Bologna: Historical Highlights Walking Tour with Local Guide

Bologna , Italy

Bologna: Historical Highlights Walking Tour with Local Guide

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About this experience

Join a small-group tour to explore the rich history and cultural treasures of Bologna.
Visit the Basilica of San Petronio and admire its chapels, sculptures, and frescoes.
Learn about medieval architecture including the iconic Two Towers from outside.
Stroll through Bologna's charming streets and admire its network of porticoes.
Uncover the city's picturesque squares and beautiful buildings on a guided tour.
Visit the Inner Courtyard of Archiginnasio, showcasing Bologna’s rich academic heritage.

Available options

Bologna: Historical Highlights Walking Tour with Local Guide

What's included

Interior visit of San Petronio Basilica

Expert local guide

Interior visit of Santo Stefano

Small groups of max 8 people

2.5-hours guided tour

Detailed itinerary

Stop 1 Pass by

Begin your adventure from the majestic Neptune’s Fountain, a masterpiece of Renaissance artistry that commands attention in the heart of Bologna. Marvel at the intricate details of this magnificent sculpture, depicting the Roman god of the sea, as you learn about its significance and symbolism.

Stop 2

Make your way to the bustling Piazza Maggiore, the vibrant heart of Bologna's social and cultural life. Surrounded by elegant palaces and historic buildings, including the imposing Basilica of San Petronio, this expansive square offers a glimpse into the city's illustrious past.

Stop 3

Step inside the awe-inspiring Basilica of San Petronio, one of the largest churches in the world, where Gothic grandeur meets Renaissance splendor. Admire its striking architecture, magnificent artwork, and the mesmerizing Meridian Line, a testament to Bologna's scientific heritage.

Stop 4

Next, visit the Archiginnasio of Bologna, once the main building of the University of Bologna, the oldest university in the Western world. Explore the inner Courtyard of Archiginnasio, decorated with coats of arms, and hear about the university's role in shaping the city’s history and culture.

Stop 5

Continue your exploration with the iconic Two Towers (Le due Torri) – Asinelli and Garisenda, symbols of Bologna's medieval heritage. These towers were once among many in Bologna, showcasing the wealth and status of noble families. Despite the loss of many towers over time, the Two Towers remain enduring symbols of the city's rich history.

Conclude your journey at the Basilica of Santo Stefano (Seven Churches), a complex of interconnected chapels steeped in religious significance and architectural beauty. Explore its labyrinthine corridors and tranquil courtyards as you uncover the spiritual legacy of this ancient pilgrimage site.

Stroll along the charming streets and encounter the iconic Porticoes, a defining feature of the city's skyline. These elegant arcades, stretching for kilometers, offer a glimpse into the cultural and architectural heritage of Bologna. The porticoes serve as covered walkways, offering protection from the elements and ideal spaces for merchant activities.

What's not included

Please make your own way to the meeting point

Available languages

Guide guide

Reviews breakdown

Viator 4.8

6 reviews

5★

4★

3★

2★

1★

Important information

Infants and small children can ride in a pram or stroller

Not recommended for pregnant travelers

Not recommended for travelers with poor cardiovascular health

Suitable for all physical fitness levels

Clients must arrive at the meeting point 15 minutes before the start of the tour. This is due to the timed entry of the tickets.

Please be advised that it is not possible to join the tour after it has commenced.

Sites visited during this tour are subject to occasional closures due to holy observances. In such cases, your guides will provide explanations from outside of the sites. For last-minute closures, modifications may be communicated at the tour start time.

Tips/gratuities (for your guide) are always appreciated.

The tour is not suitable for people with reduced mobility.

Large bags and backpacks are not allowed in the monument.

Prohibited items (such as sharp objects, glass bottles, and aerosols) confiscated at the entrance of the monument will not be returned to visitors.

Guests are kindly requested to dress respectfully when visiting sacred sites.

Please note that the Inner Courtyard of Archiginnasio is not available for visits on Sundays.

Meeting point

We will meet in front of the Statue of Neptune, near Bar Vittorio Emanuele. The tour guide will have a signboard that says, “Walks In Europe”.

Important notes

Your guide will have the necessary pre-reserved tickets with them.

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