Top 15 Must-Do Activities in Bologna, Italy

Bologna serves as the capital of the Emilia-Romagna region in Northern Italy, with a current population of approximately 387,000 and a metropolitan population exceeding 1 million. This city is centrally located in Italy, situated north of Florence, south of Venice, and southeast of Milan. Historically, Bologna has been a significant cultural and economic center in Italy, governed successively by the Etruscans, Celts, and Romans.

From the 18th century onward, Bologna was included within the Papal States until the Napoleonic period in the 1700s. Key sectors within Bologna’s economy include manufacturing and a robust financial industry. Additionally, due to its strategic location, the city functions as a major transport hub. Renowned as a university city with a rich historical background, Bologna boasts an impressive array of cultural sights, exceptional architecture, and high-quality museums.

Let us examine the most notable attractions in Bologna:

1. Piazza Maggiore

As the main square in Bologna, Piazza Maggiore is centrally located and represents an important historical site.

This square is surrounded by significant buildings, including Palazzo d’Accursio, Palazzo del Podestà, Basilica di San Petronio, and Palazzo Comunale.

Moreover, to the northwest of the square lies Piazza del Nettuno, home to the renowned Fountain of Neptune.

Visitors can appreciate the remarkable architecture, explore the palaces and basilica, or enjoy a delightful Italian meal at one of the restaurants situated within the porticos.

The square exudes a vibrant ambiance, frequently hosting open-air films and concerts.

2. The Leaning Towers of Bologna

Unexpectedly, Bologna also features a pair of famous leaning towers, one of which is taller than the iconic tower in Pisa. This city is renowned for its numerous towers, with the two iconic examples being the Asinelli and Garisenda towers located in Piazza di Porta Ravegnana.

Asinelli stands at 97.2 meters and was historically utilized as a prison and stronghold.

In contrast, Garisenda reaches only 48 meters yet possesses a considerable tilt and an overhang of 3.2 meters.

Ascending these towers offers unmatched views of Bologna, showcasing breathtaking landscapes that extend for miles.

3. San Petronio

This magnificent edifice ranks as the 10th largest church in the world by volume and dominates the landscape of Piazza Maggiore.

Dedicated to Saint Petronius—Bologna’s patron saint—this Gothic church is notable for its immense scale and its unfinished façade.

Originally built from 1388 to 1479, the structure has never been entirely completed; peculiarly, the lower half features colorful marble work while the top half reveals bare brown brickwork.

Inside, the vast brick columns and ornate decorations create an impressive atmosphere, leading the eye toward the main altar situated at the end of the central aisle.

4. Archiginnasio

Recognized as a landmark building in Bologna, the Archiginnasio previously served as the main structure of the University of Bologna and is currently home to the renowned Anatomical Theatre.

This remarkable structure, constructed in the 16th century, occupies Piazza Galvani.

As a piece of historic architecture, the Archiginnasio is remarkable, but the Anatomical Theatre serves as its centerpiece.

Entirely crafted from wood, this intimate room is characterized by extensive wood paneling and sculpted statues representing notable medical figures.

In the center of the room, surrounded by seating platforms, lies an elaborate anatomical table.

This venue was where students learned about human anatomy through dissections and surgical demonstrations.

5. Bologna Archaeological Museum

Located centrally in Bologna, the Archaeological Museum provides valuable insights into the city’s historical development across various eras.

Situated on Piazza Maggiore, this museum is conveniently accessible and presents a captivating experience for visitors.

The museum comprises an extensive array of collections divided into nine sections, including: Prehistoric, Etruscan, Celtic, Greek, Roman, Egyptian, and Numismatic exhibits.

Each collection offers an impressive showcase of artifacts such as Bronze Age tools, human skeletal remains, pottery, weaponry, ceramics, and marble sculptures.

Given the size and diversity of its collection, visitors can spend hours admiring the displays while enriching their understanding of the region’s ancient history.

6. Bologna National Gallery

While some galleries exhibit works from various countries, the Bologna National Gallery exclusively features artwork connected to the Emilia-Romagna region and the city, with pieces ranging from the 13th to the 18th centuries.

Conveniently nestled within the historic university complex, the gallery is easily reached from the city center and Piazza Maggiore.

Divided into two main sections, the museum includes the Accademia Clementina, showcasing a wealth of 13th-century Byzantine paintings, and the Gallery of the Academy of Fine Arts, which houses later masterpieces.

Highlights include the “Ecstasy of St. Cecilia” by Raphael and “Christ and the Good Thief” by Titian.

7. La Piazzola Market

This historic market has operated in Bologna for centuries and remains increasingly popular among both locals and visitors.

Situated in Piazza dell’Augosto, north of the city center, the market features over 400 stalls, presenting a fascinating spectacle for all.

Here, one can find a diverse array of products for sale, including clothing, shoes, fashion accessories, flowers, pottery, and jewelry.

The ambiance is captivating, characterized by the locals’ haggling and lively interactions, complemented by the tantalizing scents of various foods and spices.

8. Monte della Guardia

The longest portico in the world ascends to the summit of Monte della Guardia.

This wooded hill provides an excellent retreat from the city, reaching an elevation of approximately 300 meters.

Located southwest of Bologna, near the Reno River, visitors can traverse the length of the portico and ascend the hillside.

Upon reaching the summit, one is rewarded with breathtaking panoramic views of Bologna and its surrounding areas.

Additionally, the charming Sanctuary of the Madonna of San Luca, perched atop the hill, is a remarkable church worth visiting.

9. Santuario di Madonna di San Luca

One of the oldest churches in Bologna, the Sanctuary of Madonna was initially established in 1194, yet its construction was completed only in 1765. Situated on Monte della Guardia, it provides remarkable views of Bologna.

Dominating the skyline, the main structure features a central basilica constructed from reddish-orange materials with green domes; its architectural style is classified as Baroque.

Inside, the sanctuary boasts an array of exquisite decorations and detailed frescoes illustrating significant religious narratives.

Moreover, it houses an icon of the Virgin Mary, purportedly painted by Luke the Evangelist.

10. Torre Prendiparte

As previously mentioned, Bologna was once dotted with tall, narrow stone towers during the Middle Ages—only a select few remain in their original form today, with Torre Prendiparte being one of them.

This particular tower was constructed in the 12th century and stands at 59.50 meters in height.

Situated in Piazza Prendiparte, the tower is in proximity to the two leaning towers and Piazza Maggiore.

Currently, it operates as a bed and breakfast, providing a unique experience; however, the tower’s levels remain accessible for exploration, allowing visitors to ascend and enjoy its historical significance.

11. Oratory of Battuti

This small chapel, located within the church of Santa Maria della Vita, showcases an impressive amount of design and ornamentation, representing one of Bologna’s hidden gems—many overlook its existence.

The Oratory was constructed in 1604 and designed by Floriano Ambrosini.

Inside the Oratory, a multitude of sculptures, including statues of St. Proculus and St. Petronius, along with various beautiful frescoes, are on display.

By looking up, visitors will be treated to a splendid representation of the Madonna’s ascension on the ceiling, complemented by religious imagery adorning the walls.

12. Museo per la Memoria di Ustica

This solemn and thought-provoking museum plays an essential role in preserving the history of Bologna, dedicating itself to the tragic Ustica Disaster.

In 1980, a Douglas DC-9 aircraft, carrying 81 passengers and en route to Palermo, was tragically torn apart in mid-air, resulting in the loss of all on board.

This calamity continues to be shrouded in mystery, and the exact cause of the crash remains a topic of ongoing investigation and debate.

The museum features reconstructed remains of the DC-9 alongside a collection of photographs and personal belongings of the victims.

This thoughtfully constructed museum provides an opportunity to pay respects to those who perished in the Ustica tragedy.

13. St. Stephen Basilica

This significant religious complex is located in Piazza Santo Stefano and encompasses multiple buildings, including the Church of Saint John the Baptist, The Church of the Holy Sepulchre, and the courtyard of Pilate.

As visitors traverse the first church, they may perceive it as a single structure, but entering the main arched courtyard reveals the diverse collection of buildings.

Each church embodies its own unique character, architecture, and artistic expression. Additionally, a complimentary museum provides historical context about the complex.

14. Try a Local Dish of Tortellini

Tortellini is among the most cherished traditional Italian dishes in Bologna, with most local establishments offering this delightful entrée.

Traditionally, Tortellini, characterized by its ring shape, is filled with a variety of ingredients, including pork, prosciutto, and cheese, and is served in either chicken or beef broth.

The origins of this dish are steeped in mystery; however, Bologna is regarded as one of the prime locations to savor authentic Tortellini.

Consider dining at one of the restaurants neighboring Piazza Maggiore or exploring the side streets to discover a local eatery that is not tailored to tourists.

15. Explore the Porticoes

Bologna is renowned for its extensive porticoes—partially enclosed walkways adorned with arches and columns.

As Bologna evolved into a university city, the number of porticoes also increased significantly.

It is reported that in the city center, visitors can walk through 40 kilometers of corridors.

Numerous captivating porticoes are dispersed throughout the city, with the Bonaccorsi Arch and the walkway leading to the Sanctuary of the Madonna di San Luca being the most famed.

Stroll through the porticoes and appreciate the magnificent ancient architecture.