Weekend in Bologna: the perfect 3 day itinerary

Ahhh the perfect weekend in Bologna – where do I even start? If you’re looking for a weekend packed with insane food (yes, it’s literally where bolognese comes from), dreamy architecture, and that warm Italian vibe that surrounds you the second you arrive, Bologna is the place to be. It’s not as flashy as Rome or as touristy as Venice, but trust me, this city knows exactly how to charm you.

Whether you’re here to eat your weight in pasta (hello, tagliatelle al ragù 😍), sip an Aperol in the piazza, or just wander under those gorgeous porticos (did you know there are 38 kilometres of them?!), Bologna is the perfect spot for a chilled-out weekend escape. I went with zero expectations and left completely obsessed – it’s proper underrated.

Oh, and if you’re a foodie, this city is basically a foodie pilgrimage. Bologna is the capital of Emilia-Romagna, the region that gave us parmesan, balsamic vinegar, mortadella, and fresh pasta… so yeah, the food is on another level. Just two days here, and I promise you’ll be Googling flights back before you’ve even left.

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Table of Contents

Quick Mini Guide To a weekend in bologna

Don’t have a lot of time? Here’s a quick mini guide to Bologna.

My favourite Hotels with a view

Grand Hotel Majestic – Luxury stay with stunning city views near Piazza Maggiore.
Art Hotel Commercianti – boutique hotel with a rooftop terrace overlooking Bologna.

Best restaurants

Osteria dell’Orsa – Affordable tagliatelle al ragù.
Trattoria di Via Serra – great seasonal dishes, family-run.
Ristorante Da Cesari – Historic trattoria, classic Bolognese food.

activities whilst in town…

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Weekend in Bologna itinerary

Scroll down to see pictures below & more detail! You can walk everywhere in town.

Hotels with a view in Bologna

Art Hotel Commercianti

Boutique hotel with a rooftop terrace overlooking Bologna.

Grand Hotel Majestic “Già Baglioni”

Luxury stay with stunning city views near Piazza Maggiore.

Day 1

Stay at the stunning Grand Hotel Majestic or the Art Hotel Commercianti.
Explore Piazza Maggiore, the heart of Bologna, surrounded by stunning architecture like San Petronio Basilica. Perfect for people-watching with a coffee.
Go shopping at the many artisan shops dotted around the square and round the alleyways.
If you have time, book onto a pasta making class. After that, sip wine at a local wine bar—Emilia Romagna is famous for Lambrusco, a sparkling red wine that pairs perfectly with Italian food.
For dinner, head to Osteria dell’Orsa. It get’s busy, and there are queues down the street but it goes down quickly enough.

Day 2

Climb Torre degli Asinelli, the tallest leaning tower in Italy, for an epic view of the city. If you’re into history, this is one of the coolest landmarks in the western world—and yes, totally worth the steps!
Take a walking food tour to discover hidden gems, including the UNESCO World Heritage porticoes—Bologna’s famous arched walkways that stretch for miles.

Day 3

Foodie heaven: Indulge in Italian cuisine with fresh pasta, Parmesan cheese tour & lunch, from the Emilia Romagna region. If you love Italian food, this is THE place.
Visit the San Luca Sanctuary—either hike up through the 666 arches of the longest portico in the world or cheat and take the tourist train from the train station!

How Much Time Do You Need in Bologna?

3 days is the perfect amount of time, if you really want to experience Bologna properly. The city centre is compact, so you could rush through the main sights in a day, but Bologna isn’t a city to rush. With three days, you’ll have time to wander through its beautiful porticoes, soak in the lively atmosphere, and, most importantly, eat at multiple amazing restaurants—because food is a huge part of the experience here. You’ll also get to enjoy the city at a relaxed pace, stopping for aperitivo, exploring hidden corners, and just soaking up the local vibe.

Top Hotel pick for Bologna

Grand Hotel Majestic

The Grand Hotel Majestic “Già Baglioni” is Bologna’s most iconic 5-star hotel, blending historic elegance with modern comfort. Housed in an 18th-century palace near Piazza Maggiore, it’s known for its gorgeous frescoed ceilings, antique furnishings, and impeccable service.

View rooms >

Why Stay Here?

Prime Location – Steps from Bologna’s top attractions.
Historic Charm – Lavish rooms with classic Italian decor.
Luxury Amenities – Spa, fine dining, and a renowned wine cellar.
Breathtaking Views – Some rooms overlook Bologna’s rooftops and towers.

This hotel is legendary. Princess Diana and Marilyn Monroe stayed when they’re in Italy.

The foodie guide to Bologna

I mean. I don’t know where to start. It’s the food capital of Italy, so make sure you arrive hungry. Here’s a few quick foods you need to know about and places to eat at.

Pro tip…

Make sure you book onto an epic Bologna food tour if you want an easy way to try a tonne of different types of food.

I’d also very strongly recommend a pasta making class and if you have time, a day out for a Parmesan cheese tour & lunch.

Foods you need to try in Bologna 🍝

Tagliatelle al Ragù – The real Bolognese pasta (not spaghetti!).
Tortellini in Brodo – Small, stuffed pasta served in rich broth.
Lasagne alla Bolognese – Traditional lasagne with ragù and béchamel.
Mortadella – The original Bologna sausage, best in a fresh sandwich.
Parmigiano Reggiano – Aged, rich cheese from this region (Emilia Romagna).
Crescentine (Tigelle) – Small, crispy bread served with cured meats.
Cotoletta alla Bolognese – Breaded veal with ham and cheese.
Balanzoni – Green spinach pasta stuffed with ricotta and mortadella.
Torta di Riso – Traditional Bolognese rice cake, slightly sweet.
Zuppa Inglese – Creamy, layered dessert soaked in liqueur.

Best Restaurants in Bologna 🍝

Osteria dell’Orsa – Affordable, famous for tagliatelle al ragù (the OG spaghetti bolognese).
Trattoria di Via Serra – great seasonal dishes, Family-run.
Ristorante Da Cesari – Historic trattoria, classic Bolognese food.
Drogheria della Rosa – Old-school spot with great pasta & wine.
Trattoria Anna Maria – No-frills, famous tortellini in brodo.
All’Osteria Bottega – Small, intimate, top-notch local dishes.
Sfoglia Rina – Fresh handmade pasta, great for lunch.
Cantina Bentivoglio – Wine bar with jazz & cured meats.
Tamburini – Historic delicatessen, amazing charcuterie.
Al Sangiovese – Cozy, romantic, excellent local pasta.

Hard to go wrong with any of these! 🍷 I was in Bolognia for 11 days so I got around the food scene.

Why Visit Bologna? What Makes It Special?

Thinking about adding Bologna to your Italy itinerary? You absolutely should. It’s got less crowds, better food, and a more local vibe than Italy’s other major cities. Here’s why it stands out:

✨ More Locals, less Tourists

Unlike Rome, Florence, or Venice, Bologna still feels lived-in—you’ll hear more Italian than English.
It’s a university city, so it’s young, vibrant, and always buzzing with life.
The streets are full of locals grabbing espresso, chatting at markets, or enjoying aperitivo.

🍝 The Best Food in Italy

Bologna is literally nicknamed “La Grassa” (The Fat One)—that tells you everything!
It’s the home of real Bolognese ragù (not spaghetti Bolognese!).
Birthplace of Parmigiano Reggiano cheese, balsamic vinegar, and prosciutto di Parma.
Whether it’s fresh tortellini in brodo, handmade pasta, or Lambrusco wine, the food here is next level.

🏛️ Stunning Architecture & History

Bologna has the longest porticoes in the world—these beautiful covered walkways stretch for miles.
Home to Leaning Towers (yes, Pisa isn’t the only one!)—you can climb Torre degli Asinelli for epic city views.
The city’s historic centre is one of the best-preserved in Italy.

💰 More Affordable & Less Crowded

Hotels, restaurants, and even wine are cheaper than in Florence or Venice.
You won’t be fighting through crowds at every landmark.
Authentic trattorias still exist here—no overpriced “tourist menus.”

If you love food, culture, and a more laid-back vibe, Bologna is 100% worth visiting—whether it’s your first trip to Italy or your fifth!

Things to do in Bologna

Climb the Torre degli Asinelli

The Torre degli Asinelli is one of the most iconic landmarks in Bologna and a must-see if you’re in the city. Standing tall at 97 meters, it’s the tallest leaning tower in the world, and climbing it is one of the best ways to get a sweeping panoramic view of the entire city. The tower, built in the 12th century, is part of a pair (the other being the slightly shorter Torre Garisenda) and has a fascinating history. The climb up the Asinelli Tower might be a bit of a challenge at 498 steps, but it’s definitely worth the effort once you reach the top and catch sight of the red-tiled rooftops of Bologna stretching out below you.

Why it’s of interest:

The Torre degli Asinelli is a symbol of Bologna’s medieval history, standing proudly as one of the city’s oldest and most famous monuments.
The view from the top is unbeatable, with a glimpse of the entire city, its UNESCO World Heritage porticoes, the rolling hills surrounding Bologna, and even the Emilia Romagna countryside.
It’s an essential part of any Bologna itinerary if you’re into history, architecture, and photography.

Opening times:

Monday-Sunday: 9:00 AM – 6:00 PM
Last entry is at 5:30 PM
Closed on January 1st and August 15th

Things to know before you go:

Tickets cost around €5 for adults, and there’s a discount for students or those under 18.
Be prepared for a lot of stairs—there are 498 steps to the top! It’s a workout, but totally doable.
If you’re afraid of heights, no worries! The top has solid railings and stunning views that make it all worth it.
If you’re visiting during peak times, try to go early to avoid the crowds, especially on weekends or in the summer months.

Explore Piazza Maggiore

Right at the heart of Bologna, Piazza Maggiore is the city’s main square and the perfect place to start your adventure. Surrounded by stunning medieval buildings, lively cafés, and street performers, this piazza has been the center of Bolognese life for centuries. Whether you’re here to soak up the atmosphere, admire the grand architecture, or just enjoy an espresso while people-watching, this place is a must-visit.

One of the biggest highlights here is San Petronio Basilica, one of the largest churches in the western world (yes, it’s HUGE). Its unfinished façade makes it stand out, but step inside, and you’ll find jaw-dropping frescoes and the world’s longest sundial. The piazza is also lined with other important historical buildings like Palazzo d’Accursio, Palazzo del Podestà, and Palazzo dei Banchi—basically, it’s a history lover’s dream.

Highlights

It’s Bologna’s main square and the perfect place to get a feel for the city’s vibe.
Home to the San Petronio Basilica, one of the most important churches in Italy.
Surrounded by medieval palaces and historic buildings.
Great spot to relax, have a coffee, or start a walking tour.

Things to know before you go:

If you want to visit San Petronio Basilica, the general entry is free, but there’s a small fee to access certain areas like the panoramic terrace.
The piazza can get busy, especially in peak tourist seasons, so visit early if you want quieter moments.

Must-sees around Piazza Maggiore:

San Petronio Basilica – Don’t miss the sundial inside!
Fountain of Neptune – Right next to the piazza, this is one of Bologna’s most famous statues.
Palazzo d’Accursio – Once Bologna’s town hall, now an art museum.
Palazzo del Podestà – Fun fact: if you whisper into one of the four corner vaults, someone on the opposite side can hear you perfectly!

It’s the kind of place where you can easily spend time just wandering, soaking up the local culture, and snapping gorgeous photos. If you’re in Bologna, you’ll end up here at some point—it’s impossible to miss!

Take a Walking Tour of Bologna

One of the best ways to experience Bologna is on foot, so this is exactly what we did! The city is packed with history, and you’ll find a tonne of ancient Roman ruins. There are also a bunch of hidden alleyways, and stunning UNESCO World Heritage porticoes that stretch for miles. A walking tour will take you through the Piazza Maggiore, past medieval towers, and into local food markets where you can taste Parmigiano Reggiano, balsamic vinegar, and cured meats from the Emilia Romagna region.

Why it’s worth it:

You’ll get to see Bologna’s highlights in a short amount of time.
Learn cool facts about the heritage site buildings, legends, and even a few secrets (like the whispering walls at Palazzo del Podestà).
A great way to discover Italian food spots only the locals know.

Things to know:

Many tours are free (just tip your guide!).
Self-guided tours are easy too—just grab a map and follow the city’s landmarks.
If food is your thing, go for a food walking tour—you won’t regret it!

If it’s your first trip to Bologna, a walking tour helps you get your bearings fast while soaking in the history. Plus, it’s the best way to truly feel the energy of this incredible Italian city.

The Legendary Arrow still lodged in the portico 🏹

There’s a fun little legend about an arrow that’s still stuck in the ceiling of one of Bologna’s historic porticoes.

You’ll find it under the Palazzo Isolani, near Strada Maggiore. If you stand under the portico and look up, you can spot an old arrow lodged in the wooden beams of the ceiling.

There are a few versions of the legend, but the most common one goes like this:

A group of assassins was sent to kill a nobleman.
Just as they were about to fire, a woman walked by—completely naked.
The unexpected distraction threw them off, and one of the arrows missed its target, lodging itself in the ceiling instead.
The arrow was never removed and is still there today.

It’s a small but fun hidden detail in Bologna, and spotting it feels like finding a little piece of forgotten history!

Find the Porticoes with Painted Ceilings 🎨

Bologna’s porticoes aren’t just walkways—they’re works of art. Some have stunning painted ceilings, and I kind of can’t believe they are just free, open to the public.

Portico of Palazzo della Mercanzia (Piazza della Mercanzia) – Beautiful 14th-century frescoes under the arches of this historic trade building.
Portico of Via Farini – Elegant ceilings with intricate gold and floral designs, near Bologna’s luxury shopping district.
Portico dei Bastardini (Via D’Azeglio) – Delicate Renaissance-style frescoes, often overlooked but worth a stop.

These hidden gems make wandering Bologna even more magical—always remember to look up!

the 7 churches of Santo Stefano & Its Historic Square

The Santo Stefano complex, also known as the Seven Churches, is one of the most fascinating spots in Bologna. Located in Piazza Santo Stefano, this medieval complex is actually a collection of several interconnected churches, built on top of each other over centuries.

Originally, the site was a pagan temple dedicated to Isis before being transformed into Christian churches. Over time, new structures were added, blending Romanesque, Lombard, and Byzantine styles. Today, only four churches remain, but the maze-like layout, ancient crypts, and peaceful courtyards make it a must-visit.

The square itself is one of Bologna’s most beautiful, with historic buildings lining the edges and a quieter, more local atmosphere compared to Piazza Maggiore. It’s the perfect place to sit, soak in the history, and enjoy the city’s charm.

Indulge in Parmigiano Reggiano, Balsamic Vinegar & Cured Meats

If you’re in Bologna, you have to dive into the incredible Italian cuisine of the Emilia Romagna region. This is the birthplace of Parmigiano Reggiano, traditional balsamic vinegar, and some of the best cured meats in the western world. Whether you’re tasting fresh-cut mortadella, drizzling aged balsamic vinegar over cheese, or breaking off chunks of 24-month-old Parmigiano, it’s a food lover’s paradise.

Why it’s a must:

Parmigiano Reggiano is the real deal here—aged to perfection and nothing like the stuff you get pre-grated in a packet.
Balsamic vinegar from Modena (just a short trip from Bologna) is rich, syrupy, and unlike anything you’ve ever tried.
Cured meats like mortadella, prosciutto, and culatello are next-level delicious, especially paired with fresh tigelle or crescentine (local flatbreads).

Things to know:

Visit a local deli or food market like Quadrilatero for authentic tastings.
Many wine bars and trattorias serve Parmigiano Reggiano with balsamic as a starter—order it!
If you have time, take a day trip to Modena or Parma to visit a heritage site cheese or balsamic producer.

Honestly, if you’re not stuffing your face with cheese, cured meats, and balsamic, are you even in Bologna? 😆

Visit the Sanctuary of San Luca

Perched on a hill overlooking Bologna, the Sanctuary of San Luca is one of the most iconic spots in the city. The walk up is famous for its UNESCO World Heritage portico—the longest in the world, stretching 3.8 km with 666 arches leading all the way to the church. If you’re up for a bit of a hike, the reward is a stunning panoramic view of Bologna and the Emilia Romagna countryside.

Why it’s worth visiting:

The portico walk is a unique experience and an important part of Bologna’s history.
Once at the top, you get breathtaking views of the city and beyond.
The sanctuary itself is a beautiful heritage site and an important religious landmark.

Things to know:

The walk takes about 40-50 minutes from Piazza Maggiore—bring water, especially in summer!
If you don’t fancy walking, hop on the San Luca Express train from the train station.
Free entry, but there’s a small fee to access the dome for even higher views.

Whether you hike it or take the easy route, San Luca is a must for any Bologna itinerary—perfect for a peaceful escape from the busy city!

Sip Wine at a Local Wine Bar

You can’t visit Bologna without enjoying a glass (or two) of local wine. The Emilia Romagna region is home to some amazing wines, from the light and fizzy Lambrusco to the crisp Pignoletto—perfect for pairing with Italian cuisine. The best part? Many wine bars here are casual, welcoming, and often let you bring your own snacks (hello, Parmigiano Reggiano and cured meats!).

Why it’s a must:

Lambrusco—this slightly sparkling red is refreshing, easy to drink, and nothing like the sweet versions you might have tried elsewhere.
Authentic Italian experience—Bologna’s wine bars are where locals gather, making it a great place to soak in the vibe.
Many bars serve free small bites (crostini, olives) with your drink—aperitivo, anyone?

Things to know:

Osteria del Sole (open since 1465!) is a must-visit—a no-frills spot where you bring your own food and enjoy a glass of something fantastic.
Most places serve wine by the glass for €4-6, making it an affordable treat.
Not sure what to order? Just ask! Bolognese bartenders are usually happy to help you find the perfect glass.

find Bologna’s Hidden Canals

Most people don’t realize that Bologna was once a water city, with canals running throughout—kind of like a mini Venice! While many of these waterways were covered up over the centuries, a few secret spots still let you peek into the city’s hidden past.

One of the best places to see this is through the Finestrella di Via Piella (the “little window” on Via Piella). Open it, and you’ll get a glimpse of one of Bologna’s last visible canals, framed like a postcard. This spot is a bit tucked away, so it feels like a hidden gem, even though it’s right in the city centre.

Why it’s worth visiting:

A rare look at Bologna’s forgotten waterways.
A unique photo spot—especially early in the morning or just before sunset.
A quick and fun stop if you’re already exploring the city on foot.

Things to know:

The canal window is on Via Piella, between Via Augusto Righi and Via Bertiera.
The best time to visit is after some rain—sometimes the canals get a little low in summer.
Walk around the area, and you’ll spot more hidden views of the canals between buildings.

Visit the Archiginnasio of Bologna

Bologna is home to the oldest university in the western world, and the Archiginnasio is one of its most fascinating historical buildings. Built in the 16th century, it was the main university building for years and still holds an impressive collection of books, artwork, and intricate frescoes.

One of the highlights is the Teatro Anatomico, a stunning wooden lecture hall where anatomy students once studied cadavers. The room is decorated with carved wooden statues of doctors and even features a special “skinless” statue showing the human muscles—kind of eerie but really interesting!

Why it’s a must-see:

A deep dive into Bologna’s intellectual and academic history.
The Teatro Anatomico is one of the most unique places in the city.
The building itself is gorgeous, with intricate frescoed ceilings and historical coats of arms lining the walls.

Things to know:

Open Monday to Saturday, 10 AM – 6 PM, and Sundays from 10 AM – 2 PM.
Entry is around €3, and it’s worth every cent.
It’s located just a short walk from Piazza Maggiore, so easy to fit into any itinerary.

A visit here is perfect for history lovers or anyone who enjoys wandering through beautifully preserved heritage sites.

FAQs

Is Bologna a great weekend destination?

Bologna is an absolute dream for a weekend trip! It’s packed with incredible food (this is literally where bolognese comes from), stunning architecture, and that warm, welcoming Italian vibe. Plus, it’s not as touristy as Rome or Venice, so you get a more authentic experience while still having loads to explore.

What’s the best way to get around Bologna?

Walking! Bologna is super walkable, and its famous porticoes (38 km of them!) make it easy to explore, rain or shine. If you need to go further, local buses and taxis are available, but honestly, you’ll want to wander on foot to soak in all the charm.

What are the must-visit landmarks in Bologna?

Some absolute must-sees include:

Piazza Maggiore – The heart of the city, perfect for people-watching with a coffee.
Torre degli Asinelli – The tallest leaning tower in Italy with epic city views.
San Luca Sanctuary – Either hike up the 666-arch portico or take the tourist train for a panoramic view.
Archiginnasio of Bologna – Home to the historic anatomical theatre, where students once studied human cadavers.

What food should I try in Bologna?

If you’re a foodie, Bologna is basically heaven on earth. You have to try:

Tagliatelle al ragù – The real bolognese (spoiler: it’s never served with spaghetti).
Mortadella – The OG version of what Americans call “bologna”—but way better.
Parmigiano Reggiano – The king of cheeses, best paired with aged balsamic vinegar from Modena.
Tortellini in brodo – Perfect if you love fresh pasta and a comforting broth.

Where’s the best place to watch the sunset in Bologna?

The best sunset spots in Bologna are:

Torre degli Asinelli – If you’re up for climbing 498 steps, the view is unbeatable.
San Luca Sanctuary – A peaceful spot with stunning views over the rolling hills.
A rooftop wine bar – Like the ones in Quadrilatero, where you can sip on local Lambrusco while the sky turns pink.

How do I see Bologna’s hidden canals?

Most people don’t realize Bologna used to have a network of canals, like a mini Venice! The best place to see one is Finestrella di Via Piella – a tiny window that gives you a peek into Bologna’s watery past. Just open the little door on the wall, and voilà – secret canal views.

Is it worth doing a food tour in Bologna?

100% yes! A food tour is the best way to try the region’s specialties and learn about their history. Many tours take you to local markets, family-run trattorias, and even cheese or balsamic vinegar producers. Plus, you get to sample so many things without committing to full meals—best decision ever.

What’s the easiest way to get to Bologna?

Bologna has great transport links!

By plane – Bologna Airport (BLQ) is just 15 minutes from the city centre.
By train – High-speed trains from Florence (35 min), Milan (1 hr), Rome (2 hrs) make it an easy add-on to an Italy trip.
By car – If you’re road-tripping, Bologna is right in the middle of Emilia-Romagna, making it a great base for exploring the region.

What’s the best time to visit Bologna?

Spring (April–June) and autumn (September–October) are the best times! The weather is perfect, and you avoid the intense summer heat. Plus, food festivals happen around these times, so it’s a win-win. If you visit in winter, Bologna has a really cosy vibe, and the Christmas lights make it extra magical.