Bologna-4-day-itinerary

Day 1: Explore the Historic Center

  • 9:00 AM - 10:00 AM: Start your day at Piazza Maggiore, one of Italy’s largest squares. Visit the Basilica di San Petronio, a stunning Gothic church.
  • 10:00 AM - 12:00 PM: Walk to the iconic Two Towers (Due Torri), symbolizing the city. Take in the views from the top of the taller tower for €5.
  • 12:00 PM - 1:00 PM: Grab lunch at Trattoria dal Biassanot, a cozy spot serving traditional Bolognese dishes. Try their famous tagliatelle al ragù (€15-20).
  • 2:00 PM - 4:00 PM: Visit the Basilica di San Francesco, featuring stunning frescoes by Giotto.
  • Evening: Enjoy dinner at La Giarra, a Michelin-starred restaurant serving modern Italian cuisine. Book in advance for €50-70 per person.

Day 2: Art and Culture

  • 9:00 AM - 10:30 AM: Visit the Pinacoteca Nazionale, featuring an impressive collection of Italian art from the Middle Ages to the 19th century.
  • 11:00 AM - 12:30 PM: Explore the Museo Civico di Palazzo Pubblico, showcasing the city’s history and art.
  • 1:00 PM - 2:00 PM: Grab lunch at Panificio e Caffè, a charming bakery serving delicious sandwiches (€10-15).
  • 3:00 PM - 5:00 PM: Visit the beautiful Parco di San Michele, a peaceful oasis in the heart of the city.
  • Evening: Enjoy dinner at La Pergola, a cozy spot serving traditional Emilian cuisine. Try their famous prosciutto e melone (€20-30).

Day 3: Day Trip to Modena

  • 9:00 AM - 12:00 PM: Take the train from Bologna Centrale to Modena (approximately €5-10 return). Visit the stunning Cathedral of Modena, a UNESCO World Heritage Site.
  • 1:00 PM - 2:30 PM: Grab lunch at Trattoria al Moro, serving traditional Emilian dishes. Try their famous tortellini en brodo (€15-20).
  • 3:00 PM - 5:00 PM: Visit the Estense Castle, a beautiful fortress with stunning views.
  • Evening: Return to Bologna and enjoy dinner at La Cantina, a cozy spot serving traditional Bolognese cuisine. Try their famous ragù alla bolognese (€25-35).

Day 4: Markets and Shopping

  • 9:00 AM - 12:00 PM: Visit the Mercato di Mezzo, a bustling market selling fresh produce, cheeses, and meats.
  • 1:00 PM - 2:30 PM: Grab lunch at Pizzeria al Moro, serving delicious pizzas (€10-15).
  • 3:00 PM - 5:00 PM: Explore the charming streets of Bologna’s historic center, shopping for souvenirs and browsing local markets.
  • Evening: Enjoy a farewell dinner at La Giarra, trying their famous dishes one last time. Book in advance for €50-70 per person.

Where to Stay

  • Hotel Metropole, a 4-star hotel located in the heart of the city, starting from €100 per night.
  • Airbnb apartments, available throughout the historic center, starting from €60 per night.

Things to Know

  • Bologna is known for its strong tradition of food and wine. Be sure to try local specialties like tagliatelle al ragù, prosciutto e melone, and tortellini en brodo.
  • Don’t miss the stunning views from the top of the Two Towers (Due Torri).
  • Visit the Pinacoteca Nazionale for an impressive collection of Italian art.
  • Explore the charming streets of Bologna’s historic center, shopping for souvenirs and browsing local markets.

Transportation

  • Bologna Centrale Train Station, easily accessible from major cities in Italy and Europe. Trains to Modena (approximately €5-10 return).
  • City buses, running frequently throughout the city.
  • Walking, a great way to explore the historic center.

Tips

  • Be prepared for crowds and lines at popular attractions during peak season (June-August).
  • Try local specialties like gelato and limoncello.
  • Don’t miss the stunning views from the top of the Two Towers (Due Torri) at sunset.
  • Visit the charming streets of Bologna’s historic center, shopping for souvenirs and browsing local markets.

Other Things to Do

  • Take a guided tour of the city’s hidden gems and secret spots.
  • Visit the beautiful Parco di San Michele, a peaceful oasis in the heart of the city.
  • Explore the charming neighborhoods of Via San Mamolo and Via Santa Caterina.