Bologna 4 Day Itinerary

Day 1: Arrival and Exploration

Morning

  • Arrive at Bologna Guglielmo Marconi Airport (BLQ) and take a taxi or bus ( Aerobus ) to the city center
  • Check-in at Hotel Porta San Mamolo or similar, a cozy hotel in the historic center

Afternoon

  • Visit Piazza Maggiore, the heart of Bologna’s old town, surrounded by medieval buildings and cafes
  • Explore the nearby Basilica di San Petronio, a stunning Gothic church with intricate stone carvings
  • Wander through the Quadrilatero, a charming area filled with narrow streets, boutiques, and food shops

Evening

  • Enjoy traditional Bolognese cuisine at Trattoria Anna Maria, try their famous tagliatelle al ragù
  • Take a stroll along the Porticos, Bologna’s iconic arcades that stretch for miles

Tips and Insights

  • Bologna is known as “La Grassa” (the fat one) due to its rich food culture, so be prepared to eat well!
  • The city has over 40 km of porticos, making it a unique and charming place to explore

Transportation

  • Walking is the best way to explore Bologna’s historic center
  • Use public transportation ( buses and trams ) or taxis for longer distances

Day 2: Art, Culture, and Food

Morning

  • Visit the Galleria dell’Accademia di Belle Arti, a museum showcasing Italian art from the 14th to 20th centuries
  • Stop by the nearby Museo Internazionale e Biblioteca della Musica, dedicated to music history and culture

Afternoon

  • Explore the Mercato di Mezzo, a bustling marketplace offering fresh produce, cheeses, and cured meats
  • Visit the Torre degli Asinelli, one of Bologna’s two leaning towers, for panoramic views of the city

Evening

  • Dine at Ristorante Diana, known for its creative takes on traditional Bolognese dishes
  • Enjoy a drink at Caffè Zanaroli, a historic cafe in the heart of the city

Tips and Insights

  • Don’t miss the beautiful courtyards and gardens hidden within the old town’s buildings
  • Try some of Bologna’s famous mortadella, a cured meat made from ground pork

Day 3: Hills and Villages**

Morning

  • Take a day trip to the Colli Bolognesi, a range of hills surrounding the city, offering scenic views and wine tastings
  • Visit the charming village of Sasso Marconi, with its medieval castle and beautiful countryside walks

Afternoon

  • Stop by the Castello di Monteveccio, a 12th-century fortress turned museum and event space
  • Enjoy lunch at Agriturismo Cà del Vento, serving local specialties with a focus on sustainability

Evening

  • Return to Bologna and enjoy dinner at Osteria dell’Orsa, known for its creative pasta dishes
  • Explore the lively Piazza del Nettuno, surrounded by cafes, bars, and street performers

Tips and Insights

  • The Colli Bolognesi are a great place to escape the city heat during summer months
  • Don’t miss the stunning views of Bologna from the top of the hills

Day 4: History and Shopping**

Morning

  • Visit the Museo di Palazzo Poggi, a museum showcasing the history of Bologna’s University, one of the oldest in Europe
  • Explore the nearby Piazza Scaravilli, with its beautiful gardens and historic buildings

Afternoon

  • Shop for souvenirs or high-end fashion at Galleria Cavour, a luxurious shopping arcade
  • Visit the Basilica di Santo Stefano, a complex of seven churches built on top of each other

Evening

  • Enjoy a farewell dinner at Ristorante Marconi, serving innovative takes on traditional Bolognese cuisine
  • Take one last stroll through the Porticos before departing Bologna

Tips and Insights

  • Don’t miss the beautiful sunsets in Piazza Maggiore, a perfect ending to your trip
  • Consider purchasing a Bologna Welcome Card, which grants access to many museums, public transportation, and discounts at local businesses