Is Bologna Worth Visiting? 21 Reasons To Go in 2024
Are you asking, "Is Bologna worth visiting?" The answer is a resounding YES! There are so many fun things to do in Bologna—especially for foodies!
Located in northern Italy, about 2 1/2 hours south of Milan, and halfway between Florence and Venice, the historic city of Bologna is often overlooked by travelers.
That’s a reason to visit right there! And I have 20 more reasons why you should visit Bologna, Italy!
Is Bologna worth visiting? Yes! Especially for foodies!
21 Reasons Why Bologna, ItalY, is Worth Visiting
1. Piazza Maggiore
Piazza Maggiore, the main square in the city center of Bologna, Italy, ranks as the city’s top attraction.
The large square hosts some of Bologna’s most important buildings, such as the Palazzo del Podestà, the Basilica di San Petronio, the Palazzo dei Notai, and the Palazzo d’Accursio (also known as the Palazzo Comunale). Adjacent to Piazza Maggiore is the Palazzo Re Enzo. Each of these historic buildings qualifies as a main attraction in its own right.
In addition to being the historic center of Bologna, Piazza Maggiore stands out as one of the most vibrant and lively places in the city. For first-time visitors, the piazza provides a great starting point to explore all that Bologna has to offer. Conveniently, it’s also home to the Bologna Tourist Information Centre.
On any visit to Bologna, you’ll enjoy exploring Piazza Maggiore.
2. Bolognese Cuisine
Bologna, Italy boasts three nicknames. My favorite, La Grassa, means “the fat one” due to the abundance of amazing Bolognese cuisine. For foodies, the number one reason to visit Bologna is undoubtedly for the food Bologna is famous for!
If you’re a food lover that loves pasta, even better. Bologna’s reputation as Italy’s culinary Mecca is built in part on such delicious and unique pasta dishes as tortellini in brodo, lasagne verdi, and gramigna alla salsiccia.
At the top of the must-try Bologna foods list sits one of the most quintessential dishes of Italian cuisine, tagliatelle al ragù. Ragù means “sauce” and refers to the city’s signature meat sauce, Bolognese sauce.
Bologna is worth visiting for the food alone!
3. The Quadrilatero
A stone’s throw from Piazza Maggiore, you’ll find the Quadrilatero. Taking its name from its roughly rectangular shape, this area is surrounded by historical buildings and structures from the Middle Ages. Narrow streets, lined with food shops, fresh produce stands, and traditional Italian eateries, exude old-world charm.
The Quadrilatero area is one of the best places for visitors to get a true taste of Bologna. Its central location makes it an easy stop for a quick snack, a leisurely lunch, or a delicious dinner.
For an authentic culinary experience, grab an outside table at Laboratorio Simoni or La Baita. Order a salumi board filled with the locally produced cured meats and cheeses, or one of the homemade pastas. A glass of wine will go perfectly with either.
Every Bologna visit should include a meal in the Quadrilatero.
4. The Two Towers of Bologna
Bologna, Italy is home to two great leaning towers known simply as Le Due Torri, or “The Two Towers.” Located in Piazza di Porta Ravegnana, both of these great towers were constructed during the Middle Ages in the 12th century.
The shorter tower, Torre Garisenda (Garisenda Tower), stands at 48 meters. Torre degli Asinelli (Asinelli Tower), reaches 97 meters tall. Climb its 498 steps for some of the best views of Bologna. It’s the perfect place to take some instagrammable photos.
To keep your bearings while exploring the city, keep an eye out for the taller tower; this lofty example of medieval architecture can be spotted from many of the other historical landmarks Bologna is known for.
The Two Towers of Bologna: Asinelli Tower and Garisenda Tower
5. Bologna Porticos
The Bologna Porticos (Portici di Bologna) are a series of incredibly beautiful arcades that adorn the streets of Bologna, Italy. Dating back to medieval times, they were built when the city was an important cultural and financial center.
Today, there are some 800 porticos in the city. Together, they are jointly recognized as a UNESCO world heritage site. The porticos of San Luca, Piazza Santo Stefano, Pavaglione, Piazza Maggiore, Santa Caterina, Certosa, Baraccano, and Via Zamboni are considered particularly significant.
On your first visit, you should make a point to see the most celebrated portico: Il Portico di San Luca. It’s 6 kilometers long and is considered the longest portico in Europe.
Visit Bologna, Italy, to see its beautiful porticos.
6. Bologna Food Tours
Bologna is the food capital of Italy, so it's no surprise that a food tour should be on your Bologna itinerary.
It is definitely one of the best things to do in Bologna, Italy! What could be better than exploring the rich history and local culture of one of Italy’s most beautiful cities while dazzling your taste buds with mouthwatering regional fare?
With an expert local guide leading the way through Bologna's winding alleyways and hidden gems, a walking tour will introduce you to the leading local markets, neighborhood trattorias, delicatessens, and more.
Click below for our picks of the best Bologna food tours to discover unforgettable culinary delights and have a deliciously good time!
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Sample local delicacies on a Bologna food tour.
7. The Santuario Di Madonna di San Luca
The Sanctuary of the Madonna di San Luca is one of the best places to visit in Bologna, Italy.
Built back in 1674 on the hill known as Colle della Guardia, this pilgrimage church towers high above the city. Visit to explore its beautiful architecture and enjoy mesmerizing panoramic views of the city below.
If you want to check it out, the best way is to take a stroll up the Portico di San Luca—yes, the most famous of the UNESCO porticos! This long covered path stretches all the way from the train station to right outside the entrance to the sanctuary. The protection it offers from the elements is especially appreciated on rainy days.
The Santuario di Madonna di San Luca, one of the best places to visit in Bologna, Italy
8. Balsamic Vinegar
As the capital of the Emilia-Romagna region, Bologna offers some of Italy’s most beloved food products produced in nearby cities and towns. Balsamic vinegar, or Balsamico di Modena, is one such product that, of course, comes from the Italian city of Modena.
It is so special it has Protected Designation of Origin (PDO) status, meaning it has strict governmental guidelines that must be followed in its production to ensure authenticity and premium quality. Specialty food shops all over Bologna sell this black gold, and it’s worth buying some as a souvenir or foodie gift.
It is thick, sweet, and luscious! Trust me, this balsamic is not like that in your hometown grocery store. Well, unless your home town is the wonderful city of Modena!
If you want to see the process of how balsamic vinegar is made, take a guided tour of a production facility. You’ll taste vinegar of different ages and have a great time learning about the history and handwork behind each bottle!
Much of the aging balsamic vinegar in barrels like these in Modena will find its way to Bologna.
9. The University Of Bologna
Founded in 1088, the University of Bologna is the oldest university in Europe and the Western World. Another of Bologna’s nicknames, La Dotta, or “the learned one,” stems from this prestigious honor.
The headquarters of the university, the Palazzo Poggi, also houses beautiful artwork and an impressive collection from Bologna’s Institute of Sciences. If you can only visit one building at the university, this should be it.
10. Archiginnasio of Bologna
Until 1803, the Archiginnasio of Bologna used to be the main building of the University of Bologna. Today, you’ll find the Archiginnasio Municipal Library and the Anatomical Theatre inside.
Rich in both historical significance and cultural importance, this elegantly designed building has served as one of the city's most revered landmarks for centuries.
Inside, visitors will be amazed at the monumental wooden sculptures and intricate artwork that adorn the ceilings. They'll also enjoy strolling through the library, where they can find books over 500 years old.
A stop at the Archiginnasio of Bologna to see the Municipal Library should be on your Bologna itinerary.
11. Parmigiano Reggiano
Another famous food from the Emilia-Romagna region, Parmigiano Reggiano cheese hails from the nearby city of Parma. Connoisseurs consider it the king of Italian cheeses. It is not only #1 among the most popular Italian cheeses worldwide, it is also revered for the complexity and intensity of its flavor and its versatility in the kitchen. You will have ample opportunity to sample it in Bologna.
It is similar to Parmesan cheese, but not the same. Its PDO status dictates that Parmigiano Reggiano must age at least 12 months and must be produced from the milk of certain select cows. The result is a distinct nutty, complex taste with a crumbly texture. That makes it perfect for grating on top of Bolognese dishes! Fans should consider touring a Parmigiano Reggiano cheese production facility!
Touring a Parmigiano Reggiano cheese production facility makes a great day trip from Bologna.
12. The Fountain Of Neptune
A short walk from Piazza Maggiore, you’ll find Piazza del Nettuno and one of Bologna’s treasures, the Fountain of Neptune.
Erected by Giambologna in 1566 on order of the Pope, La Fontana di Nettuno has a powerful Neptune standing at its top surrounded by four mermaids below.
The first time I visited Bologna, I saw a man sitting upon Neptune’s head. It appears that the Bolognese find this to be a great place to have protests and demonstrations.
The iconic Bologna landmark, Fountain of Neptune
13. Bologna Food Markets
For foodies, no visit to Bologna is complete without stopping at at least one of its covered food markets! Not surprisingly, the gastronomic capital of Italy prides itself on having many fabulous markets.
Visiting them is one of the best free things to do in Bologna, and you may want to purchase some of the local food products as souvenirs. Or, you may want to grab a drink or bite to eat while you soak up the atmosphere.
From Mercato delle Erbe (the oldest) to Mercato di Mezzo (the largest), these markets offer fresh fruit, salumi, coffee shops, street food, and even some sit-down restaurants.
14. Little Venice
Walking back to our hotel one night in Bologna, we stumbled across the canals. Who knew Bologna has canals?
We were in the area known as La Piccola Venezia, or Little Venice, and it is truly one of Bologna’s best-kept secrets. Not quite as grand as those of Venice, these quaint canals are lined with colorful houses still worthy of a photo or two.
The best photo op is at Finestrella di Via Piella, a small window to peek through and see the Canale delle Moline. It’s like two hidden gems in one.
The Finestrella di Via Piella in Little Venice, a Bologna hidden gem
15. Bologna Cooking Classes
Attending a cooking class when you visit Bologna, Italy, is a great way to immerse yourself in the Italian culture. Courses vary and can teach you how to craft everything from homemade pastas to light and creamy tiramisu.
Learning how to cook some of the local culinary delights promises to be an unforgettable experience. Of all the Italian cities, Bologna is the best place to learn how to make tortelloni and traditional Bolognese sauce.
Learn to make homemade pastas and Bolognese sauce at a cooking class.
16. Piazza Santo Stefano
In the heart of the city, the Basilica Santo Stefano dominates the attractive square known as Piazza Santo Stefano. Altogether, the piazza contains 7 churches, so it’s also called the Piazza delle Sette Chiese.
In addition to the churches, which were constructed over the course of centuries, you’ll also find one historic building after another that is each famous in its own right. These include the Palazzo Bolognini Amorini Salina, Casa Berti, Palazzo Bolognini Isolani, and Palazzo Isolani.
The surrounding red facades and roofs are a perfect example of Bologna’s third nickname, La Rossa—the red one.
If you’re looking for some really good food at an osteria or trattoria nearby, Osteria Le Sette Chiese, on a quiet street just a short walk away, will not disappoint!
Piazza Santo Stefano, aka Piazza delle Sette Chiese
17. Local Wines
One of the best parts of visiting Bologna, Italy, is enjoying the local wines! Enjoy delicious varieties with your meals, have a unique wine tasting experience at a premier enoteca in town, or take a day trip and visit an amazing winery in the surrounding area.
Lambrusco is the star wine that hails from the region, and it comes in a variety of styles. From sweet to dry, and bubbly to flat, the different expressions of Lambrusco red wine impress connoisseurs and novices alike.
Pignoletto is the most celebrated white wine produced in the Bolognese hills. It’s a mildly acidic, aromatic wine with hints of citrus. I find lunch to be the best time to enjoy Pignoletto.
18. Giardini Margherita
Located just south of the Bologna city centre, the Giardini Margherita, or Margherita Gardens, offer a peaceful break from the bustling city. Established by Domenico Montagnana in 1888, the gardens frequently host markets as well as art and entertainment events.
Families often come to enjoy rides on the antique carousel or get refreshments at the cozy kiosks scattered across the park.
Visitors to the park will find plenty of green spaces, ponds, jogging paths, and bike lanes. In the warmer months, the Giardini Margherita overflow with great places for picnics.
Giardini Margherita, a green oasis south of the Bologna city center
19. Gelato
Since Bologna is home to the ONLY gelato museum in the world—Carpigiani Gelato Museum—it’s not a shock that Bologna is one of the best cities in Italy for gelato! Located about 20 minutes from downtown Bologna, the museum offers a multitude of gelato experiences, from touring to tasting to making.
If you don’t want to spend too much time learning about gelato, and want to concentrate on eating it, I can’t blame you. Try one of our favorite gelaterias in Bologna: Cremeria Santo Stefano or La Sorbetteria Castiglione.
Chillin’ with some of the world’s best gelato, a great reason to visit Bologna
20. Museo Civico Archeologico
Located in the Palazzo Galvani, the Museo Civico Archeologico is a treasure trove of historic artifacts and artwork. This museum houses some of the most significant works produced by ancient civilizations that once lived in what is now Italy.
Some of the main attractions are mosaics from Pompeii and Potenza, unique pottery found in central Italy, and a war chariot believed to have belonged to Sulla, an early ruler of Rome.
One of the most significant pieces in the collections is a marble sarcophagus decorated with sculptured figures dating back to the 4th century BC. If you have enough time to spare, be sure to explore the upper floors with the Etruscan and Roman exhibits.
21. Fewer Crowds, Lower Prices
Despite the long list of reasons that make Bologna worth visiting, the city remains under the radar of most travelers heading to Italy. Luckily, that translates into shorter lines, less-crowded attractions, and a frenzy-free feel in the city.
In addition, you’ll fork out far fewer euros for food and lodging in Bologna than you will in the more well-trodden cities of Florence, Venice, or Rome. Fantastic food and fun, and a more genuine, less touristed feel at a budget-friendly price add up to one more excellent reason to plan a Bologna visit.
Visit Bologna, Italy
Now that you know what to do in Bologna, hopefully you’ll agree with me that it’s worth visiting!
If you’re still reading this Bologna Travel Guide, you may still have some questions. Here are a few tips to help you plan and enjoy your trip. I hope they help!
A narrow street in Bologna, Italy
Traveling to Bologna
Bologna’s airport is Guglielmo Marconi International Airport. It is well connected with other cities in Italy and other destinations in Europe. However, if you are looking to fly to Bologna from North America, you will find fewer direct flights than are available to such major cities in Italy as Milan or Rome.
Bologna does have a major train station that will make it easy to get from, and to, many other popular Italian destinations. The train is also a great way to take day trips from the city!
Traveling around Bologna
If Bologna is still the hidden gem of Italy, then the Emilia Romagna region is the underappreciated crown jewel of Italy’s culinary delights. Although Bologna provides enough attractions on its own to ensure a great experience, it is also a great base to explore more of what Emilia Romagna has to offer.
In addition to visiting the Parmigiano Reggiano cheesemaking facilities and prosciutto producers in Parma and the balsamic vinegar makers in Modena, there are also truly amazing restaurants to enjoy in these cities.
The story behind the painstaking restoration of the villa and grounds of Antica Corte Pallavicina in Parma is almost as amazing as the food served. The place is gorgeous, the staff is wonderful, and a visit there is unforgettable.
The Osteria Francescana is an exquisite Modena restaurant boasting 3 Michelin stars and helmed by Italian superstar chef Massimo Bottura. A food experience here is absolutely sublime!
For an alternate Bottura experience featuring wonderful food and exemplary service, but not the significantly additional cost of Francescana, Franceschetta 58 is just the right place. Also in Modena, the setting here is intimate, the food utterly delicious, and the staff completely dedicated to their craft.
When to Visit Bologna
Because Bologna is such a walkable city, I prefer soaking it up when it’s not too hot, too cold, or too rainy. So, spring and early fall are the best times to visit Bologna. Average temperatures are very comfortable, and rain is not a high risk.
As more and more people become aware of this fabulous foodie city, Bologna tourism is bound to increase. Before it becomes crowded with tourists, go as soon as you can!
How Many Days in BolognA
I’ll start by saying I like to travel slow. I rarely recommend only one or two days for a big city like Bologna. But if that’s all the time you have available and you’re asking, “Is Bologna worth visiting for a day or two?” I’d absolutely recommend you still go!
However, I prefer time to linger at an enoteca and hang out in the squares rather than running from one attraction to another.
Plus, with all of the great sights to see and all the must-eat dishes in La Grassa, there’s plenty to do to easily fill a 3 day itinerary for Bologna. So, I’d recommend a minimum of three to four days to taste a good sampling of what’s on offer throughout the city.
Bologna Welcome Card
If plans to visit Bologna’s impressive museums and palaces are among the main reasons for your trip, you’ll be glad to know that the Bologna Welcome Card will save you lots of Euros. It includes free admission to all of the following popular tourist destinations:
Musei Civici permanent collections
Museo Archeologico
Museo Medievale
Museo del Patrimonio Industriale
Museo del Risorgimento
Collezioni Comunali d’Arte
MAMbo (Museo d'Arte Moderna di Bologna)
Museo Internazionale and Biblioteca della Musica
Museo Morandi
Museo della Storia di Bologna in Palazzo Pepoli
Collezione Tagliavini in San Colombano
Palazzo Fava
Church of Santa Maria della Vita
Pinacoteca and Palazzo Pepoli Campogrande
Asinelli Tower
Palazzo Re Enzo
Where to stay in Bologna
Is Bologna a safe city? Yes. Nevertheless, you will want to stay in the city center of Bologna. If you walk to the outskirts, it can feel a touch sketchy, especially at night.
Most of the best things to do in Bologna are within walking distance of the center or are easily accessible by public transportation, taxi, or Uber.
Make Reservations
If you can make your reservations before you arrive for your Bologna visit, that’s the best way to go. That goes for hotels, tours, and restaurants.
Also, regarding restaurants, pay attention to their hours. Many will close between lunch and dinner and then reopen sometime between 7:00 and 8:00pm.
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