Bologna 7 Day Itinerary

Bologna Itinerary: 7 Days of Food, History, and Fun!

Day 1: Arrival and Exploring the City Center

• Morning: Arrive in Bologna and check-in at Hotel Porta San Mamolo or similar.
• Lunch: Head to Trattoria del Leone for a traditional Bolognese meal. Try their famous tagliatelle al ragù!
• Afternoon: Visit the iconic Piazza Maggiore and explore the nearby streets, admiring the medieval architecture.
• Evening: Enjoy an aperitivo at Caffè Rubik, a trendy spot with a retro vibe.

Day 2: History and Culture

• Morning: Visit the Basilica di San Petronio, a stunning example of Gothic architecture.
• Lunch: Savor some delicious pasta at Osteria dell’Orsa.
• Afternoon: Explore the Museo di Palazzo Poggi, which houses an impressive collection of art and artifacts.
• Evening: Attend a concert or event at the Teatro Comunale di Bologna.

Day 3: Foodie Heaven

• Morning: Visit the Mercato di Mezzo, a bustling marketplace filled with fresh produce and local specialties.
• Lunch: Take a food tour with Bologna Food Tours to sample the best of Bolognese cuisine.
• Afternoon: Learn about traditional Italian cooking at Casa Artusi.
• Evening: Dine at Ristorante Diana, a Michelin-starred restaurant serving modern Italian cuisine.

Day 4: Day Trip to Modena

• Morning: Take a train to Modena ( approx. 30 minutes) and visit the Cattedrale di Modena.
• Lunch: Try some traditional Modenese dishes at Osteria Francescana.
• Afternoon: Explore the Acetaia Giusti, a historic vinegar producer.
• Evening: Return to Bologna and enjoy dinner at Trattoria Anna Maria.

Day 5: Nature and Relaxation

• Morning: Visit the beautiful Giardino Margherita, a tranquil oasis in the city center.
• Lunch: Grab a panino at Paninoteca Il Forno.
• Afternoon: Take a stroll along the Portico di San Luca, a picturesque pedestrian path.
• Evening: Unwind with a wine tasting at Enoteca Italiana.

Day 6: Explore the Hills

• Morning: Take a bus or drive to the nearby hills and visit the charming village of Sasso Marconi.
• Lunch: Enjoy lunch at Ristorante La Cantina dei Frati, offering stunning views of the countryside.
• Afternoon: Explore the picturesque town of Castel San Pietro Terme.
• Evening: Return to Bologna and dine at Ristorante La Bella Vita.

Day 7: Departure

• Morning: Spend the morning shopping for souvenirs or visiting any last-minute attractions.
• Departure: Check-out of your hotel and depart from Bologna.

Tips and Essentials

• Transportation: Bologna has a well-connected public transportation system, including buses and trains. You can also walk or bike around the city.
• Language: Italian is the primary language spoken in Bologna, but many locals speak some English.
• Currency: Euro
• Safety: Bologna is generally a safe city, but take usual precautions to protect yourself and your belongings.
• Weather: Bologna has a humid subtropical climate with warm summers and cool winters. Pack accordingly.

Accommodation

• Hotel Porta San Mamolo: A charming 3-star hotel in the heart of Bologna.
• Airbnb Options: Choose from various apartments and rooms in the city center, such as this cozy apartment.

Other Interests

• Bologna Welcome Card: A convenient card that grants access to public transportation, museums, and attractions.
• Bologna Food Tours: Explore the local cuisine with guided tours.
• Ferrara: A nearby city worth visiting for its stunning architecture and medieval charm.

This itinerary provides a mix of culture, history, food, and relaxation, giving you a comprehensive experience of Bologna and its surroundings. Buon viaggio!