Bologna Travel Guide: The Best Things to Do, See & Eat
Bologna, Italy, is a vibrant city known for its rich culinary scene, historic towers, and the oldest university in Europe. Stroll through its medieval streets, explore Piazza Maggiore, and savor local delicacies like tagliatelle al ragù. Don’t miss the iconic Two Towers and the stunning porticoes that line the city.
With 304+ hand-picked places to explore, Bologna rewards travellers who look beyond the obvious. Here's our complete guide to the best of the city — organised by what you're in the mood for.
Must-See Attractions & Landmarks in Bologna
The icons and landmarks no first visit is complete without.
- Fountain of Neptune (rated 4.8★)
- San Michele in Bosco (rated 4.8★)
- Monument to Giosuè Carducci (rated 4.7★)
- Piazza Santo Stefano (rated 4.7★)
See all 17 attractions & landmarks in Bologna →
Museums & Culture in Bologna
Galleries, museums and cultural landmarks for a deeper look at the city.
- Basilica di Santo Stefano (rated 4.8★)
- Teatro Comunale di Bologna (rated 4.8★)
- Basilica di San Domenico (rated 4.7★)
- Basilica di San Petronio (rated 4.7★)
See all 24 museums & galleries in Bologna →
Best Things to Do in Bologna
Activities and experiences to fill your days.
- Monte Adone Hiking Trail (rated 4.8★)
- Ciclovia del Sole (rated 4.7★)
- Circolo Tennis Bologna (rated 4.7★)
- La Bottega del Buon Caffè Bologna (rated 4.7★)
See all 16 things to do in Bologna →
Where to Eat in Bologna
From local classics to standout modern kitchens.
- I Portici Ristorante (rated 4.8★)
- La Bottega di Franco (rated 4.8★)
- La Sorbetteria Castiglione (rated 4.8★)
- Ristorante I Carracci (rated 4.8★)
See all 56 places to eat in Bologna →
Bologna After Dark: Bars & Nightlife
Where to go once the sun sets.
- La Terrazza Buca San Petronio (rated 4.7★)
- Lortica (rated 4.7★)
- Terrazza Trattoria Gianfranco (rated 4.7★)
- Birra Cerqua
See all 27 bars & nightlife in Bologna →
Shopping in Bologna
Markets, boutiques and everything in between.
See all 25 shops & markets in Bologna →
Parks & Green Spaces in Bologna
Room to breathe when you need a break from the streets.
- Orto Botanico di Bologna (rated 4.7★)
- Parco Regionale dell'Abbazia di Monteveglio (rated 4.7★)
- Sentiero dei Bregoli (rated 4.7★)
- Parco dei Gessi Bolognesi e Calanchi dell'Abbadessa
See all 30 parks & green spaces in Bologna →
Plan Your Trip to Bologna
This is just the start — browse our full, always-growing guide to Bologna, with 304 places across 12 categories, and start building your perfect itinerary.
Plan Your European Adventure
Explore 18,000+ places across 60+ European cities