Summary of Bologna Travel Insights
Affectionately known as La Grassa (the plump one, due to its rich culinary traditions), La Dotta (the learned one, referring to its illustrious university founded in 1088), and La Rossa (the red one, named for both its terracotta buildings and its historically left-leaning politics), Bologna offers a compelling combination of medieval significance to its visitors.
Primarily, the city’s illustrious gastronomic heritage, which gave rise to one of Italy’s most cherished dishes, ragù (please refrain from calling it bolognese), is arguably the most sought-after. The university (known as Unibo) has provided a continuous flow of culture, innovation, and progressive thought for nearly 950 years. Furthermore, its medieval historic center, a captivating assembly of UNESCO-listed porticos and countless architectural masterpieces, cohesively binds this aesthetically pleasing landscape.
When is the best time to visit Bologna?
Being fundamentally a significant university city, Bologna is a vibrant locale with an abundance of cultural attractions, bars, and restaurants that remain spirited throughout the year. Moreover, with more than 61 km (38 miles) of porticos in the center, the city is notably more navigable during inclement weather than many others. However, for an ideal experience, April (characterized by temperate weather and reduced high-season crowds) and September to October (when most visitors have departed) are preferable. It is advisable to avoid August when the city can be hot, humid, and largely closed, as many Bolognesi retreat to more tourist-centric destinations for their summer breaks.
A unique advantage of visiting in summer is the Sotto le Stelle del Cinema event (mid-June to mid-August) when Europe’s largest outdoor projection screen is installed in Piazza Maggiore for nightly film screenings.
Is it easy to get in and around Bologna?
Bologna is Italy’s seventh largest city; however, its medieval center is best appreciated on foot. From its western edge at Porta San Felice to its eastern edge at Porta Maggiore, the distance is merely 2.6 km (1.6 miles). Should you prefer to utilize public transportation, the TPER bus network is well-integrated throughout the city and surrounding suburbs. Tickets may be acquired at any tobacco shop (known as a tabaccheria) or on board using coins and/or credit cards (including contactless options). A 10-trip City Pass is priced at €14.
Top things to do in Bologna
Bologna’s finest and most distinctive attractions are closely intertwined with the city itself. The Casa di Lucio Dalla serves as a captivating home museum honoring the legendary Italian singer-songwriter and Bologna native Lucio Dalla. Consistently aligning with the city’s designation as a UNESCO Creative City of Music, the San Colombano – Collezione Tagliavini is an exceptional collection of musical instruments curated by the late organist Luigi Tagliavini, situated within a beautifully restored church.
The Teatro Anatomico, part of the world’s oldest continuously-operating university, is a striking reminder of 17th-century medical school dissections. Additionally, be sure to explore the atmospheric Quadrilatero, the medieval market area filled with food stalls, greengrocers, delis, and the traditional wine bar Osteria del Sole, which has offered wines since 1465. Regrettably, the city’s iconic twin towers, Torre degli Asinelli, were closed indefinitely in 2023 for structural evaluation.
Bologna’s renowned porticos, which were recently recognized as a UNESCO World Heritage site in 2021, are omnipresent throughout the city. These remarkable arched arcades serve not only as shelter for pedestrians but also as historic marvels of engineering, showcasing designs that span across centuries: medieval wooden porticos, Gothic and Renaissance styles, 14th-century beccadelli (semi-porticoes without columns), and 19th-century porticos displaying court architecture among them. Participating in a guided tour of the key porticos is undoubtedly a worthwhile investment of an afternoon.
Another highlight of Bologna, alongside nearby Modena, is Motor Valley, home to a prestigious array of sports car manufacturers and their extraordinary museums. While the Museo Ducati resides within the city, eminent luxury brands such as Lamborghini are conveniently accessible via public transport (whereas Ferrari, Maserati, and Pagani are located across the Modena border). For those appreciative of automotive excellence or Italian design, these esteemed museums are essential stops on any travel itinerary.
What to eat in Bologna
Where does one even begin? With pizza, risotto, and gelato as notable exceptions, nearly all of Italy’s most beloved contributions to the global culinary scene originate from Bologna and the surrounding Emilia-Romagna region. Lasagna, tortellini, ragù (traditionally served with tagliatelle, not spaghetti), mortadella, prosciutto (from Parma), balsamic vinegar (from Modena), and Parmesan cheese dominate the list, but the culinary offerings extend well beyond these.
Among some of the less heralded yet equally delectable dishes originating from Bologna and Emilia include polpette con piselli (meatballs with peas), tortelloni di ricotta con burro e salvia (ricotta-stuffed pasta with butter and sage), gramigna alla salsiccia (pasta with sausage), and crescentine/tigelle (fried dough/bread rounds filled with cheese, salumi, etc.). Sfoglia Rina is a commendable venue to familiarize oneself with local delicacies, though be prepared for a wait as they do not accept reservations. In sum, this region is renowned for its egg pasta and various pork products! Despite vegetarian options, Bologna is undeniably one of Italy’s finest gastronomic cities and is indeed the principal reason many choose to visit.
How to get to Bologna?
The most expedient route to reach Bologna is via air; the city is served by an international airport with connections from multiple EU locations and beyond.
Arriving in Bologna by air
Bologna Guglielmo Marconi Airport (BLQ) accommodates flights from throughout the EU as well as destinations further afield, including London, Dubai, Istanbul, and Casablanca, among others. A taxi to the city center typically costs between €15-20; alternatively, the Marconi Express people mover provides direct transport to the train station in under eight minutes for €11.
Arriving in Bologna by train
Bologna Centrale serves as a primary high-speed rail station along Italy’s main train corridor; hence, most major cities are accessible via direct trains. Estimated travel durations on Italy’s fastest train, Frecciarossa 1000, are approximately one hour to Milan, 38 minutes to Florence, two hours to Rome, and 3.5 hours to Naples. The train station is a brief 15 to 20-minute walk from most central locations.
Arriving in Bologna by car
Similar to the train station, Bologna is situated along Italy’s principal highway, the A1 (Autostrada del Sole), which traverses the nation from Milan to Naples. It is part of the broader European routes E45 (connecting Norway to Italy) and E35 (linking The Netherlands to Italy).
My favorite thing to do in Bologna
Bologna is remarkably walkable, and I particularly enjoy wandering through the medieval center, appreciating the rusty-red architecture, and exploring the city’s UNESCO-listed porticos. My absolutely favored piazza is Piazza Santo Stefano. The city’s most unique religious site, Basilica di Santa Stefano, anchors the piazza, which is otherwise a beautifully atmospheric and unusually triangle-shaped square flanked by bars and cafés – perfect for unwinding with an aperitivo. A fantastic evening for me would include local craft beers at Il Punto, followed by a meal at my favorite hidden gem for traditional fare, Trattoria Bertozzi.
How much money do I need for Bologna?
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Hostel bed: around €50
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Basic room for two: between €80–150
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Self-catering apartment (including Airbnb): from €150
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Public transport ticket: €1.50 for a single ride, €6 for a day ticket
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Coffee: €1.10
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Pint at a craft beer bar: €6
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Tagliatelle with ragù: €12
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Dinner for two with a bottle of local wine: €60
