Bologna historical art walking tour with hidden gems and tastings
Active
3h - 3h
For a full refund, cancel at least 24 hours before the scheduled departure time.
Instant confirmation
Mobile or paper ticket accepted
About this experience
A mix of art masterpieces, history, food stories, legends and secrets described by a local art lover with a great experience and knowledge of the city. The tour itself will be like a dive into art history, architecture, traditional food and secret atmospheres. Most of people get attracted by Bologna main concept "the learned, the red and , the fat," but this incredible huge medieval capital tends to hide itself, keeping its best atmospheres historical locations and hidden gems for a handful of curious explorers.
So...be my explorers for a 3/4 hours full immersion in the ancient city labyrith of little alleys, and be prepared for an overwhelming experience where art history, architecture, medieval heritage and legends, traditions, great food, history of music and traditions seem to merge and be no more sepatrated by conceptual barriers.
Available options
Bologna historical art walking tour with hidden gems and tastings
What's included
All Fees and Taxes
Detailed itinerary
1
Stop 1
Old medieval buildings of the main square, the four "speaking" corners, secrets of the textile market, the renaissance fountain of Neptune, the facade with the old clock of the Council Palace.
2
The noble rooms at first and second floor, the frescos, the private chapel of the bishop, the big stairs for horses by Bramante, the room of the seniors, the earthquake's virgin by Francesco Francia.
3
Stop 3
The biggest sundial in the world, the medieval frescos of Cappella Bolognini, the four ancient crosses, Parmigianino and Lorenzo Costa famous paintings.
4
Stop 4
The headquarter of the oldest university in Europe, the renaissance palace with its huge collection of coats of arms, the witnesses of the secret powerful medecine, the wooden anatomical theatre, the Stabat Mater room with precious books such as Leonardo Da Vinci's "Flights of the birds" and the long hall for books and ancient codes.
5
Stop 5
The labirinth of the middle age market, its stalls, old food shops, ancient coats of arms and witnesses of the guilds.
6
Stop 6
In a single complex of churches the whole history of Bologna, since a Roman temple on a natural spring up to the Dante Alighieri's cloister surrounded by the cells of the monks and the capitals headed by animals faces.
7
The terracotta masterpiece sculptured in 1470 by Niccolò Dell'Arca and its incredible avanguardist interpretation of movements and emotions.
8
Stop 8
Pass by
A great view from street level of the symbol of Bologna: the 98 meters tall Asinelli Tower and the leaining one Garisenda Tower.
9
A rare example of medieval canals designed to supply silk and hemp textiles manifacture (UNESCO HERITAGE)
Available languages
Guide guide
EN
IT
Reviews breakdown
Viator
4.9
47 reviews
5★
46
4★
0
3★
0
2★
0
1★
1
Tripadvisor
4.9
61 reviews
5★
57
4★
3
3★
1
2★
0
1★
0
Important information
Wheelchair accessible
Infants and small children can ride in a pram or stroller
Public transportation options are available nearby
Transportation options are wheelchair accessible
All areas and surfaces are wheelchair accessible
Suitable for all physical fitness levels
Meeting point
I will wait for travellers in front of Caffè Vittorio Emanuele, next to Piazza Maggiore.
Important notes
Tickets will be checked on the place at the beginning of the tour. Meeting point is at 9:30 am in front of Caffè Vittorio Emanuele, next to Piazza Maggiore.
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
From $25
per person
Price varies by option
Secure booking
Free cancellation available
Instant confirmation
