Bologna Top Historical Sites Private Guided Walking Tour

Bologna , Italy

Bologna Top Historical Sites Private Guided Walking Tour

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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

Your experience will start in Piazza Maggiore where you'll discover its civic medieval palaces: Palazzo di Re Enzo, Palazzo of the Notaries and Palazzo dei Banchi. In the square, you'll also find the Fountain of Neptune with the precious late Renaissance sculptures by Giambologna.

You'll then head to the gothic Basilica of San Petronio: inside you'll find the late gothic paintings of Cappella Bolognini and the sun-dial designed by the astronomer Cassini.

You'll then walk along the Pavaglione Portico and its elegant shops until you reach the 16th-century Archiginnasio Palace, the old university building decorated with about 6000 student coat of arms.

You'll stroll through the picturesque alleys of the Mercato di Mezzo and its unique food shops to get to the enchanting Square of Santo Stefano with the complex of Santo Stefano where your tour will end.

Available options

Standard

What's included

Experience the city with our expert local guide.

Detailed itinerary

Stop 1

Walk through Piazza Maggiore and its civic palaces, all of medieval origins: Palazzo di Re Enzo, Palazzo of the Notaries, Palazzo dei Banchi...

Stop 2

See the Fountain of Neptune, with the precious late Renaissance sculptures by Giambologna...

Stop 3

Visit the gothic Basilica of San Petronio (on the façade, sculptures by the Sienese artist Jacopo della Quercia): inside, the precious late gothic paintings of the Cappella Bolognini and the sun-dial designed by the astronomer Cassini (XVII century).

Walking along the Pavaglione Portico and its elegant shops, you'll reach the 16th century Archiginnasio Palace, the old University building, decorated with about 6.000 coats of arms of students...

Reach the lovely Square of Santo Stefano, with the complex of Santo Stefano also called the “Jerusalem of Bologna” or “The Seven Churches”, a group of small Romanesque churches...

What's not included

Food & drinks

Archiginnasio entrance ticket

Available languages

Guide guide

DE EN IT FR ES

Important information

Public transportation options are available nearby

Not recommended for travelers with spinal injuries

Suitable for all physical fitness levels

Please note that this tour does not include entrance to sites which require an entrance fee (in case you decide to visit the interiors too)

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

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 at least 10 minutes before the scheduled starting 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