Bologna, the capital of the Emilia-Romagna region, is nicknamed “La Grassa” (The Fat City) for its rich cuisine, “La Rossa” (The Red City) for its characteristic red rooftops, and “La Dotta” (The Learned City) thanks to Europe’s oldest university. With its long history, unique architecture, and renowned cuisine, Bologna is an attractive destination for those wanting to explore Italy in a distinctive way. This article suggests a detailed itinerary so you can fully experience Bologna in just 2 days.
Bologna is not just a tourist destination, but also a journey to discover authentic Italian culture and cuisine. Get ready for unforgettable experiences in this charming city!
Day 1: Exploring Bologna’s Historic Center and Cuisine
Morning: Piazza Maggiore and Iconic Architectural Works
Start your Bologna exploration at Piazza Maggiore, the heart of the city. This square is home to the most important historical architectural works:
- Basilica di San Petronio: Admire the imposing beauty of Bologna’s largest church, notable for its unfinished facade and the artworks inside.
Basilica di San Petronio in Bologna
- Palazzo d’Accursio: Visit the historic building that once served as the city’s government headquarters, now an art and history museum with valuable collections.
- Fontana del Nettuno (Fountain of Neptune): Admire the beauty of the famous fountain with its majestic statue of Neptune, a symbol of Bologna.
After exploring Piazza Maggiore, take a stroll to the Two Towers (Le Due Torri), the iconic symbols of the city. Climb the Asinelli Tower to admire the panoramic view of Bologna from above (remember to book tickets in advance to avoid queues).
Afternoon: Discovering Local Cuisine and Ancient Streets
The afternoon is the ideal time to explore Bologna’s cuisine. Head to Quadrilatero, a bustling ancient market area where you can find countless local specialties:
- Mortadella: Enjoy Bologna’s famous cured meat with its distinctive flavor.
- Parmigiano Reggiano: Taste authentic Parmigiano Reggiano cheese, one of the most delicious cheeses in the world.
- Balsamic Vinegar: Discover traditional Balsamic vinegars from the nearby Modena region.
Have lunch at one of the traditional eateries (trattorias) in the Quadrilatero area and enjoy Bologna’s specialties such as tagliatelle al ragù (flat ribbon pasta with meat sauce) or tortellini in brodo (Italian dumplings in broth).
After lunch, stroll through Bologna’s ancient streets, exploring artisan shops and peaceful corners. Don’t forget to visit Archiginnasio di Bologna, the ancient building that once housed the University of Bologna, to admire the Teatro Anatomico, a unique wooden anatomical theater from the 17th century.
Evening: Enjoying Bologna Cuisine and the Nightlife Atmosphere
In the evening, choose a local restaurant and enjoy a hearty dinner with Bologna’s specialties. Some suggestions:
- Cotoletta alla Bolognese: Bologna-style fried cutlet, topped with cheese and prosciutto.
- Passatelli in brodo: Passatelli pasta in broth, a traditional dish of the Emilia-Romagna region.
- Zuppa Inglese: An English-style dessert with sponge cake, custard, and rum.
After dinner, stroll through the brightly lit streets and enjoy Bologna’s vibrant nightlife atmosphere.
Day 2: Exploring Cultural and Spiritual Destinations
Morning: University of Bologna and Archaeological Museum
On the second day, start by exploring the University of Bologna (Università di Bologna), the oldest university in Europe. Visit the ancient campus and learn about the school’s history and heritage.
Afterwards, visit the Archaeological Museum of Bologna (Museo Civico Archeologico di Bologna) to discover artifacts from prehistoric times, the Etruscan and Roman civilizations. In particular, the museum has a rich collection of ancient Egyptian artifacts.
Afternoon: San Luca Hill and Sanctuary of Madonna di San Luca
In the afternoon, take a trip to San Luca Hill, where the Sanctuary of Madonna di San Luca (Santuario di Madonna di San Luca) is located. You can walk up the hill through the world’s longest portico (about 3.8 km with over 600 arches) or take a bus.
From the sanctuary, you can admire the panoramic view of Bologna and the surrounding plains. This is an important spiritual site and also a great viewpoint.
Evening: Enjoying Aperitivo and Street Music
On your last evening in Bologna, enjoy aperitivo, a traditional Italian custom. Many bars in Bologna offer aperitivo with drinks and free snacks from around 6 PM to 9 PM.
After aperitivo, find a bar with live music or simply stroll through the streets and enjoy street music. Bologna is a vibrant city with many cultural and entertainment activities.
Bologna Travel Tips
- Best time to visit: Spring (April-June) and Autumn (September-October) are ideal times to visit Bologna, when the weather is pleasant and there are fewer tourists.
- Transportation: Bologna is an easily walkable city. However, you can also use buses or taxis to get around.
- Accommodation: There are many accommodation options in Bologna, from luxury hotels to budget guesthouses. Booking in advance is recommended, especially during peak season.
- Language: Italian is the official language. However, many people in Bologna also speak English, especially in tourist areas.
- Currency: Euro (EUR).
- Eating: Bologna is famous for its delicious and affordable cuisine. Don’t hesitate to try local specialties.