Welcome to Bologna! Private Walking Tour

Bologna , Italy

Welcome to Bologna! Private Walking Tour

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(10 reviews)

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

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Mobile or paper ticket accepted

About this experience

This is the ideal tour of Bologna if you want to get to know the best of the city on a half-day walk in the historic center. You will discover the history and culture behind each building and you will also receive further information to make unique and unforgettable your stay. We will end up in the medieval market area where you can receive some suggestions for your lunch and dinner based on typical local products.
The tour is carried out by a local expert and certified local guide.

I'm a freelance tour guide and often collaborate with many different organizations during the season, so my calendar may not be fully updated.
For every eventuality I recommend sending me a direct message so I can respond promptly and best organize your tour.

Available options

Welcome to Bologna! Private Walking Tour

What's included

Certified local guide

Detailed itinerary

Stop 1

The heart of the city, we will discover something about the history of the city and the main buildings that stands on the square. I will provide also some other general informations about your journey in Bologna!
Some other attractions around the square that we will see are:
-Sala Borsa and the archeological escavations in the basement of the building
-Palazzo Re Enzo
-Palazzo de' Banchi

This is one of the buildings that are in Piazza Maggiore. It was the old City Hall during the medieval times. We can also stop under the arcades, in the Tourist office, if you need more informations about Bologna and the sorroundings, and you can also take a city map for free!
Inside the building there is a "Voltone", a cross vault that has really a unic feature...

This is one of the simbol of Bologna. Let's discover toghether something more about it and something curious that is on the triton he holds.

Stop 4

We will say something about this wonderful Church, The 5th Bigger Church in Europe!
Currently I cannot guarantee group entry (including a small group) but I will give you information from the outside so that you can visit it later by your own.

Stop 5

One of the main nicknames of the city is "La Dotta", that means the wise, the learned city. Looking at the Archiginnasio Building I can explain you something more about "the oldest university in the western world" dated 1088 BC!

Stop 6

This is a squared area (quadrilatero) that is also called "medieval market" or "middle market". I think it would be better to call it the Food District of Bologna. Here we will discover something more about our rich gastronomy, talking about mortadella, prosciutto di Parma, Parmigiano Reggiano and many other regional deli!
I can suggest you some nice spot to have a board of cold cuts and cheeses for the end of the tour...

Stop 7

Under the two towers of Bologna is where we finish our half day tour, talking about the medieval time when Bologna had about 80 towers in its skyline.
Some other attractions that I will introduce you here are
-the Saint Stephen Complex (aso called the seven churches complex)
-The Jewish Ghetto area

Available languages

Guide guide

EN IT

Reviews breakdown

Viator 5.0

5 reviews

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Tripadvisor 5.0

5 reviews

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Important information

Wheelchair accessible

Infants and small children can ride in a pram or stroller

Public transportation options are available nearby

Infants are required to sit on an adult’s lap

All areas and surfaces are wheelchair accessible

Suitable for all physical fitness levels

Meeting point

On a side of the Neptune's Fountain, between the fountain and the Palazzo del Podestà.
In the heart of the city center.

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