Looking for the best Bologna attractions? The Italian city offers plenty of cultural highlights and delicious Italian food! Discover the most charming spots, delightful streets, and lively squares.
Stroll through the beautiful arcades or climb one of the famous towers. End your day with a delicious homemade pasta. This way, you can enjoy a pico bello day during your city trip!
Did you know you can even travel to Bologna by train? It’s often cheaper and faster than by car! Another advantage: you can enjoy the various landscapes passing by instead of constantly keeping your eyes on the road.
Top Bologna attractions!
Below you’ll find the top attractions you absolutely must see during your stay!
Towers
The towers rising above the city are among the most striking attractions. Bologna was once known as la turrita, meaning the towered. Back then, there were about 200 towers, but over the years, many were destroyed due to war. Currently, 20 towers remain standing, two of which are open to visitors: Asinelli and Garisenda.
These are named after two wealthy families of the city. Each tower belonged to a wealthy family and was financed by them. The towers were a display of the families’ power and wealth. The taller the tower, the more powerful you were. Asinelli is currently accessible for climbing. Note: the tower is 97.6 meters high and consists of 496 steps. But the view you get in return is well worth it!
Piazza Maggiore
Piazza Maggiore is home to the most famous tourist attractions. In the Middle Ages, Bologna served as a hub for merchants. Traders from all directions came to negotiate at Piazza Maggiore. On this square, you can find buildings from the Middle Ages such as the Palazza del Podestà (the palace), the Palazza d’Accursio (the town hall), and the striking Basilica of San Petronio. This square remains the heart of the city and a beloved spot for tourists, locals, and students. Sit at one of the sunny terraces, order a glass of chianti, and enjoy the lively atmosphere of the square.
Arcades
Are you a fan of wandering around and visiting different attractions? Bologna is an excellent city for that! In this city, you can find many small streets with beautiful arcades. There are about 35 km of arcades. The longest arcade in the world is the walkway to the San Luca Basilica. It’s about 3.5 km long, and along the way, you’ll encounter 666 arches! Many pedestrians and cyclists use the arcades. Especially when it rains, the arcades can be a solution if you’re without an umbrella.
Bottega Portici – Indipendenza
No list of Bologna attractions would be complete without pasta! Why visit Bottega Portici – Indipendenza? Because this local restaurant is renowned for its homemade pasta. Choose your pasta and sauce and enjoy a delicious Italian dish. In the shop, you can see how the pasta makers perform their refined work. They are also happy to let you taste different pastas. Next to the shop, there is a restaurant area where you can sit and relax. Discover the tastiest pasta in the city at Bottega Portici!
Asinelli Tower
In enchanting Bologna, an iconic monument rises high above the city: the Asinelli Tower. With its imposing stature and rich history, this tower is an absolute must-see for every visitor.
Prepare for an adventurous climb to the top of this medieval beauty. At 97 meters, it is the tallest tower in Bologna. As you ascend, feel the excitement and anticipation with each step. Once at the top, you are rewarded with a breathtaking view over the city and the surrounding landscape.
The Asinelli Tower, built in the 12th century, is steeped in history. Imagine the builders who, with courage and determination, erected this majestic structure. As you gaze over the city, you feel a connection to the past and admiration for those who came before us.
The adventurous nature of the climb and the panoramic view make the Asinelli Tower an unforgettable experience. So seize the opportunity, dare the climb, and experience the grandeur of Bologna from great heights. The Asinelli Tower is a symbol of pride and splendor, and a must-visit attraction for all adventurers and history enthusiasts visiting this enchanting city.
Tickets: Buy online
Archiginnasio
In the heart of Bologna stands a building that transports you to bygone eras: the impressive Archiginnasio. This historic building, once serving as a university, exudes an atmosphere of knowledge and scholarship.
Upon entering the Archiginnasio, you immediately feel the weighty history etched into its walls. The carefully crafted wooden galleries, adorned with coats of arms and portraits, testify to a rich past.
Stroll through the marble corridors and marvel at the richly decorated rooms. The anatomical theater, where students once studied human anatomy, is a highlight not to be missed. Here, medical history comes to life.
Take the time to explore the impressive library, where ancient books and manuscripts are preserved in beautiful reading rooms. The scent of old paper and the silence of the space create an atmosphere of awe and respect for knowledge.
The Archiginnasio is not only a monument of the past but also a vibrant place where cultural events and exhibitions are held. It is a bridge between the present and the past, where tradition and innovation meet.
Fountain of Neptune
In the heart of Bologna, on the enchanting Piazza Maggiore, stands a masterpiece that captures the attention of every passerby: the impressive Fountain of Neptune. This majestic fountain, erected in the 16th century, exudes power and elegance.
As you approach the fountain, you are overwhelmed by its grandeur. The imposing statue of Neptune, the god of the sea, rises from the water, ready to display his might. With his muscular torso and trident, he radiates authority.
As you get closer, you hear the refreshing sound of the flowing water and feel the mist on your face. The fountain is a symbol of man’s triumph over the elements, a tribute to Bologna’s maritime history.
As you walk around the fountain, you admire the beautiful details of the sculpture. The play of light and shadow highlights the fine artistic skills embedded in this masterpiece.
The Fountain of Neptune is not only a visual spectacle but also a meeting place for locals and tourists. It is a place where stories are shared and memories are made.
Bologna bike tour: the highlights
Want to discover the above Bologna attractions in a short time? Hop on a bike with a local guide and let yourself be led through this fantastic city. The bike tour lasts only 2 hours and departs multiple times a day. While cycling, you’ll discover that the city is full of bikes and very bike-friendly. This is mainly due to the many international students who have settled here. Want to know more about this? Join the Bologna bike tour: the highlights!