Bologna-2-day-itinerary

Day 1: Saturday

Morning

  • 9:00 AM: Start the day with a traditional Italian breakfast at Caffè Terza, a cozy café serving delicious pastries and coffee.
  • 10:00 AM: Visit the iconic Piazza Maggiore, a stunning medieval square surrounded by beautiful buildings, including the Basilica di San Petronio. Take a stroll around the piazza and admire its beauty.

Midday

  • 12:30 PM: Head to Trattoria del 107**, a local favorite serving authentic Italian cuisine. Try their signature dish, Tagliatelle al Ragù, a rich meat ragù served with handmade pasta.
  • 2:00 PM: Visit the San Giacomo Maggiore church and its adjacent museum, which features an impressive collection of artworks and artifacts.

Afternoon

  • 4:00 PM: Take a leisurely walk along the Porto di Bologna, a picturesque canalside area with beautiful views of the surrounding hills. Stop at Enoteca Regionale Emilia Romagna, a wine bar offering an extensive selection of local wines.
  • 6:00 PM: Visit the famous Mercato di Mezzo, a bustling marketplace selling everything from fresh produce to handmade crafts.

Evening

  • 8:00 PM: Enjoy dinner at La Repubblica, a restaurant serving creative, farm-to-table Italian cuisine.
  • 10:30 PM: End the night with a visit to Birreria Pedroni, a craft beer bar offering an impressive selection of local beers.

Day 2: Sunday

Morning

  • 9:00 AM: Visit the Mercato Coperto, a beautiful indoor marketplace selling everything from fresh produce to handmade crafts.
  • 11:00 AM: Head to Museo Civico Archeologico di Bologna, a museum featuring an impressive collection of archaeological artifacts.

Midday

  • 12:30 PM: Enjoy lunch at Pizzeria La Stanca, a popular spot serving delicious wood-fired pizzas.
  • 2:00 PM: Visit the Palazzo Re Enzo, a stunning medieval palace that now serves as a cultural center.

Afternoon

  • 4:00 PM: Take a stroll through the beautiful Giardini Margherita, a tranquil park with lovely gardens and walking trails. Stop at Caffè dell’Ussolo, a charming café serving delicious coffee and pastries.
  • 6:00 PM: Visit the Bologna Cathedral, a stunning Gothic church featuring impressive architecture.

Evening

  • 8:00 PM: Enjoy dinner at Trattoria dell’Orsa, a local favorite serving traditional Italian cuisine.
  • 10:30 PM: End the night with a visit to Osteria Arcana, a cozy wine bar offering an impressive selection of local wines.

Accommodations

  • Hotel Porta Rovere (3-star) - A comfortable hotel located in the historic center.
  • B&B La Bella Vita (4-star) - A charming B&B with beautifully decorated rooms and a lovely breakfast area.

Getting Around

  • Walking: The best way to explore Bologna is on foot. The city is compact, and most attractions are within walking distance.
  • Public Transportation: Use the bus or tram system to get around the city. Buy a ticket at a newsstand or from the driver.
  • Taxi: Taxis are readily available but can be more expensive than public transportation.

Tips and Other Things to Know

  • Language: Italian is the official language, but many locals speak English, especially in tourist areas.
  • Currency: The Euro is the local currency. Credit cards are widely accepted.
  • Weather: Bologna has a Mediterranean climate with warm summers and mild winters.
  • Respect Local Customs: Respect local traditions and customs, especially when visiting churches or other cultural institutions.

Other Things to Do

  • Take a Food Tour: Explore the city’s culinary scene on a guided food tour.
  • Visit the nearby hills: Take a day trip to explore the surrounding hills and countryside.
  • Shop for souvenirs: Browse local markets and shops for unique souvenirs and gifts.

I hope this itinerary helps you plan your trip to Bologna!