Bologna
1 Day Itinerary
10:30AM
Piazza Maggiore
Here you will find shopping - high end and more budget options (there is a fairly large Zara nearby) - food markets, restaurants and coffee shops.
11:00AM
Food Tour
If you really want to get the full effect of all the amazing food Bologna has to offer we suggest doing a food tour.
12:30PM
Lunch
If you decide not to do the food tour we suggest lunch at either of these delicious pizza places.
2:00PM
Palace of Archiginnasio
Owned by the University of Bologna and has a 17th century Anatomical Theater worth checking out.
2:30PM
Quadrilatero
Wander over to this area which has lots of markets and cute cafes to choose from. We like Via Drapperie for some great options.
4:00PM
Walk Around
If you feel like wandering around you can visit one of Bologna’s hidden canals. Google map Via Piella for the most famous canal in the area.
6:00PM
Aperitivo Time
Before dinner, get an apertivo in the Quadrilatero. We loved Osteria Angolo Orefici which had a guitarist busking right outside but there are tons of similar options!
7:30PM
Bolognese for Dinner
For dinner you cannot miss the opportunity to have authentic Tagliatelle al Ragu (Bolognese).
Some of our favorite restaurants are Da Cesari, Osteria Broccaindosso, La Salsamenteria Bologna and Trattoria di Via Serra. See our full restaurant list for all link
Some of our favorite restaurants are Da Cesari, Osteria Broccaindosso, La Salsamenteria Bologna and Trattoria di Via Serra. See our full restaurant list for all link
Distance From Florence
Takes 35-40 min by train. You may need to take the metro from Bologna Centrale but it is super easy!
Distance From Milan
Approx 1 hour without having to transfer although you may have to take the metro into Bologna upon arrival.
Distance From Rome
From 2-2.5 hours without transferring. You will need to get into Bologna from the train station but very easy.
Lunch & Dinner
Lunch & Dinner
Bar Pasticceria Impero
V
VE
Great spot for pastries. You can choose from their extensive options and you won't be disappointed!
$$
Website
Pizzeria Scallinatella
V
VE
Insane pizza. Recommended by a local. So good!!! They give you limoncello at the end.
$ - $$
Menu
Osteria Angolo Orefici
V
GF
DF
Great for aperitivo and can even stay for dinner. In a cute area.
$$
Menu
Da Cesari
V
GF
Amazing option for authentic bolognese. Try some of their meats to start. Cute restaurant that also has vegetarian options. Need a reservation.
$ - $$
Menu
La Salsamenteria Bologna
V
Delicious food with a young crowd. They even have chicken cutlet options if you need a pasta break. We also loved the risotto balls and the tiramisu.
$$ - $$$
Menu
Tamburini
V
GF
So cute! Get a charcuterie board you will not be disappointed!! We also loved the butter and sage tortellini and the chocolate covered mango for dessert! New find.
$$ - $$$
Instagram
Trattoria di Via Serra
V
GF
Very highly rated. Impossible to get a reservation but try for walk in. Amazing bolognese.
$$ - $$$
Website
Authentic Cooking Class
A few options to choose from and all worth it! It is not just a cooking class but has historical elements sprinkled throughout as well!
Piazza Maggiore
Head to this bustling area where you will find shopping - high end and more budget options (there is a fairly large Zara nearby) - food markets, restaurants and coffee shops. A good place to get a coffee.
Palace of Archiginnasio
Owned by the University of Bologna and has a 17th century Anatomical Theater worth checking out.
Quadrilatero Neighborhood
This is a very busy area with shops and markets and lots of cute places to wander around. We like Via Drapperie for some great options.
Bologna's Hidden Canals
If you feel like wandering around you can visit one of Bologna’s hidden canals. Google map Via Piella for the most famous canal in the area.
Wine Tasting
Sample 5 wines paired with snacks. Great option for an aperitivo activity!
Wine Walking Tour
Great way to view the city and taste some regional wines!