Things to Do in Bologna: 2025 Guide
Welcome to Bologna, the culinary and cultural heart of Emilia-Romagna. This 2025 guide highlights the very best things to do in Bologna — from iconic landmarks to authentic food experiences. Whether you’re here for a weekend or a week, Bologna offers a perfect mix of flavor, history, and charm.
Why Visit Bologna?
Bologna is one of Italy’s most underrated gems. Known for its rich cuisine, medieval architecture, and vibrant local life, the city has something for every traveler. It’s less crowded than Florence or Venice but just as beautiful — with portico-covered streets, Renaissance art, and an unbeatable food scene.
It’s also perfectly located for day trips to Modena, Parma, and the surrounding countryside, making it an ideal base for exploring northern Italy.
More Amazing Things to Do in Bologna
Foodie’s Delight Food Tour
Indulge in the ultimate food lover’s experience with a guided tour through the finest culinary destinations in Bologna. Taste authentic Parmigiano Reggiano, aged balsamic vinegar, and traditional prosciutto while exploring the heart of Italy’s gastronomic heritage.
📍 Location: Bologna
⏳ Duration: Full-Day Tour
Cookery Lessons in Italy
Discover the art of Italian cuisine with hands-on cooking classes in Bologna, Modena, and Parma. Learn traditional recipes from expert chefs, including fresh pasta making, balsamic vinegar tasting, and authentic regional dishes. Whether you’re a beginner or a foodie, these immersive experiences will bring Italy’s culinary heritage to life.
📍 Location: Bologna
⏳ Duration: Varies by class
Gourmet Food Tour & Pasta Making Class
Experience the best of Bologna’s culinary traditions with a gourmet food tour that includes a hands-on pasta-making class. Taste locally produced cheeses, cured meats, and balsamic vinegar while learning the secrets of fresh Italian pasta from expert chefs.
📍 Location: Bologna
⏳ Duration: Half-Day Tour
Truffle Hunting in Italy
Join an authentic truffle hunting experience in the Italian countryside, guided by expert truffle hunters and trained dogs. Discover the secrets of this prized delicacy and enjoy a truffle-based tasting experience in the heart of Italy.
📍 Location: Bologna (Savigno)
⏳ Duration: Half-Day or Full-Day Tours Available
🚗 Bologna to Cinque Terre: Private Transfer & Gourmet Experience
Bologna to Cinque Terre: Private Transfer & Gourmet Experience A Seamless Journey from Emilia-Romagna to Liguria with Exclusive Culinary Delights Get a Quote Now Are you looking for a stress-free and luxurious way to travel from Bologna to Cinque Terre? Skip the hassle of trains and multiple connections—our private transfer…
Taste the Tradition: Bologna Food Walk
Bologna Gastronomy Experience: Eat, Drink, Explore Explore Bologna’s Culinary Delights on a Food Walking Tour. Bologna Foodie’s Delight Tour Starts at 10 am and ends at about 1 pm Embark on a culinary journey through Bologna, discovering the city’s rich gastronomic heritage. Stop 1: Begin with a taste of local…
Parmesan, Balsamic and Ham Tour From Modena or Bologna: Foodie’s Delight Tour A Culianry Adventure.
Foodie’s Delight Tour Parmesan, Balsamic and Ham Tour. Rated 4.9 ★★★★★ Based on 269 reviews on TripAdvisor Guests love our passionate guides, authentic food experiences, generous tastings, and seamless organization. View on TripAdvisor The Foodie’s Delight Tour – Modena & Bologna A gourmet half-day tour of Italy’s best flavors –…
History and Food walking tour in Bologna with Pasta Making Demonstration, and Gourmet Tasting.
Departure point: Your hotel in central Bologna or train station Duration : the tour lasts 2/3 hours. Start time: Suggested start time is 9.30 am. However it can be flexible. What is included: A Professional English speaking guide will lead your tour for the duration. What is not included: Entrance…
Our Recommendation for Bologna – Continued.
Visit Archiginnasio & Anatomical Theatre
Once the main building of the University of Bologna — the oldest in the Western world — the Palazzo dell’Archiginnasio is a must-visit. Its most intriguing feature is the Teatro Anatomico, a 17th-century carved wooden amphitheatre where anatomy lessons took place, complete with a marble dissection table and statues of famous physicians. This space offers a hauntingly beautiful glimpse into Bologna’s academic past and is a perfect cultural stop just minutes from Piazza Maggiore.
Source: Archiginnasio Bologna
Explore the National Art Gallery (Pinacoteca Nazionale)
Art lovers should not miss the Pinacoteca Nazionale, which houses masterpieces from the 13th to the 18th centuries, including works by Giotto, Raffaello, and Guido Reni. Located near the university district, this gallery reflects Bologna’s historic role in the development of the Italian Baroque and Emilian schools of painting. It’s a peaceful, enlightening experience, especially if you’re looking to take a break from food and architecture.
Source: Pinacoteca Nazionale di Bologna – Wikipedia
Discover the Botanical Garden (Orto Botanico)
Founded in 1568, the Orto Botanico di Bologna is one of the oldest botanical gardens in Europe and part of the university’s science department. Wander through greenhouses, medicinal herb beds, exotic species, and shaded forest paths right in the center of town. It’s a refreshing contrast to the stone and brick of Bologna’s historic core — ideal for a relaxed afternoon.
Source: Orto Botanico – Wikipedia
Relax at Giardini Margherita
The city’s most beloved public park, Giardini Margherita, dates back to the 19th century and was modeled after English landscape gardens. Locals come here to jog, picnic, or simply unwind. There are open-air cafes, a small lake, cycling paths, and plenty of shade — making it a favorite spot for families and couples. It’s an excellent place to slow down after a morning of sightseeing.
Source: Giardini Margherita – Wikipedia
Visit the Archaeological Civic Museum
Located in the 15th-century Palazzo Galvani, the Museo Civico Archeologico houses a vast collection of Etruscan, Roman, and Egyptian artifacts. Don’t miss the beautifully preserved Greek vases, mosaics, and one of Italy’s most complete Egyptian collections. It’s ideal for travelers interested in ancient civilizations and the pre-Roman history of Emilia-Romagna.
Source: Archaeological Civic Museum – Wikipedia
Explore the Quadrilatero Market
The Quadrilatero is Bologna’s oldest and most vibrant market district, dating back to Roman times. Nestled just off Piazza Maggiore, its narrow medieval streets are packed with gourmet food shops, fresh produce stalls, and traditional delis selling mortadella, Parmigiano Reggiano, and handmade pasta. It’s the perfect place to enjoy an aperitivo, sample local specialties, or pick up culinary souvenirs. The lively atmosphere blends history, flavor, and local life — ideal for food lovers and photographers alike.
Explore it on your own, or make it part of a Bologna food walking tour with expert guidance.