Bologna Private Walking Tour with a Local

Bologna , Italy

Bologna Private Walking Tour with a Local

Active

2h - 6h

For a full refund, cancel at least 24 hours before the scheduled departure time.

Instant confirmation

Mobile or paper ticket accepted

About this experience

Discover Bologna on a private, customizable walking tour with a welcoming local discovery guide, tailored from a brisk 1 to 2-hour intro to an immersive 6-hour deep dive through the city’s atmospheric squares, elegant porticoes, and lively old streets. Wander at a relaxed pace through the historic center, pausing for stories that bring the “La Dotta, La Grassa, La Rossa” spirit to life, from medieval lore to everyday traditions. Enjoy photo stops at scenic viewpoints, explore characterful lanes and courtyards, and soak up authentic street life in open-air markets and under UNESCO-listed porticoes. Your guide will personalize the route to your interests, share insider tips for food and gelato, and build in time for breaks and spontaneous discoveries, ensuring a warm, flexible, and engaging Bologna experience for first-timers and seasoned explorers alike.

Available options

2 Hour Private Walking Tour

Duration: 2 hours<br/>Attractions: Tourists usually visit on average of 5 to 6 attractions in this tour.

3 Hour Private Walking Tour

Duration: 3 hours<br/>More attractions: Tourists usually visit on average of 8 to 9 attractions in this tour.

What's included

Insider insights into the city’s culture and hidden gems

Private guided walking city tour

Flexible itinerary

Detailed itinerary

Stop 1

Gather in the main square to soak up the city’s atmosphere, admire the surrounding palazzi, and orient under the porticoes before setting off.

View Giambologna’s Renaissance bronze fountain and snap photos at this iconic meeting spot adjoining the main square.

Stop 3

Step into Bologna’s vast landmark church for quiet contemplation and to see the famous meridian line.

The Porticoes (UNESCO) — Stroll under Bologna’s endless arcades linking streets and squares, enjoying shade, rhythm, and street life along Via Rizzoli and Via Zamboni.

Stop 5

Due Torri viewpoint (Asinelli & Garisenda, from below) — Appreciate the slanted medieval towers and lively crossroads; admire and photograph from the piazza without climbing.

Stop 6

Quadrilatero Market district — Wander the historic lanes just off Piazza Maggiore to browse traditional food shops and colorful displays.

Easy city-center walk under grand porticoes toward the station area, perfect for people-watching and street scenes.

What's not included

Food, drinks, and transportation

Tickets to sites not included in this tour (optional)

Available languages

Guide guide

EN IT

Important information

Not recommended for pregnant travelers

Public transportation options are available nearby

Infants and small children can ride in a pram or stroller

Transportation options are wheelchair accessible

Wheelchair accessible

Suitable for all physical fitness levels

Meeting point

From Bologna city centre, head to the historic heart at Piazza Maggiore near the Basilica of San Petronio; it’s the main square signed “Piazza Maggiore” and is a 15–20 minute walk south from Bologna Centrale along Via dell’Indipendenza.

Important notes

Show ticket to your Discovery Guide

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