Bologna-6-day-itinerary

Day 1: Arrival and Exploring the City Center

  • Morning: Arrive at Bologna Guglielmo Marconi Airport (BLQ) or Bologna Centrale train station. Check-in to your accommodation in the city center.
  • Places to Go:
    • Visit Piazza Maggiore, the heart of Bologna’s historic center.
    • Explore the nearby Basilica di San Petronio and Palazzo dei Notai.
    • Walk through the charming streets and admire the medieval architecture.
  • Lunch: Try traditional Bolognese cuisine at Trattoria del Leone or Osteria dell’Orsa.
  • Afternoon: Visit the iconic Two Towers of Bologna (Torre degli Asinelli and Torre Garisenda).
  • Evening: Enjoy a stroll along the scenic Via Rizzoli and indulge in some delicious gelato at Gelateria Giusti.

Accommodation Suggestions: Hotel Metropoli, Hotel Porta San Mamolo, or Airbnb apartments in the city center.

Day 2: Art, History, and Culture

  • Morning: Visit the National Picture Gallery (Pinacoteca Nazionale) to admire works by Italian masters.
  • Places to Go:
    • Explore the Archaeological Museum (Museo Archeologico) and its impressive collection of artifacts.
    • Discover the fascinating history of Bologna at the Medieval Museum (Museo Medievale).
  • Lunch: Savor local specialties at Ristorante La Bella Vita or Osteria dell’Aquila.
  • Afternoon: Visit the beautiful Basilica di San Domenico and its stunning architecture.
  • Evening: Enjoy a concert or opera performance at the Teatro Comunale di Bologna.

Day 3: Food, Wine, and Markets

  • Morning: Explore the bustling Mercato di Mezzo, where you can find fresh produce, cheeses, and cured meats.
  • Places to Go:
    • Visit a local market stall or food shop to taste some of Bologna’s famous culinary delights.
    • Take a wine tasting tour at Enoteca Storica Faccioli or Cantina Bentivoglio.
  • Lunch: Indulge in a traditional Bolognese lunch at Trattoria Anna Maria or Osteria de’ Poeti.
  • Afternoon: Visit the charming Piazza del Nettuno and its beautiful fountain.
  • Evening: Enjoy dinner at a Michelin-starred restaurant, such as Ristorante Marconi or La Tua Steak House.

Day 4: Day Trip to Modena

  • Morning: Take a day trip to Modena (approximately 1-hour train ride).
  • Places to Go:
    • Visit the iconic Ferrari Museum and discover the history of the luxury sports car brand.
    • Explore the beautiful Cathedral of Modena (Duomo di Modena) and its adjacent Piazza Grande.
  • Lunch: Savor local specialties at Osteria Francescana or Ristorante La Bussola.
  • Afternoon: Return to Bologna and visit the stunning Certosa di Bologna monastery complex.

Day 5: Hills and Villages

  • Morning: Take a bus or taxi to the hills surrounding Bologna (approximately 30-40 minutes).
  • Places to Go:
    • Visit the charming village of Sasso Marconi, with its stunning castle and picturesque streets.
    • Explore the scenic hills and vineyards around Bologna.
  • Lunch: Enjoy lunch at a local trattoria or agriturismo in the hills.
  • Afternoon: Return to Bologna and visit the beautiful Orto Botanico di Bologna botanical gardens.

Day 6: Departure

  • Morning: Spend some time shopping for souvenirs or exploring a local market.
  • Transportation: Head back to Bologna Guglielmo Marconi Airport (BLQ) or Bologna Centrale train station for your departure.

Things to Know:

  • Bologna is a walkable city, but you can also use public transportation ( buses and trams) or taxis.
  • Be prepared for cobblestone streets and uneven pavement in the historic center.
  • Try to avoid visiting during peak tourist season (June-August) for a more relaxed experience.

Tips:

  • Learn some basic Italian phrases to enhance your experience.
  • Don’t forget to try the local specialties, such as tagliatelle, prosciutto di Parma, and mortadella.
  • Be respectful of the city’s historical landmarks and architecture.

Other Things of Interest:

  • Bologna is home to the world’s oldest university, the University of Bologna (Alma Mater Studiorum).
  • The city has a rich history of innovation and invention, including the development of the first bicycle.
  • Bologna is surrounded by picturesque hills and countryside, perfect for hiking and biking excursions.