The Ducati museum in Bologna: fun for everyone!

Once you have explored some of the cultural and culinary highlights that await you in Bologna, it’s time to experience another side of Italian excellence: motor engineering and design at the Ducati Museum and Factory. Ducati has been producing motorcycles since 1946, and its museum — located at the factory headquarters — tells the story of how the brand evolved over more than 70 years.

This is not a dusty, old-fashioned museum, but a modern, award-winning attraction that appeals to visitors of all ages. It’s a perfect addition to any itinerary focused on food, culture, and iconic Italian craftsmanship. If you’re building a wider plan for your stay, you may also find inspiration in our guide to things to do in Bologna.

The Ducati Museum Collection

The museum opened in 1998 and has been designed to resemble an illuminated racetrack, displaying 33 iconic motorcycles from different periods of the company’s history. One of its most striking features is the spectator area, which is shaped like a giant red helmet — an instantly recognisable visual highlight.

After viewing the motorcycles on the “track”, visitors move through seven themed rooms that explore the brand, its technological evolution, and the vision behind Ducati. The exhibition covers the company’s early years, major innovations, and the decades leading up to the production of its first motorcycle.

The story begins with the Cucciolo (“puppy” in Italian), the first engine produced by the company in 1946 and designed by Aldo Farinelli. After World War II, Italy urgently needed affordable transport, and the Cucciolo — essentially a bicycle fitted with a small four-stroke engine — provided an economical solution capable of carrying two people across hilly terrain.

From there, the exhibition follows Ducati’s technological breakthroughs and racing achievements, including its success in Superbike World Championships. The final highlight is the Desmosedici, which introduced a new generation of high-performance racing engines.

Looking for an authentic food experience?
Join our Foodie’s Delight Tour – Parmigiano Reggiano, balsamic vinegar & cured meats in one unforgettable day.

Factory and Museum Tours

Guided tours of the factory and museum are conducted by official Ducati guides four times per day and must be booked in advance. Visits are generally available Monday to Friday; factory tours are not offered on Saturdays unless you are a member of the DOC (Ducati Owners Club).

Tour times are typically 09:15, 11:00, 13:45, and 15:30, with an entry cost of approximately €10. Bookings can be made online at www.ducati.com or by phone at +39 (0)51 6413343.

Getting There

Bologna is easily reached from all major Italian cities by train, plane, or car. Travel times are approximately one hour from Florence, two hours from Milan or Venice, and three and a half hours from Rome. From Bologna Airport, a taxi ride to the factory takes around 10 minutes.

From the city centre, one of the easiest options is to take a suburban train (around €1 and roughly 10 minutes), followed by a short taxi ride to the factory. Alternatively, buses are available but take longer (around 40 minutes with a change). You can get off at the “Borgo Panigale” stop and walk approximately 200 metres to the factory. Take bus number 36 or 39 to Via Lame, then change to number 13 towards Borgo Panigale.

Organised Ducati Tour in Bologna

For travellers who prefer not to manage reservations and public transport, Emilia Delizia can organise chauffeured Ducati museum and factory tours. We handle bookings and reservations and provide comfortable transport. You can also combine the Ducati visit with other nearby experiences such as supercar factory and collection tours in the area.

If you are organising multiple activities, transport, and timing for your stay, our Bologna travel planning hub provides a practical overview to help you structure your visit efficiently.