HelloMondo / Italy / Bologna
Compare the prices of the various tickets and tours to get the best offer for your trip to Bologna, Italy.
We suggest to plan a 4 days trip to Bologna in Italy
Palazzo del Potestà in Piazza Maggiore
Welcome to the beautiful city of Bologna, a captivating destination that offers a unique and enriching tourist experience. Known for its rich history, vibrant culture, and exquisite cuisine, Bologna is a must-visit city for travelers seeking an authentic Italian experience.
If you’re planning a visit to Bologna, we recommend staying for at least a week to fully immerse yourself in the city’s charm and explore its many attractions.
To make the most of your visit to Bologna, we suggest starting your journey at Piazza Maggiore, the heart of the city, where you can admire the magnificent Basilica di San Petronio and enjoy the vibrant atmosphere of the surrounding cafes and shops.
Compare best tickets and activities offered by:
Select the following sights and activities to discover best tickets and tours available in Bologna.
| Country | Italy |
| Region | Emilia-Romagna |
| Time in Bologna | GMT+2 |
| Language spoken | Italian |
| Currency | Euro (€), EUR |
| Religion | Roman Catholicism (80%) Islam (5%) Other religions (15%) |
| Airports | Bologna Guglielmo Marconi Airport (5 mi, 8 km) Forlì International Airport (48 mi, 77 km) Florence Airport (52 mi, 84 km) Verona Airport (82 mi, 132 km) |
Bologna is renowned for its historical significance, architectural marvels, and delectable cuisine, making it a popular destination for travelers from around the world.
Situated in the Emilia-Romagna region of northern Italy, Bologna is centrally located within the country. It is approximately 80 miles (130 kilometers) south of Milan and 120 miles (190 kilometers) north of Florence.
Distances:
| Route | Distance by car | Time by car |
| Bologna to Milan | 80 mi | 1.5 hours |
| Bologna to Florence | 70 mi | 1.25 hours |
| Bologna to Venice | 95 mi | 1.75 hours |
| Bologna to Rome | 250 mi | 4 hours |
Bologna is definitely worth visiting due to its historical significance, vibrant cultural scene, and mouthwatering cuisine. With its well-preserved medieval architecture, bustling markets, and fascinating museums, the city offers a unique and immersive experience. Don’t miss the opportunity to explore the UNESCO World Heritage Site of the historic center and indulge in the famous local specialty, tortellini.
Bologna has a long and fascinating history that dates back to its foundation by the Etruscans in the 6th century BC. Throughout the centuries, the city has witnessed the rise and fall of various civilizations, including the Romans, the Byzantines, and the Papal States. Bologna played a crucial role in the Renaissance and became a thriving cultural and intellectual center.
Bologna was originally a thriving Etruscan settlement known as Felsina. It later became a Roman city named Bononia and flourished as an important trading hub.
During the Middle Ages, Bologna experienced a period of prosperity and became a free municipality. The city was renowned for its prestigious university, the oldest in the Western world, attracting scholars from all over Europe.
Bologna became a center of artistic and architectural excellence during the Renaissance and Baroque periods. Many prominent artists, such as the Carracci brothers and Guido Reni, left their mark on the city’s churches and palaces.
In the 19th century, Bologna played a crucial role in the Italian unification process. Today, it is a thriving city known for its vibrant cultural scene, excellent cuisine, and prestigious educational institutions.
The best time to visit Bologna is during the spring (April to June) and fall (September to October) when the weather is pleasant and the city is less crowded. These seasons offer the perfect conditions for exploring the city’s attractions on foot and enjoying the outdoor cafes and markets. However, Bologna’s mild climate makes it a year-round destination, and each season has its unique charm.
Bologna offers a wide range of attractions, including the Basilica di San Petronio, the Two Towers (Due Torri), the Archiginnasio of Bologna, and the Museum of Modern Art of Bologna (MAMbo). Don’t miss the opportunity to explore the historic center and its beautiful arcades.
Bologna is well-connected to its main airport, Bologna Guglielmo Marconi Airport, which is located just 5 miles (8 kilometers) from the city center. You can easily reach the city by taxi, airport shuttle, or public transportation. Additionally, other airports in the region, such as Forlì International Airport, Florence Airport, and Verona Airport, provide alternative options for reaching Bologna.
Bologna is renowned for its culinary traditions, and the city is often referred to as the “food capital” of Italy. Some must-try dishes include tagliatelle al ragù (Bolognese sauce), tortellini in brodo (tortellini in broth), and mortadella. Don’t forget to pair your meal with a glass of local wine and indulge in the delicious gelato available throughout the city.
Bologna hosts several vibrant festivals throughout the year, including the Cineteca di Bologna’s Il Cinema Ritrovato, a renowned film festival dedicated to classic and restored cinema. The city also celebrates the Festa di San Petronio, the patron saint of Bologna, with a series of events and religious processions in October. Furthermore, Bologna is known for its lively music scene, with various concerts and performances taking place year-round.