Self Guided Secrets of Bologna Exploration Game

Bologna , Italy

Self Guided Secrets of Bologna Exploration Game

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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

Unlock Bologna’s Hidden Harmony! Wander through grand piazzas, echoing porticoes and secret canals as history hums beneath your feet. Help Emperor Nero reclaim his lost lyre, piecing together clues in a city where art, passion and mystery collide.

The Secrets of Bologna City Game is more than sightseeing, it’s an immersive GPS-based adventure that turns exploration into play. Highlights include the Piazza Maggiore, the Fountain of Neptune, the porticoes, the Asinelli Tower, and the Finestrella that reveals Bologna’s hidden canals. Perfect for solo explorers or groups, this self-guided city game lets you dive into Bologna’s beauty at your own pace.

Solve fun puzzles, clever riddles, and creative photo challenges to earn points and unlock clues leading to the final mystery. You can pause anytime to enjoy a coffee or explore more freely, then continue later. Compete for the leaderboard or play just for fun, making it ideal for team-building or a unique day of adventure in Bologna.

Available options

English language

English

What's included

Self-guided Exploration Game

Fun facts and information about the highlights you’ll discover

Instructions and play link for the activity

What's not included

Smartphone or other devices (bring your own to play)

In-person guide (digital guide in-game only)

Available languages

Guide guide

Important information

Not recommended for travelers with spinal injuries

Not recommended for travelers with poor cardiovascular health

Not recommended for pregnant travelers

Service animals allowed

Public transportation options are available nearby

Suitable for all physical fitness levels

Difficulty level: Intermediate

Duration: Around 2 hours

Tickets: 1 ticket per group (1–4 people, for more players buy additional tickets)

Start anytime: Choose your start date and time when booking, then play whenever you like

Required: Smartphone with an internet connection

How to play: After booking, you’ll receive an email with your personal game link. Simply head to the Statue of Pope Gregory XIII at Piazza Maggiore 6, open the link on your phone, and start your journey through Bologna. You can pause the game anytime and continue later, making it the perfect flexible adventure for your own schedule.

Meeting point

After booking, you receive an email with instructions and your unique game link. Start at the Statue of Pope Gregory XIII at Piazza Maggiore 6, open the link, and begin your self-guided adventure! No host or app needed, just bring a charged phone, GPS on, and comfy shoes!

Important notes

After booking, you receive an email and sms with instructions and your unique game link. The email with instructions and your unique link is sent separately, not in the confirmation mail. Go to the Statue of Pope Gregory XIII at Piazza Maggiore 6 to begin your adventure. Once there, open the link on your smartphone and dive straight into the Secrets of Bologna City Game! You don’t need to enter any buildings or wait for a guide, as the experience is completely self-guided and takes place outdoors in the beautiful city center. No app download required, simply play in your browser.

If you have any issues starting the game, don’t hesitate to contact us. Our helpdesk is available 7 days a week and always happy to help you get started.

Get ready for a fun and flexible exploration filled with puzzles, riddles, and hidden secrets around every corner. Make sure your phone is fully charged, mobile data and GPS are on, and wear comfy shoes for the best experience!

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