Bologna Murder Mystery: Self-Guided City Quest
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Bologna Murder Mystery: Self-Guided City Quest

Active
(13 reviews)
1h
For a full refund, cancel at least 24 hours before the scheduled departure time.
Instant confirmation
Mobile or paper ticket accepted

About this experience

A scream echoes through Bologna’s historic alleys - an unsolved murder has shocked the city. You’ve just arrived, but fate has another plan: you’re the only one who can crack the case.

Step into the role of detective on this self-guided murder mystery quest, designed to lead you through Bologna’s most fascinating locations. Solve clues to uncover hidden stories behind the city’s ancient streets, from the atmospheric Ghetto to the lively Piazza Maggiore. With every puzzle, you’ll peel back a new layer of the case while learning about Bologna’s art, legends, and secrets.

What makes this tour unique? It’s an interactive mystery game blended with local history, giving you a thrilling, story-driven way to explore the city at your own pace.

Highlights:
• Solve a murder mystery through real-world clues
• Visit the Old University, Ghetto, and secret city gems
• Explore via a mix of history, puzzles, and storytelling
• Great for families, friends, and couples

Available options

Bologna Murder Mystery: Self-Guided City Quest

What's included

Immersive mystery storyline with real-world clues
Flexibility (pause/resume anytime)
Mobile access code
11 puzzle challenges

Detailed itinerary

1

Porta Galliera was a gate or portal of the former outer medieval walls of the city of Bologna, Italy. It is the most ornamented of all the remaining gates. The gate was built during 1659-1661 by designs of the architect Bartolomeo Provaglia.

Here you will have to look around to find the answer to our challenge to advance to the new location and learn the story of this place.

2

On Friday and Saturday, Piazza VIII Agosto hosts the traditional and large "Piazzola market", with over 400 street stalls.

Here you will have to look around to find the answer to our challenge to advance to the new location and learn the story of this place.

3

The Arena del Sole is one of the historical theatres of Bologna. Its origins come to 1810. It was reopened in 1995 after eight years of reconstruction.

Here you will have to look around to find the answer to our challenge to advance to the new location and learn the story of this place.

4

The fountain was completed in 1565. The over-life-size bronze figure of the god Neptune was completed and fixed in place around 1567. The statue was an early design by Giambologna, who had submitted a model for the Fountain of Neptune in Florence, but had lost the commission to Baccio Bandinelli.

Here you will have to look around to find the answer to our challenge to advance to the new location and learn the story of this place.

5

The oratory was built between 1481 and 1497, when the celestine fathers of the nearby church of San Giovanni Battista decided to build a small church, in an area below which was the structure of a door of the circle early medieval walls, where an ancient image of the Madonna was placed, protected by a simple tabernacle.

Here you will have to look around to find the answer to our challenge to advance to the new location and learn the story of this place.

6
Stop 6 Pass by

It dominates Piazza Maggiore. The basilica is dedicated to the patron saint of the city, Saint Petronius, who was the bishop of Bologna in the fifth century. Construction began in 1390 and its main facade has remained unfinished since.

Here you will have to look around to find the answer to our challenge to advance to the new location and learn the story of this place.

7

The construction of the present Baroque church began in 1687-1690 under the designs of Giovanni Battista Bergonzoni, who built the elliptical plan with a dome designed by Giuseppe Tubertini, completed in 1787. The facade was not added till 1905. The sanctuary houses the sculptural group of Sorrow over Dead Christ (1463) by Niccolò dell'Arca.

Here you will have to look around to find the answer to our challenge to advance to the new location and learn the story of this place.

8

The taller one is called the Asinelli while the smaller but more leaning tower is called the Garisenda. Their names derive from the families which are traditionally credited with having been constructed between 1109 and 1119.

Here you will have to look around to find the answer to our challenge to advance to the new location and learn the story of this place.

9

The oldest university in Europe didn’t have a base until well into the renaissance, but before then, classes were held in professors’ homes (many lived around here) or in public spaces like this one.

Here you will have to look around to find the answer to our challenge to advance to the new location and learn the story of this place.

10

The Park of Montagnola is a public park in Bologna, Italy; it owes the original construction (1805) to Napoleonic rule, who commissioned the park design from Giovanni Battista Martinetti.

11

Bologna Cathedral dedicated to Saint Peter is the cathedral of Bologna in Italy, and the seat and the metropolitan cathedral of the Archbishop of Bologna. Most of the present building dates from the 17th century, with a few parts from the late 16th century.

12
Stop 12 Pass by

The building was begun at the end of February 1562, built very quickly, it was inaugurated on October 21, 1563. The building of the new "Schools" was named Archiginnasio after the classical term which was used to designate the Studium, as the University was first called, of Bologna.

13

Palazzo dei Banchi was the last building erected in Piazza Maggiore. Designed by Vignola in the 16th century, its spectacular façade was intended to hide the alleys of the rear market. Its name comes from the ancient presence of currency exchange “banks”

What's not included

A physical tour guide

Available languages

Written guide
EN IT ES

Reviews breakdown

Viator 4.0
2 reviews
5★
0
4★
2
3★
0
2★
0
1★
0
Tripadvisor 4.1
11 reviews
5★
6
4★
2
3★
2
2★
0
1★
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

Please use Google Maps or other map services to arrive at this location. When you arrive, please follow the instructions inside the Questo app closely.

Important notes

To unlock the experience in the Questo app, go to https://www.questoapp.com/unlock, and add your booking number and e-mail address. Then, download the Questo app and create a new account with the e-mail address you used for unlocking.

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
From $25 per person

Price varies by option

Adults
Age 1-99
1
Booking requirements:
  • Min travelers: 1
  • Max travelers: 15
Secure booking
Free cancellation available
Instant confirmation

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