i get some from a local pizza shop in our neighborhood.

One of my favorite books Bella Figura: How to live, love, and eat the Italian way talks about not ordering cappuccinos after 11:00. I was so intrigued to hear how and when they drank their espresso over there. GOOD TO KNOW ABOUT PEPPERONI PIZZA OMG. Spicy salami it is.

Have a good one!

Great article!!! From a Bolognese Girl i think you couldn’t write better! If everyone like to visit Bologna and taste a real Bolognese experience I can advice my farmhouse: http://www.nuovacampagna.it It is a marvellous farmhouse very close to the city but in a peaceful and silent countryside area, where you can taste real home made bolognese food and wines. We have 8 elegant and delightful suites, and we are very close to the city (10 min) We are Bologna Welcome and Fico Eataly World Partners! Can also help you in organizing your vacation!

The photo of that pink church which you said it is Forte Torre Evangelical church, in reality is the Catholic Church of St. Joseph and Ignatius :). Other than that you described Bologna very well and, as a native of that city, it looks like you have learnt most secrets that an insider would normally have

Thanks! I am from Bologna, but living in Berlin. You did it right! Many people should know all of this before visiting the city. True, with the traffic…..I wish Bologna was a pedestrian city! Btw it’s great you have mentioned that no one can drive with the car in the citycenter, except residents or you need a permit. Everyone who is visiting with car should definitely check with the hotel or bnb host how and where to park.

This is awesome. Detailed, well thought out,& fun. Thank you for sharing!!

Thanks for reading!

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Where to Stay in Bologna: A Complete Guide for First Timers

Planning a trip to Bologna, and wondering where to stay? We’ve got some good news for you. We’ve been to Bologna multiple times over the past several years – including just shy of a week on our latest trip, and we’re here to help you choose the best place to stay in Bologna for your particular travel style and budget. 

If you’ve spent any time at all reading our Italian travel guides in this little corner of the internet that we’ve carved out for ourselves, you might have noticed that there’s an Italian city that we’ve fallen head-over-heels in love with. 

That city is Bologna. 

We do our best to make sure that everyone going to Italy – whether it’s their first or fifteenth trip – at least considers adding a day or two in Bologna (to basically spend the entire time eating, drinking, and walking). 

In this guide, we’re going to do our best to walk you through all the information you need to figure out where to stay in Bologna for your particular style, budget, and preferences. 

We’ll go through four great areas to stay in Bologna, and give you the pros and cons for each as we see it. Then we’ll give you a few hotel, hostel, and apartment options that we came across and think would make a good home base for exploring the city. 

Our intention is that, by the end of this guide, you have everything you need to choose the right place to stay in Bologna for you and your travel companions. 

Sound good to you? Let’s get into it. 

Disclaimer: Some of the links in this post, like hotel links, are affiliate links, meaning at no additional cost to you, we make a little bit of money if you click through and book. That being said, we would never recommend something to you that we don’t stand behind 100%.

Where to Stay in Bologna: The 4 Best Areas for First Timers

We’re going to get right into the guide here. Sometimes, for bigger cities, we include a quick geography lesson to help orient you to the areas we’re about to talk about.

But Bologna is a relatively compact city, and that’s not really necessary here.

For each of the neighborhoods below, we’ve created a structure to help you figure out if it’s the right home base for you. Here’s what we’ll cover: 

• An overview of the neighborhood and our experience with it . We’ve personally been to and explored (more than once) all of the areas on this list, so we’ll try to give you a little bit of our perspective on what makes each area special. 
• Pros and cons of staying in this area . The things you need to know to make your decision. 
• A collection of a few places to stay that stood out to us . Sometimes it’ll be because they have rooms with great views, sometimes it’s that the hotel offers a great value given the location.

In the guide below, we’ve written a comprehensive mini travel guide for each of the neighborhoods we’re covering, but we’re well aware that a few of you are currently ready to throw your left shoe at the screen, saying “I don’t have time to read all of that, JUST TELL ME THE BEST PLACE TO STAY!” 

Here is a quick summary of the guide, though we’d recommend reading the longer section for the area that you think fits best for some of our favorite places to eat and drink in the neighborhood! 

• If it’s your first time in Bologna and you only have a 1-2 days, stay within walking distance of Piazza Maggiore . This is also our top recommendation. This is the beating heart of the city, and we find ourselves at Piazza Maggiore at least once a day (usually more) for one reason or another. Staying here puts you as central as possible, though you’ll be paying for the convenience and atmosphere associated with that. We stayed at Bibliò Rooms , a nice little guesthouse five minutes west of the Piazza, and enjoyed it. 
• If you’re in town for a short stay (one night) or planning several day trips, stay near Bologna Centrale . It’s less convenient for exploring Bologna itself and less charming, but it is convenient for coming and going from the city, and it’s definitely cheaper than other parts of the city. We stayed at the Social Hub , which is sort of a hostel/hotel hybrid with great shared facilities and a youthful vibe that is a three minute walk to Bologna Centrale. 
• If you want to be in a quieter, more residential area that’s still close to the main tourist attractions, stay near Porta Saragozza . This is the last place we’ve stayed, and it’s definitely more residential and a little quieter than some of the other places on this list. However, it’s at the southwest corner of the city center and is still just 5-10 minutes from Piazza Maggiore. Plus, it’s quite a bit cheaper (though there are definitely fewer accommodation options). 

Where We’ve Stayed in Bologna

As usual, we like to start these guides with our own experience in terms of specific places we’ve stayed in Bologna. 

I, Matt, spent a few nights solo on our last trip, and I stayed at Bibliò Rooms , a guesthouse that takes up a whole floor in a building a few blocks away from Piazza Maggiore in the center of Bologna. 

I really enjoyed it – though there was a bar right outside the window on the street that was playing loud music well into the night on Saturday (not on Sunday or Monday, though). It was a very comfortable, convenient place to spend a few nights before other people showed up to join me. 

I also stayed one night at the Social Hub Bologna , which is a good location for day trips because it’s a three minute walk to Bologna Centrale, the main train station in town. However, it’s a little far from Piazza Maggiore and the center of Bologna, and I would probably choose to stay elsewhere for longer stints. 

We moved to an apartment closer to Porta Saragozza , which was a particularly convenient place for our purposes because it was close to the stadium (we went to see Bologna FC play) and close to the starting point for the walk up to the Santuario Madonna di San Luca (a must-do for your Bologna itinerary ). 

If we were going to return to Bologna (we’re already making tentative plans for a summer 2025 trip back), we’d stay at Canonica Suites , which is in a great location just east of Piazza Maggiore and features apartments with kitchens (Matt has Celiac Disease, and we often need access to a kitchen for some meals). 

Piazza Maggiore: The Beating Heart of Bologna (Our Top Recommendation)

Sitting at the very heart of Bologna’s Centro Storico, Piazza Maggiore is the city’s main public square and its cultural and social hub. The area around the piazza is one of the best places to stay in Bologna if you want to be close to everything the city has to offer. 

The vibrant piazza is home to some of the city’s most magnificent architecture and famous cultural sites, including the mighty Palazzo d’Accursio (City Hall) and the unfinished facade of Basilica di San Petronio. 

The constant buzz of street performers on the square draws in crowds, infusing the area with a vibrant and lively atmosphere, no matter the time of day. 

The rest of Bologna’s Centro Storico is a maze of 16th century architecture connected by the UNESCO-protected porticoes that give the city its unique beauty. Most of Bologna’s main landmarks sit within a 10 minute walk of Piazza Maggiore, including the Cathedral, Neptune’s Fountain, and Asinelli Tower.

Via dell’Indipendenza, just off of Piazza Maggiore, is Bologna’s main shopping street, while Via Pratello to the west is a major nightlife hub.

The biggest advantage of staying in the Centro Storico is that you’ll be within easy walking distance (5-10 minutes) of all of the above. 

There are also plenty of great restaurants and food markets in the area, so you won’t have to go far to grab something delicious to eat. The city’s famous gourmet food quarter Quadrilatero sits just one street east of Piazza Maggiore. 

The Centro Storico is also one of the best areas to stay in Bologna for those wanting to fully immerse themselves in the city’s historic charm and culture. Bologna’s historic center isn’t overly touristy and has a far more authentic vibe than many other Italian cities.

Wandering around the ancient porticoed streets, you’ll notice many locals going about their daily lives, rather than huge tour groups clogging the narrow roads. 

However, being the most central area of Bologna, you will be paying a premium to stay around Piazza Maggiore. You won’t find many budget options in this area.

Pros and Cons of Staying near Piazza Maggiore

Here are the pros and cons of staying near Piazza Maggiore as we see them. 

Pros of Staying near Piazza Maggiore:

• It’s central . By staying in the heart of Bologna, you’ll be within walking distance of the city’s top landmarks, attractions, restaurants, and bars. You’ll have everything you need right on your doorstep (including public transportation connections to the further out places you might venture to).
• It’s authentic . Unlike many other big city centers in Europe, Bologna’s Centro Storico has retained a sense of authenthicity with its beautiful historic architecture and many locals going about their daily lives. In many of Italy’s bigger cities like Rome, Florence, and Milan, being in the main piazza is a zoo full of tour groups of 50+ people. Not so in Bologna!
• There are lots of hotel options . There’s no shortage of hotels in the area around Piazza Maggiore, with a good range of accommodation options.
• It’s easy to get to and from the airport . The journey from the airport to the city center can take as little as 15 minutes. The Marconi Express monorail takes you from the airport to Bologna Centrale station in just 7 minutes. Bologna Centrale is a 20 minute walk or a 5-10 minute bus ride from Piazza Maggiore. 

Cons of Staying near Piazza Maggiore:

• It’s relatively expensive (at least for Bologna). The central location makes the area around Piazza Maggiore one of the more expensive areas to stay in Bologna. You can get better value for money elsewhere in the city, but it won’t be as convenient.
• It can be noisy . Depending on where you stay, the Centro Storico can get fairly lively at night. Bars spill out into the streets, while students and tourists congregate around Piazza Maggiore into the early hours. If you’re staying on a main street, you may want to bring earplugs to drown out the noise.  
• It’s in a limited traffic zone (ZTL) . Bologna’s Centro Storico is a ZTL (limited traffic zone), meaning only residents with permits can drive inside the old city walls between 7am and 8pm. You can end up with a large fine if you enter this area without a permit. We think it’s probably best to avoid driving within the city center at all.
• Parking is a nightmare . Even if you do drive into Bologna’s city center outside of ZTL hours, parking is limited and expensive. Most hotels don’t have free parking for guests. You’ll need to look for private parking or the blue lines on the street where you’ll pay an hourly parking fee.

The Best Places to Stay near Piazza Maggiore

Here are a few of our picks for the best places to stay near Piazza Maggiore in Bologna’s historic city center. 

Art Hotel Orologio

Located right on the corner of Piazza Maggiore, overlooking the clock tower of the grand City Hall, Art Hotel Orologio is a tasteful and traditional family-run boutique hotel in a beautiful 19th century building. 

The hotel’s super central location puts you right in the heart of everything, with many of Bologna’s top attractions literally on your doorstep. However, the square can get a little noisy at night, so it’s best to keep the windows shut.

The rooms are comfortable and elegant, decorated with classic dark wood furniture, stuccos, wall tapestries, and antique features. Despite its traditional atmosphere, it still has all the modern amenities you could need, including aircon, a smart TV, a safe, and a minibar.

Standard rooms and suites can be configured with double or twin beds. Breakfast is included in the room price and served buffet style in the communal living space, while the on-site bar opens to guests each afternoon and evening.

The property also has several larger apartments in a separate building just a few meters away. These come with a small kitchenette, living and dining space, and a balcony. The largest apartment can sleep 5 adults so is ideal for groups and families.

Residence Le Porte

If you’re looking for an apartment right in the center of Bologna, Residence Le Porte would be one of our top picks. 

It’s hard to imagine a better location. The apartments are in a building a block away from le Due Torri (some of the apartments actually have a view out towards them), and a five minute walk to Piazza Maggiore and Quadrilatero.

There are six apartments in total – four one bedroom apartments (with sofa beds to accommodate up to four) and two apartments with two bedrooms – all of which have full kitchen facilities and in-unit washer/dryers.  

It’s worth remembering that if you have a car, you won’t be able to drive here because the building is in a no-car zone. They have a couple of garages 5-8 minutes away on foot that they suggest that are close (ish) to the location. 

Art Hotel Commercianti

Sister hotel to Orologio above, Art Hotel Commercianti sits just to the south of Piazza Maggiore, with up-close views of the iconic Basilica di San Petronio.

Originally a 13th-century guild hall, the elegant 4* hotel has retained much of the building’s medieval charm, with vaulted ceilings, wooden beams, historic frescoes, and Gothic stained glass windows.

Rooms are cozy and refined, with bold colors and traditional decor. Standard rooms can sleep two, while the large suites can hold two additional guests on a sofa bed.

The hotel also offers three modern apartments in the building’s annex, with a more chic and contemporary design than the rest of the hotel. The stylish apartments have their own kitchenette and a spacious living and dining area.

A fantastic international buffet breakfast is included in the room price, while free bike rental is also offered for guests. 

Art Hotel Commercianti is one of the few hotels in the city center with its own private parking garage, which can be used for an extra fee, and is even equipped with an charging station for electric vehicles.

Porta Saragozza: A Convenient (More Residential) Alternative 

Porta Saragozza is a charming local neighborhood surrounding one of Bologna’s ancient city gates. The area is located to the southwest of the Centro Storico.

We stayed in Porta Saragozza for a couple of nights on our last stint in Bologna and found it to be the perfect balance between being fairly central but in a slightly quieter and low-key part of town. 

The neighborhood is filled with historic villas sitting along tree-lined streets and picturesque cafes tucked under ancient porticoes. While not as busy as the Centro Storico, it still has a pleasant and lively atmosphere, with locals sipping coffee and wine on restaurant terraces and kids playing in the area’s many green spaces.

Despite its quieter atmosphere, Porta Saragozza sits just a 15-20 minute walk to Piazza Maggiore, putting you within easy reach of the many attractions of the Centro Storico.

It’s also the starting point of the famous walk up to Santuario Madonna di San Luca, the grand baroque church that sits on a hilltop above the city. From the historic city gate, you can stroll down Via Saragozza and through 666 porticoes (it’s the longest covered walkway in the world) up towards the iconic church. 

So what’s the downside? Well, the neighborhood does sit on the opposite side of the city to Bologna Centrale. You’ll need to either catch a bus or walk at least 40 minutes to reach the train station. So the location isn’t ideal if you arrive early or late or plan to take a few day trips by train.

Porta Saragozza is also a residential neighborhood, meaning accommodation options are a little more limited than in the city center. This is why we’re stretching the definition here to include the area a little to the east too.

Pros and Cons of Staying near Porta Saragozza

Here are the pros and cons of staying near Porta Saragozza as we see them. 

Pros of Staying near Porta Saragozza : 

• It’s close to Piazza Maggiore . The neighborhood sits just a 15-20 minute walk to the main piazza and many of Bologna’s main sites and attractions.
• It’s more low-key and quiet . If it’s an uninterrupted night’s sleep you’re looking for, Porta Saragozza is quieter than the busy Centro Storico.
• It’s beautiful . Porta Saragozza has no shortage of picturesque streets and cozy cafes and restaurants nestled within the porticoes.

Cons of Staying near Porta Saragozza :

• There are fewer accommodation options . Porta Saragozza is a residential neighborhood, so there aren’t very many places to stay – which is why we’ve included the area to the east too.
• It’s far from the main train station . The neighborhood sits on the opposite edge of the city to the main train station. It takes around 40 minutes to walk between the two. Although, several local buses do run throughout the day. 

The Best Places to Stay Near Porta Saragozza

Here are a few of our picks for the best places to stay near Porta Saragozza.

Hostel Il Nosadillo – Bologna

Hostel Il Nosadillo is a small, cozy hostel on the outskirts of the Centro Storico. It’s a great option for budget backpackers looking for an affordable and peaceful place to stay in Bologna. If you’re looking for a lively party hostel, this isn’t it.

Set on a quiet street to the east of Porta Saragozza, just a 10 minute walk to Piazza Maggiore, the simple hostel doesn’t have any fancy thrills, but does offer fantastic value for money in a great location.

You can choose between 4, 5, and 8 bed mixed dorm rooms, while solo female travelers may prefer the 5 bed female dorm. There are no privacy curtains, but lights and plugs by every bed and a large locker for each guest. 

Other amenities include a cozy communal living space with sofas, a fully equipped kitchen, and a laundry machine (extra fee). A small free breakfast is provided for all guests. The hostel also offers bike rental and they can help you book activities and tours.

I 4 Gatti (which translates to “The 4 Cats”) is a charming local guesthouse in a historic family villa close to Porta Saragozza.

Surrounded by a beautiful private garden, the guesthouse offers a homey and authentic Bolognese experience, with its traditional decor and original antique furnishings. The gracious hospitality of owner Filippo also helps create a warm and welcoming atmosphere.

Six rooms are spread across the property’s three floors. Most are doubles, while one room also has a bunk bed for an affordable family stay. None of the rooms are ensuite, but there are three large bathrooms for all rooms to share.  

The property also has plenty of spacious communal areas, including a fully equipped kitchen, dining room, and living room with a piano, TV, and even a PS3. During the warmer months, you can enjoy the large garden, with plenty of outdoor seating, a hammock, and a table tennis table. It’s easy to feel right at home here.

Attico di Via d’Azeglio

Attico di Via d’Azeglio sits in a quiet local area to the east of Porta Saragozza, a short distance south of the Centro Storico. Piazza Maggiore is less than a 10 minute walk away.

The modern bed and breakfast has a handful of luxurious double and family rooms with bold colorful decor and quirky features. The large family rooms can sleep up to four people in a double bed and sofa bed. 

Each room has a coffee machine and kettle, while the deluxe rooms also feature a small kitchen with a stovetop, refrigerator, and dishwasher. Ideal for making meals at home using ingredients from the local market.

While there’s an option to add breakfast to your stay, it is not served at the property itself. Instead, you’ll receive a €5 voucher for a coffee and pastry at the local cafe just 100 meters along the street.

Hotel Porta San Mamolo

Also situated to the south of the Centro Storico, Hotel Porta San Mamolo sits closer to Porta Castiglione than Porta Saragozza. But the picturesque local neighborhood is similar so we’ve included it anyway. Plus this hotel offers a comfortable and luxurious stay at a pretty reasonable price tag.

This boutique hotel blends modern style with traditional charm to create an elegant base in southern Bologna. The rooms are warm, welcoming, and tastefully decorated, with spacious doubles, triples, and quadruples available.

Breakfast is included each morning in the small breakfast room or out in the hotel’s peaceful central courtyard and garden. A private on-site parking garage is also available for an additional nightly fee. 

Bologna Centrale: A Convenient Spot for Short Trips & Day Trips

Sitting to the north of the Centro Storico, Bologna Centrale is the city’s main train station and a major transport hub within Italy. 

The main reason to stay near Bologna Centrale is purely practicality.

The central station is the best area to stay in Bologna if you plan on using the city as a base to explore the wider region on day trips and don’t want to constantly trek back and forth to the station. 

Bologna Centrale is well-connected to most other cities and towns within the Emilia-Romagna region by local train. You can also reach many other Italian cities by fast train in under 90 mins, including Florence, Milan, Verona, and Venice. 

By staying close to the main station, you’re also less than 10 minutes from Bologna Airport via the convenient Marconi Express , which is ideal if you’re arriving in the city late at night or leaving early in the morning. 

Other than its convenient location, Bologna Centrale doesn’t have much else going for it. It’s not the most attractive neighborhood and there’s a lack of good restaurants and bars (though there are some just to the northeast in Bolognina). 

However, accommodations do tend to be a little more affordable here.

If you plan on staying near the train station, you’ll need to be ready to travel into the Centro Storico to enjoy the city’s iconic attractions and famous food scene. Fortunately, Piazza Maggiore is only a 15-20 minute walk away. Local buses are also cheap and plentiful.

Basing yourself around Bologna Centrale is a budget-friendly alternative to staying in the city center, with convenient transportation connections and a quieter atmosphere, while still being easily accessible to the city’s top attractions.

Pros and Cons of Staying near Bologna Centrale

Here are the pros and cons of staying near Bologna Centrale as we see them. 

Pros of Staying near Bologna Centrale: 

• It’s Utilitarian . Conveniently located near the main train station for taking day trips from Bologna. There are also plenty of buses to move around the city. 
• It’s relatively affordable . Being further from the main attractions of the city center, accommodation around the station is more affordable and better value for money. Great for those on a budget.
• It’s close enough to the Centro Storico . From the station, you can easily walk to Piazza Maggiore in around 15-20 minutes (or take a crowded 5-10 minute bus ride).

Cons of Staying near Bologna Centrale: 

• It’s not the nicest neighborhood . Compared to the Centro Storico, the station area is not the most charming or historic part of town. Our walking tour guide pointed out a couple of buildings that were outfitted with a bolted on facade to make them look more attractive as you step out of the train station, which is kind of funny to us. 
• There aren’t a whole lot of good places to eat . Amenities here are more limited than closer in to Piazza Maggiore, though Bolognina is known for its well established food scene. 

The Best Places to Stay near Bologna Centrale

Here are a few of our picks for the best places to stay near Bologna Centrale. 

UNAHOTELS Bologna Centro

UNAHOTELS Bologna Centro is a sleek and modern hotel located just across the road from Bologna Centrale. It’s one of the closest hotels to the station, making it super quick and easy to jump on a train whenever you need.

Rooms are spacious and stylish, with bold colors and simple yet contemporary design features. Most rooms are doubles or twins, while a small bed can be added to some rooms to accommodate an extra child.

A buffet breakfast is provided each morning in the main dining room, with pastries, cakes, fruit, and a selection of hot food. You can also enjoy an afternoon aperitif at the hotel bar or out on the summer terrace.

Starhotels Excelsior

Sitting right next door to UNAHOTELS, Starhotels Excelsior is another big hotel, but with a slightly more classic and sophisticated vibe than its neighbor. 

It’s also one of the best accommodation options in Bologna for families. 

Family rooms can sleep up to four people, which is great for those with younger children. Plus under 16s stay for free in the same room. Amenities such as cribs, high chairs, potty seats, and playpens are available on request.

Those with older kids and teens can make the most of the interconnecting rooms for a little extra space and privacy. 

While the rooms have a classic and elegant style, the rest of the hotel has been newly refurbished with a modern and stylish design. 

The fashionable restaurant serves a daily breakfast buffet, as well as a menu of regional delicacies throughout the day. The hotel also has a casual cocktail bar and an on-site fitness center.

NH Bologna De La Gare

NH Bologna De La Gare sits a few minutes south of the central station, right on the end of Via dell’Indipendenza, Bologna’s main shopping street, and overlooking Parco della Montagnola, the city’s oldest public park.

The large hotel offers modern rooms with a clean and minimalist design, plus plenty of essential amenities like a flat-screen TV, minibar, hairdryer, and safe. 

While the standard rooms are a little on the compact side, the deluxe and superior rooms are only a small amount more and offer plenty of space, including a small seating area and desk. A handful of spacious suites sit on the top floor and have large terraces with amazing views over the city.

The on-site Amarcord Restaurant is a stylish all-day spot featuring plenty of colorful modern art and bold furnishings. 

In the morning you can enjoy a varied breakfast buffet (extra fee). Then for lunch and dinner, the restaurant offers a fantastic menu of traditional specialties like homemade pasta, alongside many international dishes. 

There’s also an elegant lobby bar for drinks and light snacks.

The Social Hub (Where We’ve Stayed)

The Social Hub (formerly The Student Hotel) is a cool, modern hotel to the north of Bologna Centrale. It’s an affordable and social option for young people, remote workers who are doing a work/travel hybrid, or those considering an extended stay in Bologna.  

Despite being further from the main attractions of the Centro Storico, the hotel is still worth considering for its unique design, young and vibrant atmosphere, and innovative range of amenities. 

The hotel rooms are designed to resemble college dorms, with bright and colorful decor, banners above the bed, and a pinboard filled with quotes over the desk. 

The standard rooms are surprisingly affordable for their size. Spacious and quirky suites are also available for cheaper than most basic rooms in the Centro Storico.

One of the things we love most is that The Social Hub isn’t just a hotel. Known as a “hub for the creative and bold,” the cool community space attracts locals, tourists, students, and entrepreneurs to enjoy its many public spaces and events. 

You can get some work done in the coworking area, go for a soak in the large rooftop pool, hang out at one of the restaurants and bars, or enjoy the weekly schedule of events and workshops. 

Other hotel facilities include a large modern gym, games room, laundry room, communal kitchens, and bike rental for guests.

The hotel attracts many local university students and long-term guests, making it a great place to meet other people during an extended stay. 

The University District: A Lively, Young Area

As the name suggests, the University District is home to Bologna’s historic university. Established in 1088, Bologna’s University is the world’s oldest university in continuous operation. 

Today, the neighborhood is still where you’ll find much of the city’s large student population, giving it a youthful and vibrant atmosphere. 

The university district is perfect for young budget travelers looking for an affordable and lively place to stay that’s still close enough to the attractions of the city center.  

During the day, you can explore the many libraries and museums (don’t miss Museo di Palazzo Poggi). Then by night, immerse yourself in the area’s lively nightlife scene, with countless pubs and bars frequented by students and tourists alike.  

Many of the bars stay open late, with groups drinking on the terraces and streets into the early hours. Don’t expect an early night if you’re staying around here – or make sure to bring some earplugs.

Located to the east of the Centro Storico, the neighborhood offers budget-friendly accommodation within easy reach of the city’s main attractions and amenities. Piazza Maggiore sits just a 15 minute walk away, while Bologna Centrale station is roughly a 15-20 minute walk. 

The only major Bologna attraction that’s not as accessible from the university district is the walk up to Santuario Madonna di San Luca. The famous porticoed walkway begins on the opposite edge of the city, adding an extra 30 minute walk each way onto the iconic pilgrimage.

Pros and Cons of Staying Near the University

Here are the pros and cons of staying near the university as we see them. 

Pros of Staying Near the University:

• It’s cheaper than other parts of Bologna . The district offers more budget-friendly accommodation options than other parts of the city center.
• It’s lively . With its large student population, the neighborhood is one of the busiest and liveliest in all of Bologna, especially at night.
• Good food and drinks . There’s a great selection of restaurants and bars, especially on the cheaper end of the spectrum.

Cons of Staying Near the University:

• It’s loud and boisterous . If it’s a peaceful and low-key stay you’re looking for, this probably isn’t the area for you. The university district can be pretty loud and lively throughout the day and night.
• It’s a little further away from some attractions . The neighborhood is far from the southern and western areas of the historic center, putting you further from some big attractions such as the porticoed walk up to the Sanctuary of San Luca.

The Best Places to Stay Near the University

Here are a few of our picks for the best places to stay near Bologna University.

Good Morning Bologna

Good Morning Bologna is a small, locally owned guesthouse (they call it “Room and Breakfast” or “R&B,” which we got a kick out of) with a location on Via Marsala near the University. 

The location here is great because it’s on the edge between the University and main city center around Piazza Maggiore, so you can get the youthful vibes and convenience of staying in central Bologna at a comparatively lower price than staying within a few blocks of the main piazza. 

This location has a mix of hotel-style rooms in different configurations, and they also have an annex with apartments that have kitchens, if that’s what you’re looking for.

The rooms are stylish and compact, and the rate includes a breakfast buffet with sweet and savory options, along with light snacks and tea and coffee throughout the day. 

 It’s worth noting that all of their rooms do include some sort of secondary seating (other than the bed), which we always appreciate. 

For a more private stay in Bologna’s university district, Almarossa offers a variety of affordable rooms and apartments just 500 meters from Bologna’s University.

All situated within the same building, Almarossa has cozy double rooms, as well as modern studios and spacious one-bedroom apartments. 

Each of the apartments comes with a well-equipped kitchenette, dining table, and seating area. While nothing too flashy, the apartments offer fantastic value for money for those who enjoy having a little extra space to make themselves at home. 

Some rooms have a private balcony. But even if you don’t have your own balcony, you can still enjoy the sunshine in the building’s shared garden and terrace.

Aemilia Hotel

Aemilia Hotel sits across the main ring road (the road that encircles Bologna’s city center) from the university district, a little further away from the Centro Storico. But despite being further out, the hotel is highly rated and worth considering if a quieter local area appeals to you. 

The 4* hotel is modern and sophisticated, with a refined and elegant design that underwent extensive recent renovations. 

As well as its spacious and stylish rooms, the property features a high-end Italian restaurant, a welcoming lounge bar, and two terraces – one of which boasts amazing views over the city’s rooftops

The hotel is located just outside the ZTL (limited traffic zone), making it a great option if you’re traveling with a car. A private parking garage is available below the hotel for an extra fee.

From the hotel, you can easily walk to Piazza Maggiore in around 20-25 minutes. 

Dopa Hostel

Dopa Hostel is a cool and cozy hostel located inside a historic building in the heart of the university district. It has a homey and welcoming vibe and is filled with rustic handmade furniture using local wood and iron.

For the most affordable stay, you can get a bed in a 4, 6, or 8 bed mixed dorm or a 6 bed female dorm. The bunk beds are spacious and offer a good level of privacy, with a high wooden separator and full-length curtain. Each guest gets a locker and a private cabinet with clothes hangers.

Some double and triple rooms are also available for a little more privacy. Only the doubles have an en-suite bathroom.   

The hostel’s cozy lounge area will make you feel right at home, with board games, books, and musical instruments to enjoy. You can prepare your own meals in the common kitchen, while the hostel often organizes group dinners to help you meet other travelers. 

An Italian-style breakfast is offered for free to all guests (think pastries, fruit, yogurt, and things like that), while tea and coffee are available throughout the day.

Matt is the founder and main writer behind Wheatless Wanderlust, which he started back in 2018 as a way to share his gluten free travel guides with his fellow Celiac travelers.

Since then, Matt and his wife Alysha have visited 18 national parks, spent three months in Europe and six weeks in Colombia, and have explored every corner of the Pacific Northwest, which is where Matt grew up.

He writes super detailed guides to the places they visit, bringing together personal experience and historical context to help YOU plan an amazing trip.

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I spent a night in one of the empty apartments in Malaysia's $100 billion ghost town, and I can see why very few people want to live there

• Forest City, a luxury estate in Malaysia, has thousands of empty apartments.
• I spent a night in one of these apartments and found they weren't as luxurious as they were branded to be.
• Dozens of vacant units in the estate are listed for rent on Airbnb.

Forest City is a luxury development in southern Malaysia. China's largest developer, Country Garden , spent $100 billion building the estate.

I first visited Forest City in May 2022, and it was a ghost town . I found towering apartment buildings spread across 4 square miles. A white-sand beach overlooked the Johor Strait, where I could see the silhouette of industrial plants in western Singapore. At night, the windows of hundreds of rows of apartments stayed dark. There were barely any cars on the road and only a handful of people at the beach.

Forest City predicts that some 700,000 people will live in the estate in the next six years. For now, it says there are only 9,000 residents .

In 2022, a security guard at a local condominium told me 20 people lived in the complex. This left me curious about what it would be like to spend a night in one of these apartments.

In March, eight years into Forest City's development, I returned to the estate.

I booked a homestay at a condominium unit for 70 Singapore dollars, or about $52, through a property manager. Dozens of similar units are listed on Airbnb for as little as $38 a night. The unit's owner, who's based in China, declined to comment on this story, citing privacy reasons.

Take a look inside one of the thousands of vacant apartments in Forest City.

Country Garden didn't respond to multiple requests for comment from Business Insider.

Forest City's apartment complexes are marketed as high-end.

I arrived in Forest City on a Friday afternoon. A row of businesses — from a furniture store to a hotpot restaurant — lined the road to the condominium where I stayed the night. One business owner, who declined to be named, said they opened their shop in October.

It was significantly busier than when I had first visited two years earlier. There was barely anyone around then, but now, a few dozen people were walking the streets and patronizing the shops.

I had high expectations for the condo, as Forest City had long branded its properties as upscale. In a July press release , Forest City said it offered "luxury high-rise waterfront apartments."

According to the press release, unit prices in Forest City start at 510,000 Malaysian ringgit, or about $108,000. It's expensive for Johor, the Malaysian state where Forest City is.

Muhammad Najib Razali, a professor of real estate at Malaysia Technology University, told me properties in Johor usually sold below 300,000 ringgit — the price considered affordable among the state's middle-income households.

Locals aren't the target market for these upscale condos. Some 98% of units sold in Forest City were purchased by foreign buyers, according to data cited in a 2017 paper by Ong Kian Ming, a Fulbright scholar who was Malaysia's Deputy Minister of International Trade and Industry. In June 2017, Country Garden told Bloomberg it had sold 16,000 units.

The lobby didn't make a strong first impression.

The complex looked pristine from the outside, with each 39-story building covered in greenery. But when I entered the lobby, it was far less manicured.

The elevators were plastered with peeling wallpaper with Forest City's logo and a phrase in Chinese and English that read: "Going home is the beginning of a new life."

Most of the apartments on my floor looked empty.

My unit for the night was on the seventh floor. There were about 20 units on the floor. Each of the units had a window that faced the hallway. I peered into them and could see that most of the units were either sparsely furnished or outright unfurnished.

Two of the units were used by the condo's staff — I spotted several men in uniforms leaving and entering the room — with a few pairs of shoes left outside the door.

In 2022, a Forest City representative told me more than 20,000 residential units had been sold. Now, it appeared that many of these units were vacant.

A resident at another apartment complex in Forest City told me they were the only people living on their floor. They added that most other floors in the building also had only one resident.

Najib said one reason so many units were empty was because many people bought them as investment properties.

"Some buyers thought that Forest City, in terms of the rental market, would be much easier to see return," he said.

One local business owner, who declined to be named, told me she also worked as a property agent in Forest City and had 50 units available for rent.

According to units listed on the property site iProperty, a three-bedroom, one-bathroom apartment at the condo costs as little as 1,100 ringgit, or $235, a month to rent. In comparison, renting a similar unit at Danga Bay — Country Garden's first venture in Malaysia just 20 miles from Forest City — costs more than 2,300 ringgit a month.

The unit looked as if it hadn't been lived in. It had an aesthetic similar to an Ikea showroom.

The unit wasn't anything special. It had a simple three-person couch, a small wooden coffee table, and no TV.

The apartment measured 635 square feet and had a master bedroom, two smaller rooms, and one common bathroom. There was also a compact kitchen with two stoves near the entrance.

According to the property website EdgeProp, the average house in Johor is nearly double the size of this unit, at about 1,264 square feet.

Koh Sin Yee, an adjunct senior research fellow with Monash University Malaysia, told me locals in Johor often preferred to purchase landed properties rather than high-rise apartments. She said this deterred many locals — even those who could afford it — from buying a house and living in Forest City.

According to data referenced in Ong's 2017 paper, at the time, only 78 out of the 5,344 units sold in Forest City were sold to Malaysians.

The master bedroom was furnished only with a double bed.

Unlike the other two bedrooms, the master bedroom had natural light streaming in from a large window. One of the common rooms faced the hallway, and when the blinds were opened, I could see straight into the hallway. At night, it felt eerie, as I could hear every little noise from the outside, such as the rustling of leaves and insects chirping.

The common rooms were furnished with nothing but a single bed. I could feel the plastic still wrapped around the mattresses when I lay down.

While the rest of the unit looked new, the bathroom was worse for wear.

Dirt and dead moths had piled up in the shower.

Showering was uncomfortable. The drain was clogged up, so I ended up ankle-deep in water.

The best part of the unit was the balcony, which had views of the coastal villas and the Johor Strait.

On its website, Forest City marketed these villas as a "peaceful retreat or a luxurious vacation home." These villas are larger than the apartments, with a living area between 753 square feet and 1,862 square feet. A total of 482 villas are set to be completed by 2026.

The villas looked like modern townhouses. Each villa had a rooftop and garage. Forest City hasn't announced how much these villas will cost.

While the condo was massive, I spotted only a handful of residents using its facilities.

Outside, there was a swimming pool, several outdoor gyms, and a playground.

There was no one at the pool in the morning. The Jacuzzi was full of cloudy-looking water.

I spotted a total of three residents, one of whom was blasting a song in Chinese from her phone and exercising on one of the tai-chi spinners at the outdoor gym.

It looked like an average residential neighborhood in Singapore — with its endless blocks of public housing and the ubiquitous sight of plants and trees — but without the people.

There was one place that didn't feel dead: the row of shops just outside the condo.

I headed for a meal at one of several Chinese restaurants just outside the condo. During my first visit, most of these stores were vacant. But now, it was where I found the most signs of life.

The moment I stepped into the restaurant, I was transported to China . Chinese pop music blared from the speakers as cigarette smoke wafted into the air.

Nearly everyone inside spoke only Chinese. Despite speaking Malay, the national language, I had to resort to pointing at items on the menu to order.

The area had become an enclave of sorts: The other stores nearby were also Chinese restaurants or convenience stores that sold household goods from China. There, people told me they were from the mainland, too, and only spoke Chinese.

"A certain demographic of Chinese people may prefer this kind of lifestyle in Malaysia," Koh said, adding that Forest City offered a lower cost of living than major cities in China and was designed in a way that was familiar to where Chinese residents may have lived back home.

• Main content

The Lyrids are here: How and when to see the meteor shower peak in 2024

Get ready for another show in the sky, space fans. This time it will be a shooting star show.

The Lyrid meteor shower will peak in 2024 starting late Sunday night on April 21 and last through dawn on Monday April 22 .

The Lyrids, one of the oldest known Metroid showers , began April 15 and runs through April 29 but the weekend will be the best time to get a glimpse of the show which NASA said can be seen by people across the world.

The first recorded sighting of a Lyrid meteor show, dates back to 687 BC by the Chinese , astronomers say.

Here's all you need to know about the phenomenon including what time to watch it and the best place to see it.

Lyrid meteor shower 2024: Visual guide to the celestial show

What are meteoroids? What are meteors? What is a meteorite?

Meteoroids  are small rocks that are still in space. When they enter the Earth's atmosphere, they burn up, and create a tail of debris as they disintegrate before hitting the ground. During that point, they are are called meteors.

Those that survive a trip through the atmosphere and hit the Earth's ground are called a meteorite. Some of the small pieces of an asteroid have been traced as far away ask the moon and Mars. 

Lyrids are known for their fast meteors, according to NASA, and can produce the occasional bright flash called a fireball.

Where is the best place to see the Lyrid meteor shower?

According to NASA, the best view in the Northern Hemisphere of the shower after moonset and before dawn.

Here are tips from the space agency:

• Pick an area well away from city lights or street lights.
• Bring a sleeping bag, blanket, or lawn chair.
• Lie flat on your back with your feet facing east and look up.
• Be patient. About 30 minutes in the dark your eyes should adapt and you should begin to see meteors.

Watch video: Meteor, fireball lights up sky in New Jersey, other east coast states

How many Lyrids will we see per hour?

Meteor showers are typically named after constellations, stars, and even asteroids.

If the sky is dark, and the moon is absent during this year's show, experts say, at peak viewers can expect to see 10 to 15 Lyrids each hour.

Natalie Neysa Alund is a senior reporter for USA TODAY. Reach her at [email protected] and follow her on X @nataliealund.

SpaceX rocket launch: Where to watch Monday’s launch from Daytona, New Smyrna Beach, Oak Hill

Editor's note: As of 2 p.m. Monday, April 22, the new SpaceX rocket launch window will be from 6:15 to 8:40 p.m. EDT Tuesday, April 23.

Anyone up for a rocket launch to start the week? A  SpaceX Falcon 9 rocket will potentially lift off, carrying Starlink internet satellites.

Weather permitting, the rocket launch will be visible in the night sky above Volusia County. Below is a calendar for upcoming rocket launches and how to watch the SpaceX rocket launch this week.

Is there a rocket launch today in Florida? Rocket launch calendar for Florida missions

Here's what we know about the rocket launch missions, mentioned in  FLORIDA TODAY's rocket launch calendar  for the month, which is updated frequently. (Check that link often for rocket launch times and dates because they are routinely subject to change for a variety of reasons.)

FLORIDA TODAY, a USA TODAY Network-Florida newspaper, provides interactive launch coverage at  floridatoday.com/space  with frequent updates on launches at least 90 minutes in advance, sometimes longer, depending on the mission. For questions or comments, email  Space Reporter Rick Neale  at [email protected] or tweet him  @rickneale1  on X, the social platform formerly known as Twitter.

Is SpaceX launching from Florida? Tuesday, April 23: SpaceX Starlink

Though SpaceX has not publicly confirmed this mission's existence, a National Geospatial-Intelligence Agency navigational warning shows a rocket launch window will open Tuesday night.

Here are some details about the upcoming SpaceX Falcon 9 rocket launch:

• Mission:  A SpaceX Falcon 9 rocket will launch a batch of Starlink internet satellites from the Space Coast.
• Launch window:  6:15 p.m. to 8:40 p.m. EDT Tuesday, April 23. It was previously Monday, April 22.
• Trajectory:  Southeast.
• Local sonic boom:  No.
• Booster landing:  Drone ship out on the Atlantic Ocean.
• Live coverage:  Starts 90 minutes before liftoff at  floridatoday.com/space .

Where can I watch SpaceX rocket launches online?

If you want to watch live rocket launch coverage,  FLORIDA TODAY's Space Team  will provide updates at  floridatoday.com/space , starting about 90 minutes before launch time. You can download the free app for iPhone or Android or type floridatoday.com/space into your browser.

Where can I see a rocket launch in Volusia County , Florida?

In Volusia County, immediately north of Brevard County — home to Kennedy Space Center and Cape Canaveral Space Force Station — you can get a great view of a SpaceX, NASA or United Launch Alliance rocket launch.

The best views to watch a rocket launch from here is along the beach. Look due south. Readers have also mentioned seeing a rocket launch from New Smyrna Beach, Daytona Beach and Ormond Beach. Here are some recommended spots:

•  South New Smyrna Beach  (Canaveral National Seashore), there may be parking costs. New Smyrna Beach features 17 miles of white sandy beaches. An eclectic and quaint beach town, despite its reputation as the "Shark Bite Capital of the World," New Smyrna Beach has always been a haven for surfers who come for the waves.

Dinner and a launch: Perfect for a SpaceX or NASA rocket launch, best waterfront restaurants in Volusia County

•  Mary McLeod Bethune Beach Park , 6656 S. Atlantic Ave., New Smyrna Beach. Bethune Beach, which is 3.5 miles south of New Smyrna Beach and one mile north of the Apollo Beach entrance to Canaveral National Seashore Park, has restrooms, picnic pavilions, showers and nearly 800 feet of beachfront sidewalk,  according to Volusia County's site . The nearby riverside park area is across South Atlantic Avenue with tennis courts, pickle ball courts, basketball and volleyball courts, playground, fishing pier and restrooms. The river by the park can be a great viewing spot for manatees, dolphins and pelicans.

•  Apollo Beach  at  Canaveral National Seashore  (south of New Smyrna Beach). Canaveral National Seashore runs along Florida's East Coast in Volusia County and Brevard County. To access Apollo Beach, take Interstate 95 to exit 249, then travel east until it turns into State Road A1A. Follow SR A1A south to the park entrance.

•  Oak Hill riverfront  is the  southernmost city in South Volusia County .

•  Sunrise Park , 275 River Road, Oak Hill

•  Goodrich's Seafood and Oyster House  back deck, 253 River Road, Oak Hill

•  Seminole Rest national historic site , 211 River Road, Oak Hill

•  Riverbreeze Park , 250 H.H. Burch Road, Oak Hill

•  Mary Dewees Park , 178 N. Gaines St., Oak Hill. Facilities include a rental building,playground, baseball field, basketball courts, tennis courts, outdoorrestrooms, pavilions, picnic areas and grills.

•  Nancy Cummings Park , 232 Cummings St., Oak Hill. Facilities include a playground, baseball field, basketball courts, outdoor pavilion and restrooms.

•  Jimmie Vann Sunrise Park , 275 River Road, Oak Hill. This location has about 350 feet of beautifully restored shoreline, according to the city of Oak Hill online. Facilities include a pavilion, picnic tables and kayak launching facilities.

•  A.C. Delbert Dewees Municipal Pier , 243 River Road, Oak Hill. Facilities include a520-foot observation pier with two covered decks and seating, the city of Oak Hill site states.

•  Bird Observation Pier  on River Road across from A.C. Delbert Municipal Pier (see above). Facilities include a 100-foot observation pier.

Rick Neale  is a Space Reporter at FLORIDA TODAY (for more of his stories,  click here .) Contact Neale at 321-242-3638 or  [email protected] . Twitter/X:  @RickNeale1

SpaceX Starlink rocket launch this week: Where to watch in Sebastian, Vero Beach

Editor's note: As of 2 p.m. Monday, April 22, the new SpaceX rocket launch window will be from 6:15 to 8:40 p.m. EDT Tuesday, April 23.

Anyone up for a rocket launch to start the week? A  SpaceX Falcon 9 rocket will potentially lift off, carrying Starlink internet satellites.

Weather permitting, the rocket launch will be visible in the night sky above the Treasure Coast. Below is a calendar for upcoming rocket launches and how to watch the SpaceX rocket launch this week.

Is there a rocket launch in Florida today? Rocket launch calendar for Florida

Here's what we know about the rocket launch missions, mentioned in  FLORIDA TODAY's rocket launch calendar  for the month, which is updated frequently. (Check that link often for rocket launch times and dates because they are routinely subject to change for a variety of reasons.)

FLORIDA TODAY, a USA TODAY Network-Florida newspaper, provides interactive launch coverage at  floridatoday.com/space  with frequent updates on launches at least 90 minutes in advance, sometimes longer, depending on the mission. For questions or comments, email  Space Reporter Rick Neale  at [email protected] or tweet him  @rickneale1  on X, the social platform formerly known as Twitter.

Is SpaceX launching from Florida? Tuesday, April 23: SpaceX Starlink

Though SpaceX has not publicly confirmed this mission's existence, a National Geospatial-Intelligence Agency navigational warning shows a rocket launch window will open Monday night.

Here are some details about the upcoming SpaceX Falcon 9 rocket launch:

• Mission:  A SpaceX Falcon 9 rocket will launch a batch of Starlink internet satellites from the Space Coast.
• Launch window:  6:15 p.m. to 8:40 p.m. EDT Tuesday, April 23. It was previously Monday, April 22.
• Trajectory:  Southeast.
• Local sonic boom:  No.
• Booster landing:  Drone ship out on the Atlantic Ocean.
• Live coverage:  Starts 90 minutes before liftoff at  floridatoday.com/space .

Where can I watch SpaceX rocket launches online?

If you want to watch live rocket launch coverage,  FLORIDA TODAY's Space Team  will provide updates at  floridatoday.com/space , starting about 90 minutes before launch time. You can download the free app for iPhone or Android or type floridatoday.com/space into your browser.

Where can I see a Florida rocket launch in Indian River County, St. Lucie County and Martin County?

The best views to watch a rocket launch from neighboring Brevard County, aka the Space Coast, is here along the beach. Visibility in Indian River County,  St. Lucie County  and Martin County, part of the Treasure Coast, will depend on weather conditions, and people should make sure not to block traffic or rights of way on bridges and to follow posted rules at beaches. Look due north. Here are some recommended spots, from closest to Cape Canaveral Space Force Station and Kennedy Space Center to farthest:

• Pretty much anywhere in Brevard, you'll get a view of the rocket launch. That includes  Melbourne Beach , which borders Indian River County, or from Grant-Valkaria along the Indian River Lagoon.

•  Sebastian Inlet Park , 9700 S. State Road A1A, Melbourne Beach (there is a cost to enter)

•  Wabasso Beach Park , 1808 Wabasso Beach Road, Wabasso

•  Ambersands Beach Park , 12566 N. SR A1A, Vero Beach (free parking)

•  South Beach Park , 1700 Ocean Drive, Vero Beach (free parking)

•  Merrill Barber Bridge  in Vero Beach

•  Alma Lee Loy Bridge  in Vero Beach 

•  Fort Pierce Inlet , 905 Shorewinds Drive

•  Blind Creek Beachside  North and South, South Ocean Drive or SR A1A on Hutchinson Island in Fort Pierce

•  Blue Heron Beach , 2101 Blue Heron Blvd., Fort Pierce

•  Frederick Douglass Memorial Park , 3600 S. Ocean Drive, Fort Pierce

•  Dollman Park Beachside , 9200 South Ocean Drive, Jensen Beach

•  Herman's Bay Beach , 7880 South Ocean Drive, Jensen Beach

•  John Brooks Park Beachside , 3300 S Ocean Drive, Fort Pierce

•  Middle Cove Beach , 4600 South Ocean Drive, Fort Pierce

•  Normandy Beach  in Jensen Beach

•  Pepper Park Beachside , 3302 N. SR A1A, Fort Pierce,

•  Walton Rocks Beach , which has a dog park, 6700 South Ocean Drive, Jensen Beach

•  Waveland Beach , 10350 S. Ocean Drive, Jensen Beach

•  House of Refuge and beach , 301 S.E. MacArthur Blvd., Stuart

•  State Road A1A causeway in Stuart

Rick Neale  is a Space Reporter at FLORIDA TODAY (for more of his stories,  click here .) Contact Neale at 321-242-3638 or  [email protected] . Twitter/X:  @RickNeale1