Every year, All Saints’ Day (Ognissanti) marks the arrival of deep autumn in Bologna. The city softens into ochre and brick tones, the arcades echo under light rain, and the scent of roasted chestnuts and truffles fills the streets. In 2025, the holiday falls between Friday, October 31 and Sunday, November 2 – a short break, but long enough to rediscover the city’s rhythm. If you’re planning a visit during the All Saints’ weekend and want to explore the city beyond seasonal events, our guide to things to do in Bologna highlights historic markets, cultural landmarks, and culinary experiences across the city.
Here’s a guide to the most interesting ways to spend the weekend: from truffle fairs and walking routes to music, art, and quiet corners of Bologna that reveal the city’s character in autumn.
1. Walk Bologna with the Urban Trekking Festival
From October 31 to November 1, Bologna takes part in Italy’s National Urban Trekking Festival, a nationwide initiative celebrating cities that can be explored on foot. This year’s theme invites walkers to rediscover Bologna through its lesser-known routes, ancient porticoes, and quiet gardens.
There are 17 itineraries – 11 in Bologna and six in the surrounding hills – including accessible and family-friendly options. Some walks end with small concerts or readings, turning a simple stroll into a cultural experience.
Insider tip: registration typically opens in mid-October and places tend to fill quickly.
2. Halloween Among Castles and Porticoes
Bologna approaches Halloween with a mix of humour and theatre. Between late October and early November, events take place both in the city and in nearby villages, ranging from performances and themed parties to family activities.
Some events take place in historic locations such as Rocchetta Mattei or theatres across the city, while others are organised in larger venues and cultural spaces.
Families often choose daytime activities with themed games and seasonal events, while the evening atmosphere becomes livelier with concerts and performances.
3. Tartufesta: The Scent of the Hills
Autumn in Bologna is the season of the white truffle, and Tartufesta celebrates it across the surrounding hills. From mid-October to early November, villages such as Sasso Marconi, Valsamoggia, Monghidoro, and Grizzana Morandi host markets, tastings, and food events dedicated to the prized ingredient.
Each town gives the festival its own character. Some focus on food markets and truffle-dog demonstrations, while others offer guided walks and special restaurant menus. The atmosphere is simple and convivial, with locals gathering under striped tents to taste seasonal dishes and regional wines.
Travel note: Sasso Marconi is one of the easiest locations to reach from Bologna and often hosts events during the All Saints’ weekend.
4. Inside Lucio Dalla’s Home
For something quieter and more intimate, step into the world of Bologna’s beloved musician Lucio Dalla. Guided visits allow visitors to explore his home near Piazza dei Celestini, where the singer-songwriter lived and composed many of his most famous works.
Looking for an authentic food experience?
Join our Foodie’s Delight Tour – Parmigiano Reggiano, balsamic vinegar & cured meats in one unforgettable day.
The hour-long tour moves through rooms filled with instruments, artwork, and personal objects that reveal the creative life of one of Bologna’s most influential cultural figures.
Best time to go: a late-morning visit followed by lunch nearby pairs perfectly with a quiet walk under Bologna’s porticoes.
5. Art for the Long Weekend
Several exhibitions remain open through early November, offering a cultural counterpoint to the festive atmosphere. These include historical art collections, themed exhibitions exploring myth and storytelling, and contemporary works presented in museums and historic palaces across the city.
Most galleries are located within walking distance of the historic centre, making them easy to combine with a coffee under the porticoes or a visit to the Clock Tower of Palazzo d’Accursio.
6. Food and Markets
The All Saints’ weekend is one of the best times of the year to eat in Bologna. Menus begin to reflect the season, featuring pumpkin-filled tortelloni, porcini mushrooms, truffle shavings, and slow-cooked meats.
Markets such as Mercato delle Erbe and the historic Quadrilatero bustle with locals shopping for chestnuts, cheeses, and Lambrusco. Visitors who want to understand the traditions behind these dishes often explore the markets and historic food streets as part of a Bologna food tour, which introduces the city’s iconic ingredients and culinary heritage.
Suggested Three-Day Itinerary
Friday, 31 October
Arrive and explore the historic centre or join an Urban Trekking walk.
Saturday, 1 November
Visit Lucio Dalla’s house, then head into the hills for Tartufesta before returning to Bologna for dinner.
Sunday, 2 November
Spend the morning visiting a museum or exhibition before enjoying a slow lunch in the historic centre.
The Mood of Bologna in November
Visiting Bologna at the start of November means stepping into a slower rhythm. The students have returned, cafés are filled with quiet conversation, and the city feels both introspective and welcoming.
The air smells faintly of rain, balsamic vinegar, and truffle – an unmistakable signature of the season. Whether walking under the medieval porticoes or discovering seasonal dishes in the markets, Bologna rewards curiosity with quiet depth.
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