Bologna
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Bologna
As the capital of the Emilia Romagna region, Bologna is an art city, a university centre and a place renowned for its excellent cuisine. It hosts important international trade fairs and is one of the world’s greatest motor cities. Ducati, Lamborghini and Maserati were all born in Bologna and Ferrari’s headquarters can be found in nearby Modena.Find your trip
Le due Torri (The Two Towers), Garisenda e degli Asinelli, are iconic symbols of Bologna's skyline, dating back to the 12th century. Towering over the city, they stand as testament to Bologna's medieval heritage and architectural splendour. While the Garisenda Tower is known for its distinctive lean, the Asinelli Tower offers breathtaking panoramic views from its summit.
The Palazzo Comunale (or Palazzo d'Accursio) is Bologna’s town hall. The upper level of the palace is the home of the civic museum Collezioni Comunali d'Arte (Municipal Art Collections) where a large collection of Renaissance paintings and other pieces of art can be enjoyed.
The National Gallery (Pinacoteca Nazionale) is the most important art gallery in Bologna and boasts one of the richest collections in Northern Italy. Art from major Italian artists, including local artists are housed here. Here you will find works of art, dating back from the 14th and 15th centuries to the Renaissance period and art from the 16th century.
Standing on Bologna’s main square, (Piazza Maggiore), the Basilica of San Petronio is one of the largest medieval churches in Italy and an important symbol of the city. The inside is full of Gothic archways, stained glass windows and doors from the 15th and 16th centuries.
This extraordinary religious site consists of four medieval churches, originally there were seven churches, and therefore it is known by the name of Sette Chiese (Seven Churches). Besides churches, this peaceful complex contains cloisters, tombs and courtyards, a great place to browse religious art and artefacts as well. The most interesting is the church of the Sepolcro, which preserves a representation of the Holy Sepulchre of Jerusalem.
The University of Bologna, founded in 1088, stands as the oldest university in the Western world, boasting a rich history of academic excellence and innovation. Some of the famous people who have been teaching here include Nicolaus Copernicus and Francesco Petrarca. Renowned for its distinguished faculty, diverse student body, and commitment to research and teaching across a wide range of disciplines, the University of Bologna continues to be a global leader in higher education.
Crafted by the skilled sculptor Giambologna in the 16th century, the colossal Fontana di Nettuno graces the heart of Piazza Maggiore with its majestic presence. The life-size bronze statue of Neptune, poised atop a shell-shaped chariot pulled by seahorses and surrounded by allegorical figures, exudes a sense of power and elegance. Serving as an iconic landmark of Bologna, the fountain not only embodies the city's rich artistic heritage but also functions as a gathering point for residents and tourists to appreciate the intersection of art, history, and civic life in this charming Italian city.
Built in 1251, this is the birthplace of the Dominican order and the resting place of its founder — Saint Dominic. It is one of the richest churches in Bologna when it comes to history and art. The small museum houses art and precious artefacts like the relic of Louis IX of France. Be sure to also admire the beautiful Romanesque façade and Gothic chapels.
Le due Torri (The Two Towers), Garisenda e degli Asinelli, are iconic symbols of Bologna's skyline, dating back to the 12th century. Towering over the city, they stand as testament to Bologna's medieval heritage and architectural splendour. While the Garisenda Tower is known for its distinctive lean, the Asinelli Tower offers breathtaking panoramic views from its summit.
The Palazzo Comunale (or Palazzo d'Accursio) is Bologna’s town hall. The upper level of the palace is the home of the civic museum Collezioni Comunali d'Arte (Municipal Art Collections) where a large collection of Renaissance paintings and other pieces of art can be enjoyed.
Established in the 1920s, this venerable restaurant stands as the undisputed temple of Bolognese cuisine. The menu boasts exquisite offerings such as fresh pasta delicacies like tortellini, tortelloni, lasagne, and tagliatelle, alongside succulent roasts, savoury mushrooms, and the delectable 'Diana' dessert featuring hot chocolate and ice cream. Beyond its gastronomic delights, the restaurant's vintage furniture and nostalgic atmosphere provide patrons with a ticket back to the 1950s.
Posta is a Michelin-starred trattoria serving dishes from both Tuscan and Bolognese culinary traditions, complemented by a wide selection of wines in a rustic and elegant atmosphere by candlelight.
Donatello is an upscale restaurant boasting a 120-year history, showcased in its walls adorned with pictures of its famous patrons and serving delicious Northern Italian cuisine.
La Tua Piadina is a bustling counter-serve spot offering a variety of piadinas, thin Italian flatbreads, with diverse fillings for takeout. Options range from the thick piadina of Bertinoro to the thin variety from Riccione, including vegetarian options and flavours like Nerella with walnuts.
Rodrigo is an old-school, tablecloth restaurant offering a diverse menu of homestyle meat, seafood, and pasta dishes, all complemented by an array of regional wines.
Vito a San Luca, situated near the Basilica of San Luca, is the go-to spot in Bologna for pizza. Besides pizza, they serve regional pasta, salads, bruschettas, desserts, and ice cream, complemented by a fine selection of wines.
Housed in a repurposed chapel with frescoed walls and original terracotta, Le Stanze is a bistro full of character and history, offering classic meat dishes alongside a cocktail bar, which makes it one of the most sought-after settings in the city.
Do what the celebrities do when they visit Bologna and eat your dinner at Ristorante da Nello al Montegrappa. Elvis Costello, Lou Reed and Rupert Everett are just a few of the famous people who have eaten here and on the walls, you will find more photos of their celebrity guests. The restaurant is located right in the heart of the historical centre and they serve homestyle Bolognese cuisine.
Established in the 1920s, this venerable restaurant stands as the undisputed temple of Bolognese cuisine. The menu boasts exquisite offerings such as fresh pasta delicacies like tortellini, tortelloni, lasagne, and tagliatelle, alongside succulent roasts, savoury mushrooms, and the delectable 'Diana' dessert featuring hot chocolate and ice cream. Beyond its gastronomic delights, the restaurant's vintage furniture and nostalgic atmosphere provide patrons with a ticket back to the 1950s.
Posta is a Michelin-starred trattoria serving dishes from both Tuscan and Bolognese culinary traditions, complemented by a wide selection of wines in a rustic and elegant atmosphere by candlelight.
Galleria Cavour, located just a ten-minute walk from Piazza Maggiore, epitomizes Italy's status as a fashion powerhouse. This elegant shopping gallery showcases the world's most prestigious and exclusive fashion and high jewellery brands, including Gucci, Prada, and Miu Miu.
Fashion shops are located all around the centre of Bologna, but boutiques and international brands can mostly be found in Via Farini, Via Ugo Bassi, Via dell'Indipendenza and under the Portico del Pavaglione.
Established in 1932, Tamburini is Bologna's most famous delicatessen offering traditional cold meats and cheese, along with pasta, wine, and other local culinary delights.
Since 1868, Paolo Atti e Figli has been a cornerstone of Bologna's culinary scene, renowned for producing some of the city's finest pastas, cakes, and other delicacies.
Kiko is an Italian cosmetics shop that can be found in various locations throughout Europe. They offer a wide range of their own make-up and accessories, all at affordable prices.
Centronova is a large shopping complex housing a variety of shops offering fashion and electronics, along with casual dining options and a supermarket.
Centroborgo, the first shopping centre in Bologna, offers a diverse selection of products ranging from fashion and accessories to jewellery and electronics, plus a supermarket and an assortment of services.
Outlet Barberino is the perfect shopping destination just 30 minutes from Florence. Here you can find more than 130 shops of the most luxurious designer fashion brands up to 70% less. With cafés, restaurants and tax-free shopping available, there’s everything the discerning shopper could ever desire.
Galleria Cavour, located just a ten-minute walk from Piazza Maggiore, epitomizes Italy's status as a fashion powerhouse. This elegant shopping gallery showcases the world's most prestigious and exclusive fashion and high jewellery brands, including Gucci, Prada, and Miu Miu.
Fashion shops are located all around the centre of Bologna, but boutiques and international brands can mostly be found in Via Farini, Via Ugo Bassi, Via dell'Indipendenza and under the Portico del Pavaglione.
Italy can be visited visa-free for up to 90 days by citizens of Australia, New Zealand, Japan, South Korea, Taiwan, Malaysia, Israel, UAE and most countries in America. If you are unsure whether or not you need to apply for a visa, we recommend contacting the embassy or consulate in your country. International (non-Schengen) travellers need a passport that is valid for at least 3 months after the end of their intended trip in order to enter the Schengen zone. Citizens of Schengen countries can travel without a passport but must have a valid ID with them during their stay.
In Bologna, you can enjoy favourable weather almost all year round. Between the months of May and August is considered the peak of the season and the climate is predominantly humid. On the other hand, the winter season is another great option as you can feel the Christmas spirit in the capital of the Emilia-Romagna Region.
Bologna Airport is conveniently located just 9 kilometres from the city centre. Travellers can easily reach the city via the monorail train Marconi Express, with a quick 7-minute journey between the airport and the central train station in Bologna. This service operates every 7 minutes during peak times and runs from 5:40am until midnight, every day of the year. Additionally, bus lines 940 (night road service) and 944 provide alternative transportation options, connecting the airport to various destinations including the railway station and Ospedale Maggiore. For those preferring taxis or rental cars, both are readily available at this airport as well.
Forlì International Airport, or Luigi Ridolfi Airport, is a small airport situated in Forlì, within the Emilia-Romagna region of northern Italy. Serving Emilia-Romagna and eastern Tuscany, including the metropolitan areas of Bologna and Rimini Riviera, it's a key transportation hub in the region. Located approximately 80 kilometres from Bologna, it's accessible within a one-hour drive.
Trasporto Passeggeri Emilia-Romagna (TPER) is the company that operates Bologna’s local transport system. You can buy tickets at every newsstand, tobacconist, automatic machine (near the main bus stops) and in TPER offices. Once you are on the bus remember to stamp your ticket, it will be valid for 75 minutes. There are various passes available for tourists, including daily passes and a carnet with 10 or 20 tickets. For additional information, visit the TPER official website. Having said that, Bologna is highly walkable for tourists. Its compact city centre is pedestrian-friendly, with many attractions, shops, and restaurants located within walking distance of each other. The city's historic streets, arcades, and squares make exploring on foot a delightful experience.
Cotabo: +39 051 372 727 Colombo: +39 349 362 7917
You can find the main post office in Piazza Minghetti. Stamps can also be bought at tabaccherias. Drop your postcard or letter in one of the big red mailboxes.
Country code: +39 Area code: 051 (also dialled in Bologna). If you call Italy from abroad, you must always dial zero in the area code (do not omit it as is the general practice when making international telephone calls), e.g. +39 051 + the number.
Italy can be visited visa-free for up to 90 days by citizens of Australia, New Zealand, Japan, South Korea, Taiwan, Malaysia, Israel, UAE and most countries in America. If you are unsure whether or not you need to apply for a visa, we recommend contacting the embassy or consulate in your country. International (non-Schengen) travellers need a passport that is valid for at least 3 months after the end of their intended trip in order to enter the Schengen zone. Citizens of Schengen countries can travel without a passport but must have a valid ID with them during their stay.
In Bologna, you can enjoy favourable weather almost all year round. Between the months of May and August is considered the peak of the season and the climate is predominantly humid. On the other hand, the winter season is another great option as you can feel the Christmas spirit in the capital of the Emilia-Romagna Region.
