Are you wondering whether Bologna is worth visiting? Don’t worry, I’ll show you exactly why you should add Bologna to your bucket list.
When I went on my first solo backpacking trip around Italy, I had no idea where I wanted to go. Given a random week off, it ended up being a pretty last-minute trip.
But when I have no idea where to go, I often head to Skyscanner and filter to the cheapest flights and see where it will take me. And this time, Bergamo came up top. So, booking the flight, I knew I was going to spend at least a day in Bergamo. But it wasn’t where I wanted to stay. So where to go next?
A few days in Florence sounded pretty lovely, but it was quite far from Bergamo. I needed somewhere in between, and with a quick glance at the map, I came up with Bologna. I had very little knowledge of Italy at the time, but with a short search, I was intrigued enough to give it a go. And I am so glad I did!
Bologna became my favourite city I visited on my trip. Don’t get me wrong, I loved the random day I spent in Verona and exploring Sirmione’s castles, but there’s something special about Bologna. By the end of this post, hopefully, I’ll have convinced you that Bologna is worth the visit.
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What Makes Bologna Unique?
Bologna has a lot going for it. But what truly makes it unique is that it encapsulates the warm, lively yet relaxing Italian atmosphere whilst surrounded by incredible architectural wonders. Even non-architectural enthusiasts like myself will be enamoured with it.
Bologna is often referred to by three nicknames: “La Dotta” (The Learned), “La Grassa” (The Fat), and “La Rossa” (The Red), which perfectly shows what this city is about.
For La Dotta, the University of Bologna was founded in 1088 and is one of the oldest universities in the Western world. It has played a huge role in shaping the city and Europe, and it continues to be a leading institution for education in research.
Today, Bologna is brought to life by the students who live here. They socialise together in the evenings at the local bars, creating a lively and welcoming atmosphere you can’t help but want to be a part of. It was a welcomed change from the UK student scene, I have to admit.
La Grassa, which might seem like an insult at first glance, actually refers to the incredible culinary scene in Bologna. Bologna is home to many iconic dishes like tagliatelle al ragù and tortellini en brodo.
Mortadella and lasagne alla bolognese are even more dishes that showcase the city’s culinary prowess. Don’t miss the creamy torta di riso and gelato for a sweet finish. I’ll be honest, the food was probably my main draw to the city, and I was not let down. But more on that later…
And finally, La Rossa, which for me was the most surprising but beautiful side of Bologna: the Red City. Bologna is made up of historic terracotta buildings, making it so distinct from anywhere else I’d visited before. Keep on reading to discover the best viewpoints to see the Red City for yourself.
Also Read: 7 Days in Italy: 6 Unique Itineraries
Top Attractions in Bologna
Bologna has many top attractions, from museums to markets, and I’ve gone into depth in this post on the top 15 things to do in Bologna. For convenience’s sake, I’ve brought together the top three attractions for you here:
The Asinelli and Garisenda Towers (Two Towers)
These iconic medieval towers are among the most recognisable symbols of Bologna. They were built in the Middle Ages to represent the funding family’s wealth and grandeur. T
he taller Asinelli Tower offers panoramic views of the city from its top, while the shorter Garisenda Tower leans dramatically. It’s only a slightly concerning sight, I promise.
The Asinelli tower currently sits at 97.2m high, and you can climb 498 steps to see the most incredible 360 views of Bologna. It is one of the best viewpoints in the city, and something you really must do on your visit. Unfortunately, there is no lift service which means it’s not the most accessible attraction.
Note: You will need to book your tickets La due Torri as there are no tickets available on the day.
Piazza Maggiore
Bologna’s main square, Piazza Maggiore, is a bustling hub surrounded by iconic landmarks. It offers a vibrant atmosphere, cultural events, and stunning architectural masterpieces.
Here, you’ll find some of the most iconic buildings and structures in Bologna. The Basilica of San Petronio, one of the largest churches in the world, dominates the square’s eastern side. Opposite you’ll find the striking bronze statue at the Fountain of Neptune. And there are many other buildings such as the Palazzo d’Accursio, Palazzo dei Notai and Palazzo dei Banchi.
You’ll also find plenty of cafes with alfresco seating, making it the perfect place to stop for a coffee and pastry. Take a moment to do a bit of people-watching or simply rest your feet after a morning exploring.
Bologna’s Porticoes
As someone who did very little research into Bologna before visiting, I was overwhelmed by how beautiful the city is. And for me, the most beautiful part of Bologna was its streets.
The streets of Bologna are covered in miles of porticoes. These elegant covered walkways, extending for over 38 kilometres throughout the city, offer shelter from the warm Italian sun and add to Bologna’s architectural charm.
Among the most notable porticoes is the Portico di San Luca, an iconic symbol of Bologna. Stretching for nearly four kilometres, it leads uphill to the Sanctuary of the Madonna di San Luca atop Colle della Guardia.
Another stunning portico to check out is the Portico di San Giacomo, near the Two Towers, which offers a picturesque walkway adorned with medieval frescoes, leading to the church of San Giacomo Maggiore.
Want to learn more about Bologna’s porticoes?
These porticoes are such an integral part of the city and hold so much history. One of the best ways to learn about them is by taking a specialist walking tour.
With a guide to take you to the best spots and tell you all about them. Each portico is unique and has its own history. It’s definitely an experience worth investing in.
Here is the top tour of Bologna’s porticoes for you to check out:
Porticoes of Bologna and Basilica San Luca Guided tour
Duration | 2.5 hours
Highlights | Discover the famous arcades of Bologna and the Basilica of San Luca with a local guide who will tell you all the anecdotes.
Culinary Delights in Bologna
Italy is known for its incredible food. So when I heard that Bologna was often thought of as Italy’s food capital, I knew I had to go. It’s the best of the best, after all.
The city’s cuisine is characterized by its emphasis on fresh, high-quality ingredients and traditional recipes passed down through generations.
Here are some iconic dishes and culinary experiences you have to try when visiting the city:
Tagliatelle al Ragù
Perhaps the most famous dish to hail from Bologna, tagliatelle al ragù is a hearty pasta dish featuring flat ribbons of homemade pasta served with a rich meat-based sauce.
However, don’t get this confused with its international counterpart “spaghetti bolognese.” Authentic tagliatelle al ragù is a delicate balance of flavours, typically made with beef or veal, pancetta, onions, carrots, celery, tomatoes, and a splash of wine, and it is incredible.
If you fancy trying some ragù, head to Osteria dell’Orsa, a charmingly authentic Italian restaurant with quick but efficient service and a warming atmosphere.
Or, if you fancy eating on the go, check out Ragù. This restaurant sells takeaway ragù you can enjoy from anywhere as well as different twists on the classic for you to try.
Tortellini en Brodo
Another beloved speciality of Bologna, tortellini en brodo consists of small, handmade pasta parcels filled with a savoury mixture of meats, cheese, and herbs, served in a delicate, clear broth. This is a particularly comforting dish often enjoyed during festive occasions.
Mortadella
Originating from Bologna, mortadella is a flavorful cured meat made from finely ground pork, seasoned with spices such as pepper and myrtle berries. It’s typically enjoyed sliced thinly and served as part of antipasti platters or in sandwiches, adding a savoury dimension to any meal.
You’ll find it in most market shops, so grab yourself a pack and make yourself a sandwich to enjoy on the go or head to a restaurant to try crescentine (tigelle) with mortadella and cheese.
These small, round flatbreads are traditionally cooked on terracotta discs and served hot. They’re often accompanied by slices of mortadella, local cheeses such as squacquerone or Parmigiano-Reggiano, and various cured meats, offering a delightful medley of flavours and textures.
Torta di Riso
For dessert, indulge in torta di riso, a traditional rice cake flavoured with lemon zest, vanilla, and sometimes a hint of almond. This creamy and aromatic dessert is a comforting treat, perfect for rounding off a meal in true Bolognese style.
Gelato
No visit to Bologna would be complete without sampling its gelato. The city boasts numerous gelaterias offering a dizzying array of flavours, from classic staples like pistachio and stracciatella to inventive creations like zabaglione and ricotta with figs.
My favourite place I found in Bologna for some gelato was the Cremeria la Vecchia Stalla. They had so many flavours to choose from and were very generous with their portions. The ice cream itself was so creamy and rich in flavours, that I just couldn’t get enough.
Be sure to savour a scoop or two as you wander through the city’s charming streets.
Want to Get Local Insights into Bologna’s Culinary Scene?
Bologna has so much to offer in the way of food, it can be a bit overwhelming! One of the best ways to see it all is from a local with a food tour.
With a guided food tour, not only will you be taken to the best spots, but you’ll also learn about the intricate history of each dish. It’s a perfectly unique way to see bologna.
Here’s the top food tour in Bologna for you to check out:
Bologna Secret Food Tour
Duration | 4 hours
Highlights | Visit Piazza S. Stefano, select local cheeses and charcuterie, enjoy wine at Bologna’s oldest tavern, sample some artisanal gelato
Exploring Bologna’s Culture
Exploring Bologna’s culture means you can venture through centuries of history, art, music, and intellectual pursuits. And of course the food, but we’ve already covered that. Here are some highlights:
Historical Sites
Bologna has an immense history, reflected in the stunning buildings that make up the city. As you wander the medieval streets you’ll discover architectural marvels such as the Two Towers (Due Torri), the Basilica of San Petronio and Palazzo d’Accursio.
Archiginnasio of Bologna
The Archiginnasio of Bologna was once the home of the University of Bologna. Whilst some of the inside is private, it is home to the Municipal Library and the stunning anatomical theatre.
This theatre used to hold lectures for the medical school, but it’s not like any lecture hall I’ve ever seen. It’s ceilings and walls are decorated with carved wooden sculptures on anatomy by Antonio Levante in 1637.
Sanctuary of the Madonna di San Luca
One of my favourite places to visit in Bologna was the Sanctuary of the Madonna di San Luca. Sat on the hill overlooking Bologna, you might spot this impressive orange structure with its green domed roof from the streets below.
From up here, you get incredible panoramic views of Bologna and the surrounding landscapes. Plus, if you want to go even higher, you can pay to enter the panoramic terrace at the very top of the sanctuary.
However, not only is the building beautiful, but the walk through the 3.5km long Portico di San Luca to reach it is an experience in itself. Made up of 600 archways, the porticoes were built in 1674, and are now a UNESCO World Heritage Site.
Basilica di San Petronio
Sat in the Piazza Maggiore, the Basilica di San Petronio is the largest church in Bologna and one of the largest brick churches in the world. However, whilst construction began in 1390, it was never finished.
When the construction of the Archiginnasio Library began, they halted work on the Basilica and its architectural aspirations were deemed too large.
That doesn’t mean, however, that the Basilica is not still beautiful. The half-pink marble, half brick façade lends a certain charm, hinting at both what’s underneath and its potential.
Inside, you can still admire numerous amounts of artworks, from frescoes to sculptures and paintings from renowned Italian artists such as Giovanni da Modena, Jacopo della Quercia, and Lorenzo Costa.
One of the most famous features is the frescoed vault depicting the sky with stars, which is considered one of the largest in Europe.
Art and Museums
Bologna boasts a wealth of art galleries and museums showcasing works by renowned artists. Visit the National Art Gallery of Bologna (Pinacoteca Nazionale) to admire masterpieces by Italian painters like Giotto, Raphael, and Titian.
Here are some of the top museums and galleries in Bologna:
Museum of Modern Art of Bologna (MAMbo)
MAMbo is one of Italy’s leading contemporary art museums, featuring a diverse collection of modern and contemporary artworks by Italian and international artists.
It hosts temporary exhibitions, installations, and multimedia presentations, providing insight into the latest trends in contemporary art.
National Picture Gallery of Bologna (Pinacoteca Nazionale di Bologna)
Located in the Palazzo Pepoli Campogrande, this museum houses an impressive collection of paintings dating from the Middle Ages to the 19th century. Highlights include works by renowned Italian artists such as Giotto, Raphael, Titian, and Guido Reni.
Archaeological Museum of Bologna (Museo Civico Archeologico di Bologna)
This museum offers a journey through the history of ancient Bologna and the surrounding region. It features artefacts from the Etruscan, Roman, and Greek periods, including pottery, sculptures, and architectural fragments.
Bologna City Museum (Museo Civico di Bologna)
This museum offers a comprehensive overview of Bologna’s history, art, and culture. It features archaeological finds, medieval artefacts, Renaissance paintings, and decorative arts. Overall, the collections give a great insight into the city’s evolution from ancient times to the present day.
Bologna’s Markets
Bologna is known for its vibrant markets, where you can immerse yourself in the city’s culinary delights, fresh produce, artisanal crafts, and lively atmosphere.
Here are some of the top markets in Bologna:
Mercato di Mezzo
Located in the historic city centre, Mercato di Mezzo is one of Bologna’s oldest markets, dating back to medieval times.
The market is made up of a network of narrow streets and covered arcades lined with stalls selling fresh fruits, vegetables, meats, cheeses, and other local products.
It’s also a great place to stop by and try some traditional Bolognese dishes, snacks, and delicacies to sample on the go.
Mercato delle Erbe
This bustling indoor market is a food lover’s paradise, offering a wide range of fresh produce, meats, seafood, cheeses, and speciality ingredients sourced from local producers and vendors.
As well as selling food items, Mercato delle Erbe features restaurants, cafes, and wine bars where visitors can enjoy authentic Italian cuisine and regional specialities.
Mercato Ritrovato
Organized by the Slow Food movement, Mercato Ritrovato is a weekly farmers’ market held in Piazza San Francesco. It showcases organic and artisanal products from small-scale producers in the Emilia-Romagna region.
Here, you’ll find seasonal fruits and vegetables, cheeses, cured meats, bread, wine, honey, and preserves. Make sure to talk to some of the producers, learn about traditional food production methods, and taste the flavours of Bologna and its surroundings.
Bologna is a Central Hub for Exploration
Bologna serves as an ideal hub for exploring more of Italy through day trips due to its strategic location in the heart of the Emilia-Romagna region. Situated in northern Italy, Bologna enjoys excellent transportation connections, making it convenient to reach several iconic Italian destinations within a short journey.
From Bologna, you can easily venture to historic cities like Florence and Venice, both accessible by high-speed train in about an hour and a half. These cities offer renowned museums, stunning architecture, and cultural landmarks that define Italy’s rich heritage.
Closer to Bologna, day trips to Ravenna and Modena reveal unique insights into ancient Roman and Byzantine history, alongside culinary delights such as balsamic vinegar and mosaic artistry. The nearby towns of Parma and Ferrara are renowned for their UNESCO-listed sites, including Renaissance palaces and well-preserved city centres.
Whether you’re intrigued by art, history, or culinary adventures, Bologna’s central location and efficient transport links make it the perfect starting point for discovering the diverse and captivating regions of Italy.
Check out the top 19 day trips from Bologna here!
Practical Tips for Visiting Bologna
Hopefully, by now you’re convinced the Bologna is somewhere you need to visit. If I have, then I am one happy person. But before you start researching the best places to stay in Bologna, I have a few practical tips to help make your trip as smooth as possible:
Explore on Foot
Bologna’s historic city centre is best explored on foot. Its narrow streets, medieval architecture, and covered porticoes create a unique pedestrian-friendly environment that you don’t want to miss.
I reckon I spent about 7 hours solidly walking per day when I visited Bologna. Make sure to wear comfortable shoes and take your time wandering through the city’s charming alleyways and piazzas.
There are also great walking tours of Bologna where a local guide will show you the ins and outs of Bologna. This classic walking tour of Bologna is great for anyone on a budget, telling you the history of all the top sites in the city.
If your budget allows, you can oft for a more private tour of Bologna, where your guide will tailor the experience to suit your interests and show you Bologna’s hidden gems, only known to locals.
Try the Local Cuisine
You simply cannot go to Bologna without trying its food. Bologna is renowned for its delicious food, so be sure to plan your food allowance enough to really indulge in traditional dishes. Visit local trattorias and osterias to experience authentic Bolognese cuisine.
Check the Opening Hours
Many shops, museums, and attractions in Bologna have specific opening hours and may be closed on certain days of the week. Monday seems a particularly popular day to take off, and a lot of places close for a few hours at midday. Plan your Bologna itinerary accordingly!
Respect Local Customs
Bologna is a vibrant and culturally rich city with its own customs and traditions. Respect local etiquette, such as greeting people with a friendly “buongiorno” (good morning) or “buonasera” (good evening), and dressing modestly when visiting religious sites.
Stay Safe
Bologna is generally a safe city, but it’s always wise to take precautions. As a solo traveller, safety is always a priority but there are plenty of ways to make sure you feel safe when travelling.
The main one is to be aware of your surroundings and don’t do anything abroad you wouldn’t do at home. So be mindful of your belongings in crowded areas and avoid walking alone at night in unfamiliar neighborhoods
Enjoy the Aperitivo Culture
If you’ve read any of my other posts on Italy, you’ll know that I am a fan of Italy’s aperitivo tradition. Embrace the lively aperitivo culture by indulging in pre-dinner drinks and appetisers at local bars and cafes. My favourite aperitivo of choice is an Aperol Spritz, but I
Many establishments offer aperitivo specials, where you can enjoy a drink accompanied by a selection of snacks for a fixed price. It’s a great way to unwind and socialize with locals after a day of sightseeing.
The Wrap-Up: Is Bologna Worth Visiting?
So, is Bologna worth visiting? Absolutely, without a doubt. When I visited last year, I discovered a city steeped in history, its medieval architecture and covered porticoes offering a picturesque backdrop to my explorations.
Yet, it was the intangible allure of Bologna’s atmosphere that truly captivated me. The bustling markets, the lively piazzas, and the warm greetings of locals created an ambience that felt both welcoming and authentic.
And, of course, Bologna’s reputation as Italy’s culinary capital is well-deserved. From sumptuous plates of tagliatelle al ragù to delectable bites of mortadella, every meal was a gastronomic delight. And I think I ate enough gelato to last a lifetime. Not that that’s stopped me from having more.
I hope this post has shown you exactly why you too should visit Bologna and discover all of its delights for yourself.
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