Nestled strategically between the artistic heart of Florence and the fashion capital of Milan, Bologna stands as the vibrant capital of the Emilia-Romagna region in northern Italy. This captivating city, steeped in history and brimming with cultural richness, offers a unique blend of academic prestige, architectural grandeur, and culinary excellence. A visit to Bologna promises an unforgettable journey through its porticoed walkways, magnificent squares, historic buildings, and a medieval center that whispers tales of centuries past.
Beyond its aesthetic allure, Bologna boasts a distinctive political identity, historically associated with left-wing ideologies. The city once served as a prominent hub for the Italian communist party, and its influence remains palpable. However, it is the city’s gastronomic reputation that truly draws visitors from across the globe. Positioned at the epicenter of the Emilia-Romagna region, widely celebrated as Italy’s premier food-producing area, Bologna has rightfully earned the nickname "La Grassa" – the fat one. This playful moniker not only alludes to the region’s delectable cuisine but also reflects the city’s robust and thriving economy.
Travelers are welcome to experience Bologna throughout the year, each season offering a unique perspective on the city’s charm. While winters can be quite chilly and summers can bring intense heat, the shoulder seasons of spring and autumn provide pleasant weather for exploring the city’s many attractions. Furthermore, Bologna serves as a major transportation hub, with convenient train connections to Milan, Venice, Florence, Rome, and both the Adriatic and Tyrrhenian coasts, making it an easily accessible destination for any Italian itinerary.
Here’s a guide to the 11 top things to do in this captivating city:
- Indulge in the Local Specialties
The Emilia-Romagna region is renowned for its exceptional culinary heritage, and Bologna is the perfect place to embark on a gastronomic adventure. While spaghetti bolognese may be the most globally recognized dish, the city offers a plethora of other culinary delights to discover. Many restaurants serve up classic dishes such as lasagna and tagliatelle, generously coated in a rich and savory ragu, a slow-cooked meat sauce that is a staple of Bolognese cuisine. Handmade stuffed pasta, such as tortellini, is another must-try, showcasing the region’s mastery of pasta making.
Beyond pasta, Bologna is also famous for its cured meats, particularly salami and mortadella. The city is home to a wide array of excellent restaurants, catering to every taste and budget. For a truly special dining experience, consider making a reservation at I Portici, the city’s only Michelin-starred restaurant, where you can savor innovative and refined interpretations of traditional Bolognese flavors.
- Admire the Architectural Wonders
Bologna‘s compact medieval center is a treasure trove of architectural marvels, boasting a wealth of beautiful churches, monuments, and civic buildings. As you wander through the city, you’ll be captivated by its characteristic porticoed sidewalks, which provide shelter from the elements and enhance the pleasure of window shopping.
Two churches stand out as must-visit destinations: the hilltop Santuario di Madonna di San Luca (Sanctuary of the Madonna of San Luca), a stunning pilgrimage site with panoramic views, and the Basilica di San Giacomo Maggiore (Basilica of San San Giacomo Maggiore), a testament to both Renaissance and Baroque architectural styles. Other notable buildings include the Archiginnasio of Bologna, which once served as the University of Bologna‘s main building. Today, it houses the Biblioteca Comunale dell’Archiginnasio (Archinnasio Municipal Library) and the Teatro Anatomica (Anatomical Theater), a fascinating space where academics once dissected human corpses for anatomical study.
- Explore the Main Squares
Bologna‘s central squares are vibrant hubs of activity, offering a glimpse into the city’s rich history and cultural life. Piazza Maggiore, the city’s main square, is surrounded by impressive buildings, including the Gothic Basilica of San Petronio, a monumental church dedicated to the city’s patron saint; the Palazzo dei Notai, a historic palace with intricate architectural details; and the Archaeological Museum, which houses a fascinating collection of artifacts from the region’s past.
Just a short distance from Piazza Maggiore lies Piazza del Nettuno, home to an ornate 16th-century fountain depicting the Roman god Neptune. The fountain is surrounded by medieval civic buildings, creating a picturesque setting. Be sure to step inside the Salaborsa Library, a modern library housed within a historic building, to admire its interior design and admire the Roman ruins beneath the glass floor.
- Discover New Flavors Along Via Clavature
Located just east of Piazza Maggiore, Via Clavature is a vibrant street brimming with small, interesting food stalls and markets. This area is a culinary paradise, offering a wide array of local delicacies and regional specialties.
Pescheria Brunelli, the oldest fish market in town, is a must-visit for seafood lovers. If you’re short on time and looking for a quick bite, head inside Mercato di Mezzo, a covered market where you can sample a variety of edible and drinkable souvenirs and enjoy a casual meal at one of the many restaurants.
- Wander Around Piazza Santo Stefano
Piazza Santo Stefano, also known as Piazza delle Sette Chiese (The Square of Seven Churches), is a unique and enchanting space characterized by an unusual cluster of interlocking Romanesque churches. The oldest of these churches, the church of Santi Vitale e Agricola, is believed to have been built on the ruins of Roman temples and columns. The church is named after two saints who were martyred in Bologna during the reign of Roman Emperor Diocletian and are believed to have died on this site. In addition to the churches, the piazza also features an interesting courtyard with a maze of little chapels, adding to its mysterious atmosphere.
- Immerse Yourself in Art at the Pinacoteca Nazionale di Bologna
The Pinacoteca Nazionale di Bologna (National Art Gallery of Bologna) is a world-class art museum housed in a former 17th-century Jesuit building. The museum’s vast collection spans centuries of Italian art, with a particular focus on paintings from the 13th century onwards. Masterpieces by renowned artists such as Raphael, Titian, and the Carracci brothers are prominently featured, showcasing the evolution of Italian art through the Renaissance, Mannerism, and Baroque periods. After exploring the permanent collection, be sure to check out the gallery’s temporary exhibitions, which often feature contemporary and modern art. Adjacent to the Pinacoteca Nazionale di Bologna is the Academy of Fine Arts, a prestigious institution dedicated to the training of artists.
- Visit the World’s Oldest University
Founded in 1088, the University of Bologna holds the distinction of being the world’s oldest university. Even if you’re not a student, you can still explore the university’s rich history and cultural heritage. The Museum of Palazzo Poggi houses a collection of fascinating exhibits on military architecture, ancient maps, natural history, physics, and human anatomy. The Botanic Garden and Herbarium, founded in 1568, is one of the oldest botanic gardens in Italy, offering a tranquil oasis in the heart of the city. You can take a guided tour to delve deeper into the university’s history or simply stroll through the campus and soak up the academic atmosphere.
- Enjoy Aperitivo Like a Local
Aperitivo, the Italian tradition of enjoying a pre-dinner drink with snacks, is an integral part of Bologna‘s social scene. The best place to experience aperitivo in Bologna is Via Pescherie Vecchie, a lively street just off Piazza Maggiore. Lined with bars and restaurants offering outdoor seating, this street is the perfect spot to sip on an Aperol Spritz or Negroni while enjoying tasty appetizers and watching the world go by. Mercato Delle Erbe, a bustling foodstuffs market by day, transforms into a vibrant nightlife destination after dark, with a variety of restaurants and food stalls surrounding a central dining hall.
- Seek Out the City’s Hidden Canals
While Venice may be the most famous city in Italy for its canals, Bologna also boasts a network of hidden waterways that once played a vital role in the city’s economy. You can catch a glimpse of these canals by visiting the window on Via Piella, which offers a view of the Canale delle Moline. Alternatively, consider booking a hotel or vacation rental that overlooks the canals for a unique and memorable experience.
- Step Inside the Basilica di San Petronio
The Basilica di San Petronio, located off of Piazza Maggiore, is Bologna‘s oldest church and one of its most iconic landmarks. Dedicated to Saint Petronius, the city’s patron saint, the basilica’s construction began in 1390 but was not officially consecrated until 1954. Inside, marvel at the Music Chapel of San Petronia, the city’s oldest musical institution, which features a 552-year-old organ that is still in use today. The basilica also houses the world’s longest sundial, a 67.27-meter instrument built by the astronomer Cassini, and the Cappella Bolognini (Chapel of the Three Kings), adorned with frescoes by Giovanni da Modena.
- Walk the World’s Longest Portico
The Portico di San Luca, a UNESCO World Heritage site, is the longest portico in the world, stretching for 3.8 kilometers (2.4 miles) and comprising 666 arches. Constructed between the 17th and 18th centuries, the portico runs from Porta Saragozza up the Colle della Guardia hill, culminating at the Sanctuary of the Madonna of San Luca. The portico was built to protect the sanctuary’s icon from rain during the annual Feast of the Ascension, with the 666 arches symbolizing Madonna’s victory over the devil. While you can drive to the church, walking the portico is a quintessential Bolognese experience, offering stunning views and a sense of pilgrimage.
