Bologna City & Europe Oldest University Private Guided Tour

Bologna , Italy

Bologna City & Europe Oldest University Private Guided Tour

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(6 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

Take part in a unique experience and discover one of Italy's most enchanting cities. In the course of the tour, you'll get to uncover the history of Bologna, where the first university of Europe was built in the 11th century. In Piazza San Domenico you'll get to admire the monuments of the most illustrious professors of the Middle ages and inside the Museo Medievale, you'll learn all about with the vivid bas-reliefs that show the professors teaching an audience of students, all thanks to the engaging narration of your dedicated expert guide.

Also, you'll get to walk to the Archiginnasio Palace, home to city's schools from the 16th to the 19th century, and its 17th Century Anatomy Theater decorated with wooden sculptures related to Medicine.

In the course of just 2.5 hours you'll learn all there is to know about the enthralling history of this charming city.

Available options

Standard

What's included

Private tour

Expert professional guide

Detailed itinerary

In Piazza San Domenico you'll get to admire the monuments of the most illustrious professors of the Middle ages .

Inside the Museo Medievale, you'll learn all about with the vivid bas-reliefs that show the professors teaching an audience of students, all thanks to the engaging narration of your dedicated expert guide. Museum is closed on Mondays.

Stop 3

Also, you'll get to walk to the Archiginnasio Palace, home to city's schools from the 16th to the 19th century, and its 17th Century Anatomy Theater decorated with wooden sculptures related to Medicine.
Visit to Teatro Anatomico is optional and ticket price is not included.

What's not included

Food & drinks

Tickets for museums and other sites which require an entrance fee

Available languages

Guide guide

DE EN IT FR ES

Reviews breakdown

Viator 4.0

4 reviews

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Tripadvisor 5.0

2 reviews

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Important information

Wheelchair accessible

Infants and small children can ride in a pram or stroller

Transportation options are wheelchair accessible

All areas and surfaces are wheelchair accessible

Suitable for all physical fitness levels

Confirmation will be received at time of booking, unless booked within 1 day of travel. In this case confirmation will be received as soon as possible, subject to availability

Please note that this tour does not include entrance to sites which require an entrance fee

The Museo Medievale is open from Tuesday to Friday (9am to 3pm). On Saturday and Sunday the museum is open from 10am to 6.30pm. Closed on Monday.

The tour will take place even when it's raining. In the event of heavy rain, the tour may be cancelled and you will be given a full refund

This is a private tour/activity. Only your group will participate

You can present either a paper or an electronic voucher for this activity.

Meeting point

Meet your guide in front of Biblioteca Salaborsa.
Your guide will hold a TUI sign/flag.

Important notes

Please bring your mobile or printed voucher and arrive at the meeting point 10 minutes in advance.

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