Bologna Travel Guide

If you are planning a trip to Emilia-Romagna, Bologna is a city you should not miss. This Bologna Travel Guide will take you through its must-see attractions, traditional cuisine, and even suggest how to spend one day exploring the city. Known as La Dotta (the learned, for its university), La Grassa (the fat, for its food), and La Rossa (the red, for its roofs and politics), Bologna is a city of culture, flavor, and charm. In this Bologna Travel Guide, you’ll discover five top sights, five authentic restaurants, and the best one-day itinerary.

Five Things to See in Bologna

1. Piazza Maggiore

The main square of Bologna, surrounded by important landmarks such as Palazzo d’Accursio, San Petronio Basilica, and Neptune’s Fountain.
🔗 Official Tourist Info

2. The Two Towers (Le Due Torri)

Asinelli and Garisenda are Bologna’s iconic leaning towers. You can climb Torre degli Asinelli for a panoramic view of the city.
🔗 Visit Info

3. Archiginnasio of Bologna

Once the main building of the University of Bologna (the oldest in Europe), it hosts the beautiful Anatomical Theatre.
🔗 Archiginnasio Info

4. Basilica di San Petronio

One of the largest churches in the world, famous for its unfinished façade and incredible frescoes inside.

5. Quadrilatero Market

A medieval market area still bustling with food stalls, butchers, and delicatessens. The perfect place to try local specialties.

Five Places to Eat in Bologna

Bologna is the capital of Italian cuisine, home to tagliatelle al ragù (often misnamed “Bolognese”), tortellini in brodo, and mortadella. Here are five authentic places to taste its flavors.

1. Trattoria di Via Serra

Famous for homemade pasta and traditional Bolognese recipes. Reservation recommended.
🔗 Facebook

2. Drogheria della Rosa

A charming restaurant inside an old pharmacy, offering refined local dishes.
🔗 Website

3. Trattoria Anna Maria

Traditional trattoria, known for its tortellini and lasagna alla bolognese.
🔗 Instagram

4. Sfoglia Rina

Perfect for pasta lovers, with handmade tagliatelle, tortellini, and innovative variations.
🔗 Website

5. Osteria dell’Orsa

Beloved by students and locals for affordable, hearty pasta dishes in a lively atmosphere.
🔗 Website

One Day in Bologna – Itinerary

If you only have one day, here’s how to experience the best of Bologna:

1. Morning – Piazza Maggiore & San Petronio
   Start at the main square, explore Neptune’s Fountain, and visit the Basilica di San Petronio.
2. Late Morning – Archiginnasio & Anatomical Theatre
   Walk to the Archiginnasio, where you’ll admire historic lecture halls and the unique Anatomical Theatre.
3. Lunch – Tortellini in brodo at a local trattoria
   Head to Trattoria Anna Maria or Osteria dell’Orsa for an authentic Bolognese lunch.
4. Afternoon – The Two Towers
   Climb Torre degli Asinelli (498 steps!) for a spectacular view of Bologna and its red rooftops.
5. Late Afternoon – Stroll through the Quadrilatero Market
   Enjoy the lively market streets, taste mortadella, and shop for local products.
6. Evening – Dinner & Aperitivo
   Finish with dinner at Sfoglia Rina or Drogheria della Rosa, followed by a glass of wine in the city center.

Conclusion

Bologna is a city that blends history, culture, and food into one unforgettable experience. From the lively Piazza Maggiore to the medieval streets of the Quadrilatero, every corner is full of life. Thanks to this Bologna Travel Guide, you now know the must-see attractions, the best restaurants, and how to make the most of just one day in the city.

Whether you’re climbing the Torre degli Asinelli, savoring tortellini in a cozy trattoria, or enjoying a stroll through the market, Bologna will leave you enchanted.