2 Day Bologna Itinerary: A Complete Weekend Guide

Uncover the best of Bologna with this 2 day Bologna Itinerary including the best things to do.

Bologna, Italy’s hidden gem, may not see the same crowds as Rome or Florence, but it’s a city bursting with character, history, and mouthwatering cuisine. With its vibrant markets, medieval towers, and atmospheric streets lined by nearly 40 kilometers of UNESCO-recognized porticoes, Bologna offers an authentic Italian experience that’s easy to fall in love with.

This weekend guide is designed to help you uncover the best things to do in Bologna, from exploring grand piazzas to indulging in local culinary delights.

I spent days wandering all of Bologna’s beautiful streets and eating at the city’s top restaurants to give you a better idea of what you can expect in one of Italy’s most important culinary cities.

In just two days, you can get a fantastic feel for the city’s highlights and unique charm. Our 2 day Bologna itinerary includes everything you need to make the most of your stay, allowing you to see the main sights, sample traditional foods, and soak in Bologna’s one-of-a-kind atmosphere.

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What’s Bologna Famous For?

While the city trails way behind Rome, Florence, Milan, or Venice in terms of tourism numbers, Bologna is a hidden gem brimming with unique cultural, culinary, and historical riches. Known as “La Grassa” (The Fat One), “La Dotta” (The Learned One), and “La Rossa” (The Red One), Bologna boasts an identity as vibrant as its red-tiled rooftops and as satisfying as its rich, hearty cuisine.

The city’s streets, shaded by nearly 40 kilometers of iconic porticos, offer a charming atmosphere that combines medieval architecture with a lively contemporary spirit.

Bologna is famous for being home to the world’s oldest university, founded in 1088, which brings a youthful energy and a diverse crowd to the city. 

Its food scene is unrivaled, known as the birthplace of some of Italy’s most beloved dishes, like tagliatelle al ragù (often known as spaghetti bolognese outside Italy), mortadella, balsamic vinegar, and of course Parmigiano Reggiano cheese. 

With historic piazzas, bustling markets, and a culture that treasures slow food and quality over quantity, Bologna is a feast for all the senses. Whether you’re an art lover, a foodie, or simply seeking an authentic Italian experience, Bologna offers an immersion into Italy’s lesser-seen, and perhaps most delightful, side.

Best Time to Visit Bologna

The best time to visit Bologna is in late spring (May and June) or early autumn (September and October). These months offer a perfect mix of pleasant weather, ranging from mild to warm, and fewer tourists than in Italy’s high summer season. 

The temperatures make exploring Bologna’s streets, markets, and historic sites comfortable without battling the intense heat or peak crowds. Plus, these seasons bring an inviting atmosphere to Bologna’s piazzas and alfresco dining spots, creating the ideal conditions for travelers to immerse themselves fully in the city’s vibrant culture.

I visited in January, in the dead of winter, and Bologna truly surprised me. While temperatures were cooler, they were far from unbearable. Even better, the lack of tourists meant I could experience the city’s authentic, local atmosphere, with plenty of room to wander and interact with the Bolognese.

Because Bologna is a lively, working city, it stays open year-round, unlike in more seasonal destinations like Puglia, where I live, where many businesses close during the low season. 

Winter in Bologna offered a delightful, slow-paced charm, making it a great option if you’re seeking a quiet, more personal experience from your Bologna itinerary or a European winter escape. 

Are 2 Days in Bologna Enough?

A Two day Bologna itinerary is enough to get a satisfying overview of the city’s main attractions and experience its rich culture and cuisine. Bologna’s city center is compact and highly walkable, allowing you to see a lot in a short amount of time.

You can easily explore iconic spots like Piazza Maggiore, the Two Towers, the historic Quadrilatero market district, and much more in a single day. 

This makes it possible to balance sightseeing with leisurely meals and even a few café breaks to soak in the city’s unique atmosphere. While there’s always more to uncover in Bologna, two days provide a well-rounded introduction to its highlights without feeling rushed. 

If you have more time you can plan more time in the city and take things slower, or take a few day trips, perhaps to Modena or to the wonderful town of Dozza. 

Getting to Bologna

Getting to Bologna is straightforward, with multiple options to suit every travel style. If you’re flying in, Bologna Guglielmo Marconi Airport (BLQ) is the main gateway, located just 6 kilometers northwest of the city center.

The airport connects to many major cities in Europe and beyond, making it an easy entry point for international travelers. Once you land, getting into the city is quick and convenient.

The Marconi Express, a monorail service, links the airport to Bologna Centrale, the city’s central train station, in about 7 minutes. Taxis and rideshares are also available, taking around 15 minutes to reach the heart of Bologna.

Arriving by train is also an excellent option, especially if you’re traveling within Italy or from other parts of Europe. Bologna Centrale is one of Italy’s main rail hubs, with high-speed connections to cities like Florence, Milan, Venice, and Rome.

Trenitalia and Italo trains offer frequent services, making it easy to plan a day trip or continue your journey after exploring Bologna. Check train schedules and book tickets here. 

The station is a short walk or quick bus ride from the historic center, making train travel a convenient and eco-friendly choice.

For those who prefer driving, Bologna is well-connected by Italy’s extensive autostrada network. The A1, A13, and A14 motorways all pass near Bologna, linking it to northern and southern Italy.

While driving allows flexibility, parking in the city center can be challenging due to Bologna’s ZTL (Limited Traffic Zone), which restricts vehicle access to protect historic areas. 

If you’re arriving by rental car, it’s best to use the public parking lots that are available on the outskirts, and from there, it’s easy to take a short bus or taxi ride into the heart of the city.

For those staying within the city center, however, walking or using public transportation is the best way to experience Bologna’s charming streets without the hassle of navigating narrow lanes and limited parking.

​While I got to Bologna by car (it was a lengthy stop for me on the way home to Puglia), you do not need to rent a car to see the city itself. 

Getting Around Bologna

Getting around Bologna is a breeze, thanks to its compact and pedestrian-friendly layout. The city center is walkable, with most of Bologna’s top attractions located within a short distance of each other, making strolling the best way to experience its charming streets and iconic porticos. 

For longer journeys or when you need a break from walking, the city has an efficient bus network operated by TPER, which covers the main sites and neighborhoods. Single tickets are inexpensive and can be purchased at kiosks, newsstands, or directly on board for a slightly higher fee. 

Biking is also popular in Bologna, and the city offers rental bikes for a scenic ride along its bike-friendly paths. Taxis and rideshare services are available but are generally less necessary in such a walkable city.

With so many options, getting around Bologna is simple, allowing visitors to enjoy its atmosphere and attractions at their own pace.

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Best Things to Do in Bologna Over 2 Days

Over two days in Bologna, you’ll have ample time to explore the best places this historic city has to offer, from its ancient squares to its vibrant markets. Discover iconic landmarks, savor incredible food, and enjoy some of the best views of Bologna’s red rooftops and medieval towers.

Here’s your guide to experiencing Bologna’s highlights at a relaxed, enjoyable pace.

Marvel at Piazza Maggiore

Piazza Maggiore is the heart of Bologna and an essential first stop for any visitor on a Bologna itinerary. This grand, open square has been the center of civic life since the Middle Ages and remains one of the city’s most vibrant spots. 

Surrounded by historic buildings with stunning architecture, Piazza Maggiore offers a sense of Bologna’s long and fascinating history. Here, you’ll find the Basilica di San Petronio, an imposing Gothic structure that dominates one side of the square.

Nearby, the Palazzo d’Accursio, Bologna’s historic town hall, is another architectural highlight worth exploring. Climb to the top for views over Piazza Maggiore and the city’s iconic terracotta rooftops (more on that later). 

Beyond its historical appeal, Piazza Maggiore is also a lively social hub, where locals and tourists alike gather. Cafés and gelaterias around the square provide the perfect place to relax, people-watch, and soak up the atmosphere.

Whether you’re interested in history, architecture, or simply observing the rhythms of Bolognese life, Piazza Maggiore is a must-visit that embodies the essence of Bologna.

Visit Piazza del Nettuno

Piazza del Nettuno, adjacent to Piazza Maggiore, is a fascinating square in Bologna and home to one of the city’s most iconic landmarks: the Fontana del Nettuno (Fountain of Neptune). Created in the 16th century by the celebrated Flemish sculptor Giambologna, the fountain is a striking bronze masterpiece that commands attention. 

Neptune, the Roman god of the sea, stands proudly atop the fountain, his powerful form surrounded by four cherubs representing the Ganges, the Nile, the Amazon, and the Danube rivers—symbolizing the spread of Papal power across the world.

This statue isn’t just a display of artistic skill; it’s also a fountain rich in local legend. One of the most popular stories revolves around Giambologna’s ingenious solution to a commission restriction: Neptune’s hand is strategically positioned as if to create an optical illusion, making the statue appear more anatomically impressive when viewed from a particular angle. The statue has since become a point of pride and humor among Bolognese locals.

Basilica di San Petronio

The Basilica di San Petronio is one of Bologna’s most remarkable and distinctive landmarks. Located along Piazza Maggiore, this Gothic masterpiece is the tenth-largest church in the world and the largest brick church in existence. 

Construction began in 1390, with ambitious plans to make it even larger than St. Peter’s Basilica in Rome. However, the structure remains unfinished to this day, with its unique, partially completed facade showcasing both brick and marble—a feature that has become a symbol of Bologna’s character and resilience.

Inside, the basilica is just as captivating. Its vast interior houses an impressive collection of artwork and historical artifacts, including the largest sundial in the world, designed in 1655 by the Italian astronomer Giovanni Domenico Cassini.

The sundial stretches over 66 meters across the floor, casting light patterns that once helped set the standards for timekeeping.

Beyond its art and architecture, the Basilica of San Petronio has a deep connection to Bologna’s identity. Dedicated to the city’s patron saint, Saint Petronius, it has long been a place of gathering and reverence for locals.

Visiting the basilica offers not only a glimpse into the city’s religious heritage but also a sense of Bologna’s enduring, community-centered spirit.

Stroll Through The Quadrilatero

Strolling through the Quadrilatero district is like stepping back in time to Bologna’s medieval roots. This bustling area, with its narrow cobbled streets and lively market stalls, is packed with authentic local shops and specialty food stores that highlight Bologna’s legendary culinary scene.

Wandering through the Quadrilatero, I just couldn’t resist the tempting displays of fresh pasta, handmade tortellini, aged Parmigiano-Reggiano, and cured meats. The aromas alone are enough to make anyone fall in love with this city.

One of the highlights here is the Mercato di Mezzo, an indoor market that’s been a gathering spot for food lovers since the Middle Ages. The market offers everything from freshly made pasta to artisanal gelato, and it’s a great place to grab a quick bite or sample local specialties. 

I found myself happily sampling mortadella and prosciutto from one vendor, then moving on to a different stall for a glass of local wine. The Mercato di Mezzo is vibrant and welcoming, offering a blend of traditional flavors with a modern twist.

Top Tip: Grab some local bites like cheeses and hams and then head to Osteria del Sole nearby. This wonderful, bring-your-own-food wine bar is the perfect place to dig into your market finds while sipping on some of the region’s best wine from the bar. It makes the perfect aperitif and a fantastic way to spend an evening on your 2 day Bologna itinerary.

Check out the Views from Torre dell’Orologio

For one of the best panoramic views in Bologna, head to Torre dell’Orologio, or the Clock Tower, which rises above Piazza Maggiore. Climbing this historic tower is well worth the effort, as it offers a breathtaking perspective over Bologna’s terracotta rooftops, medieval towers, and the beautiful rolling hills beyond the city.

The ascent isn’t too challenging, with a combination of stairs and an elevator option, making it accessible for most visitors.

Once at the top, the panoramic view of Piazza Maggiore is spectacular, providing a unique vantage point over the lively square below and a closer look at some of the city’s oldest and most iconic buildings, like the Basilica di San Petronio.

Standing above it all, you get a true sense of Bologna’s historic architecture, as well as its distinctive red hue, which has earned it the nickname “La Rossa” (The Red One). The Torre dell’Orologio experience is more than just a great view; it’s a moment to pause and take in the charm and history of Bologna from above.

Visit the Basilica of San Giacomo Maggiore

There’s no shortage of churches in Bologna, but the Basilica of San Giacomo Maggiore is a standout for its beautiful Renaissance architecture and peaceful atmosphere. Tucked away slightly from the bustling streets, this basilica feels like a hidden gem.

The basilica dates back to the 13th century and has a unique blend of Gothic and Renaissance styles that makes it feel both historic and elegant. 

One of the highlights is the Bentivoglio Chapel, which is adorned with richly colored frescoes and is a tribute to Bologna’s influential Bentivoglio family. I was taken aback by the intricate frescoes and the stunning altarpiece by famed artist Francesco Francia, which adds a captivating beauty to the interior so make sure to go inside.

Take in the Views from the Top of Asinelli Tower

The Asinelli Tower, along with its shorter companion, the Garisenda Tower, is one of Bologna’s most famous landmarks, collectively known as the “Two Towers.” Rising above the cityscape, the Asinelli Tower stands at nearly 100 meters, making it the tallest leaning tower in the world from medieval times. 

These towers date back to the 12th century, a period when noble families built towers throughout Bologna to demonstrate power and wealth. The Garisenda Tower, however, leans significantly due to foundational shifts over the centuries, giving it an unmistakable tilt that makes it a fascinating sight in its own right.

Climbing to the top of the Asinelli Tower rewards you with one of the best views of Bologna, offering a sweeping panorama of the city’s iconic red rooftops and the hills beyond. The ascent is more challenging, with almost 500 steps to the top, but it’s a rewarding way to see the city from above, especially as you get closer to the historic clouds of terracotta below.

2024 Update: The Asinelli Tower is currently closed for restoration works. For a similarly stunning view, head to the Torre dell’Orologio (Clock Tower) at Piazza Maggiore, which offers an excellent alternative vantage point over Bologna’s rooftops and bustling piazzas, but sadly not as high. 

Visit the Archiginnasio and Anatomical Theatre

Visiting the Archiginnasio and its Anatomical Theatre is like stepping into the heart of Bologna’s scholarly past. Originally part of the University of Bologna, the oldest university in the Western world, the Archiginnasio building is a beautiful and historic space filled with ornate coats of arms and frescoed walls that highlight its academic legacy. 

The highlight for me was the Anatomical Theatre, an exquisite wood-paneled room where medical students once studied anatomy using cadavers.

With its carved statues of notable physicians and a dramatic central dissection table, the theater felt both fascinating and eerie, offering a rare glimpse into the city’s history as a center of medical and scientific learning.

Snap a Photo Through the little Window on Via Piella

One of Bologna’s most charming hidden gems is the little window on Via Piella, a small viewpoint that offers a surprising glimpse of the city’s historic canal system. While today Bologna is often remembered for its medieval towers and endless porticos, it was once a bustling center of trade and industry powered by an extensive network of canals. 

Dating back to the Middle Ages, these canals supplied water for the city’s mills and factories, helping Bologna thrive as a major textile producer. Most of these canals were covered or diverted over time, making them almost invisible in modern Bologna.

Peering through the little window on Via Piella, I felt like I’d stumbled upon a secret piece of the city’s past, however. Known as the “Little Venice” window, it reveals a short section of the Canale delle Moline, one of the few remaining visible canals.

The view is picturesque, with pastel buildings lining the narrow waterway, reflecting Bologna’s industrial history and giving a rare peek into what the city once looked like. 

Snapping a photo here feels like capturing a piece of hidden Bologna—a reminder of the city’s layered history that lies just below the surface of its modern streets.

Visit the Sanctuary of the Madonna di San Luca

A visit to the Sanctuary of San Luca is a must for anyone wanting to experience Bologna’s beauty from above. Perched on a hill outside the city, this iconic basilica offers breathtaking views of Bologna and the surrounding countryside, especially if you go up a little before sunset when the city is bathed in a warm, golden light. 

To reach the sanctuary, you can embark on a scenic 4-kilometer walk from Piazza Maggiore, following the world’s longest continuous portico. The covered path, with its 666 arches and many, many stairs is both an architectural marvel and a historic pilgrimage route, making the journey as memorable as the destination.

The walk is gently uphill and provides occasional breaks to catch your breath and take in the view. For those who prefer a quicker option, a tourist train runs from the city center to the sanctuary, or you can take a short bus ride and skip the hike. 

Once at San Luca, the views are absolutely worth it—spanning over Bologna’s iconic red rooftops and out to the lush green hills. Inside the Sanctuary of San Luca, you’ll find a serene and beautifully adorned space that has drawn pilgrims for centuries.

The basilica, dedicated to the Madonna di San Luca, is home to a revered icon of the Virgin Mary, believed to have been painted by St. Luke and brought to Bologna from Byzantium. 

This sacred image, displayed above the main altar, is the focal point of devotion and has a deep connection to the city’s spiritual life. The sanctuary’s elegant Baroque interior is adorned with intricate frescoes, marble detailing, and several stunning altars, each adding to the sense of reverence that fills the space.

In addition to the main altar, take a moment to explore the smaller chapels along the side aisles, which hold beautiful works of art, including notable sculptures and paintings by renowned Italian artists. For those who want a truly memorable experience, head up to the dome when it’s open to the public.

From there, you’ll have a closer view of the basilica’s intricate ceiling and, through small windows, an elevated perspective of the surrounding hills. 

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Visit Mercato delle Erbe

A visit to Mercato delle Erbe is a must for anyone looking to experience Bologna’s vibrant food culture up close. Tucked away in the historic center, this lively indoor market is a paradise for food lovers, offering everything from fresh produce to local meats, cheeses, and handmade pasta.

The vendors here are friendly and knowledgeable, often sharing tips on how to prepare the ingredients they sell, which adds a personal touch to the shopping experience.

Beyond the traditional market stalls, Mercato delle Erbe has a selection of small eateries and bars where you can sit down and sample some of Bologna’s finest culinary offerings. From freshly made pasta dishes to artisanal pizza, it’s a great spot to enjoy a casual meal or grab a glass of local wine.

The market’s modern, bustling atmosphere, combined with its authentic Italian flavors, makes it a unique place to immerse yourself in Bolognese cuisine.

Eat your Way Through Bologna

Eating your way through Bologna is an absolute joy for anyone who loves Italian cuisine, as this city is the proud home of some of Italy’s most beloved dishes. Known as the culinary capital of Italy, Bologna offers a range of iconic foods that showcase the rich flavors and traditions of the Emilia-Romagna region. 

Eating, and a lot of it is a must on any Bologna itinerary.

Start with tagliatelle al ragù, the original version of what’s commonly known outside of Italy as “spaghetti bolognese.” The dish features thick, ribbon-like pasta topped with a rich meat sauce made from slow-cooked beef and pork. Trattoria Anna Maria, located in the heart of the city, is a local favorite for this classic dish.

For a true taste of Bolognese delicacies, don’t miss tortellini en brodo, tiny, handmade pasta parcels stuffed with meats and cheeses, served in a savory broth. Osteria dell’Orsa, a cozy spot with a traditional menu, serves excellent tortellini that locals rave about. 

Another local specialty is mortadella, a deliciously flavorful cured meat made from finely ground pork, typically sliced thin and served as an antipasto. Head to Salumeria Simoni in the Quadrilatero district for some of the best mortadella in town.

Of course, no food tour of Bologna would be complete without sampling Parmigiano-Reggiano, the “king of cheeses,” which is produced nearby and often served with local balsamic vinegar. For a unique experience, try the traditional aperitivo at Mercato delle Erbe, where you can sample small bites of various local specialties paired with regional wines.

Walk the Porticoes of Bologna

Walking the porticoes of Bologna is an experience unique to this city, where nearly 40 kilometers of covered walkways stretch through its streets, offering shelter and shade to residents and visitors alike.

Built over centuries, these iconic porticoes are now recognized as a UNESCO World Heritage site and have become a symbol of Bologna’s charm and architectural ingenuity. 

Each portico has its own distinct style and character, from elegant arches to intricate frescoed ceilings and stone columns with decorative capitals. Strolling through them, you’ll pass historic buildings, quaint cafes, and local shops, all while being protected from the elements—a perfect blend of practicality and beauty.

One of the most famous stretches leads from the city center up to the Sanctuary of San Luca, creating the world’s longest continuous portico, with 666 arches winding their way up the hill. Some other porticoes worth seeing out that I found on my trip are the gorgeous wooden porticoes of Via Marsala as well as the more well-trodden ones of Piazza Santo Stefano.

Visit the Seven Churches of Santo Stefano

Visiting the Seven Churches of Santo Stefano is a journey through centuries of Bologna’s religious and architectural history. Known locally as Santo Stefano, this complex of churches, courtyards, and cloisters is one of the city’s most treasured sites.

Originally built in the 5th century, the complex was intended to resemble Jerusalem’s Holy Sepulchre, creating a spiritual pilgrimage destination within Bologna. Over time, it evolved into seven interconnected churches, each with its own unique features and historical significance.

The complex includes beautifully preserved Romanesque and medieval architecture, with highlights like the Church of the Holy Crucifix, with its ancient crypt, and the Church of the Martyrium, housing the relics of Saint Petronius, Bologna’s patron saint. 

Wandering through Santo Stefano feels like stepping back in time, with each space offering a different atmosphere. Quiet and reflective, the Seven Churches are an inspiring visit, showcasing the layers of Bologna’s spiritual heritage.

Visit one of Bologna’s Museums

Bologna offers a fascinating selection of museums, each showcasing a unique aspect of the city’s rich cultural and artistic heritage. From ancient art to modern technology, there’s a museum for every interest. Here’s a look at some of the top museums to explore in Bologna:

Museo Civico Archeologico

Located in Piazza Maggiore, the Museo Civico Archeologico (Archaeological Museum) is a must for history buffs. This museum houses an impressive collection of artifacts from the Etruscan, Roman, and Egyptian periods, showcasing Bologna’s ancient past.

Highlights include the Etruscan artifacts excavated from nearby sites and one of Italy’s largest collections of Egyptian antiquities. The museum offers a unique glimpse into the early civilizations that once inhabited the region.

Pinacoteca Nazionale di Bologna

The Pinacoteca Nazionale (National Art Gallery) is home to an exceptional collection of Italian Renaissance art, featuring works by artists such as Raphael, Guido Reni, and the Carracci brothers. The museum is particularly notable for its pieces by Bolognese artists, giving visitors insight into the city’s contribution to the Renaissance. 

Art lovers will find this museum a highlight, with its beautiful collection housed in a former Jesuit novitiate. It’s one. of the top things to see in Bologna.

MAMbo – Museo d’Arte Moderna di Bologna

For a taste of contemporary culture, visit MAMbo, Bologna’s Museum of Modern Art. This museum showcases modern and contemporary art, with an emphasis on Italian artists from the 20th century onward.

The exhibitions frequently change, making it a dynamic space to explore the latest in art. MAMbo is perfect for those who want to experience Bologna’s thriving modern art scene in a thoughtfully designed, inspiring environment.

Where to Eat in Bologna

Our complete food guide to Bologna has everything you need to know about where to eat in Bologna, but if you’re looking for a few highlights, here are some must-visit spots. 

Where to Stay

On your Bologna itinerary, staying in the historic city center provides easy access to the city’s best sights, restaurants, and vibrant atmosphere. The central area offers a range of stylish and luxurious accommodations, perfect for travelers looking to combine comfort with convenience. Here are some of the best places to stay in Bologna:

Ready for your 2 days Bologna itinerary? Have any questions or comments about your trip? Let me know in the box below.

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