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Get InspiredEuropeItalyEmilia RomagnaBologna

Bologna

Emilia-Romagna, Italy
City·Historic, Lively, Academic
Bologna
Photo by Petr Slováček from Unsplash
Bologna
Photo by Bogdan Dada from Unsplash
Bologna
Photo by Daniel Seßler from Unsplash
Bologna
Photo by Sterling Lanier from Unsplash
Bologna
Photo by Thaddaeus Lim from Unsplash
Bologna
Photo by Petr Slováček from Unsplash
Bologna
Photo by Bogdan Dada from Unsplash
Bologna
Photo by Daniel Seßler from Unsplash
Bologna
Photo by Sterling Lanier from Unsplash
Bologna
Photo by Thaddaeus Lim from Unsplash

Bologna, the capital of the Emilia-Romagna region, is a city steeped in history and culture. Known for its medieval towers and extensive porticoes, it offers a picturesque setting for visitors. The city is a culinary haven, famous for its rich Italian cuisine, including tagliatelle al ragù and mortadella. Bologna is also home to the University of Bologna, the oldest university in the world, which adds an academic vibrancy to the city. With a lively cultural scene, visitors can enjoy a variety of events, museums, and galleries, making it a must-visit destination for those interested in history, culture, and gastronomy.

Bologna, the capital of the Emilia-Romagna region, is a city steeped in history and culture. Known for its medieval towers and extensive porticoes, it offers a picturesque setting for visitors. The city is a culinary haven, famous for its rich Italian cuisine, including tagliatelle al ragù and mortadella. Bologna is also home to the University of Bologna, the oldest university in the world, which adds an academic vibrancy to the city. With a lively cultural scene, visitors can enjoy a variety of events, museums, and galleries, making it a must-visit destination for those interested in history, culture, and gastronomy.

Highlights

  • Home to the oldest university in the world.

  • Famous for its traditional Italian cuisine.

  • Stunning medieval architecture and porticoes.

  • Vibrant cultural scene with numerous events.

Before you go: Bologna essentials

  • Close access to the Apennine Mountains, ideal for hiking and nature lovers.

  • Rich cultural heritage with numerous museums and historical sites.

  • Famous for its vibrant student life due to the University of Bologna.

Getting Around

Bologna is well-connected by public transport, including buses and trains, making it easy to explore the city and surrounding areas.

Local Cuisine

Don't miss trying local specialties like tagliatelle al ragù and tortellini.

Best For

History enthusiasts and food lovers.

Currency

EUR €

Average Cost

$100-$200 p/day

Languages Spoken

Italian, English

Cultural Etiquette

Italians appreciate politeness; a simple 'grazie' (thank you) goes a long way.

Weather

Summers can be hot, so plan indoor activities during midday.

Occasion Tags

Tourists, History Buffs, Foodies, Students

Best time to visit Bologna

April-JuneSeptember-November

Best Season

Spring

Spring is a beautiful time to visit Bologna, with mild temperatures and blooming gardens.

Best Season

Summer

Summers are warm and lively, perfect for exploring the city's outdoor attractions.

Best Season

Fall

Fall offers pleasant weather and is ideal for enjoying Bologna's culinary festivals.

Winter

Winters are mild, making it a great time to explore museums and indoor attractions.

Join millions of curious travelers.

Get early access to exclusive partner discounts, tips & user itineraries.

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Location

Bologna, Emilia-Romagna, Italy
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Where to stay in Bologna

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Hotel Porta San Mamolo

4.4(605)
Bologna, Emilia-Romagna
Understated, Elegant, Tranquil
Place
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Best Western Plus Tower Hotel Bologna

4.3(3,5 K)
Bologna, Emilia-Romagna
Modern, Sleek, Professional
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Art Hotel Orologio

4.5(410)
Bologna, Emilia-Romagna
Elegant, Colorful, Comfortable
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Acquaderni Rooms

4.7(387)
Bologna, Emilia-Romagna
Modern, Central, Minimalist
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Aemilia Hotel

4.5(2 K)
Bologna, Emilia-Romagna
Modern, Chic, Comfortable
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Hotel Panorama

4.2(438)
Bologna, Emilia-Romagna
Relaxed, Family Friendly, Cozy
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Hotel San Donato - Bologna centro

4.0(1 K)
Bologna, Emilia-Romagna
Laid Back, Comfortable, Central
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Grand Hotel Majestic già Baglioni

4.6(1,2 K)
Bologna, Emilia-Romagna
Elegant, Historical, Luxurious

Food & drink in Bologna

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ZanziBar Bologna

4.9(319)
Bologna, Emilia-Romagna
Cozy, Warm, Nostalgic
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Osteria dei Grifoni

4.6(699)
Bologna, Emilia-Romagna
Rustic, Warm, Cellar Like
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Sfoglia Rina

4.5(10,1 K)
Bologna, Emilia-Romagna
Authentic, Cozy, Welcoming
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Caffè Bona Lè

4.3(396)
Bologna, Emilia-Romagna
Cozy, Friendly, Local Leaning
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Osteria Angolo degli Orefici

4.5(1,9 K)
Bologna, Emilia-Romagna
Lively, Authentic, Italian
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Aroma Specialty Coffees

4.8(1,3 K)
Bologna, Emilia-Romagna
Intimate, Passionate, Modern
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Caffetteria Lilù

4.7(325)
Bologna, Emilia-Romagna
Cozy, Friendly, Buzzing
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Pappare' Bologna

4.1(3,7 K)
Bologna, Emilia-Romagna
Buzzy, Crowded, Modern

Things to do in Bologna

Bologna Food Experience: Factory tours & Lunch By Italian Days
From $211

Bologna Food Experience: Factory tours & Lunch By Italian Days

5.0(1,3 K)
Duration: 9h
Bologna
Bologna Food & Market Tour with Local Dishes, Pasta, Wines & More
From $76

Bologna Food & Market Tour with Local Dishes, Pasta, Wines & More

5.0(1,5 K)
Duration: 2h
Bologna
Bologna Food Tour: Taste Local Specialties, Pasta, Wine & Gelato
From $99

Bologna Food Tour: Taste Local Specialties, Pasta, Wine & Gelato

4.9(848)
Duration: 3h
Bologna
Day Tour Parmigiano, Ferrari Museum, Balsamic, Lambrusco, Lunch with Transfer
From $200

Day Tour Parmigiano, Ferrari Museum, Balsamic, Lambrusco, Lunch with Transfer

4.8(57)
Duration: 8h 30min
Bologna
Bologna: Pasta and Tiramisu Small Group Cooking Class with Wine
From $70

Bologna: Pasta and Tiramisu Small Group Cooking Class with Wine

4.9(730)
Duration: 3h
Bologna
Ferrari Lamborghini Pagani Factories and Museums - Tour from Bologna
From $542

Ferrari Lamborghini Pagani Factories and Museums - Tour from Bologna

4.8(186)
Duration: 8h
Bologna
Bologna Small-Group Food Tour with Full Meal & Local Guide
From $79

Bologna Small-Group Food Tour with Full Meal & Local Guide

4.8(627)
Duration: 3h 30min
Bologna
Eating Bologna Food and Wine Tour
From $112

Eating Bologna Food and Wine Tour

4.9(119)
Duration: 3h
Bologna
Explore on Viator

Attractions in Bologna

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Giardini Margherita

4.6(17,4 K)
Bologna, Emilia-Romagna
Relaxed, Green, Family Friendly
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From My Kitchen Cooking Classes - lezioni di cucina a casa di Grazia

5.0(148)
Bologna, Emilia-Romagna
Intimate, Authentic, Educational
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Taste Bologna - Bologna Food Tour

5.0(779)
Bologna, Emilia-Romagna
Immersive, Local, Educational
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Portici di Bologna

4.7(674)
Bologna, Emilia-Romagna
Historic, Cultural, Scenic
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Archiginnasio Palace and Anatomical Theater

4.3(541)
Bologna, Emilia-Romagna
Historic, Educational, Intricate
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Via Emilia Chef-Enogastronomia Food Tours & Pasta Making Classes in Bologna, Modena & Parma

5.0(108)
Bologna, Emilia-Romagna
Authentic, Educational, Engaging
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Palazzo Pepoli - Museo della Storia di Bologna

4.4(789)
Bologna, Emilia-Romagna
Dynamic, Engaging, Educational
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Piazza Santo Stefano

4.8(12,3 K)
Bologna, Emilia-Romagna
Historic, Serene, Cultural

Natural & historic sites near Bologna

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Foreste Casentinesi, Monte Falterona, Campigna National Park

Protected Area · Serene, Wild, Majestic, Untouched

Appennino Tosco-Emiliano National Park

Emilia-Romagna
Protected Area · Quiet, Majestic, Authentic, Expansive