Best of Bologna Private Guided City Tour of Must-see Sites

Bologna , Italy

Best of Bologna Private Guided City Tour of Must-see Sites

Active

(3 reviews)

For a full refund, cancel at least 24 hours before the scheduled departure time.

Instant confirmation

Mobile or paper ticket accepted

About this experience

Bologna is a beautiful medieval city located in the heart of the Emilia Romagna region in in the northern Italy. Famous worldwide for its oldest university in Europe, this picturesque town offer to visitors a rich cultural and historic experience with a plenty of monuments worth seeing. During our private tour you will discover its authentic neighbourhoods with ancient piazzas, UNESCO-listed porticoes, medieval towers and hidden corners known only to locals. Led by your expert guide with an art background you will get a unique insight into the history and culture of Bologna and enjoy the fascinating stories and curiosities about its glorious past.

Available options

Best of Bologna Private Guided City Tour of Must-see Sites

What's included

Professional local guide

Private walking tour

Detailed itinerary

This is one of the main squares of the historic centre of Bologna established in the 1564 to make the space for the famous fountain of Neptune to which the area owes its name. Surrounded by the picturesque building of great historic importance, this square is one of the most iconic attractions of the city.

Stop 2

Another famous square and the true centre of Bologna. Surrounded by the medieval buildings, this historic piazza is a lively area which holds much historic value. Your professional guide will show you its main monuments and teach you about the history behind them

Porticoes are an important cultural and architectural heritage of Bologna and can be considered as the symbol of the city. You will stop to discover one of the most emblematic porticoes of the historic centre which has recently become a UNESCO heritage site.

Named after the Italian physicist Luigi Galvani this small square is a lively area with cosy restaurants and a popular meetup location for tourists and locals.

Stop 5 Pass by

Palazzo dell'Archiginnasio is a gorgeous 16th century palace and historic research centre in the heart of the city. It houses the Anatomical Theatre and the largest library in Emilia-Romagna but its main attractions is a large open courtyard with a double arcaded loggia. Adorned with the beautiful frescoes and sculptures it is a sight to behold. (Sunday is closed)

Stop 6

Quadrilatero is a historic neighbourhood which houses an ancient Bologna market since the Middle Ages. Walking through its bustling narrow streets and alley you will see how and where locals do their shopping.

Another significant square of Bologna, the Piazza della Mercanzia creates a unique charming atmosphere due to the picturesque medieval buildings which surround the area. Worthy of special mention is the palazzo della Mercanzia which was the old meeting place for the local merchants.

Stop 8

You will see the main attraction and the true symbol of the city. The taller one is called the Asinelli while the smaller tower is called the Garisenda. Erected between 1109 and 1119 these medieval constructions were used to protect Bologna from the enemies.

It is a characteristic neighbourhood of the city with a grid of alleyways, suspended passages, covered bridges and tiny windows, which give the area the medieval charm. Strolling through the picturesque narrow streets of Ghetto, you will dig deep into history and learn about one of the oldest Jewish communities in Europe.

See one of the most visited tourist attractions of Bologna. You will discover the picturesque panorama of the ancient canal of the Navile also known as the “Little Venice”.

What's not included

Gratuities

Food & drinks

Pick up & drop off

Available languages

Guide guide

EN IT ES

Reviews breakdown

Viator 5.0

2 reviews

5★

4★

3★

2★

1★

Tripadvisor 5.0

1 reviews

5★

4★

3★

2★

1★

Important information

Infants and small children can ride in a pram or stroller

Service animals allowed

Public transportation options are available nearby

Suitable for all physical fitness levels

Meeting point

Meet your guide at the Piazza del Nettuno by the fountain, look for a sign with your name on.

About Bologna

Bologna, the capital of the Emilia-Romagna region in Italy, is renowned for its rich history, vibrant culture, and exceptional cuisine. Known as 'La Dotta' for its university, 'La Grassa' for its food, and 'La Rossa' for its red-tiled roofs, Bologna offers a unique blend of medieval charm and modern sophistication.

Top Attractions

Two Towers (Due Torri)

The Two Towers, Garisenda and Asinelli, are iconic symbols of Bologna. Built in the 12th century, they offer panoramic views of the city from the top.

Architecture 1-2 hours €5 for the Asinelli Tower, €2 for the Garisenda Tower

Piazza Maggiore

Piazza Maggiore is the heart of Bologna, surrounded by stunning medieval buildings, including the Basilica di San Petronio and the Palazzo d'Accursio.

Historical 30 minutes to a few hours Free

Basilica di San Petronio

This massive basilica is one of the largest churches in the world. Built in the 14th century, it features a stunning interior with beautiful art and architecture.

Religious 1 hour Free, €3 for the museum and crypt

Piazza Santo Stefano

Known as 'Piazza dei Guai' (Square of Troubles), this charming square is surrounded by medieval buildings and features the Basilica di Santo Stefano.

Historical 30 minutes to 1 hour Free

Piazza del Nettuno

This square is home to the Fontana del Nettuno, a stunning fountain featuring a statue of Neptune. The square is also surrounded by beautiful Renaissance buildings.

Historical 30 minutes Free

Archiginnasio

The Archiginnasio was the main building of the University of Bologna from 1563 to 1803. Today, it houses the Anatomical Theatre and the Historical Library.

Historical 1 hour €5

Must-Try Local Dishes

Tortellini in Brodo

Tortellini pasta filled with a mixture of meats, served in a rich broth. A classic Bolognese dish, perfect for a comforting meal.

Main Dish Contains meat and gluten

Ragù alla Bolognese

A rich meat-based sauce served with tagliatelle pasta. This iconic dish is a must-try for any visitor to Bologna.

Main Dish Contains meat and gluten

Lasagne alla Bolognese

Layered pasta with ragù sauce and béchamel, baked to perfection. A hearty and delicious dish that showcases Bolognese cuisine.

Main Dish Contains meat and gluten

Mortadella

A type of large Italian sausage made from finely ground heat-cured pork, flavored with spices. Often served in thin slices as an antipasto.

Snack Contains pork and may contain other meats

Popular Activities

Cycling tours Hiking in the nearby Apennine Mountains Visiting spas and wellness centers Strolling through the city's parks and gardens Attending concerts and performances at Teatro Comunale Visiting museums and art galleries Boating on the Reno River Ice skating in Piazza Maggiore

Best Time to Visit

April to June, September to October

The best time to visit Bologna is during the spring and autumn months when the weather is mild, and the tourist crowds are smaller. These seasons offer pleasant temperatures and fewer crowds, making it ideal for sightseeing and outdoor activities.

15-28°C 59-82°F

Practical Information

Language

Official: Italian
Widely spoken: English, French, Spanish
English: Moderately spoken in tourist areas, limited elsewhere

Currency

Euro (EUR)

Time Zone

GMT+1 (CET), GMT+2 (CEST) during daylight saving time

Electricity

230VV, 50HzHz

Safety Information

Overall Safety Rating: Generally safe

Bologna is generally a safe city for travelers, with low crime rates and a welcoming atmosphere. However, as with any destination, it's important to be aware of your surroundings and take precautions to protect yourself and your belongings.

Important Precautions:

• Keep valuables secure and out of sight
• Be cautious of pickpockets and bag snatchers, especially in crowded areas
• Avoid walking alone at night in isolated areas

Getting there

By air

Bologna Guglielmo Marconi Airport • 6 km from city center

By train

Bologna Centrale

By bus

Bologna Autostazione

Getting around

Public transport

Bologna's public bus network is efficient and covers most of the city. Buses are a convenient way to get around, especially for reaching areas not served by the tram.

Taxis

Available • Apps: FreeNow, MyTaxi

Rentals

Car, Bike, Scooter

Neighborhoods

Centro Storico Saragozza San Vitale Sant'Agostino San Donato

Day trips

Modena

45 km from Bologna • Half day to full day

Modena is a charming city known for its rich history, beautiful architecture, and world-famous balsamic vinegar. It's a great day trip from Bologna, offering a mix of culture, history, and gastronomy.

Parma

100 km from Bologna • Full day

Parma is a beautiful city known for its rich cultural heritage, stunning architecture, and delicious food. It's a great day trip from Bologna, offering a mix of art, history, and gastronomy.

Ferrara

50 km from Bologna • Full day

Ferrara is a charming city known for its well-preserved Renaissance architecture, rich history, and vibrant cultural scene. It's a great day trip from Bologna, offering a mix of history, art, and local traditions.

Festivals

Bologna Jazz Festival • July Bologna Children's Book Fair • March Bologna Film Festival • June

Pro tips

Explore the city's historic center on foot, as it's compact and pedestrian-friendly
Try local specialties like tortellini, ragù alla Bolognese, and mortadella
Visit the Two Towers for a panoramic view of the city
Take a food tour to discover the city's rich culinary heritage
Use public transportation or walk to get around, as driving in the city center can be challenging