Things to do and see in Bologna

Bologna Travel Information ∙ Things to do in Bologna

Occupying a central location in Italy, Bologna lies to the north of Florence, the South of Venice, and the South East of Milan. The city has been a major cultural and economic center throughout the history of Italy. La Rossa, the town’s name given to its historic terracotta buildings, looms over the city like a moving painting, its streets speckled with lights, shadows, and architectural perspectives.

Things not to miss in Bologna

• Climb the 498 wooden steps of the Asinelli Tower to get to the highest point of Bologna.
• Stroll about the Piazza Maggiore, one of the oldest squares in Italy and the center of Bologne.
• Admire the beauty of the unfinished Basilica of San Petronio, one of the most significant structures of Bologna.
• Find the network of 60km hidden canals of the Middle Ages hidden under the city.
• Wander about the hipster district of Ghetto Ebraico and have a glass of Aperol spritz.

Eat like a local in Bologna

• Visit Trattorio del Rosso and Trattoria Anna Marie restaurants to taste the best tortelloni and Tagliatelle al ragù found in Bologna.
• Find the best gelato in Bologna by visiting Cremeria Cavour, a famous and beloved place by locals.
• Admire the traditional bread artistry of Bologna in Forno Brisa, which uses slow, wild fermentation for pastries. 
• Check out the widest selection of the storied aged cheese in AL Regno Della Forma.
• Taste craft beer in Il Punto, offering over 100 types of beer on the menu served in rotating kegs on tap.

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Where to stay in Bologna

• Chase the luxury in Grand Hotel Majestic gia’ Baglioni 5-star hotel with posh interior and details.
• Enjoy the warm Bologne evenings from the open terrace of 4-star Hotel Metropolitan.
• Find comfort and privacy in Bologna, B&B Chez Moi hotel, and pocket-friendly trip options.
• For cheap accommodation, consider Dopa Hostel as the best option in Bologna.
• Escape the summer heat on the Rimini coast and stay overnight in a beautiful Hotel Rex.

Featured hotel in Bologna, Italy