2025 Bologna Travel Guide: Must-see attractions, popular food, hotels, transportation routes (updated in March)

#oktoberfest I recently celebrated Oktoberfest in Bologna, and it was such a fun twist on the traditional German festival! 🍻 While Bologna is known for its food and culture, they really know how to throw a great Oktoberfest party. The event was held at Parco Nord, and the entrance fee was around €10, which included a beer mug and your first drink. The massive tents were filled with people enjoying live Bavarian-style music, delicious German sausages, and, of course, plenty of beer! The atmosphere was lively, with people dressed in traditional Lederhosen and Dirndls, dancing and toasting all night. Even though it wasn’t Munich, Bologna’s take on Oktoberfest still had that friendly, celebratory vibe. Before heading to the festival, I explored the historic center of Bologna, including the iconic Two Towers and Piazza Maggiore, making it a perfect mix of culture and fun. If you’re in Bologna in the fall, don’t miss this unique celebration! #OktoberfestBologna #BavarianVibes #BeerLovers #ExploreBologna #ItalianOktoberfest #TravelItaly

#spookyhalloween I spent Halloween in Bologna Centro, and it was such a unique way to celebrate! 🎃 The city’s medieval streets created the perfect atmosphere for the spooky holiday. Bologna isn’t as big on Halloween as some other cities, but the local spirit was definitely alive. The historic center was decorated with pumpkins and cobwebs, and many shops and cafes embraced the theme with special treats and decorations. The best part? It’s completely free to explore! I walked through the Piazza Maggiore, where people were dressed in costumes, and some street performers added to the eerie vibe. The old, narrow streets of Bologna made everything feel even more mysterious. After soaking up the Halloween atmosphere, I explored some of the city’s famous landmarks like the Two Towers and Santo Stefano. Spending Halloween here was an unexpectedly fun mix of history, culture, and spooky fun! #HalloweenInBologna #SpookyBologna #BolognaCentro #HalloweenAdventures #TravelBologna #AutumnInItaly

I stayed at Art Hotel Commercianti Bologna during the month of December with a friend, and honestly I cannot think of a better stay in Bologna! The location could not be better, totally unbeatable being just above Piazza Maggiore and close to everything. You can even hear the music events and the bells ringing from the Piazza. The staff was really polite and welcoming, and the hotel itself was beautifully decorated. You can tell that it's a very historic and symbolic hotel of the city. The highlight of our stay was our room, which was spacious and comfortable, but also had an amazing large balcony with breathtaking views to Basilica di San Petronio. I totally recommend booking the option of room with balcony for your stay. The breakfast was very rich and covered any preferences you might have, and the option to have it served it the room was really perfect for us! #luxuryhotel #bologna #italy #italytravel

It's so beautiful, full of artistic atmosphere, with affordable prices and delicious food. It seems like there are mostly Italian tourists, without the feeling of a typical tourist area. My favorite city in Italy!

#celebratewithtrip Bologna - piazza 4 agosto Bologne is a town situated in Emilia Romagna - Italy it is famous for tortellini and mortadella the city is small with a lots to see the city center is quite big with a lots of monuments famous for the red roof for that reason is called bologna la rossa means bologna the red city #italy is always a good idea I will suggest to stay around a week to really enjoy everything of this amazing city people is nice and friendly food is really good (as everywhere in italy) really recommend not expensive good for family friends and couples #spooktaculartrip #tripblazers #fallingforfall #good #mortadella #italy #travel Inspiration #bologna #emiliaromagna #goodplace

Best city to visit in Italy. love all the gallery called portici. everything is red and orange. can eat a good mortadella and amazing tortellini. love the people here

#High-altitude viewing #Overseas travel When you come to Bologna, Italy, don’t miss the opportunity to climb to the top of the tower and see the beautiful panoramic view of the ancient city! Red brick houses, red ash houses, all you see is a large expanse of red brick roofs! ! This is Bologna’s famous landmark – the top of one of the two towers (Le Due Torri) (Torre degli Asinelli). Looking from a high place, the ancient city of Bologna does have another kind of charming charm! 🔶The "Ancient City of Towers" BOLOGNA in the Middle Ages🔶 In the Middle Ages, the entire center of the ancient city of Bologna was originally filled with towers that soared into the sky. In the 12th and 13th centuries, there were as many as 180 tower buildings in the city! In those days, the nobles and wealthy families in Bologna built tall towers in order to demonstrate their family's prestige and power. Most of the tall towers are watchtowers, used for guarding and defense purposes. Over the years, most of the more than one hundred ancient towers in Bologna have been destroyed by wars, lightning, fires and other disasters, and only about twenty of them remain today. The most famous of these is the Twin Towers (Le DueTorri) near Piazza Maggiore, the city center square. The taller Torre degli Asinelli, which is not as tilted, is also open to the public. 🔶Climb up 498 steps! Accompanied by loud footsteps and slight panting🔶 To successfully climb Torre degli Asinelli, you really need a little bit of physical strength and a little bit of adventurous spirit. The feeling inside the tower is very simple and primitive. There is no elevator! To reach the top, you have to climb up the narrow wooden stairs inside the tower, a total of 498 steps! ! The wooden steps are actually antique and were built in 1684. The stairs are also quite narrow, and one-way traffic control is adopted inside the tower. Those who want to reach the summit will have different time periods to choose from when buying tickets, and then must arrive on time. Upon entry, the staff will tell you when to come down. In this way, when you go down, you won't bump into people who are going up in the next period of time. In the empty tower, loud footsteps and slight panting sounds echoed. People climbing the stairs kept looking upwards. The stairs seemed to have no end. 🔶A 360-degree panoramic view of the ancient city of BOLOGNA, beautiful! 🔶 Once you reach the top of the tower, you will feel so comfortable and cool! The breeze blows gently, accompanied by a 360-degree panoramic view of the entire ancient city of Bologna, a very healing beauty! Especially on such a sunny day, with the pure blue sky and the red brick roofs, Bologna is truly the "Red City"! 🔶How to get to LE DUE TORRI (TORRE DEGLI ASINELLI)🔶 The twin towers are located in Piazza di Porta Ravegnana, not far from Piazza Maggiore, the city center square. #StarWriterGoGoGo #ItalianTravel

The Fontana del Nettuno (Fountain of Neptune) has been nicknamed “al Żigànt” in dialect ("the Giant") by the Bolognese because of the size of the statue of Neptune. The fountain made of marble and bronze, was built between 1563 and 1566 by the Flemish sculptor Giambologna on a project by the Italian Tommaso Laureti. It is a symbol of the power of the Pope who ruled the world like Neptune ruled the seas. At the feet of the statue, in fact, lie four little angels, representing Gange, the Nile, the Amazon and Danube, i.e. the rivers of the continents known at the time. The trident of the Neptune's statue inspired and it was used by Maserati brothers as emblem for their first car, the Maserati Tipo 26. The logo was realized in 1920 by one of the brothers, Mario Maserati, at the suggestion of a family friend, Marquis Diego de Sterlich. This is still today the logo of the Maserati car company. The fountain and its sculpture are one of the most iconic symbols of the city and references to them can be found in many symbols, commercials and logos. This includes the historical students' fraternity (Goliardia) "Excelsa Neptuni Balla", on whose emblem figure two tridents. The Bolognese anecdote also tells of a particular expedient implemented by Giambologna, who intended to find a way to make Neptune with realistic genitals, without being discovered and admonished by the Church. The sculptor designed the statue in such a way that from a particular angle the thumb of Neptune's outstretched hand seems to emerge directly from the lower abdomen, making him suggest the (erect) genital; as proof of the same, in the pavement of the square there is a black stone, also called "of shame" placed in a very specific point in piazza del Nettuno (to be precise at the foot of the entrance stairway to the Salaborsa library) which facilitates its vision. #travelinspiration #momentsmission #decembertravel # #unforgettableexperiences #scenicspotguide #summervacation #springholiday

always a delight to be in Bologna

Address - Parco Meraville, Via Trattati Comunitari Europei, 20, 40127 Bologna BO Ambiance/Facilities - Great atmosphere and ambiance Highlights - All-you-can-eat menu (very few limitations) and great quality of food Avg. Price per Person - It varies between lunch and dinner, still both are affordable Rating - 5/5 #romanticrestaurant#seafoodfeast

Walking around Bologna. Spring is blossoming all around us and hopefully the new season will brighten our future. Bologna is a gorgeous city. Walk around the city, the parks. Get lost, smell the flowers and replenish your soul. #smelltheroses#loveflowers#naturalwonders#springblossoms#urbanexplorer #springblossomBologna

The Basilica of San Domenico in Bologna this is not too known to tourists, yet it’s one of the richest churches in Bologna in art history. It was erected by the Dominican Friars as a place to store the remains of San Domenico di Guzman, founder of the order and who arrived in Bologna around 1200. Inside there are priceless works of art by authors such as Guercino, Filippino Lippi and Ludovico Carracci. In the Chapel of San Domenico stands the ark embellished with sculptures by Michelangelo, Nicola Pisano, Alfonso Lombardi and surmounted by a marble cornice modelled in 1469-73 by Niccolò da Puglia called “dell’Arca”, also author of the Lamentation over the Dead Christ (Compianto sul Cristo Morto) preserved in the church of Santa Maria della Vita. The masterpiece of Renaissance inlay is the wooden choir of Fra’ Damiano da Bergamo, defined by contemporaries as the eighth wonder of the worldand also admired by emperor Carlo V. The church also has a bell tower, erected in 1313 in Gothic style and 51 metres high. While the Convent of San Domenico houses a private theological university and the Library with a heritage of 90.000 volumes that span from Dominican philosophy, to Dominican theology, history and spirituality. #awesomepic#unforgettableexperiences#museumquest#newphotographer#historicculture#urbanexplorer

Walking around Giardini Margherita is one of the most relaxing things you can do in Bologna, especially during the sunset. The park is nice and there’s a chalet on the pond where you can have a coffee and relax. The pond is filled with fish, turtles, ducks and swans. If you can, bring something to feed them (although they never go hungry). On the hillside of the park, there are a basketball and a volleyball fields, and during spring/summer trampolines and cotton candy! #beautifulsunsets #travelinspiration #unforgettableexperiences #awesomepic #urbanexplorer #naturalwonders

Giardini Margherita is the most popular park in Bologna as well as the largest covering 26 hectares. It’s quite common for the locals to meet and relax there during the weekends, or enjoy a refreshing drink/ice cream/granita during the summer. Inaugurated in 1879 as Passeggio Regina Margherita, the park still maintains most of its original layout inspired by the English Romantic parks. While the park was being laid out, an Etruscan burial ground was discovered where the magnificent travertine grave at the side of the central lawn was found. On the southern side of the pond there is a short open-air stretch of the ancient Savena canal (1176), one of the waterways that once characterized the city. #triplocal #instagramworthydestinations #scenicspotguide #bologna #awesomepic #urbanexplorer #triplocal

The Fountain of Neptune, nicknamed “Al Żigànt”, “the giant", in the bolognese dialect by the locals because of Neptune’s size, is located in Bologna in Piazza del Nettuno. It was build and completed between 1563 and 1565 by the Palermitan architect Tommaso Laureti. The statue was an early design by Giambologna. In the centre of the tank of the fountain, there is a base where there are four Nereids holding their breasts, from which jets of water emerge. The base is decorated with pontifical emblems, ornaments that - connected to four cherubs - hold dolphins (which are allegorical representation of major rivers from the then-known corners of the world: the Ganges, the Nile, the Amazon River, and the Danube. In the centre of this base raises the majestic figure of the Neptune sculpted by Giambologna's; the statue is a typical expressions of the manneristic theatricality. The Neptune stretches his left hand in a lordly gesture, appearing to be aiming to placate the waves; this posture is interpreted as symbolic exaltation of the new power of the Pope Pius IV: just as Neptune was the master of the seas, the Pope was the master of Bologna and of the world. A local anecdote also tells of a particular expedient put in place by Giambologna, who intended to find a way to make Neptune with the larger genitalia, without being discovered and admonished by the Church originally made him censor the statue. The sculptor designed the statue in such a way that from a particular angle the thumb of the outstretched hand of Neptune seems to appear directly from the lower abdomen, suggesting an erect genital. As proof of it, in the pavement of the square there is a black stone, also called "of shame" placed in a very specific point (at the foot of the entrance staircase of the Salaborsa library). The fountain is an icon, reflected in symbols, commercials and logos. The trident inspired the Maserati’s logo. #instagramworthydestinations #unforgettableexperiences #deliciousfood #urbanexplorer

The University of Bologna, called “Alma mater studiorum - Università di Bologna” or shortened in UNIBO is the oldest university in the world. Although it existed before its creation in 1088, it is in 1088 that is was structured, hence founded, as an organised guild of students (hence studiorum), creating the modern concept of university and the first place of study to use the term universitas for the corporations of students and masters. Still to this day, it is one of the leading academic institutions in Italy and Europe. It is one of the most prestigious Italian universities, commonly ranking in the first places of national rankings. “Via Zamboni” has been made during the 19th century the Main Street for students as they can find many faculties and libraries but also cafes and pubs to enjoy the typical student life (movida). Many of the buildings are worth visiting and you might find some hidden museums and treasures. Otherwise, when in Bologna, just take a walk and stroll along the street and enjoy the vibe. #instagramworthydestinations #travelinspiration #awesomepic #uniqueexperience #university #unforgettableexperiences #bologna #urbanexplorer #scenicspotguide

Bologna is the largest city (and the capital) of the Emilia-Romagna Region in Northern Italy. It is the seventh most populous city in Italy, located in the heart of a metropolitan area (officially recognized by the Italian government as a metropolitan city) of about one million. The first settlements date back to at least 1000 BC. The city has been an urban center, first under the Etruscans (Velzna / Felsina) and the Celts (Bona), then under the Romans (Bononia), then again in the Middle Ages, as a free municipality (for one century it was the fifth largest European city based on population). Home to the oldest university in the world, University of Bologna, founded in 1088, Bologna hosts thousands of students who enrich the social and cultural life of the city. Famous for its towers and lengthy porticoes, Bologna has a well-preserved historical center (one of the largest in Italy) thanks to a careful restoration and conservation policy which began at the end of the 1970s, on the heels of serious damage done by the urban demolition at the end of the 19th century as well as that caused by wars. An important cultural and artistic center, its importance in terms of landmarks can be attributed to a varied mixture of monuments and architectural examples (medieval towers, antique buildings, churches, the layout of its historical center) as well as works of art which are the result of a first class architectural and artistic history. Bologna is also an important crossroad transportation for the roads and trains of Northern Italy, where many important mechanical, electronic and nutritional industries have their headquarters. According to the most recent data gathered by the European Regional Economic Growth Index (E-REGI) of 2009, Bologna is the first Italian city and the 47th European city in terms of its economic growth rate. #mynovgetaway #thanksgiving #mynovgetaway#thanksgiving

I thought I had seen all the most beautiful cities in Italy, but Bologna touched me with its beauty. This city not far from Florence and Parma is a little jewel. A student city, it is very lively during the day as well as in the evening, except maybe in summer. There are lots of things to visit starting with the famous leaning towers Asinelli and Garisenda. Don't forget to buy your tickets online. I really liked to climb on the Asinelli tower to see the city from 360° but also on the terrace of the Basilica of San Petronio which gives you another point of view and especially the one of the leaning towers. Bologna is recognizable by the red color of the buildings, which brings a lot of charm to the city. I also visited it at sunrise to see it differently. It was a real pleasure to walk there with no tourist. Last thing to do before leaving it, go and see the last remaining canals. One of these canals is on the Via Piella. There is a small window that will give you a view of part of the canal. #awesomepic #unforgettableexperiences #travelinspiration #instagramworthydestinations

Bologna in Italy is also one of the most interesting city I have ever been in. The city which very strong in culture offers great variety of amazing food and wine. Take a look around the original architecture design of the city and the tower in the middle of the city is also amazing. Overall, I love staying here. #wintergetaway #wintergetaway

#bologna is a city in central #italy and it is famous because nearby there are some speed cars manufacturers. I did not visit it because them but because the historical sights and the architecture. I really enjoyed the old style buildings and also the view from the top of the old tower of Bologna. It really worth a visit. #happynewyear

Bologna, the vibrant capital of Italy’s Emilia-Romagna region, is a city best explored on foot. Known for its medieval architecture, historic porticoes, and world-class cuisine, Bologna offers an immersive experience for those who love to wander through streets filled with history and charm. Piazza Maggiore: The Beating Heart of Bologna Start your walk at Piazza Maggiore, the city’s grand central square, surrounded by stunning medieval buildings. Here, you’ll find the Basilica di San Petronio, one of the largest churches in the world, with its unique unfinished façade. Nearby, the Palazzo d’Accursio, the former town hall, boasts beautiful frescoes and offers panoramic views from its clock tower. Leaning Towers of Bologna: A Medieval Skyline From Piazza Maggiore, head toward the city’s most famous landmarks—the Torre degli Asinelli and Torre Garisenda. These medieval towers, both leaning, once served as symbols of power for noble families. If you’re up for a challenge, climb the 498 steps to the top of Asinelli Tower for breathtaking views of Bologna’s red rooftops. Porticoes: A Walk Under History One of Bologna’s most unique features is its network of porticoes, covering nearly 40 kilometers of the city. These elegant arcades, dating back to the Middle Ages, provide shelter from the sun and rain, making walking through Bologna comfortable in any season. The most famous stretch is the Portico di San Luca, a 3.8-kilometer-long covered walkway leading to the Santuario di Madonna di San Luca, a hilltop basilica offering stunning views. Quadrilatero: A Food Lover’s Paradise No visit to Bologna is complete without exploring the Quadrilatero, the city’s historic food district. Located near Piazza Maggiore, this area is packed with traditional markets, delis, and family-run shops selling fresh pasta, cured meats, Parmigiano-Reggiano cheese, and balsamic vinegar. Stop by Mercato di Mezzo, a lively food market where you can sample local specialties like tagliatelle al ragù (the authentic version of Bolognese pasta) or mortadella, Bologna’s famous cured meat. Hidden Gems and Cultural Stops As you continue your walk, take a detour to Biblioteca Salaborsa, a stunning public library built over ancient Roman ruins—you can even see the excavations through the glass floor. Another must-visit is Archiginnasio di Bologna, once the main building of the world’s oldest university, founded in 1088. Inside, you’ll find the Anatomical Theatre, a beautiful wooden hall where anatomy lessons were once conducted. A Sunset Stroll in Giardini Margherita If you want a break from the bustling city streets, end your walk with a visit to Giardini Margherita, Bologna’s largest park. This peaceful green space is perfect for unwinding, enjoying a gelato, or simply watching the sunset over the city. #europetrip

If you have already visited Rome, Milan, Venice, and Florence in Italy, you might want to consider a trip to Bologna. This city is relatively less crowded with tourists and has lower prices. Despite the rainy weather, Bologna is famous for its arcades, so the rain didn't affect the experience much. The entire city of Bologna is dominated by a yellowish hue, giving it a cinematic feel. As I wandered around, I felt like I was in a scene from an Italian movie. The University of Bologna is one of the oldest universities in the world, established in 1088. Its medical school is particularly notable for its early adoption of anatomy. Due to religious reasons, anatomy was not permitted in most countries at that time. The dissection room used for anatomy classes is now open to the public for a fee. The university's library is also one of the oldest in the world and is still in use today, with public access available for a fee. Bologna is renowned for its food, such as Tagliatelle con Ragu' Bolognese, Lasagne alla Bolognese, and Tortellini, and the prices are lower compared to other major Italian cities. High-speed trains connect Bologna to Milan and Rome, making it possible to plan a day trip if you are short on time.

The Garisenda Tower, built in the 12th century, was constructed by local influential figures competing to build high-rise towers. Today, it is famous as Bologna's 'Twin Towers,' standing at a height of 48 meters. The neighboring Asinelli Tower stands at 97.30 meters. It was completed in 1119, about 60 years earlier than the Leaning Tower of Pisa, which is also in Italy. The current tilt of the Garisenda Tower is 4 degrees, surpassing the Leaning Tower of Pisa's 3.9 degrees, and it was announced in 2023 that it is on the verge of collapse. Subsequently, a restoration plan was announced by the city of Bologna. The taller neighboring Asinelli Tower is also currently closed to the public. It is scheduled to reopen after 2025. We look forward to the day when we can once again see the beautiful cityscape of Bologna from the top of the towers.

Bologna, a hidden treasure of Italy. With coral and crimson coloured architecture, paints walls and leading lines around the city, this place is breathtaking. Where culinary meets creativity and traditional dishes, the perfect blend of art and food. Artisan stores, markets and more, Bologna is the place to go for a short city break away from daily life. #travel #italy #bologna