Best Intro to Bologna in 2 hours with a Local

Bologna , Italy

Best Intro to Bologna in 2 hours with a Local

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About this experience

Start your visit to Bologna with this 2-hour walk led by a Local. You’ll discover its highlights, hidden gems, taste a typical local product, and get practical tips. This is the best introduction to Bologna.

Get to see places like Piazza Maggiore and Basilica di San Petronio, along with hidden corners of Bologna only known to locals that reveal the city’s everyday charm.

Enjoy a tasting of a local product, like Crescentina, for a flavour of Bologna and its traditions. You'll also receive local insights on where to eat, drink, and how to get around, helping you explore with confidence and make the most of your time.

• Get the best intro to Bologna through its highlights and hidden gems
• Taste a typical local product and connect with Bologna's traditions
• Get local tips on where to eat, drink, and how to move around the city
• Make the most of your time with this 2-hour walking experience
• Enjoy the intimacy of a small group, up to 8 travellers

Available options

2 Hours - Italian Tour

Duration: 2 hours<br/>Small group experience

2 Hours - English Tour

Duration: 2 hours<br/>Small group experience

2 Hours - Private Tour

Duration: 2 hours<br/>Exclusively for you: Multiple language options available

What's included

Knowledgeable local host

Small group experience

Personalised recommendations

Local product tasting

Detailed itinerary

Stop 1 Pass by

Discover the striking Neptune Fountain, a Renaissance masterpiece symbolizing Bologna's maritime aspirations.

Stop 2 Pass by

Stroll through Bologna's main square, surrounded by historical buildings and bustling with vibrant local life.

Stop 3 Pass by

Admire the grandeur of one of the largest churches in the world, famous for its unfinished facade and stunning interior.

Explore this historic library, once the main building of the University of Bologna, adorned with fascinating frescoes and inscriptions.

Ascend the iconic medieval towers, Asinelli and Garisenda, for panoramic views of the city and a glimpse into Bologna's past.

What's not included

Personal expenses

Available languages

Guide guide

EN IT

Reviews breakdown

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Important information

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

This tour is hosted by an independent Local.

You will be part of a small group of up to 8 travellers.

The itinerary adapts to travellers' interests and walking pace.

The local product tasting may vary depending on the season, availability, and travellers' preferences.The local product tasting may vary depending on the season, availability, and travellers' preferences.

Stops may vary depending on weather conditions.

Entry tickets for public transportation, museums and monuments are not included.

Not recommended for guests with impaired mobility

Meeting point

We will meet in front of the Neptune fountain to begin our discovery walk through the city.

Important notes

Your Local Host will contact you as from 24 hours before the experience to confirm the meeting location and share any final details.

The itinerary and stops may vary depending on traveller preferences, walking pace, and weather conditions.

This is a walking tour of city highlights and does not include entry tickets for public transport, monuments, or attractions.

Please bring your booking confirmation to show your Local Host at the beginning of the experience.

Arrive 15 minutes early. The experience begins on time and, for organisational reasons, cannot be delayed.

All experiences are hosted by independent Locals who offer in-depth knowledge and authentic insights into their city. LocalBini connects travellers with Locals for unique, personalised city tours.

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