Bologna is one of Italy’s most underrated cities, no joke! It’s got a crazy long history dating back to the renaissance period, loaded with culture, art, and amazing food. People from all over the world flock to this place for its majestic medieval towers, shady arcades, and charming piazzas. Whether you’re a foodie, history buff, art-lover, or just plain curious, Bologna won’t let you down. So, here are my top picks for the absolute best things to do in Bologna. Enjoy!

A short history of Bologna

Bologna’s history dates back to the Roman Empire, with the city being a key transportation hub for the region’s food supply. Its strategic location on the Via Aemilia, a major Roman road, made it a vital centre for the trade of pork products, including salami and prosciutto. These meats were preserved in salt and spices, allowing for long-distance transport. Bologna became a central part of Italy’s meat industry.

Fast forward to the Middle Ages and Bologna had established itself as one of Europe’s great university cities. The city’s vibrant student population played a vital role in Bologna’s food culture, leading to the development of a wide range of food and drink specialties. One of these was the Bologna sausage, made using a combination of pork, spices, and garlic. The first written reference to the sausage dates back to the 1300s, but it wasn’t until the 1500s that it began to be widely recognized outside of the city.

During the renaissance, Bologna’s meat industry flourished, with the city’s famous sausages gaining a reputation for quality and flavour. The popularity of Bologna sausage grew throughout the 19th and 20th centuries, with the advent of industrialized meat production leading to an explosion in demand for the product. Today, Bologna is enjoyed around the world, with travellers coming from far and wide to sample the city’s delicious culinary offerings. Whether you prefer your Bologna sliced and served on a sandwich or used as a flavourful ingredient in pasta dishes, it remains one of Italy’s tastiest and most iconic foods.

The two medieval towers

Discover another best thing to do in Bologna: The Medieval Towers. If you happen to be in Bologna, then you have to get a glimpse of the city’s medieval towers. These towers are locally known as le due torri, which means “the two towers”. The two towers, Torre degli Asinelli and Torre Garisenda, are the most famous and the only two that still remain of the in total 20 towers. A tower building was a way of showing off power and prosperity in Bologna during the Middle Ages. Climbing the 498 steps of the Asinelli Tower gives you a panoramic view of the city, well worth the effort.

Basilica di San Petronio

The Basilica di San Petronio is one of the largest and most impressive churches in Italy, located right on the main square, Piazza Maggiore. This gothic basilica took over seven centuries to complete, starting in the 14th century, and features stunning art pieces created by the likes of Jacopo della Quercia, Alfonso Lombardi and Girolamo da Treviso. Make sure to spend time admiring the basilica’s ceiling, made up of coffered gothic arches.

Portici di Bologna

Bologna’s arcades or porticoes stand out as one of the city’s most distinctive features. More than forty kilometres of these covered walkways built on extended columns, provide shelter from rain and shade from the sun. Among the most beautiful and famous examples are the Loggia dei Mercanti and the Portico of San Luca, a 3.8 km-long portico that takes you up to the Santuario di San Luca on top of a hill outside the city walls with a stunning view over Bologna.

Sanctuary of the Madonna di San Luca

The first thing that catches your eye when you approach the Sanctuary is the magnificent portico that runs for 3.8 km from the city’s outskirts to the Sanctuary. The portico comprises 666 arches that lead up the hill to the Sanctuary, and it took over 100 years to complete. Walking the portico is a breathtaking experience, and it offers a unique perspective of the beautiful scenery that surrounds the Sanctuary.

In addition to the portico, the Sanctuary itself is a stunning example of baroque architecture, with its grand façade and two bell towers. The Sanctuary is dedicated to the Virgin Mary, and it houses a miraculous icon known as the “Madonna di San Luca,” which is believed to have healing powers. As such, the Sanctuary has long been a site of pilgrimage, with devotees travelling from far and wide to offer their prayers and seek blessings from the Madonna.

Art and culture enthusiasts will also love exploring the Sanctuary’s interior, which houses a vast collection of artworks by renowned painters and sculptors from the renaissance and baroque periods. These include works by artists such as Ludovico Carracci, Guido Reni, and Guercino, among others.

Beyond the Sanctuary, the surrounding hills offer spectacular views of the city of Bologna and its surrounding landscapes. Hikers and nature lovers can explore the nearby hills, which are dotted with vineyards, ancient farmhouses, and small villages. Many visitors opt to hike up to the Sanctuary, taking in the beauty of the portico and enjoying panoramic views of the city along the way.

Palazzo Albergati

Palazzo Albergati stands out for its grandeur and elegance that lends itself to the beauty and aura of the building’s magnificent façade. The palazzo dates back to the fifteenth century, and it was expanded in the seventeenth century, offering a beautiful blend of the gothic and renaissance architectural styles. The building was initially the property of one of Bologna’s noted families, the Albergati family. Still, over time, it has served many purposes, from housing to offices and an art gallery. The palace is now an unforgettable location for careful planning such as gala dinners, corporate events, weddings, and exhibitions in Bologna.

The majestic interiors of the palace reflect the opulence of the early centuries of Bologna, with numerous ancient artifacts, oil paintings, frescoes, and chandeliers. The frescoes were painted by leading painters of the time, and each fresco indicates the history of the aristocracy, the history of the city of Bologna, and the decorative aspect, making the palace a work of art.

One of the most notable features of the Palazzo Albergati is its beautiful fountain which is a staple of Italian architecture. The fountain is located in the palace’s beautiful courtyard and showcases everything that we love about Italian architecture: the symmetry, the beauty, and the drama. If you truly want to experience the grandeur of the palace, you must visit the Galleria Nazionale that is located here. The gallery showcases a precious art collection loaned from the world’s most popular museums.

Museo Davia Bargellini

When you find yourself with spare time during your visit to Bologna, make sure to explore the Museo Davia Bargellini. Admission is free, but note that it is only open in the afternoon. One of the most notable collections is the museum’s display of majolica ceramics. These ceramics date back several centuries and depict everything from traditional Italian landscapes to whimsical scenes of animals. They are a testament to the skill and artistry of local ceramic artisans.

Apart from the ceramics, the museum also houses other collections of art, including paintings, sculptures, and furniture. You’ll encounter masterpieces from some of the region’s most famous artists, including Guido Reni and Ludovico Carracci.

If you are a history or architecture buff, you will appreciate the museum’s collection of antique furniture. The collection includes intricately carved pieces, ranging from 18th-century Neo-classical Italian to French Empire-style pieces.

Basilica of San Domenico

The magnificent Basilica of San Domenico is a stunning example of gothic architecture. The interior boasts outstanding decorative elements with beautiful frescoes, carvings and stunning paintings that are sure to impress visitors. The basilica was built in 1221, with additional work completed in the following centuries. Its façade, with its tripartite division and marbled decorations, is an artistic wonder created by different artists across different periods.

As you admire the stunning architecture of the basilica, you’ll notice a unique feature. A beautiful, soaring tower that captures the eye. The tower is known as the Torre degli Asinelli, and it is one of the iconic towers that dominate the Bologna skyline. The Torre is the tallest of Bologna’s towers, standing at 97 meters high, providing a breathtaking view of the city. You can climb the stairs to the top of the tower for an unforgettable panoramic view of Bologna. Strolling around the streets leading to the Basilica, you will see several symbols of Bologna’s medieval architecture.

Chapel of Saint Dominic

The Basilica of San Domenico holds many treasures that would leave any history lover amazed. The chapel of Saint Dominic, in particular, contains the revered saint’s remains, including his skull, which has been encased in a precious reliquary for over 600 years. The chapel is a stunning showcase of medieval art, with its delicate gothic arches, beautiful frescoes, and intricate trefoil sections that cover the ceiling and walls. The marble statue of Saint Dominic, created by artist Nicolo Dell’Arca, is also housed within the chapel, providing a more profound meaning to the architecture.

Another fascinating aspect of the Basilica of San Domenico is the Museum of Sacred Art. The museum boasts an extensive collection of religious art, ranging from sculptures, paintings, and crucifixes, to goldsmith works, ancient manuscripts, and vestments. The museum is located within the walls of the monastery, and the exhibits are displayed in chronological order, taking visitors through an exciting journey of the art and history of the Dominican order.

Fontana del Nettuno

The Fontana del Nettuno is situated in the grand Piazza Maggiore. It’s one of the most famous public squares in Italy. The fountain depicts Neptune, the Roman god of the sea, standing majestically on a sea-shell chariot, surrounded by four nymphs. The sculpture is a true masterpiece of renaissance art and features intricate details that are a testament to Giambologna’s skill as a sculptor.

The Fontana del Nettuno is not just a beautiful work of art. It also holds immense historical significance. During the renaissance period, fountains were built to provide people with clean water, which was a scarce resource at that time. The Fontana del Nettuno was built to commemorate the 1565 victory of Pope Pius IV over the Ottoman Turks at the Battle of Lepanto. The fountain was a symbol of victory, power, and the triumph of Christianity over Islam.

Piazza Santo Stefano

Piazza Santo Stefano is one of Bologna’s oldest and most beautiful squares, and it’s often referred to as the ‘Square of Seven Churches’ due to the seven medieval churches located within the piazza. The piazza is also home to the Basilica of Santo Stefano, which dates back to the 8th century. The Basilica’s interior is a testament to the Romanesque style of architecture with its gorgeous archways, pillars, and intricate mosaics. Visitors can also witness a diverse range of artworks on display, including a beautiful statue of the Madonna and Child, as well as stunning frescoes.

Apart from the Basilica, the piazza is also home to other impressive buildings, including the Palazzo dell’Archiginnasio, which was once the primary seat of the city’s government. The Palazzo is currently home to the ‘Anatomical Theatre of the Archiginnasio,’ which is one of the city’s top attractions. The theatre features two curved wooden galleries that face each other, with an ornate lectern at the centre. The Anatomical Theatre was once used for anatomical dissections, and it’s a fascinating insight into Bologna’s unique history and culture.

Besides architecture, Piazza Santo Stefano is also known for its vibrant atmosphere. The piazza is lined with outdoor cafes, restaurants, and quaint shops, all of which are ideal for relaxing after a day of sightseeing. It’s common to see locals and tourists alike sitting outside, enjoying a cup of coffee or a glass of wine while taking in the beautiful surroundings. The piazza is also home to a local market, where you can try traditional Italian street food, shop for souvenirs, or simply soak up the atmosphere.

Corte Isolani

Another hidden gem at Piazza Santo Stefano midst is the quaintly romantic ‘Corte Isolani’ located between two of the churches. This charming alley is lined with pastel-coloured buildings, flower pots, and marble details, making it perfect for a stroll. The alley leads to Bologna’s oldest food market, the Mercato di Mezzo. This gastronomic hall has stalls selling fresh local ingredients that have been sourced directly from the neighbourhood.

Le Tre Frecce

The Le Tre Frecce in Bologna is a prominent historic monument with three arches that date back to the 15th century. The monument stands at the intersection of three primary avenues, which explain the name Le Tre Frecce, meaning “The Three Arrows.” The structure is an actual landmark of the medieval architecture of Bologna and a significant symbol of the city, located close to the Asinelli Tower. The Asinelli Tower is the symbol of the city of Bologna, and its height is almost equivalent to the height of Le Tre Frecce, thereby making them companion landmarks of the city.

Le Tre Frecce also played a significant role in the history of the city. One popular story behind the construction of Le Tre Frecce is the rivalry between two wealthy Bolognese families, the Bentivoglio and the Visconti families. In the fall of 1487, Giovanni II Bentivoglio lost his grip on surveillance of the city, allowing the Visconti’s to regain control. Once the Visconti family took over, they demolished the Bentivoglio’s buildings and had a tower constructed. The Bentivoglio family countered the Viscontis by commissioning the “Le Tre Frecce” monument at the crossroads of the three main streets. The monument symbolizes the strength of the Bentivoglio family’s rule.

Le Tre Frecce Bologna boasts of excellent architectural designs. The structure has five floors whereby each floor has its own set of white marble columns. At the top of the structure, there is an intricate gold sunburst, which represents Bentivoglio’s coat of arms, who sponsored the structure’s construction. When you visit Le Tre Frecce, you will appreciate the aesthetic design, the attention to detail, and the precision applied to the construction of the monument.

Piazza Maggiore

Located in the heart of Bologna, the Piazza Maggiore is the city’s main square that dates back to the 13th century. The piazza is surrounded by some beautiful architectural structures, such as the Basilica di San Petronio and the Palazzo Comunale. The most stunning aspect of the piazza is the wide-open space that lets you appreciate the full grandeur of the area. It is a beautiful place to just sit, relax and take in the atmosphere of the city.

The grandest building in the Piazza Maggiore is the Basilica di San Petronio, which is dedicated to the city’s patron saint, Petronius. The basilica dates back to the 14th century and has a unique style that blends gothic and renaissance architecture. The basilica is a testament to the city’s rich history and the intricate details inside are a sight to behold.

Near the Basilica di San Petronio lies the Palazzo Comunale, which was built in the 14th century. The Palazzo Comunale has been the home of the city’s government for centuries and is currently where the mayor’s office resides. The grand building is open to the public, and visitors can explore the different rooms inside that are filled with incredible artwork, frescoes, and tapestries. It is a great way to learn the history of the building and the city.

One of the exciting facts about the Piazza Maggiore is that it has been the centre of many important historical events in Italy. For instance, the liberation of Bologna from German occupation in World War II took place in this piazza. Moreover, the market square has hosted many gatherings, political rallies, concerts, and events that have shaped the city’s history.

Pinacoteca Nazionale

The Pinacoteca Nazionale Bologna is the premier art gallery in Bologna, featuring one of the most extensive collections of Emilian paintings in the world. With over 3,000 works of art on display, the gallery provides visitors with a unique window into the art and culture of the region. One of the most remarkable pieces on display is the famous altarpiece created by Giovanni da Modena. This piece is one of the most impressive masterpieces of gothic art. The gallery also features a collection of works by the famed 16th-century artist, Parmigianino.

The Pinacoteca Nazionale Bologna offers visitors a chance to see some of Italy’s most renowned artists up close. Of particular interest is the collection of medieval art on display, including frescoes and paintings from the 14th century. These pieces not only provide a glimpse into life in Italy during that time, but also showcase the religious and cultural influences of the era. Another highlight of the gallery is the renaissance art collection, featuring works by prominent artists such as Raphael, Titian, and the Masters of San Giovanni in Monte.

If you’re not an art enthusiast, the Pinacoteca Nazionale Bologna still has something to offer for you. The gallery is an excellent location for visitors who appreciate history and architecture. The building that houses the gallery is a unique mix of styles, combining gothic, neoclassical, and baroque elements. Built in the early 16th century as the Palace of the Governatore, it was later converted into a museum in the 19th century. Walking through the halls of the building, you’ll feel as though you’re stepping back in time.

Parco della Montagnola

Parco della Montagnola is a beautiful park located in the heart of Bologna, close to the city centre and the main train station. The park covers an area of 13 hectares and was established in the late 17th century, when the Bolognese aristocracy decided to create a green area for walks and leisure activities. Montagnola parc initially part of the nearby Villa Aldini, owned by the noble Aldini family, and was later expanded and redesigned by the architect Giuseppe Mengoni in the late 19th century.

The park has a unique layout and features several walking paths, ponds, fountains, and statues. One of the highlights of the park is the Teatro all’aperto, an open-air theatre built in the 1930s that hosts theatre, music, and dance performances. The theatre is surrounded by tall trees that provide a natural setting and create a magical atmosphere during night shows. Another must-see feature of the park is the impressive Stazione dei treni miniature, a small-scale replica of the Bologna train station made entirely of stone that provides a glimpse of Bologna’s history and architecture.

Mercato delle Erbe

The market offers a unique experience of the traditional Italian market culture, where you can smell and taste fresh local produce, meats, and cheeses. The market’s vendors also sell seafood, pasta, and other regional specialties. The lively atmosphere of the market is a testament to the city’s rich gastronomy and culture. You’ll be welcomed by the vibrant colours and aromas of the stalls, and the sights and sounds will leave a lasting impression on you.

One of the unique features of Mercato delle Erbe Bologna is its architecture. The building dates back to the early 1900s and underwent a renovation in the 1970s. It has a beautiful Art Nouveau style with a mosaic floor, a large central hall, and a glass roof that lets in natural light.

Biblioteca Comunale dell’Archiginnasio

The Biblioteca Comunale dell’Archiginnasio, founded in 1563, is one of the most significant repositories of ancient books in Europe. Visitors to the library are immediately struck by its stunning architectural features: soaring vaulted ceilings adorned with intricate frescoes, breathtaking arched windows that fill its massive reading rooms with light, and ancient wood carvings that lend the space a historic ambiance. The Biblioteca Comunale dell’Archiginnasio is a quintessential example of renaissance architecture and a stunning testament to the city’s cultural and intellectual heritage.

The library’s vast collection is grand. From ancient Roman manuscripts to precious books, visitors can peruse countless volumes, each one representing an invaluable resource for scholars, researchers, and anyone with a passion for learning and history. The library also houses a valuable collection of illustrated works, including volumes with original drawings, intricate engravings, and delicate watercolours.

The Biblioteca Comunale dell’Archiginnasio is home to the Anatomical Theatre, one of the most significant cultural and scientific monuments in the world. Built-in 1637, the theatre served as a space where medical students could learn anatomy by watching the dissection of human bodies. Today, visitors to the Biblioteca Comunale dell’Archiginnasio can tour the theatre, appreciate its baroque stylings, and marvel at the detailed wood carvings that adorn its walls.

Monumental highlights in Italy

Experience the allure of Italy’s rich historical sites. Indulge your senses in Modena with the exquisite taste of balsamic vinegar, or immerse yourself in the world of automotive excellence at the Ferrari museum. Delight in the flavours of Parmesan cheese and Parma ham in Parma, while appreciating the city’s captivating history and architecture. Marvel at the charming houses along the picturesque Italian Riviera coastline at Cinque de Terre. Explore Florence, the city where Leonardo Da Vinci lived and worked, and make sure to carve out time to visit the Uffizi Gallery, one of the most renowned museums in the world. Exploring Rome presents an incredible chance to delve into the captivating history of the Roman Empire. Don’t miss out on this amazing opportunity when you have some spare time!