Bologna in one day: Art, History and Gastronomy
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7h
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
It is an extremely complete tour to discover the wonderful Bologna. A day of culture, art and gastronomy among the main attractions of the city. The program has been carefully studied in order to be able to combine the great potential of Bolognese gastronomy, and those of the rich architectural and artistic heritage, such as the splendid churches, palaces, the very ancient university, canals and towers, and finally a rich museum of ancient art, the National Art Gallery.
Available options
Bologna in one day: Art, History and Gastronomy
What's included
Entrance to the Bolognini Chapel, San Petronio
Entrance to the National Art Gallery
Entrance ticket to the Lamentation of Santa Maria della Vita
Tasting of cured meats, Parmesan cheese, balsamic vinegar of Modena in the historic market
Entrance to the Archiginnasio and Anatomical Theater
Detailed itinerary
1
Stop 1
We will discover the secrets and the great masterpieces of the square, such as the terracotta works of Nicolo' dell'Arca, the Fountain of Neptune, Palazzo Comunale and San Petronio.
We will visit some splendid frescoed rooms of the Palazzo Comunale, the grand staircase of Bramane's horses and other small jewels of the sumptuous building.
2
Large and unique complex of early medieval buildings, medieval and Romanesque interiors, Gothic palaces, specialized art museum, frescoes, medieval porticoes and spiral staircases, terrace with a view of the towers and Bologna from "high".
3
Baroque church with the splendid Lamentation of Nicolò dell'Arca, a Renaissance terracotta masterpiece.
4
Stop 4
Ancient Renaissance and Baroque palace of the University of Bologna, with splendid frescoes, books, historical library and wooden anatomical theatre.
5
Stop 5
Visit one of the most important museums of painting and ancient art in Italy, from Giotto to Raphael, from Titian to Guido Reni, from Ercole de Roberti to Carracci and Guercino, from Vitasle da Bologna to Parmigianino.
6
Stop 6
Places of history, art and gastronomy in the ancient market of Mezzo do Bologna, among historic stalls, taverns and traditional shops, a real medieval Emilian souk.
7
Great art gallery church, with the famous Bentivoglio Chapel, a masterpiece of the Emilian Renaissance,
Oratory of Santa Cecilia with frescoes and musical venues.
8
Stop 8
Towers, arcades, medieval houses, palaces, extravagant architecture, hidden canals, noble staircases, frescoed halls, oratories, places of the oldest university in Europe
9
Stop 9
Basilica treasure trove of art and architecture, from the Ark of Nicola Pisano, Nicolò and Michelangelo, to the alchemical wooden choir, from Mozart's favorite organ to the Renaissance cloister.
10
Stop 10
Visit to a medieval and early medieval complex of inestimable value, built in the image and likeness of the Holy Sepulcher of Jerusalem.
Available languages
Guide guide
EN
IT
Reviews breakdown
Viator
5.0
18 reviews
5★
18
4★
0
3★
0
2★
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1★
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Tripadvisor
5.0
7 reviews
5★
7
4★
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3★
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Important information
Public transportation options are available nearby
Suitable for all physical fitness levels
Meeting point
Reach Piazza Maggiore, the central square of Bologna,
The meeting point is right next to the Neptune fountain.
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
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Free cancellation available
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