A complete itinerary for one day in Bologna, the food capital of Italy (+ a map, where to eat the best pasta and gelato, and how to see Bologna on a day trip).
Bologna is the capital of the Emilia-Romagna region of northern Italy. It’s a medieval city famous not only for its university and rich history, but also for its seriously good food. So good, in fact, that it’s often called the food capital of Italy.
The city is known by a few nicknames – La Grassa, La Dotta and La Rossa. La Grassa (the fat one in Italian) refers to its rich food legacy (pasta Bolognese originated here). La Dotta (the wise one) is related to the fact that the city is home to the oldest university in Europe. And La Rossa (the red one) is connected to the colour of the city’s medieval terracotta buildings.
Perfect 1-day Bologna Itinerary
Sitting right on the route between Florence and Venice, Bologna often gets skipped in favour of its more famous neighbours. Which is a real mistake, because the city is full of beautiful sights and just happens to be one of the best food destinations in all of Italy!
I’ve lost count of how many times I’ve been to Bologna, but it’s hands down my favourite place for Italian food. The city isn’t overrun by tourists, and there are plenty of incredible restaurants that haven’t been ruined by crowds. And of course, I never leave without loading my suitcase with Parmigiano Reggiano and balsamic vinegar. It’s half the price compared to back home in Bulgaria!
This Bologna travel guide has everything you need for a perfect trip – from iconic sights and hidden gems to the best spots for pasta, pizza, and gelato. Plus, I’ll show you where to pick up authentic Italian cheese and balsamic vinegar. Let’s go!
One day in Bologna Itinerary (best day trip)
- Start with pistachio croissants at Mister Coffee Bistrò
- Visit the Basilica of San Petronio
- Enjoy the stunning views from The Clock Tower
- Admire the Fountain of Neptune
- Try local cheeses, meats, and wine at La Prosciutteria
- See the Two Towers
- Visit Palazzo dell’Archiginnasio
- Try pistachio gelato at Cremeria Cavour
- End with Tagliatelle al Ragù Bolognese at Trattoria del Tempo Buono
Tips for your 1-day Bologna itinerary
Italy Beyond Guidebooks – follow our Facebook page for insider tips, hidden gems, authentic local restaurants, and transport strike updates that could affect your trip.
Accommodation – got your hotel sorted? Make sure it’s in a great spot by checking out my guide to where to stay in Bologna.
💖 My favourite hotel in Bologna: Hotel Brun
Perfect for: exploring Bologna – just steps from Piazza Maggiore and the city’s iconic attractions
What I loved: spacious rooms with very comfy beds and a complimentary minibar
Check details & prices: Booking.com | Expedia
Bologna day trip from Florence – If you’re planning a day trip from Florence, go for the high-speed Frecciarossa. It’s about twice as fast as the regional trains, which makes a huge difference on a short itinerary. And whatever you do, book ahead. Tickets can be two to three times cheaper than buying them last-minute or at the station. A little planning means extra money for gelato.
Bologna Itinerary Map
Here you’ll find a map of this 1-day Bologna itinerary, complete with attractions and restaurant links.
One day in Bologna Itinerary
Morning
Breakfast at Mister Coffee Bistrò
Duration: 30 min 🕒 08:35 AM – 09:05 AM
Start your day in Bologna with breakfast at Mister Coffee Bistrò. It’s hands down my favourite breakfast and brunch spot in the city. Located just outside the touristy areas, this coffee shop serves excellent artisanal pastries along with great coffee. I always go for the pistachio croissant, and their tiramisu is honestly one of the best I’ve had in Italy. If you’re more into savoury breakfasts, their avocado toast and eggs are also a great choice.
Another great breakfast option is Naama Cafè. This little Middle Eastern café offers a fantastic selection of coffee and tea. They also serve delicious pastries, baklava, and cakes – I especially loved their pistachio croissants.
Basilica of San Petronio
Duration: 30 min 🕒 09:20 AM – 09:50 AM
Basilica di San Petronio dominates the city’s main square, Piazza Maggiore. Dedicated to Saint Petronius, Bologna’s patron saint, it’s one of the largest churches in Europe.
When the construction started at the end of the 14th century, the church was planned to be even larger than St. Peter’s Basilica in Rome. As you can imagine, the pope couldn’t accept such a thing. In the 16th century, he managed to stop the construction of this megalomaniac dream. He did it by ordering the building of the Archiginnasio on the part of the land intended for the church.
After more than 5 centuries, the Basilica of San Petronio is still unfinished. You can clearly see this in its brick-and-marble façade. But don’t let that stop you from going inside. The interior is completely finished, with 22 chapels filled with priceless works of art.
You’ll also find Cassini’s Meridian Line, the longest indoor meridian line in the world (almost 67 metres long).
The Basilica of San Petronio is free to visit.
Palazzo d’Accursio
Duration: 1 h 50 min 🕒 10:00 AM – 11:50 AM
Right next to the Basilica of San Petronio, you’ll find the Municipal Palace, or Palazzo d’Accursio. Even though it sits right on the city’s main square, Piazza Maggiore, it’s a bit of a hidden gem. Most tourists just snap a selfie and keep walking. A real miss, because inside, it hides one of Bologna’s best-kept secrets.
Palazzo d’Accursio is actually a mix of three palaces, with the oldest part dating back to the 12th century. It was originally built as the townhouse of the jurist Accursio. In 1425, the Papal Legate made it his residence, and that’s when the iconic clock tower was added. Today, the palace isn’t just a pretty façade. It’s home to Bologna’s municipal government, the city’s library, and the Municipal Art Collections.
You can explore several rooms for free, including Sala d’Ercole, Sala del Consiglio Comunale, Sala Farnese, Cappella Farnese, Sala Rossa, and Sala Urbana. Cappella Farnese is especially impressive – it’s where Pope Clement VII crowned Charles V as Holy Roman Emperor back in 1530. On top of that, some rooms offer lovely views over Piazza Maggiore.
Don’t miss the impressive staircase leading up to the first floor. Designed by Bramante, it’s built so cleverly that horse-drawn carriages could actually reach the upper level.
Then head up to the top floor of the palace, where the Municipal Art Collections (Collezioni Comunali d’Arte) are. Inside, you’ll find a mix of art, furniture, and porcelain, all dating back to the Middle Ages. It’s worth a visit not just for the treasures themselves, but for the setting. It’s housed in the former winter apartments of the Cardinal Legates, which are absolutely gorgeous.
🎟️ Book in advance: timed-entry tickets often sell out, so secure yours now
Entry ticket: Palazzo d’Accursio is free, except for the top floor
Entry ticket: Municipal Art Collections + Clock Tower (non-refundable)
The best part is that your ticket to the Municipal Art Collections also includes access to the Clock Tower. From its panoramic terraces, you get stunning views over the city and Piazza Maggiore.
Just a heads-up: it’s best to book in advance, because only 15 people are allowed every 20 minutes. The last time I tried to go spontaneously, the whole morning was already sold out. I only just managed to book a time slot a few hours before my flight!
Fountain of Neptune
Duration: 10 min 🕒 11:50 AM – 12:00 PM
Fontana di Nettuno is one of those sights you simply can’t miss. This impressive 16th-century fountain sits right next to the city’s main square, Piazza Maggiore. At its centre stands a massive sculpture of Neptune, the Roman god of the sea.
Don’t miss his trident – it inspired the iconic logo of Bologna’s luxury car brand, Maserati. Below Neptune, mermaids surround the base of the fountain, with water flowing from their breasts.
Lunch at La Prosciutteria Bologna
Duration: 1 h 30 min 🕒 12:10 PM – 01:40 PM
For lunch, head to La Prosciutteria. It’s a place I never skip when I’m in Bologna. Their platter boards are incredible, packed with Tuscan cheeses and cured meats. I usually go for the gourmet platter, which comes with warm crostini to enjoy alongside the cheese and meats. Just a heads-up – it’s huge and definitely meant for two people. There’s no way you’ll finish it on your own. Pair it with a glass of red wine, and you’ve got the perfect lunch.
Another lunch spot I never miss is Sfoglia Rina. They’ve been making fresh pasta since 1963, and trust me, they’ve got it down to an art. My personal favourites are lasagne alla bolognese, tagliatelle with bolognese ragù, and tortellini in zabaione di parmigiano. And seriously, save room for dessert – the tiramisu and panna cotta are always amazing.
The only downside is that Sfoglia Rina is always packed. There’s usually a line at least half an hour before the restaurant opens, and it doesn’t really get any shorter later in the day. Last time I went, I showed up just two hours before closing, and the line was still huge – I barely made it in! But honestly, it’s so worth the wait, and I always make the time whenever I’m in the city. Just a heads-up: the shop opens at 9 AM, but the restaurant doesn’t start serving until 11:30 AM.
If you’re looking for something quick and tasty, Migarba la Schiacciata is a great choice. This little sandwich shop specialises in schiacciata – a Tuscan flatbread stuffed with ham and cheese. They use high-quality local ingredients, and the focaccia is always hot and delicious. I tried two different versions with mortadella, and both were fantastic!
Afternoon
The Two Towers
Duration: 5 min 🕒 01:45 PM – 01:50 PM
On your way to the next stop, make a quick detour to the Two Towers, the city’s most iconic landmarks. These towers, Asinelli and Garisenda, were built between 1109 and 1119, making them one of the oldest attractions in Bologna.
Back in the 12th and 13th centuries, the city’s skyline was crowned with almost 200 towers. For the noble families, building a tower was a status symbol, a way to show off their wealth and power. Over the centuries, most of these towers either fell into ruin or were demolished, and today only about 20 remain standing. The tallest and most famous are the Torre degli Asinelli and the Torre della Garisenda Tower, which still dominate the city centre.
Standing at 97.2 meters (319 feet), the Asinelli Tower is the taller of the two. In fact, it’s the tallest leaning medieval tower in the world. Its neighbour, the Garisenda Tower, is much shorter at 47 meters (154 feet), and leans even more dramatically, giving the pair their famous tilted silhouette.
In the past, visitors could climb the 498 steps to the top of Torre degli Asinelli. However, since 2023, the tower has been closed indefinitely for safety and restoration work. Its smaller twin, Torre Garisenda, has always been too unstable to climb because of its dramatic lean. So nowadays, if you want a great view of Bologna from above, head to the Clock Tower at Palazzo d’Accursio instead.
Palazzo dell’Archiginnasio
Duration: 1 h 🕒 02:00 PM – 03:00 PM
Built in the 16th century, Palazzo dell’Archiginnasio was created to bring all the branches of the University of Bologna under one roof. For almost 250 years, this was the heart of the university, where law, medicine, philosophy, and the arts were taught. And I know what you’re thinking – why spend your limited time in Bologna visiting a university? But this place is way more than that. It’s a slice of history you can actually walk through.
You can see it in the courtyard and staircases, covered in thousands of coats of arms and inscriptions. Each one represents students and professors who came here from all over Europe over the centuries. Next to many of the coats of arms, you’ll spot the student’s name and country. This part of the building is free to visit, and I highly recommend popping in, even briefly, just to see those incredible heraldic walls and ceilings.
But the real star for most visitors is the Teatro Anatomico. This incredible wooden lecture hall was built in 1637 for anatomy classes. At its centre sits a marble table where students once studied real human bodies. Visiting this part of the Palazzo dell’Archiginnasio requires a ticket, which also includes the Stabat Mater Hall and an audio guide.
That said, for me, as a huge bookworm, the real highlight was definitely the Stabat Mater Hall and the Biblioteca Comunale dell’Archiginnasio. The Stabat Mater Hall was once a main classroom for law students, richly decorated with coats of arms and inscriptions. From here, you sometimes get a glimpse of the library’s historic rooms, which are closed to visitors. On my last visit, I got incredibly lucky – the door was open, and I got a rare peek inside.
🎟️ Book in advance: timed-entry tickets can sell out, so secure yours now
Entry ticket: Palazzo dell’Archiginnasio and Teatro Anatomico (non-refundable)
Note that the difference between the audio-guided tour and the full guided tour is just €2. If you have some extra time, I’d definitely recommend going for the guided tour.
Gelato at Cremeria Cavour
Duration: 30 min 🕒 03:00 PM – 03:30 PM
No visit to Bologna is complete without trying the city’s best gelato. And you’ll find it at Cremeria Cavour. They offer dozens of flavours, all fresh and made with top-quality ingredients. My personal favourites are Cremino Nocciola, Cremino Pistacchio, and Piazza Grande. The only downside is how popular it is. On my last visit, I had to wait about 20 minutes for a cup, but it was totally worth it.
Another fantastic gelato spot is Cremeria la Vecchia Stalla. They have really interesting, not-your-average flavours – with tons of pistachio variations. My favourite is Ciui Ciuri – pistachio gelato with pistachio cream and crunchy pistachio nuts. Yep, I’m a total pistachio fan!
Dinner at Trattoria del Tempo Buono
Finish your day in Bologna with dinner at Trattoria del Tempo Buono, my favourite spot in the city. This casual Italian restaurant serves fantastic handmade pasta. The Tagliatelle al Ragù Bolognese and Lasagne al Ragù Bolognese are absolute must-tries. Don’t skip dessert, either – the pistachio semifreddo is a real treat.
Another great dinner option is Parlor. It’s a bit fancier, making it perfect for a romantic night out. They focus on fresh, seasonal ingredients, and everything feels a little more upscale. Of course, I went for the Tagliatelle al Ragù Bolognese, and it did not disappoint.
L’Arcimboldo is a great spot for a romantic dinner. They give a fresh twist to classic Bolognese dishes, and the Tagliatelle al Ragù Bolognese here was absolutely delicious.
If you’re in the mood for pizza, Corten is the place to go. They pair each pizza with a matching cocktail, and most of their ingredients are locally sourced.
More ideas for one day in Bologna
Take a walking food tour
Duration: 3 h
If you want to eat your way through Bologna like a local, this Walking Food Tour with a Guide is an absolute treat. Think wandering the old town while sampling everything from cold cuts and cheeses to homemade pasta, local wine and the best gelato in town. It’s the perfect way to discover hidden food gems and hear local stories you won’t find in guidebooks. By the end, you’ll have tasted over a dozen local delights and feel like you’ve spent the afternoon with a friend who lives for Bolognese food.
Another great way to experience the Italian food culture is this Pasta Cooking Class, Ragu, Spritz, Wine & Gelato. In this hands-on pasta cooking class, you learn to roll your own tagliatelle, sip a local spritz, and enjoy it all with rich ragù and regional wine.
Bologna’s famous porticoes
Bologna is famous for its porticoes – those charming covered walkways you see everywhere. They date back to the 12th century and were originally built to extend the upper floors of houses without taking over the streets below.
The city now boasts nearly 40 kilometres (about 25 miles) of porticoes, so there’s no shortage of arches to wander under. And they’re not just beautiful – they’re practical too! You can stroll through the city even if it’s pouring rain, all while staying dry. Some porticoes are true works of art, with gorgeous frescoes on the ceilings that make you want to look up with every step.
Church of Santa Maria della Vita
Duration: 40 min
The Church of Santa Maria della Vita is one of Bologna’s hidden gems. Even if churches aren’t your thing, it’s totally worth a stop as it feels way more like an art experience than a religious one.
It’s stunning, filled with intricate carvings and beautiful artwork from floor to ceiling. The real highlight, though, is the Lamentation over the Dead Christ, a 15th-century terracotta sculpture by Niccolò dell’Arca. Unlike a typical serene pietà, it’s raw, dramatic, and emotionally intense. The way the figures twist, cry, and grieve around the lifeless Christ is why Gabriele D’Annunzio described it as a scream in stone.
Right next to the church is the Oratorio dei Battuti, a little Baroque gem, famous for its stunning Venetian-style ceiling. Inside, you’ll find the Transit of the Virgin, a dramatic terracotta sculpture group by Alfonso Lombardi.
While the church itself is free to explore, you’ll need a ticket to see the Lamentation over the Dead Christ and visit the Oratory.
Bologna Cathedral
Duration: 30 min
You might think the Basilica of San Petronio is Bologna’s cathedral – after all, it’s huge and right on Piazza Maggiore. But that’s a common mix-up! The real Bologna Cathedral is actually Cattedrale di San Pietro.
Tucked away on a quiet side street, the cathedral doesn’t look like much from the outside, but step through the doors, and it’s a different story. Inside, towering arches, marble, and beautiful frescoes make it truly breathtaking. I even got lucky one day and caught an evening mass while wandering before my flight – it was such a peaceful, memorable moment. And I’m far from religious, yet it still felt magical.
Santo Stefano Complex
Duration: 1 h
Forget the idea of a single church. Santo Stefano is actually a cluster of sacred buildings, more like a mini labyrinth of history than a typical basilica. Long before it became a Christian complex, the site housed a Roman temple dedicated to Isis. Yes, you read that right – an Egyptian goddess in the very heart of Bologna!
Santo Stefano is a complex of seven interconnected churches, linked by courtyards and cloisters. That’s why locals also call it the Sette Chiese, or Seven Churches. Some of the highlights include:
- Church of the Crucifix – a medieval church with a big suspended crucifix from 1380 that gives it its name
- Church of the Holy Sepulchre – a shrine housing a replica of the Holy Sepulchre, the tomb where Jesus was laid before his resurrection
- Church of Saints Vitale and Agricola – dedicated to the city’s earliest martyrs
- Courtyard of Pilate – a little courtyard with an 8th-century limestone basin, famously known as the Pilate Basin
Visiting the Santo Stefano Complex is free, though donations are always welcome.
And if you happen to visit on the second weekend of the month (except July and August), make sure to check out the antique market just outside the Santo Stefano Complex.
Church of Santa Maria in Galliera
Duration: 20 min
I stumbled upon this Baroque gem while wandering the streets of Bologna, just exploring with no plan. The Church of Santa Maria in Galliera (often just called the Chiesa dei Filippini) sits right on Via Manzoni. This gorgeous baroque church was originally built in the 1300s and later rebuilt to house a miraculous image of the Virgin Mary. Inside, you’ll find dramatic frescoes, ornate stucco angels, and artwork by famous Bolognese painters like Francesco Albani.
Bologna’s hidden canals
The city also hides a secret network of canals – about 60 kilometres (37 miles) long, most of it covered today. Back in the Middle Ages, the Savena and Reno Canals were built to bring water straight into the heart of the city. Over the centuries, most of the canals were covered, turning them into the streets and squares we see today.
But if you know where to look, you can still catch glimpses of this hidden network. Two of the most famous places are the tiny windows along Via Oberdan and Via Piella (see all the locations here).
National Gallery of Bologna
Duration: 1 h 30 min
I found this hidden gem on my last trip while killing a few hours before my flight (again). The Pinacoteca Nazionale di Bologna is packed with incredible Italian art from the Middle Ages to the Renaissance, with works by Giotto, Raphael, and the Carracci brothers. It’s perfect if you want world-class art without the crowds and chaos of bigger museums. Don’t miss Raphael’s Ecstasy of Saint Cecilia, Giotto’s Polyptych of Bologna, Guido Reni’s Massacre of the Innocents and plenty more worth stopping for.
Sanctuary of the Madonna di San Luca
Duration: 2 h
Sitting high above the city on Colle della Guardia, the Sanctuary of the Madonna di San Luca offers gorgeous views of Bologna. But what makes San Luca truly famous isn’t just the church or the views – it’s the journey up. From Porta Saragozza in the city, a covered arcade, called the Portico di San Luca, winds its way nearly 4 km to the basilica. With exactly 666 arches and 15 little chapels, it’s the longest portico in the world!
You can either enjoy a scenic 50-minute walk or hop on the San Luca Express from the city centre to reach the sanctuary.
Shopping
I never leave Bologna without stocking up on Parmigiano Reggiano and balsamic vinegar. It’s way cheaper than back home in Bulgaria, and there’s so much more variety to choose from! If you grab vacuum-sealed Parmigiano, it’ll be fine for a few hours outside (as long as it’s not very hot, of course).
My favourite spots to shop for local food:
- Tamburini – a historic deli from 1932, packed with cured meats, cheeses, and fresh pasta. I especially recommend the Parmigiano Reggiano D.O.P. Extra Vacche Rosse
- Salumeria Simoni – around since 1960, this classic food shop offers the best Bolognese and Emilian cold cuts, cheeses, and Parmigiano Reggiano
- Giusti Boutique – a must for authentic Balsamic Vinegar of Modena, where you can taste different ages and styles before taking some home. I highly recommend the truffle-flavoured balsamic and the fig one – both are amazing
Book your tickets in advance
Bologna isn’t the busiest destination, but if you’re visiting in the summer, I’d recommend buying tickets in advance for the site below.
Palazzo d’Accursio – secure your tickets in advance here, as only 15 people are allowed every 20 minutes, and they can sell out quickly.
Bologna day trip from Florence
Located about 40 minutes away by train, Bologna is a very popular day trip from Florence. There are several trains every hour, but make sure to take the high-speed Frecciarossa, which is the fastest. I also highly recommend buying tickets and reserving seats in advance – the earlier you book, the cheaper they are. If you wait until the day of travel, tickets can end up 3 to 4 times more expensive, depending on demand.
If you’re visiting Bologna on a day trip from Florence, just follow the itinerary as it is. You don’t need to make any changes. The only difference is you might finish a bit later, since you’ll likely start sightseeing later in the day.
2 days in Bologna itinerary
If you have an extra day in the city, I’d suggest spending the first day exploring Bologna with my itinerary. On the second day, you could take a day trip to Ravenna, Padua, Modena, Parma, or Ferrara. There are so many charming small towns to explore in the Emilia-Romagna area and the nearby Veneto region. If I had to pick just one, I’d go with Ravenna, famous for its stunning early Christian and Byzantine mosaics, some of the most impressive in the world.
You can read more in the Best Day Trips from Bologna section later in the post.
Where to stay in Bologna
Whether you’re spending a night or two in Bologna or using it as a base to explore Emilia-Romagna, I’d strongly recommend staying in Centro Storico. Ideally, look for accommodation between Piazza Maggiore and Bologna Centrale. This puts you within easy walking distance of the city’s iconic sights and great restaurants, while keeping the train station close at hand. It’s a perfect base for day trips around the region and easy access to the airport too.
Art Hotel Commercianti – Best 4-star
Perfect location, on a quiet side street just off Piazza Maggiore. The hotel itself occupies a historic building with vaulted ceilings, wooden beams, and unique artwork. Some rooms even have balconies overlooking the Basilica of San Petronio’s beautiful stained-glass windows.
Grand Hotel Majestic gia’ Baglioni – Best 5-star
Set inside an 18th-century palace with beautifully frescoed ceilings, this hotel is the best option if you’re after a bit of luxury. There’s a lovely spa with a sauna and hammam, plus a historic cellar that’s well worth a look. And don’t skip the hotel’s restaurant, I Carracci, as the setting alone is absolutely stunning.
Hotel Cavour – Best 3-star
If you’re travelling on a budget, Hotel Cavour is a solid pick. It’s tucked away on a quiet side street just off Via Indipendenza and a short walk from Piazza Maggiore. The hotel is set inside a 16th-century palace, with classic tiled floors and an inner courtyard. Plus, the breakfast is surprisingly good for the price.
Best day trips from Bologna
Ravenna
Ravenna is one of the most popular day trips from Bologna. Once the capital of the Western Roman Empire, the city is famous for its stunning Byzantine mosaics. The golds and blues are so bright and detailed, they feel like they were made yesterday. If you only have time for one day trip, make it Ravenna.
How to get to Ravenna from Bologna
Take a regional train from Bologna Centrale to Ravenna. The journey takes about 1 hour and 15 minutes, with trains running roughly once an hour. From Ravenna’s train station, the Old Town is just a 5-minute walk away.
Parma
Parma is one of the most charming cities in Emilia-Romagna and a true heaven for food lovers. It’s the birthplace of two Italian icons – Parmigiano Reggiano and Prosciutto di Parma. And if you’re a foodie, it’s an absolute must-visit. You can even join a Parmigiano and Prosciutto tour to see exactly how these world-famous delicacies are made. Check out my complete guide to making the most of a Bologna to Parma day trip.
How to get to Parma from Bologna
Take a regional train from Bologna Centrale to Parma. The journey takes about 1 hour and 10 minutes, with trains running roughly every half hour. Avoid the high-speed Frecciarossa, as it’s only 15 minutes faster but 2–3 times more expensive. From Parma’s train station, the Old Town is just a 10-minute walk away.
Modena
Modena is best known for its amazing balsamic vinegar and, of course, as the home of Ferrari. It’s super easy to do as a day trip from Bologna and is an absolute must for food lovers. You can join a balsamic vinegar tour to see how it’s made and why it tastes so special. Check out my full guide to the best things to do in Modena to plan your visit.
How to get to Modena from Bologna
Take a regional train from Bologna Centrale to Modena. There are 3–4 trains per hour, and the journey takes less than 30 minutes. Again, skip the Frecciarossa, as it’s only slightly faster and a lot more expensive. From the station, the Old Town is just a 10-minute walk.
Ferrara
Ferrara is one of my favourite small cities in Emilia-Romagna. It’s famous for its beautifully preserved Renaissance walls, full of history – and yes, it even has a castle! Plus, it’s surprisingly quiet, hardly any tourists, which makes it feel like a real hidden gem. You can find all the best things to do in Ferrara in my complete guide.
How to get to Ferrara from Bologna
Take a regional train from Bologna Centrale to Ferrara. There are several regional trains per hour, plus a high-speed Frecciarossa. Go for the fastest regional (the trip takes about 30 minutes) and skip the Frecciarossa or the slower regionals, which can take up to 50 minutes. From Ferrara’s station, the Old Town is about a 20-minute walk.
Padua
Padua is actually in Veneto, not Emilia-Romagna, so it’s closer to Venice. However, thanks to the high-speed Frecciarossa train, it’s just about an hour from Bologna, making it a perfect day trip. The city is famous for the breathtaking Scrovegni Chapel, home to Giotto’s incredible frescoes.
How to get to Padua from Bologna
Take the high-speed Frecciarossa from Bologna Centrale to Padua (the journey takes about an hour). Make sure to book in advance to get a better price and avoid sold-out trains. From Padua’s station, the Old Town is about a 15-minute walk away.
Getting around in Bologna
Bologna is a compact city, with most of its main attractions just a short walk from each other. So, exploring on foot is definitely the way to go. Plus, the city’s famous porticoes make it even easier, offering shade from the sun and shelter from the rain.
How to get to Bologna
By air
Bologna’s Guglielmo Marconi Airport (BLQ) is just 6 km from the city centre. The easiest way to get there is the Marconi Express shuttle. It runs every 10 minutes from 5:40 AM until midnight between the airport and the train station. You can grab tickets online or from the airport vending machines. However, I highly recommend buying online, as the lines at the machines are always really long. Plus, the shuttle is small, so if it’s crowded, you might have to wait for the next one.
If you’re taking a taxi, expect to pay around €30 to get to the city centre. But if you’re travelling with someone else, I’d recommend taking a taxi instead of public transport. If you’re two people, a taxi can actually work out about the same as buying two Marconi Express tickets, which cost around €13 each!
By train
Bologna is well connected to other major Italian cities like Florence and Venice by the high-speed Frecciarossa train. Once you arrive, the city’s main square, Piazza Maggiore, is just a 15-minute walk from the station.
By car
Bologna, like many Italian cities, has a ZTL (Zona a Traffico Limitato), a restricted traffic zone in the city centre. If you accidentally drive in, you will face a hefty fine. If you’re arriving by car, it’s best to park outside the ZTL. There are plenty of parking options near Bologna Centrale, the main train station, which is just outside the restricted zone (see a list of car parks here).
FAQs about visiting Bologna
Absolutely! Bologna is a medieval city full of history, beautiful porticoes, and some of Italy’s best food. With iconic dishes like tagliatelle al ragù, it’s a must-visit for every foodie.
Bologna is a compact city, so one day is usually enough to see the main sights like Piazza Maggiore, the Two Towers, and Palazzo dell’Archiginnasio. But if you’re a foodie, I’d recommend adding an extra day to enjoy the local cuisine. Or spend the day visiting Parma for a prosciutto and Parmigiano Reggiano tour, or Modena to discover its famous balsamic vinegar.
Start your morning at Piazza Maggiore, exploring the Basilica of San Petronio, Palazzo d’Accursio, and the Fountain of Neptune. For lunch, enjoy a delicious salami and cheese board at La Prosciutteria. In the afternoon, visit the Two Towers and the historic Palazzo dell’Archiginnasio. End your day with some of the city’s best gelato at Cremeria Cavour.
Yes, Bologna is generally safe at night. The city centre is lively and well-lit, especially around Piazza Maggiore, the Two Towers, and the main streets. Thanks to its large student population, the city stays busy well into the evening.
You can definitely see the highlights of Bologna in a day, like the Two Towers, Piazza Maggiore, and Palazzo dell’Archiginnasio. It even works as a day trip from Florence, Milan, or Venice. But if you’re a foodie, I’d recommend staying at least one night so you can truly enjoy the city’s incredible local cuisine.
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