Bologna , Italy

Bologna Private 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

Not many know that Bologna dates all the way back to 1000 BC! With a history of almost 3000 years, it has played an important role in the world’s events, and one can only imagine how much there is to tell! On our enchanting private walking tour through the city of Bologna we will visit numerous of interesting and off-the-beaten-path places as well as the major piazzas and monuments of this fascinating town. Bologna is a bustling city displaying beautiful sites and is home to the first university in the world! In fact,still to this day it is a popular city among Italian and international students.
Discover this fascinating Medieval town on a Private and Exclusive Walking Tour.

Available options

Bologna Private Walking Tour

Option 1: 2 hr private tour of the wonderful city of Bologna visits numerous of interesting and off-the-beaten-path places, along with some historical sites. Visit the oldest university town in the world!

What's included

Fontana del Nettuno

Piazza Maggiore

Archiginnasio courtyard

Bologna’s historic University

Municipal Palace

Quadrilatero markets

The “leaning towers” of Bologna

Fully guided experience

Private Tour

Salaborsa

Basilica San Petronio

Detailed itinerary

On this enchanting private walking tour through the city of Bologna you will visit numerous, interesting and off-the-beaten-path places. A network of porticos along the streets of the center makes this city unique. Walking under the porticos, protected from the sun and the rain, makes it possible to reach many important museums, galleries, main squares and religious buildings, which holds an unexpected patrimony of works of art.

Stop 2

The tour commences in the largest square, Piazza Maggiore, located in the ancient part of Bologna. Its medieval buildings have witnessed Bologna’s vibrant public life and intense economic activity for centuries. Nowadays, these historical sites are combined with the latest functional places: Sala Borsa Public Library, the Municipal offices, shops and Cafés.

Stop 3

This walking tour will obviously be visiting the Basilica of San Petronio and the two "leaning" towers of Bologna. One of the towers was the first seat of the University of Bologna: the Archiginnasio, which still contains unique frescoes and an Anatomic Theater that we also will visit.

Stop 4

The evidence of Bologna's prestigious history is spread out in many places throughout the center. On the Bologna Walking Tour you will also get the chance to explore the Quadrilatero area with its maze of small streets, and the historical market with its colors and flavors, bringing us back to the ancient times. Let our passionate and knowledgeable guide show you the beauty and captivating history of Bologna.

What's not included

Food and drinks

Available languages

Guide guide

PT EN IT FR ES

Reviews breakdown

Viator 5.0

2 reviews

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Tripadvisor 5.0

3 reviews

5★

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1★

Important information

Wheelchair accessible

Infants and small children can ride in a pram or stroller

Public transportation options are available nearby

Suitable for all physical fitness levels

A minimum of 2 people per booking is required

Offered in: English, French, Spanish, Portuguese, and Italian. Please specify under “Additional notes” if you wish to book the tour in a language other than English.

Places of worship have strict dress code requirements for entry. All participants are required to have shoulders and knees covered (no tank tops or short dresses) to enter.

Comfortable walking shoes recommended.

Meeting point

Near the the Neptune Statue in Piazza Maggiore. Your guide will be holding a LivTours sign.

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