WHERE TO GO IN BOLOGNA

🗼The Two Towers: Asinelli and Garisenda

Overview: These iconic medieval towers are the most recognizable landmarks in Bologna. Asinelli, the taller of the two, is open to the public and offers sweeping views of the city and the surrounding hills.

  • Address: Piazza di Porta Ravegnana, 40126 Bologna BO, Italy
  • How to Get There: Located in the city center, a 10-minute walk from Bologna Centrale railway station or via bus lines 11, 27, or 30.
  • Highlights: Climb 498 steps up Torre degli Asinelli for panoramic views; admire Garisenda’s dramatic lean.
  • Price to Enter: €5; reduced to €3 for students and Bologna Welcome Card holders.

⛪Basilica di San Petronio

Overview: One of the largest churches in the world, this basilica dominates Piazza Maggiore with its unfinished façade and remarkable interior art.

  • Address: Piazza Galvani, 5, 40124 Bologna BO, Italy
  • How to Get There: Walk from the Two Towers (about 3 minutes) or use any central bus to Piazza Maggiore.
  • Highlights: The stunning Meridian Line, Chapel of the Magi with frescoes by Giovanni da Modena, and towering Gothic architecture.
  • Price to Enter: Free; €5 to access the panoramic terrace.

🏛️Archiginnasio of Bologna

Overview: Once the main building of the University of Bologna, the oldest university in the world, this site offers a fascinating glimpse into Bologna’s academic past.

  • Address: Piazza Galvani, 1, 40124 Bologna BO, Italy
  • How to Get There: 2-minute walk from Piazza Maggiore.
  • Highlights: The Anatomical Theatre, ancient coats of arms, and the historic library.
  • Price to Enter: €3 general entry; additional €3 to visit the Anatomical Theatre.

🌿Sanctuary of the Madonna di San Luca

Overview: Perched on a hilltop overlooking the city, this sanctuary is linked to the city by the world’s longest portico (3.8 km of covered walkway).

  • Address: Via di San Luca, 36, 40135 Bologna BO, Italy
  • How to Get There: Hike from Porta Saragozza (approx. 1 hour) or take bus + San Luca Express tourist train.
  • Highlights: The peaceful sanctuary, panoramic views of Bologna, and the scenic walk.
  • Price to Enter: Free; optional €5 to climb the dome for 360° views.

🖼️Pinacoteca Nazionale di Bologna (National Art Gallery)

Overview: Home to a rich collection of Emilian paintings from the 13th to 18th centuries, this museum is a must for art lovers.

  • Address: Via delle Belle Arti, 56, 40126 Bologna BO, Italy
  • How to Get There: A 10-minute walk from the Two Towers or reachable by bus lines 36, 37.
  • Highlights: Works by Raphael, Guido Reni, and Carracci; extensive religious and Renaissance art.
  • Price to Enter: €6; free on the first Sunday of each month.

🧀Quadrilatero Market District

Overview: The historic food market area of Bologna, filled with delicatessens, wine bars, bakeries, and traditional shops.

  • Address: Around Via Clavature, Via Drapperie, and Via Pescherie Vecchie
  • How to Get There: A few steps from Piazza Maggiore.
  • Highlights: Try fresh tortellini, mortadella, balsamic vinegar, and aged Parmigiano Reggiano.
  • Price to Enter: Free; food prices vary (€5-€15 per dish/snack).

🎭Teatro Anatomico at Palazzo dell’Archiginnasio

Overview: A 17th-century anatomical theatre where medical students once studied human anatomy—beautifully carved in wood and rich in history.

  • Address: Piazza Galvani, 1, 40124 Bologna BO, Italy
  • How to Get There: Inside the Archiginnasio; 2 minutes from Piazza Maggiore.
  • Highlights: The marble table for dissections, “Skinless Man” statues, and Renaissance woodwork.
  • Price to Enter: Included in Archiginnasio ticket (€3).

🌆Piazza Santo Stefano & The Seven Churches

Overview: This peaceful square is home to the complex known as the “Seven Churches,” a layered mix of Romanesque architecture and early Christian worship sites.

  • Address: Via Santo Stefano, 24, 40125 Bologna BO, Italy
  • How to Get There: A 5-minute walk from the Two Towers.
  • Highlights: Ancient chapels, crypts, cloisters, and religious art in a serene setting.
  • Price to Enter: Free; donations encouraged.

🍝 Osteria dell’Orsa

Overview: A beloved eatery offering authentic Bolognese cuisine in a cozy, informal setting. It’s one of the best places to try tagliatelle al ragù.

  • Address: Via Mentana, 1, 40126 Bologna BO, Italy
  • How to Get There: 10-minute walk from Piazza Maggiore or by bus .
  • Highlights: Homemade pasta, affordable prices, local wines.
  • Price Range: Around €10–€15 per main course.

📍MAMbo – Museo d’Arte Moderna di Bologna

Overview: This modern art museum showcases contemporary works by Italian and international artists, housed in a former bakery.

  • Address: Via Don Giovanni Minzoni, 14, 40121 Bologna BO, Italy
  • How to Get There: 10-minute walk from Bologna Centrale station or bus #21.
  • Highlights: Futurism, Arte Povera, and temporary cutting-edge exhibitions.
  • Price to Enter: €6; reduced €4 for students and EU youth.

Final Tips for Visiting Bologna:

  • Best Time to Visit: Spring (April–June) and autumn (September–October) offer ideal weather and fewer crowds.
  • Local Transport: Bologna is very walkable, but TPER buses are frequent and inexpensive for getting around.
  • Travel Card: Consider the Bologna Welcome Card PLUS for discounts on attractions, guided tours, and transport.