Things to do in Bologna

Activities, attractions and tours

Bologna featuring heritage architecture, a square or plaza and outdoor eating
Bologna
Bologna which includes markets and food
Basilica of San Petronio showing interior views, religious aspects and a church or cathedral
Bologna
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Most popular experiences in Bologna

Tours & day trips

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Bologna: Pasta and Tiramisu Cooking Class with Wine

Bologna: Pasta and Tiramisu Cooking Class with Wine

Activity duration is 3 hours
Free cancellation available
Price is P 3,973 per adult
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Private & custom tours

See all 99 activities
Bologna : Historic Center Walking Tour

Bologna : Historic Center Walking Tour

Activity duration is 2 hours
Free cancellation available
Price is P 1,694 per adult
Bologna : Historic Center Walking TourOpens in new tab

Adventure & outdoor

See all 13 activities
Bologna Guided Bike Tour

Bologna Guided Bike Tour

Activity duration is 2 hours and 30 minutes
Free cancellation available
Price is P 5,081 per adult
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What to do in Bologna

Popular places to visit

BolognaFiere

BolognaFiere

Attend a conference or exhibition in the heart of historic Bologna at a sleek, modern and multipurpose center that hosts events throughout the year.

BolognaFiere
Bologna showing a city, heritage architecture and a square or plaza

Piazza Maggiore

Not only has this been the epicenter of Bologna since the 13th century, but it is also one of the largest and oldest squares in all of Italy.

Piazza Maggiore
Ducati Museum featuring interior views

Ducati Museum

Get an insider perspective and discover the history and prestige of the iconic Ducati motorcycle at this museum and factory.

Ducati Museum
Two Towers

Two Towers

A magnificent view over the medieval rooftops of Bologna’s city center is just reward for the arduous climb to the top of one of these ancient towers.

Two Towers
Fountain of Neptune showing a statue or sculpture and a fountain

Fountain of Neptune

This intriguing work of art is one of the most well-known symbols of Bologna and an important public gathering place.

Fountain of Neptune
Basilica of San Petronio which includes religious elements, heritage elements and a church or cathedral

Basilica of San Petronio

See one of the largest churches in the world and learn the story behind its magnificent yet unfinished marble façade.

Basilica of San Petronio
Bologna

Via Indipendenza

Find out about the history of Bologna when you spend time at Via Indipendenza. Check out the shops and top-notch restaurants in this walkable area.

Via Indipendenza
Basilica Santo Stefano which includes a small town or village, heritage architecture and a square or plaza

Basilica Santo Stefano

Go for a stroll through this interconnected group of religious buildings, admiring the graceful architecture and valuable artwork in each.

Basilica Santo Stefano
Sanctuary of the Madonna di San Luca

Sanctuary of the Madonna di San Luca

Walk the world’s longest portico to reach this stunning church and catch some of Bologna’s best city and countryside views.

Sanctuary of the Madonna di San Luca

Areas of Bologna

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Historic Center

Historic Center is known for its popular shops, and you can see some sights in the area like Via Indipendenza and Teatro Auditorium Manzoni.

Historic Center
Palazzo Comunale which includes heritage architecture and a square or plaza

Santo Stefano

Santo Stefano is known for its charming coffeehouses, and you can make a stop by Basilica of San Domenico and Teatro Duse while in the area.

Santo Stefano
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Bologna Fiere District

Museums, historic sites, and gardens are just a few things travelers enjoy about Bologna Fiere District. Check out Parco Nord Arena or Caserme Rosse while you're exploring the area.

Bologna Fiere District
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Saragozza-Porto

Saragozza-Porto is known for its great bars, and you can make a stop by Villa delle Rose and Sanctuary of the Madonna di San Luca while in the area.

Saragozza-Porto
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Photo by Fabio difra (page does not exist) (CC BY-SA)

Bolognina

If you're spending some time in Bolognina, Teatro Testoni Ragazzi and Ippodromo Arcoveggio are top sights worth seeing.

Bolognina
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San Donato-San Vitale

San Donato-San Vitale is popular for its abundant dining options, and if you're looking for more to see and do, you might think about a trip to FICO Eataly World or EuropAuditorium Theater.

San Donato-San Vitale
San Lazzaro di Savena

San Lazzaro di Savena

Frequently asked questions

Is Bologna worth visiting?
One of the most common things to do in Bologna is explore Cattedrale di San Pietro. Check this major sight off your to-do list, then discover more of this area's dining and culture.
How do I spend a day in Bologna?
Start your adventures with a visit to Palazzo Albergati and Palazzo Fantuzzi. Then, check out different areas of Bologna for local dining and some retail therapy.
What is the top tourist attraction in Bologna?
The top tourist attraction in Bologna is Cattedrale di San Pietro, so make sure to include it on your itinerary.
Is three days enough to stay in Bologna?
You can easily tick off leading sights like Cattedrale di San Pietro, Teatro Duse and Bologna Museum of Modern Art with a three-day stay in Bologna. On average, most travelers plan two days here. There's plenty to see and do nearby too, so stay a while longer and head to Modena.
Is Bologna a walkable city?
That comes down to what you want to do and see in Bologna. Several key attractions, like Cattedrale di San Pietro and Teatro Duse, are reachable on foot. If you're up for a wander through some of Bologna's neighborhoods, Historic Center is 0.48 kilometers away from downtown, while Saragozza-Porto is 3 kilometers away from the center and also within walking distance.
What are some activities to do in Bologna with kids?
If you're searching for attractions and activities for all the family, here are some excellent ideas for what to do in Bologna with kids.

What to do in Bologna for adults?
Via Indipendenza and Via Zamboni are just a couple of the things to do in Bologna. With loads of activities available, there's something here for everyone to explore.
Are there free things to do in Bologna?
One of the simplest ways to learn about free things to do in Bologna is to ask a local tour guide. You'll get insider tips on hip neighborhoods, parks and other highlights you can enjoy without getting your cash out. Cattedrale di San Pietro is one place that doesn't have an admission fee.