Bologna-5-day-itinerary

Day 1: Arrival and Exploration of the City

  • Morning: Arrive at Bologna Guglielmo Marconi Airport (BLQ) or take a train from another Italian city.
  • Afternoon: Check-in at your hotel, Hotel Metropol, a charming 4-star hotel in the heart of the city. Alternatively, consider staying at Bologna Arte e Hotel, a stylish boutique hotel.
  • 3:00 PM: Visit the iconic Piazza Maggiore, a grand square surrounded by medieval buildings and historic landmarks like the Basilica di San Petronio.
  • 6:00 PM: Enjoy dinner at Trattoria al 15, a cozy eatery serving traditional Bolognese cuisine. Try their famous tagliatelle alla bolognese!
  • Evening: Take a stroll around the city’s historic center, exploring narrow streets and admiring the beautiful architecture.

Day 2: Medieval Charm

  • 9:00 AM: Visit the impressive Basilica di San Petronio, one of Italy’s largest medieval churches.
  • 11:00 AM: Explore the charming Via dell’Indipendenza, a picturesque street lined with shops, cafes, and historical buildings.
  • 1:00 PM: Lunch at La Sorrisa, a family-run trattoria serving authentic Italian dishes in a cozy atmosphere.
  • 3:00 PM: Visit the stunning Torre degli Asinelli, a 97-meter-tall medieval tower offering breathtaking views of the city.
  • 7:00 PM: Enjoy dinner at Da Empedocle, a popular restaurant serving creative Bolognese cuisine.

Day 3: Art and Culture

  • 9:30 AM: Visit the Pinacoteca Nazionale di Bologna, a national art museum showcasing an impressive collection of medieval, Renaissance, and Baroque art.
  • 12:00 PM: Lunch at La Taverna del Leone, a lively eatery serving traditional Italian dishes in a warm atmosphere.
  • 2:00 PM: Visit the Galleria d’Arte Moderna (Gallery of Modern Art), featuring an impressive collection of 20th-century art.
  • 6:00 PM: Enjoy dinner at Trattoria del Gesso, a charming eatery serving creative Bolognese cuisine.

Day 4: Markets and Food

  • 9:00 AM: Visit the bustling Mercato Coperto, an outdoor market selling fresh produce, flowers, and souvenirs.
  • 11:00 AM: Explore the nearby Piazza del Mercato, a charming square surrounded by historic buildings.
  • 1:00 PM: Lunch at Sfizio, a popular spot serving creative Italian dishes in a cozy atmosphere.
  • 3:00 PM: Visit the Museo Civico di Palazzo Pubblico, showcasing an impressive collection of Bolognese art and artifacts.
  • 7:00 PM: Enjoy dinner at La Divina Cucina, a Michelin-starred restaurant serving refined Italian cuisine.

Day 5: Day Trip to the Surrounding Countryside

  • 9:30 AM: Take a day trip to the nearby countryside, exploring the picturesque towns of Modena or Parma.
  • 1:00 PM: Enjoy lunch in one of these charming towns, trying local specialties and wines.
  • 3:00 PM: Visit the stunning Cathedral of Modena, an impressive medieval church featuring intricate stone carvings.

Things to Know

  • Language: Italian is the primary language spoken in Bologna. Many locals speak English, especially in tourist areas.
  • Currency: The Euro (€) is the official currency. Credit cards are widely accepted.
  • Weather: Spring and summer months (April-September) are warm and pleasant, with average temperatures ranging from 22°C to 28°C (72°F to 82°F). Autumn and winter months can be cool and rainy.

Transportation

  • Airport Shuttle: The Vi in Bus shuttle service connects Bologna Airport to the city center.
  • Public Transportation: Bologna’s public transportation system includes buses, trams, and a metro line. Tickets can be purchased at newsstands or online.
  • Walking: Bologna is a compact city, making walking an excellent way to explore its historic center.

Tips

  • Reservations: Book restaurants and museums in advance to avoid long wait times.
  • Explore on foot: Wander through the narrow streets and alleys of Bologna’s historic center to discover hidden gems.
  • Food Tours: Join a guided food tour to sample local specialties and learn about Bolognese cuisine.

Additional Tips

  • Dress modestly: Respect local customs by dressing modestly when visiting churches or cultural institutions.
  • Be mindful of pickpocketing: As with any tourist destination, be aware of your surroundings and keep valuables secure.