Things to do in Bologna

The best time to visit Bologna is during spring (April to June) and early autumn (September to October) when the weather is mild and pleasant. These seasons offer fewer crowds compared to summer, making it ideal for sightseeing and enjoying outdoor cafes. Winters can be cold and foggy, while summers tend to be hot and busy with tourists.

Top attractions in Bologna include Piazza Maggiore, the Two Towers (Asinelli and Garisenda), Basilica di San Petronio, Archiginnasio of Bologna, Santo Stefano complex, the University of Bologna, and the Quadrilatero market area. These sites showcase the city's rich history, medieval architecture, and vibrant cultural life.

A 2 to 3-day visit is ideal to explore Bologna thoroughly. Spend the first day exploring the historic center and main squares, the second day visiting museums, churches, and towers, and use the third day for nearby food markets and leisurely walks or day trips to surrounding towns if time permits.

Bologna is best explored on foot due to its compact historic center. Public buses are available for longer distances, and a tourist pass can be useful for unlimited travel. From Bologna Guglielmo Marconi Airport, shuttle buses and taxis connect to the city center. Bologna Centrale train station is centrally located and well connected by local transport.

On Arovago you can compare experiences in Bologna from €5, with an average price of about €135 among the most reviewed activities. We compare offers from 7 travel websites: the same tour can cost different amounts on different sites, so it pays to compare before booking. Final prices are set by each partner.