Bologna Highlights Private Tour with a Local Guide

Bologna , Italy

Bologna Highlights Private Tour with a Local Guide

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About this experience

If you’re fascinated by art and history you’ll relish the chance to visit piazza Maggiore which includes the palaces constructed for public administration (Palazzo del Podestà, Palazzo di Re Enzo and Palazzo del Capitano del popolo), as well as piazza del Nettuno, the Santo Stefano complex, San Petronio, Asinelli and Galisenda towers and much more.

Our expert English-speaking guide will share interesting anecdotes and urban legends as you wander by some of the city’s best known monuments, as well as explore hidden canals and porticos.

Bologna is a truly magical place and this tour is sure to be an unforgettable experience!

Available options

Bologna Highlights Private Tour with a Local Guide

What's included

Top rated guide

Private tour

Detailed itinerary

Stop 1

This small group tour, for a maximum of 14 people, is a great way to discover Bologna with others! It provides an insight into the history of this small and ancient city.

A local and top rated guide will meet you in the city centre, before taking you to explore this beautiful city. There’s no need to worry about the weather, no matter if it’s raining or sweltering, there are nearly 40 kilometres of porticos to keep you dry or shaded, and nearly every significant attraction in the city is just a few minutes' walk.

The starting point will be the graceful Neptune fountain,

Stop 2

Walk under the UNESCO Heritage Site Portici of Bologna, a typical feature of the city.

Stop 4

You will visit the courtyard of the Archiginnasio, once one of the most important buildings of the renowed Università di Bologna.

Stop in piazza Galvani and admire the beautiful facade of the Basilica of St. Petronio

Stop 6

Walk into the heart of the historic center of Bologna and discover the Medieval Market with its characteristic "holes".

Learn about the beautiful architecture in this central square of the city.

Walk through the narrow alleyways of the Jewish ghetto and learn about its history

Stop 9

Not far from the Palace are the famous towers, Asinelli and Garisenda, which were referenced by Dante in his ‘Divine Comedy’. These towers appear to lean even more dramatically than the famous leaning tower of Pisa, due to their narrow shape.

You’ll also have chance to see one of the ‘lost’ canals of Bologna. A small window on via Piella provides a rare glimpse of a canal dating back to the Middle Age, dug to bring the waters of the two rivers into the city centre

What's not included

Pick up/ drop off

entrance tickets

Available languages

Guide guide

EN IT ES

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Important information

Infants and small children can ride in a pram or stroller

Public transportation options are available nearby

Travelers should have at least a moderate level of physical fitness

Meeting point

Our guide will wait for you under the Neptune statue with a sign with your last name. Please, be at the meeting point on time.

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