21+ Delicious Things to Do in Bologna You Can’t Miss (Italy’s Food Capital)
Bologna wasn’t supposed to steal my heart. But after two trips—one whirlwind 3-day visit and a week-long stay while apartment hunting, it totally did. If you’re a fellow foodie, solo traveler, or just someone who plans their itinerary around pizza and pasta, then I’ve got 21 delicious things to do in Bologna to add to your list.
This guide isn’t just another roundup of postcard-famous landmarks or “hidden gems” that aren’t actually hidden. It’s packed with real things I actually did in Bologna. From stumbling into a huge food festival I didn’t even know was happening, to getting an amazing haircut and blow-dry (shoutout to Serena at Toni & Guy), to eating tagliatelle al ragù (not spaghetti bolognese)!
Bologna is the kind of place that feels real, authentic, and totally not staged. It won’t try to impress you. It won’t love-bomb you. It just is itself. It’s small enough to explore in a few days, rich enough to keep you dreaming about it for weeks, and also full of little surprises that remind you Italy isn’t just all about Rome, Venice, or Florence.
Whether you’re here for the food (you def should be), the architecture, or just a really good Lambrusco, here are 21 delicious things to do in Bologna, including what I’d absolutely do again, what I skipped (but still recommend), and why this city is quietly and unpretentiously one of Italy’s best.
21 Delicious Things to Do in Bologna
1. Go on a Food Tour in Bologna
If you only book or schedule one thing in Bologna, do a food tour. I took a walking food tour with Delicious Bologna, led by Mattia, a local who knows the city’s food scene like the back of his hand. It was absolutely one of the most fun (and tasty) tours I’ve ever done anywhere.
We sampled Parmigiano Reggiano that had been aged for years and even visited a fresh pasta shop where nonnas were casually hand-rolling tagliatelle like it was no big deal (but it was a big deal!).
Along the way, Mattia shared all kinds of cool food facts and stories that made the experience feel more like hanging with a local friend than a formal tour.
We ate so much food and wine, it was definitely worth the price of the tour, and then some.
We went through the Quadrilatero, some of the top restaurants only locals know, and ALSO took us to the spot where, if you stand just right, you’ll see the Fountain of Neptune in all his, um… glory. (You’ll see what I mean.)
TL;DR: Come hungry. Leave full, happy, and smug because you just unlocked Bologna’s food scene like a pro.
🍝 From hand-rolled pasta to Parmesan dreams! Join the same food tour I did and get a front-row seat to Bologna’s best bites. Reserve your spot now!
2. Try the Tagliatelle al Ragù (Don’t Call It Spaghetti Bolognese!)
Let’s clear this up right now: tagliatelle al ragù is the dish of Bologna—and no, it’s not the same thing as “spaghetti bolognese.” That’s like calling a Detroit-style pizza “deep dish.” It’s just… not it!
In Bologna, they serve their rich, meaty ragù over wide, flat ribbons of fresh tagliatelle that hold the sauce like a dream. The texture? Perfect. The flavor? Deep, savory, and I fell completely head-over-heels for it. I lost count of how many times I ordered it on my trip, and I have no regrets.
Even if you’re only in town for one meal, make it this. Look for a place that makes the pasta fresh (most do), order a glass of Lambrusco to go with it, and prepare for your “where has this been all my life?” moment.
A few favorite restaurants I tried during my time in Bologna:
- Ragu: a great fast-casual pasta option for solo travelers who feel awkward eating at a restaurant alone
- Trattoria Da Vito: totally under the radar spot, and the servers are so funny, charming, and welcoming
- Vagh in Ufezzi: A hole-in-the-wall with a low-key, family feel – we spent a luxurious 3 hours there having lunch!
Hot tip: Don’t ask for parmesan on top of your pasta unless it’s offered. You’re in ragù territory now. Respect it.
3. Take a Parma Cheese & Ham Factory Tour
If you’re the kind of person who wants to know exactly how your favorite cheese is made, this tour is made for you. The Parma Cheese & Ham Factory Tour takes you behind the scenes of how Parmigiano Reggiano and Prosciutto di Parma come to life. And you’ll get tastings, of course!
Now, I’ll be straightforward. It’s not cheap, which is why I didn’t personally do it *yet* because I’m on a tight budget while I hustle to make my full-time travel blogging dreams a reality. Which, side note, if you would like to support my work and buy me a coffee, I’d be endlessly grateful!
But let me tell you, this tour is absolutely on my list for next time. This is one of those “worth the splurge” foodie experiences where you’ll get to smell the aging cheese, walk through curing rooms, and learn how strict the production rules are.
This tour, in particular, is nice because they’ll pick you up straight from Bologna and drive you to Parma. Easy peasy.
If you are a total foodie who wants to go behind the scenes and learn how everything is made in Italy, this is the tour for you. Don’t miss it!
4. Attend a Local Food Festival
I didn’t plan on attending a food festival in Bologna. I just walked into Piazza Maggiore one Saturday and suddenly found myself surrounded by giant wheels of cheese and people very passionate about olive oil. Turns out I had stumbled into In Villaggio Coldiretti, a food festival that showcases local producers from all over Italy.
It was a full-on sensory overload, in the best way. I tried two different street foods (both amazing) and washed it all down with an artisanal Sardinian beer (which strangely, I never tried before, even when I lived there for almost a year), all for about €10 total. Budget traveler dreams, honestly.
If your visit lines up with a festival like this, go. You’ll get to try regional specialties from places you might not even make it to on your trip, plus meet some of the producers and learn where your food actually comes from.
Pro tip: Check the Coldiretti website or local event listings before your trip. Or just wander around like I did and hope for the best!
5. Sip Local Lambrusco Wine
I used to think that fizzy red wine wasn’t classy. Well, I was totally wrong. I changed my mind entirely when I had my first sip of Lambrusco in Bologna!
This lightly sparkling, slightly dry red is the wine the Emilia-Romagna region is known for. Locals drink it with everything from tagliatelle al ragù to salumi boards, and once you try it, you’ll totally see get why. It’s refreshing, low in alcohol, and cuts through all that glorious fat.
I had my first glass during the food tour I took with Delicious Bologna (above). It’s also affordable and served everywhere, from casual osterias to wine bars tucked down Bologna’s quiet alleyways.
Not sure where to start? Just ask for a glass of Lambrusco wherever you eat. It’s hard to go wrong.
6. Shop and Wander the Quadrilatero Market
If you’re the type of traveler who would rather browse cheese counters than shop for clothes, the Quadrilatero Market is where you’ve got to go!
Just off Piazza Maggiore, this network of narrow medieval streets is packed with vendors selling fresh pasta, aged cheeses, salumi, local produce, and handmade tortellini. You can snack as you go or grab a stool at one of the many casual spots serving up wine, mortadella, and little plates of everything good in life.
It’s busy, but in that fun, buzzy way. Locals shop here, and if you take the food tour with Mattia of Delicious Bologna, you’ll get the chance to explore this area. My fellow foodies, this is one of the top things to do in Bologna!
7. Walk Under Bologna’s Iconic Porticoes
Bologna’s porticoes are simply stunning. I wanted to photograph every single one. They’re also everywhere.
There are over 38 miles of covered walkways in the city, making it one of the best places to wander on foot, even on a rainy day.
As a solo traveler, I loved how safe it felt to stroll under these arches. You can basically spend an entire afternoon wandering without ever checking your map. Some of them are elegant and polished, while others feel gritty and full of grafitti and stickers. It’s cool without trying to be cool, and 100% cinematic. A photographer’s dream.
If you want a destination for your walk, head toward the Portico di San Luca, the longest one in the world (over 600 arches!).
Or just follow your curiosity. You’ll probably stumble across a bakery you definitely didn’t need, but definitely deserve!
8. People-Watch in Piazza Maggiore
There’s something deeply satisfying about sitting in the middle of a city and doing absolutely nothing. Piazza Maggiore is the perfect place to do just that.
This is Bologna’s main square and the heart of the city. On any given day, you’ll see students sprawled out on the cathedral steps, devouring gelato, and friends catching up over espresso. It’s a mix of locals and tourists that somehow feels entirely blissful, not chaotic.
Grab a seat on the stone steps of the Basilica di San Petronio or grab a glass of lambrusco at Signorvino, which I did on this guided walking tour of Bologna’s bar scene. Either way, this is where the city breathes, and you get to soak it in.
Solo travel tip: This is the perfect spot to journal, people-watch, or pretend you live here now. No one will question it.
9. Browse Books at Librerie Feltrinelli
There’s something extra cozy about exploring a bookstore while traveling, and Librerie Feltrinelli in Bologna is the place you’ll want to check out. You really can’t miss it because it’s unmissable, right in front of Bologna’s two towers.
I stumbled in and ended up lingering way longer than I planned. Most of the books are in Italian (of course), but there’s also a solid English-language section tucked in the back. I didn’t buy anything because I’m traveling light, but it made my heart sing to be surrounded by all that knowledge.
They also sell magazines, travel guides, and stationery if you’re in the mood to romanticize your life with a fresh notebook. If you ask me, browsing Bologna’s bookstores is the perfect way to spend some time all to yourself and inspire your curiosity along the way.
10. Get a Haircut
After months of living in Sardinia and swimming in the salty sea, my hair was in dire need of some rejuvenation. So I booked an appointment at Toni & Guy in Bologna and met Serena.
She saved my hair. Serena gave me an excellent haircut and knew exactly what to do with my huge head of curls. The salon is modern and English-speaking-friendly, which is a win if your Italian is still shaky like mine (although I’m making progress thanks to 30 days straight of practicing with Babbel)!
For solo travelers, a good haircut can feel like a mini reset. And if you’re traveling long-term (or scouting for apartments like I was), this is both self-care and a necessity.
Pro tip: Book ahead if you’re visiting on a weekend. Italians take hair styling seriously, and some of the best stylists around the world are Italian.
11. Climb the Torre dell’Orologio for Sunset Views
Most of Bologna’s towers are closed to the public right now, but the Torre dell’Orologio (Clock Tower) is still climbable and 100% worth it.
I went on my last afternoon in town, around 4 p.m. in November, which timed out perfectly with sunset. Try to go on a clear day, though, because unfortunately, I got unlucky and it was pretty foggy/smoggy on my visit (photos still came out pretty cool though, with some editing).
The climb is short, but also each step doesn’t have a lot of travel, so wear good shoes and be careful. It costs €10.
From the top, you’ll get a panoramic view over Piazza Maggiore and the surrounding rooftops—ideal for soaking in the city one last time before dinner (or departure).
Pro tip: Go on a clear, sunny day at golden hour if you can swing it. Even with haze, the view was pretty magical.
12. See the Two Towers (Le Due Torri) From the Ground
Bologna’s Two Towers are the Asinelli and the Garisenda. The catch is, you can’t climb the towers right now because they’re closed for safety reasons. They’re still an absolute must-see, and you can gaze up at them longingly from the ground.
These medieval towers are leaning. They’re a huge defining feature of the city. You’ll see them virtually every time you look out of a window from a high floor, but walking right up to them gives you the best view of just how tilted they really are.
And let’s not forget, they’re also a great landmark to use when your phone dies and you’re trying to find your way back to your hotel (not that I’d know anything about that… ahaha).
13. Visit the Basilica di San Petronio
Right in the middle of Piazza Maggiore is Bologna’s iconic basilica, and yes, I definitely recommend you go inside. I only saw the exterior on my first visit to Bologna, but I made sure to explore the interior on my second visit, and I’m glad I did. It’s beautiful.
Basilica di San Petronio is massive and completely unique. The façade is half marble and half brick, because funding ran out (naturally). Inside, you’ll find dramatic ceilings, rosy red walls, and quiet, hushed calm.
It’s free to go inside, but if you want to visit the museum or climb the terrace (it’s only open Saturdays and Sundays – and don’t be late), there’s a small fee. On a whim, I tried to go up to the terrace on a Sunday afternoon and showed up 15 minutes late, and they wouldn’t let me in!
Heads up: The basilica isn’t Vatican-level ornate, but that’s kind of what makes it feel more real. That’s Bologna’s entire vibe in a nutshell.
14. Check Out the Fountain of Neptune From the Secret Spot
At first glance, Fontana del Nettuno looks like just another beautiful fountain (I’m sorry! I said it). But stand in the right spot, and you’ll catch an angle that makes it look like Neptune is… a little more anatomically blessed than usual 🙃
Locals know it. Tour guides love it. And yes, it’s hilarious.
The “magic spot” is marked by a stone on the ground. Look for it behind the statue, near the archways. If you take almost any walking or food tour, the tour guide will most likely point it out to you.
While you’re taking a photo of this beautiful optical illusion, maybe don’t zoom in too much. Or do. I won’t judge.
15. Walk (or E-bike) to the San Luca Sanctuary
The Portico di San Luca is the longest covered walkway in the world at 3.8 kilometers long, leading uphill to the Sanctuary of the Madonna di San Luca. It’s a church that sits dramatically above the city. You’ll love the views from here.
You can walk it, but plan to spend at least 3 – 4 hours doing the entire thing and sightseeing along the way. You can also take an e-bike if you’re short on time.
Either way, the payoff is big: sweeping views of Bologna, fresh air, and a quiet moment that feels a world away from the city below.
Travel tip: Go early in the morning or late afternoon for shade and fewer crowds. And bring a bottle of water, especially if you’re walking it in warmer months.
16. Try a Cooking Class in a Local Home
If you’ve ever watched one of the episodes of Stanley Tucci’s Searching For Italy, where they make handmade pasta, a cooking class in Bologna is your chance to try it out firsthand.
A cooking class in a local’s home is high on my list of things to do in Bologna. In a pasta making class, you’ll typically learn to make dishes like tortellini, tagliatelle al ragù, or even classic Italian desserts. It’s fun, delicious, and way more fun than watching another YouTube tutorial at home.
Bonus: you get to eat everything you make! And probably drink some wine while you do it. A total win-win, in my eyes.
Pro tip: Look for classes that take place in someone’s home for that cozy, real-Bologna vibe. Extra points if a nonna is involved.
🍷 Dreaming of tagliatelle & wine with a local? This Bologna cooking class brings that fantasy to life—with you in the kitchen. Sign up now!
17. Photograph Bologna at Golden Hour
Bologna really knows how to turn up its photogenic appeal when the sun starts to get lower in the sky. The shadows get long on the porticos and it’s absolutely irresistible.
The terracotta rooftops and moody alleyways light up in a soft, orangey glow that makes even a random side street look like a full-on movie set. I am a total sucker for terracotta rooftops. I’m still swooning just thinking about the view.
Bring your favorite travel camera or just shoot with your phone. Either way, it’s fun to wander around aimlessly, get your creative juices flowing, and see what your eye is drawn to.
Golden hour here hits different. It’s quiet, cinematic, and feels like the city is just dying to tell you a secret. I spent multiple evenings just wandering aimlessly with my phone out, whispering “okay, wow…” to no one in particular.
Best spots for golden hour wandering:
- Piazza Santo Stefano (extra peaceful)
- Via dell’Indipendenza
- Literally anywhere under the porticoes
- That moment when you’re a little lost but everything looks dramatic and perfect
Pro tip: Don’t rush to “see something.” Golden hour is your sign to slow down, people-watch, and let Bologna show off a little.
18. Explore the Santo Stefano Religious Complex
Tucked just a few minutes walk from Piazza Maggiore is Santo Stefano. It’s actually seven connected churches (wild, right?), all layered together in a mix of styles and time periods that somehow works beautifully. I took a walking tour on my first day in Bologna, and our guide took us inside.
Wandering through the cloisters and courtyards here is a good idea if you’re looking to avoid crowds. It’s quiet and a little mysterious. Honestly, I wish I spent more time here and will be going back whenever I get back to Bologna.
Even if you’re not big on churches, this one’s worth a stop. Plus, if you like flea markets, there’s frequently a vintage market in the piazza out front on Saturdays and Sundays.
19. Take a Free Walking Tour to Learn the City’s History
If you’re new to Bologna, a free walking tour is the best way to get your bearings. I took one through Free Walking Tour Italia, and it was the perfect intro to the city.
Our guide was amazing. She was super knowledgeable and she took us through all the major sites and into the Santo Stefano complex, which I probably would’ve walked right past on my own. It gave me a solid sense of the layout, the city’s layered history, and which spots I wanted to come back to later.
I always try to do a free tour on my first day in a new city. It makes navigating on your own way easier, plus you usually get insider tips you won’t find in a guidebook.
Tip: It’s technically free, but always bring cash to tip your guide.
20. Visit Bologna’s Botanical Garden
When you need a break from pasta, head to the Botanical Garden of the University of Bologna, which is one of the oldest in Europe and so underrated.
Tucked just north of the city center, this garden is full of quiet paths, shaded benches, greenhouses, and plants from all over the world. It’s free to enter, rarely crowded, and feels like a deep exhale after a busy morning of sightseeing or a very heavy lunch.
Solo traveler bonus: it’s the kind of place where you can wander slowly, journal, or just sit and eavesdrop on Italian grandparents talking about the weather.
Tip: It’s open most days, but check hours online before you go. Like many places in Italy, it may be unexpectedly closed for a holiday, so check before you head over.
21. Soak in a City That Feels Real
Here’s the thing about Bologna: it’s not trying to impress you. It’s not posh like Florence, and it’s not huge like Rome. It’s crooked, off-center, and definitely not perfect. And, isn’t that kind of a relief?
It’s not packed with influencers posing in front of fountains or crowds lining up for hours to see something they don’t actually care about. Locals live here. They work here. They eat incredible food without even posting about it. And for a solo traveler or anyone craving a more authentic Italian vibe in a real, breathing city, that kinda feels like magic.
Sure, there’s history, architecture, and more tagliatelle than your jeans can handle, but it’s really the feel of Bologna that sticks with you.
It’s the casual pace. The loud, argumentative conversations in cafés. The young student energy. The way you can just exist in the city without feeling like a tourist in a theme park.
Bottom line: Bologna is the real deal. And once you get a taste (literally and figuratively), you’ll probably start looking at apartments, too. I sure did!
Where to Stay in Bologna
Whether you’re popping in for a few days or planning to stay longer, Bologna has a range of great spots for solo travelers, couples, and budget-conscious food lovers.
Budget-Friendly: Hostel on Via Irnerio
On my first trip, I stayed at a hostel on Via Irnerio. A super central area with easy access to restaurants, shops, and public transit. I’ve actually stayed here twice and came back because the mattress was so, so comfortable.
I slept like a rock. Dopa Hostel is clean, social without being rowdy, and perfect if you’re just in town for a few nights.
🛌 The comfiest hostel bed I’ve ever had. For real. Book your stay at Dopa Hostel and sleep like a dream.
Cozy & Cute: Apartment near Sant’Orsola Hospital
During my longer stay, I booked an apartment I found on Booking.com. It was quiet, safe, and had everything I needed to work, cook, and pretend I lived in Bologna.
And, it had a super comfortable mattress. If you can’t already tell, I’m really big on booking a place with a comfortable bed! Makes ALL the difference, in my opinion. Getting a good night’s rest is so important to me, especially when I travel.
I loved this apartment. 10/10 would stay here again.
It’s perfect for:
- Longer visits
- Digital nomads / remote workers
- People who need a break from hostel life and want to cook at home
Tip: Bologna’s city center is walkable, so no matter where you stay, you’ll likely be close to everything. But booking near Piazza Maggiore, Via dell’Indipendenza, or the university area will put you in the heart of the action.
📍Staying longer? Find a safe, central Bologna apartment that feels like your own. Book the apartment I stayed at in Bologna.
Bologna Travel FAQs
Is Bologna worth visiting?
Yes, Bologna is absolutely worth visiting—especially if you love food, walkable cities, and fewer crowds than Florence or Venice. It has a relaxed, local vibe with tons of history, culture, and carbs. You can experience a lot in just 3–5 days without feeling rushed.
Is Bologna safe for solo female travelers?
Bologna is very safe for solo female travelers. It’s walkable, well-lit at night, and generally feels chill and respectful. I walked alone daily and never felt unsafe—even in the quieter neighborhoods. Just follow normal city smarts like you would anywhere.
How many days do you need in Bologna?
You can see the highlights of Bologna in 2–3 days, but 4–5 days gives you time to slow down, explore the food scene, and take a day trip or two. It’s the perfect city for a long weekend or a laid-back stop between Venice and Florence.
Can you do Bologna as a day trip?
Yes, Bologna works as a day trip from cities like Florence, Milan, or Venice thanks to Italy’s high-speed trains. But honestly? It deserves more than a quick bite of tagliatelle. Stay a night or two if you can—it’s better when you don’t have to rush.
What food is Bologna famous for?
Bologna is famous for tagliatelle al ragù (not spaghetti bolognese), tortellini in brodo, mortadella, and Parmigiano Reggiano. It’s basically Italy’s food capital—and you’ll eat really, really well here. Bonus: it’s also home to traditional balsamic vinegar and Lambrusco wine.
Is English spoken in Bologna?
Yes, most people in restaurants, hotels, and shops speak at least basic English—especially in the center. But a few Italian phrases will go a long way, and locals definitely appreciate the effort. (Also a great excuse to practice if you’re using something like Babbel!)
Final Thoughts on Visiting Bologna
Bologna might not get the hype that cities like Rome or Florence do—and honestly, that’s part of the charm. It’s a place that feels real, where you can slow down, eat incredibly well, and get to know Italy without the selfie-stick circus. Whether you’re traveling solo, apartment hunting like I was, or just here to chase carbs and porticoes, this city has a way of pulling you in quietly and completely.
Come for the tagliatelle. Stay for the vibe. And maybe, like me, consider moving here!
Read More About Planning a Trip to Italy
- 21 Delicious Things to Do in Bologna You Can’t Miss (Italy’s Foodie City)
- 15+ Best Restaurants in Alghero, Sardinia: A Local’s Guide
- 10 Best Alghero Beaches, Ranked by a Local Expat
- 5 Tips for Visiting Pompeii in One Day
- How to Get to the Amalfi Coast, Italy
- What to Wear Backpacking in Italy
- Discovering My Italian Genealogy in Sicily
Planning a trip right now? Here are a few top resources I use on every trip:
🏨 Booking.com for great deals on hotels.
🎟️ GetYourGuide for incredible tours around the world.
🌍 Faye for travel insurance with great customer support.
📞 eSIM for staying connected in the air, on a cruise ship, or exploring on foot.
🗣️ Babbel for brushing up on my language skills.
