Bologna is the ideal spot to go sightseeing because it is big enough that there are plenty of activities to partake in and sights to behold, yet small enough to avoid the suffocating crowds that sometimes overwhelm larger towns.
Bologna houses the oldest university in the Western hemisphere, as well as several antique buildings and cathedrals that date back thousands of years. In addition, there are some of the best meals we’ve ever had, as well as fantastic markets and entertainment. The list of awesome things to do, taste, see and embrace is quite extensive. However, one of the best things to do in Bologna is to visit the city’s many food markets.
Visiting the different farmers’ markets of a city is a great opportunity to get to know the culture through its food. Bologna houses some of Italy’s most renowned marketplaces, making any trip there an adventure in and of itself.
You can find FICO Eataly World, which bills itself as the “world’s largest food park,” not far from the primary thoroughfare. You can make the most of your time in Bologna by visiting some amazing eateries and trying some of their delicious food and drinks. Also on the list of best things to do in Bologna includes going on a Bologna bike tour. Biking around Bologna is a great way to view the city and its surroundings at a more leisurely pace than walking would allow. A guided bike trip will be among the most memorable experiences you’ll have in this city.
Close to Bologna’s train station, BIKEinBo provides a two-hour guided bike tour that is both entertaining and informative, providing an excellent introduction to the city’s long and storied past. Regardless of your hobbies or passions, you’ll find something to enjoy in Bologna.
Bologna, a city rich in history and located in the heart of Italy’s Emilia-Romagna region, is not to be missed on any trip to Italy. Bologna is large enough to have a wide variety of attractions and sights yet compact enough to be easily explored. Unlike some of the larger cities, it is not overrun with tourists at all times of day, making it ideal for sightseeing. Join ViewCation as we help you plan your vacation with the best things to do in Bologna, Italy.
Climb the Two Towers.
Tower climbing is another option for seeing the sights and getting a good workout in at the same time. Once upon a time, Bologna’s skyline was dominated by a plethora of towering structures. During the Middle Ages, affluent households would often build towers within the city to show off their status. About 20 of the original 125 towers are still standing today. These landmarks include the Asinelli and Garisenda Towers, also known as the “Two Towers”, and the outstanding icons of the city. They are located in close proximity to one another in Piazza di Porta Ravegnana.
You can get fantastic views of the city from the top of the Two Towers. There are 498 stairs leading up to the peak of Asinelli, which is approximately 100 meters high. It is perfect for those looking to combine fun with a little exercise.
Explore the local food markets.
One of the best ways to get a true feel for a place is by exploring its local food scene by visiting its many farmers’ markets. The markets in Bologna are among the best in Italy, so shopping there will be a memorable experience.
The city of Bologna is home to both historic outdoor markets and modern indoor food courts showcasing regional specialities and cuisines. One of the most popular places for locals to socialize and enjoy live music is at a slow food market.
FICO Eataly World, which calls itself the “world’s largest food park,” can be found just outside the main hub. Exploring these mouthwatering establishments and sampling their offerings is an awesome way to spend your time in Bologna.
Walk under the historic porticoes.
Bologna is home to almost 25 miles (40 km) of porticoes. All the way from the main square to the Basilica of San Luca is covered in these stunning arches. So many of them have survived for so long (some for nearly a millennium) that UNESCO is considering designating them as a World Heritage Site. Not only do they provide welcome shelter from the elements, but they also provide charm to this historic city. The splendour of the porticoes is enhanced by the sparkling of the night.
The orange and gold tones of the street lights in the historic district are evocative, and the strange shadows they form are sure to pique your curiosity. If you take a stroll at night, you’ll see that nearly the entire city is active in the outdoors, either mingling until late, dining until late, or taking a calm stroll hand in hand.
Beautiful photo opportunities await those who carry a tripod. In the evening, Bologna truly comes alive.
Go on a Bologna food tour.
Italian cuisine is universally acclaimed, and Bologna, in particular, is renowned for its delectable regional delicacies. Bologna is best experienced through its cuisine; hence a culinary tour is highly recommended. Bologna is home to a wide variety of cuisines, each with its own distinct flavour. Be sure to try some mortadella (Bologna in other parts of the world) or a piadina (flatbread), perhaps with some Parmigiano-Reggiano cheese, produced about an hour away in the Parma region. Try the tortellini in brodo and the tagliatelle al ragu, often known as Bolognese.
You can pair these delicious dishes with a glass of local sparkling wine, such as the juicy red Lambrusco or the crisp white Pignoletto. You might also book a food tour conducted by a native Bolognese who will lead you through the old city while you sample some of Bologna’s most famous dishes.
Bologna is a fantastic destination for foodies, and you could easily plan a weeklong trip there centred only on the city’s culinary offerings.
Go for aperitivo
One of the best ways to end a day in Bologna is by enjoying an aperitivo at one of the city’s many bars. Enjoy the smorgasbord with a glass of regional wine or a spritz made from Prosecco and Aperol. Typically set out at 7:00 p.m., the buffet will have an assortment of savoury and sweet foods such as meats, cheeses, slices of bread, pizzas, and occasionally even whole pasta dishes and desserts. Until your drink is empty, feel free to snack on whatever you choose.
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Tour Prendiparte Tower
Visiting Prendiparte Tower, located only a short distance from St. Peter’s Cathedral, is a must for any history buff in Bologna.
This tower, like the other two towers, was initially built as a fortification and later converted into a jail, but nowadays, visitors can ascend its spiral staircase to take in breathtaking vistas. For a bite to eat while in the area, stop by La Montanara, which is well-known for its ragu and is conveniently located only around the block. It’s a casual eatery where you can enjoy some delicious, comforting Italian food.
Little Venice, also called La Piccola Venezia, is located around 250 meters from Prendiparte Tower and is worth checking out.
Visit Basilica San Petronio
There’s no way to miss the Basilica of San Petronio, which dominates the centre of Piazza Maggiore. Even if you aren’t a believer, visiting the interior of this structure is one of the highlights of a trip to Bologna.
There are around twenty separate chapels inside the basilica that can be seen and visited on any given day. It doesn’t cost anything to get in, although a donation is appreciated.
Even more impressive is the fact that it houses the world’s largest internal sundial.
Take A Bologna Bike Tour
One of the finest ways to get a feel for Bologna and see more than you ever could on foot is to rent a bike and pedal around the city. Some of the most enjoyable time you’ll have in this city will be spent on a guided cycling tour.
BIKEinBo, located close to Bologna’s railway station, offers a two-hour guided bike tour that is both a fun activity and an educational introduction to the city’s rich history. The Bologna Bike Tour is the best there is, as it caters to cyclists of all ages and abilities.
Feast your way around the Mercato Delle Erbe
The Mercato Delle Erbe, just one of Bologna’s many food markets, is a fantastic spot to stock up on fresh produce. The majority of the stunning fruit and vegetables sold here originate in Italy. You can grab some sandwiches, piadina, or pizza slices from the upscale food court or sit down for a complete meal. Additionally, there are accommodation possibilities in the region near to the market, making shopping and quick meals incredibly accessible.
Go for a run through San Pellegrino Park.
The hills leading up to the Parco di San Pellegrino from the smaller Villa Spada park are perfect for anyone looking for a more demanding run or walk.
It’s only four kilometres from the city proper, but the surrounding fields of wildflowers and panoramic views of San Luca and the city make it feel much further out in the country. It’s beautiful here; a picnic would be perfect here.
It’s also an excellent location for early morning runs.
Visit La Piazzola
A terrific area to find a present is at Mercato Piazzola, which is located just outside of Montagnola Park and is home to a wide variety of shops, restaurants, and markets. Have fun discovering new places, but remember to bargain for better deals.
The quality of the individual stalls varies widely. Don’t hesitate to take a stroll and discover your other items worth purchasing.
Tour Piazza Maggiore
Piazza Maggiore, located smack dab in the middle of Bologna, is practically a must-see on any tour of the city. The neighbourhood is ideal for strolling around on foot and taking in the stunning Renaissance architecture that gives it its distinctive character. To its credit, it also includes such Bologna landmarks as the Basilica di San Petronio, the Fountain of Neptune, and the Palazzo del Podestà.
If you plan on seeing the entire area, remember to bring along a pair of shoes that are comfortable for walking. After that, head over to Trattoria Gianni for some supper. Tucked away on a quiet street, this hidden gem is home to some of the best gnocchi in all of Bologna.
And there you have it. It is now time for us to hear from you. Let us know in the comments which of the activities on the list appeals to you the most. And, for those who have spent time touring Bologna, let us know what the experience was like. Remember to show your support by liking this video and subscribing to the channel. Enabling post notifications will ensure that you don’t miss any of our daily uploads. Catch you in the next one.