Bologna is one of the most beautiful and historic cities in Italy. The city boasts a thriving culinary scene, which makes it a popular tourist destination.
The best way to explore the city is by walking around its many historical landmarks. The main square of Piazza Maggiore is a must-see in Bologna.
1. Piazza Maggiore
A must-see in Bologna, the bustling Piazza Maggiore is surrounded by a range of attractions and activities. It is one of the best sights on city walking and biking tours, as well as a popular spot for apperitivo (happy hour) with friends or family.
It is also a great place to start a food tour that combines sightseeing with tastings of local specialties. It is also the location of the Basilica di San Petronio, one of the largest churches in Bologna and one of the most impressive buildings in the city.
Climb the stairs to the room above the church and you will find a small oratorio decorated in Baroque paintings, gilded sculptures, and beautiful ceilings. Then, head up to the cupola where you can get some nice side views of the city center and the surrounding rolling hills.
Set inside the 15th-century Palazzo Galvani, the Archaeological Museum of Bologna is a great way to learn about the history of the city and see some fascinating artifacts. It features a collection divided into different eras, from Prehistoric and Celtic to Roman and Greek.
2. Porticoes
If there's one thing that Bologna is famous for, it's the picturesque porticoes, which are spread across the city's historic centre. Stretching for some 25 miles around its streets, they're an important part of the city's architecture and cultural heritage.
The first porticos were built in the Middle Ages, as a way to increase living spaces and provide shelter from the weather. They were a spontaneous development, born from the need to expand residential units as a response to demographic and social changes.
They became compulsory with a statute in 1288, meaning that new houses had to be fitted with a portico, while existing buildings were required to add a second one if they didn't already have one. They were also useful for a number of reasons, including protecting pedestrians from rain and dirt, providing space to stall for artisans and saving the ground floors of houses from getting covered in sewage and other pollutants.
Today, Bologna’s porticoes are among the most beautiful in the world, and they're slated to become a UNESCO World Heritage Site by 2021. On this private tour, discover some of the city's most beautiful porticoes and learn about their history with a local guide.
3. National Gallery
Whether you’re into Renaissance masterpieces or more modern works, the National Gallery has it all. Originally founded in 1883 to commemorate the unification of Italy, the gallery boasts an extensive collection of art across multiple styles and media.
The museum has a variety of exhibitions throughout the year, so there’s always something new to see. Besides its permanent collection, the National Gallery also has a sculpture garden that is a lovely place to stroll through and enjoy.
Another must-visit attraction is the Keats-Shelley House, which features an impressive collection of items from poets John Keats and Percy Bysshe Shelley. This is one of the best museums to learn about these iconic literary figures.
4. Ebracio
Located in the heart of Bologna, Ebracio is an area that's packed with things to see and do. You'll find the Due Torri, the famous twin towers that mark the entry to Bologna, and an impressive collection of art galleries.
This area is also home to the Bologna Welcome visitor information centre and a range of great shops and restaurants. It's a great place to explore on foot, and a really easy way to get around the city.
If you're not keen on walking, a great alternative is to take the bus into the heart of the city. The TPER bus network operates throughout the city, and it's a great way to save money on transport while getting around Bologna's best attractions.
Known as the capital of Italy's gastronomy, Bologna is a food lover's dream. It's the birthplace of bolognese, and the region is home to some of the country's most incredible cheeses and delicacies.
