Bologna Walking Tour with Audio and Written Guide

Bologna , Italy

Bologna Walking Tour with Audio and Written Guide

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About this experience

If you're looking for a fun and curious way to visit Bologna, you've come to the right place!

With this guide created by a local, you will be able to visit all the most important monuments at your own pace. You'll get to know the stories and curiosities of Bologna! But also you will discover everything about local foods, Italian aperitivo in authentic local restaurants, and much more!

Available options

Bologna Walking Tour with Audio and Written Guide

What's included

Text in different laguages (Eng, Deu, Esp, Ita, Fra)

Connected with google maps

Audio-guide in multiple languages (Eng, Esp, Ita, Ger)

Digital written guide to visit the city by yourself

Detailed itinerary

We begin our walk in Bologna on one of the most characteristic streets by discovering a fantastic aspect of the city: its very long porticoes!

Its name already evokes the allure of the sea and the power of a god. But this Bolognese square is much more than that: a true microcosm encompassing history, art, culture and even a dash of gossip!

Stop 3

We find ourselves in the renowned Piazza Maggiore, the beating heart of Bologna, the result of a long and gradual process of transformation over the centuries. This space was originally intended for people’s meetings and commercial activities, serving as a hub for the city’s social and economic life.

Stop 4

The majestic façade of the Basilica of San Petronio certainly does not go unnoticed, with its obvious unfinishedness that almost seems to indicate a knife slashing through it. Its history is shrouded in mystery with stories that mix reality and legend. Let's discover everything!

Just a stone’s throw from the main square of the city we find one of the most representative historical places of Bolognese culinary culture.

Stop 6

A beautiful library (unfortunately not visited by tourists) but also a fantastic anatomy room and other rooms that can be visited for 3€.

Stop 7

Also known as the “Seven Churches Complex” although it is difficult to say what the true origin of this nickname is. The most credited hypothesis goes back to the initial design. Let's discover everything!

Bologna is full of peculiar stories and I couldn’t help but tell you the one about the three arrows! Let's talk about a famous legend of the city!

Stop 9

Also known as the Two Towers although they are not the same as those used in “Lord of the Rings” (sorry for the nerdy joke but I had to make it ) are an icon of the city and a must-see for anyone who visits. Unfortunately, they cannot be visited as the facilities are not safe for tourists. It is still worth seeing them up close!

What's not included

Headphones not included. You'll use your smarpthone and eventually your headphone!

Available languages

Audio guide

DE EN IT ES

Written guide

DE EN IT FR ES

Reviews breakdown

Viator 4.5

17 reviews

5★

4★

3★

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1★

Tripadvisor 4.7

108 reviews

5★

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1★

Important information

Wheelchair accessible

Infants and small children can ride in a pram or stroller

Service animals allowed

Public transportation options are available nearby

Suitable for all physical fitness levels

You will need a smartphone with internet connection to use the digital guide (details to activate the digital guide will be in your voucher, read it carefully!)

You'll be able to hear the audio through your speakers or, if you have them, through your headphones

Meeting point

If you are already in Bologna, you can conveniently start the tour from this street, one of the most characteristic streets in the city.

Important notes

⚠️TO ACTIVATE YOUR TOUR⚠️ you can click here:
https://walkingcap.com/bolognadigitalguide

(If you can't click on the link, just copy/paste it in your browser)

Password: 1475526987

If you need some support, check the FAQ here: https://walkingcap.com/faq

Or contact me on whatsapp here: +390350311698

or with this link: https://wa.me/message/JSWUDT7IX3WTA1

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