In the summer of 2024, my friend and I spent an amazing two weeks in Italy. We kicked it off with a weekend in Bologna and it was the best way to start the trip. Bologna is incredible city known for its endless, covered porticos, mouth-watering food, and terracotta-colored streets.
I chose a weekend in Bologna, mostly because of the food. You just can’t go wrong. Tagliatelle al ragù (bolognese) was first on the agenda. We found some and spoiler alert, it was amazing! See where we got it below.
The other reasons we really wanted to check out Bologna was for its unique architecture and the fact that it is more authentic and less touristy than the big Italian cities like Rome, Venice and Florence. Are there tourists there? Of course, but it didn’t feel overwhelming at all and we were there in August!
I didn’t travel there with my kids this time, but it would be a fantastic city to visit with kids. It is pretty flat, so walking around is easy and you could easily push a stroller. It’s not too big either, so it’s convenient for those little legs. We felt very safe there. The only area that we found that was a little sketchy was near the train station. Nothing terrible, but enough to keep vigilant.
Keep reading to discover some of the best ways to spend 2 days in Bologna. I’ll take you to some great places to grab a hearty, authentic meal, incredible viewpoints, fascinating places for art and experiences that you will remember forever.
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Best Time To Visit Bologna
If you are planning an exciting weekend in Bologna with the family, timing your visit can make all the difference in your experience. Bologna’s climate offers distinct seasons, each with unique advantages and considerations for travelers.
Peak Season (July & August)
In July and August you will experience the warmest weather with long daylight hours and vibrant outdoor festivals. We were there in August and we had one day of rain.
Honestly the crowds weren’t bad. I was expecting many more people, especially in the downtown area, but it didn’t feel busy to me at all.
There are some drawbacks to visiting Bologna in the summer. The intense heat and humidity can be uncomfortable. Accommodation costs are at their peak during this time too. You will need to be sure to book in advance. The prices won’t be as high as nearby Florence, but you won’t be saving money either.
Off Season (December – February)
During the off season in Bologna you will find the lowest prices and minimal crowds which creates an authentic local experience. Sounds to me like a cosy way to enjoy those rich, delicious foods.
The cheaper prices coincide with cold temperatures and you may experience thick fog as well. It is always advised to check tourist attraction hours when visiting during off season, as many places either close or have limited hours.
Shoulder Season (April – June & September – October)
Shoulder season is my favorite time to travel if I can pull it off with kids’ schedules. You will find more comfortable temperatures at this time of year. Spring can bring unpredictable rain, but we got rain in August. You never know.
A fantastic thing about Bologna is that the majority of the walkways are covered by the beautiful porticos. It makes walking around the city doable even on a rainy day.
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Best Places To Stay In Bologna With Kids
When we stayed in Bologna, we chose the AC Hotel Bologna. I have a Marriott Bonvoy credit card and it qualified for a free stay which was nice. The hotel was okay for us, I mean it was free, but it isn’t a hotel I would recommend for families.
First of all the hotel does not have great rooms if you are traveling with kids. The location isn’t the best or the worst. It is possible to walk to the city center, but it is a little far. It is pretty close to the train station which is nice, but honestly the beds were not the most comfortable either.
Kid-Friendly Hotels In Bologna
Instead, I did some research to see if I could find you some better options. From boutique retreats to centrally located gems, these carefully selected places to stay in Bologna offer the perfect blend of comfort, convenience, and Italian hospitality for families exploring this captivating city.
- $ Casa Daisy – This charming family retreat offers thoughtfully designed accommodations perfect for families of four, all at an exceptional value. Located in the heart of Bologna’s historic center, you’ll be steps away from iconic attractions like Piazza Maggiore and the famous Due Torri, making every Bologna adventure easily accessible on foot.
- $$ Hotel Porta San Mamolo – Escape the bustling city center at this peaceful boutique hotel, where tranquility meets convenience. It’s just a 15-minute stroll from Bologna’s main attractions. While slightly removed from the train station, its prime location makes it ideal for travelers arriving by car or those that don’t mind walking. Guests consistently rave about the exceptional breakfast spread.
- $$$ Hotel Metropolitan – Indulge in sophisticated comfort at this centrally located gem, featuring spacious family room options in the heart of Bologna’s vibrant center. The hotel’s crowning jewel is its stunning rooftop terrace. It’s the perfect spot to unwind with an evening aperitivo while soaking in panoramic views of the city’s iconic red rooftops and historic skyline.
Day 1 – Bologna Itinerary
We kick off these 2 days in Bologna by diving headfirst into what the city does best, incredible food and wandering through the beautiful architecture.
Today is all about getting your bearings in the historic center, from hunting down the perfect morning cappuccino to discovering hidden gems like Bologna’s “Little Venice” window tucked away in the maze of porticos.
You’ll stroll through the city’s most iconic piazzas, peek inside a fascinating 17th-century anatomical theater, and wrap up the day with a local food tour where you’ll learn why Bolognese cuisine is the best of the best.
Day 1 – Reservations
- Food tour for dinner – see your options below
Start Your Weekend In Bologna With Breakfast
Like most Italians, locals in Bologna keep breakfast simple, usually just a quick espresso and cornetto at the neighborhood bar. However, if you’re looking for something more substantial, Bologna has some wonderful options to choose from.
While many hotels offer their own breakfast spreads, here are our favorite spots:
Casa Nia – Perfect for those craving a heartier start to the day, offering a fuller breakfast spread that will keep you satisfied until lunch.
Da Giu’ Coffee and Bakery – A local favorite for fresh pastries and exceptional coffee, where you can grab a quick bite alongside Bologna’s early morning crowd.
Il Banco del Pane – A godsend for travelers with dietary restrictions, with many delicious gluten-free options.
Cartola Caffè – Located on the quieter side of Bologna, this charming spot offers a more relaxed morning atmosphere away from the bustling center.
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Wander The Streets And Be Amazed With All The Porticos
When I was planning what to see in Bologna in 2 days, nothing could have prepared me for how absolutely enchanting this city would be. Bologna was filled with surprises at every turn. Each street is lined with unique covered walkways that makes each street a special experience as you explore.
I honestly loved just getting lost in this beautiful city, discovering hidden corners and architectural details that seemed to reveal themselves around every bend.
While wandering beneath these UNESCO World Heritage porticos is an adventure in itself, there are a few unmissable spots that should definitely make it onto your route:
- Finestrella di via Piella 16 – This tiny window offers the only glimpse of Bologna’s hidden canal system, earning it the nickname “Little Venice of Bologna.”
- Piazza Maggiore – You won’t miss it. It’s the big one! The beating heart of Bologna. This grand medieval square is surrounded by some of the city’s most important buildings and buzzes with local life throughout the day.
- Piazza Santo Stefano – Often called one of Italy’s most beautiful squares, this intimate triangular piazza is home to the fascinating Seven Churches complex.
- Piazza del Nettuno – Just steps from Piazza Maggiore, this charming square features the iconic Neptune Fountain and offers perfect views of the surrounding historic architecture.
Lunch At Marsalino
Hands down, this was my favorite meal in Bologna, and the story of how we ended up there makes it even more special.
Marsalino serves lunch from 12:00 to 3:00 PM, plus aperitivo and dinner. They don’t appear to take reservations, so it’s very much a “show up and hope for the best” situation.
We literally stumbled upon this gem while caught in a sudden rainstorm. When we arrived, there wasn’t a single table available inside. As we sat outside under the umbrellas, trying to figure out our next move, our waiter noticed us and came over to let us know someone had just left. And we could have their table!
It was such a thoughtful gesture that honestly not all restaurants would make, and it perfectly set the tone for what became one of the most memorable meals of our entire Bologna trip.
The exceptional service was matched only by the incredible food, and the genuine warmth of the staff made us feel like welcomed guests.
Sometimes the best dining experiences happen when you least expect them! Check out Marsalino’s menu here and make sure to fit this restaurant into your itinerary.
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Archiginnasio And Teatro Anatomico
When considering what to do in Bologna, a visit to the Archiginnasio should absolutely be on your list. This magnificent palace was once the heart of the University of Bologna, the oldest university in the Western world. Stepping inside feels like traveling back through centuries of academic history.
Plan to spend about an hour exploring this architectural treasure, though if you opt for the guided tour, you’ll need an hour and fifteen minutes.
While you can enter the main building at no cost, purchasing a ticket (just €3 if bought on-site, or €3.50 if booked in advance) unlocks the real gems: wandering the frescoed halls, marveling at the intricate Anatomical Theatre where dissections once took place, and visiting the elegant Stabat Mater Hall.
Ticket Options:
- Basic admission: €3 (day of) or €3.50 (advance booking) – includes Anatomical Theatre and Stabat Mater Hall
- Children 12 and under: Free admission
- Guided tour: €12 – includes exclusive access to normally closed areas like the Chapel of S. Maria dei Bulgari and Cubiculum Artistarum
- Audioguide option: €10 – self-guided tour of the Anatomical Theatre and Stabat Mater Hall
The lines are typically manageable, so don’t stress too much about advance booking unless you’re traveling during peak season. This gem offers one of Bologna’s most fascinating glimpses into its scholarly past and the woodwork is impressive.
For specific tour times and to book your guided tour, click here.
Take A Food Tour With A Local Guide
There’s no better way to wrap up your first day exploring Bologna than diving deep into what the city does best – incredible food. Since Bologna is renowned as Italy’s culinary capital, a food tour with a local guide is hands down one of the best things you can do during a weekend in Bologna. It will give you that authentic insider experience you simply can’t get on your own.
Here are two different options to consider for your food tour:
Bologna Food & Culture Walking Tour
This immersive 3-hour adventure takes you beyond typical tourist spots as you sample Italian delicacies, regional wines, artisanal gelato, and distinctive local cheeses while meandering through the enchanting old town center. With multiple starting times available throughout the day, it’s easy to fit into your Bologna itinerary.
Experience highlights:
- Learn the fascinating process behind traditional balsamic vinegar production
- Hear captivating anecdotes about Bologna’s rich history and time-honored traditions
- Experience the authentic daily rhythm of Bolognese life through a local’s eyes
Click here to book the Walking Food Tour With A Local Guide.
Bologna Evening Food Tour With Local Guide
This 3-hour culinary journey immerses you in the heart of Bologna’s food culture as you enjoy carefully selected local wines, traditional charcuterie, and fresh pasta while learning about the city’s fascinating history and culture.
What makes this tour special:
- Explore the ancient market district where locals have shopped for generations
- Visit one of Bologna’s oldest bars, steeped in centuries of tradition
- Gain deep insights into the cultural identity of the entire Emilia-Romagna region
Click here to book the Dinner, Wine & Tastings Walking Tour.
Both tours offer complete immersion into the soul of Bologna, guided by locals who truly know and love this remarkable city. You can’t go wrong with either one.
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Day 2 – Bologna Itinerary
Day two of our Bologna 2 day itinerary takes us beyond the city center for a truly unforgettable experience.
You’ll walk the world’s longest portico to reach the stunning Sanctuary of Madonna di San Luca. After savoring authentic tagliatelle al ragù at a local favorite, you’ll climb high above the red rooftops for panoramic city views. To end the day, you will get your hands dirty in a traditional cooking class.
It’s the perfect blend of sightseeing, incredible food, and hands-on cultural immersion!
Day 2 – Reservations
- Le Moline – open from 12pm – 12am
- Torre dell’Orologio
- Cooking class – see options below
After Breakfast: Walk The Longest Portico To The Santuario Di Madonna Di San Luca
After filling your belly and getting ready to explore, it’s time to experience one of Bologna’s most spectacular attractions, the journey to the Santuario Di Madonna Di San Luca.
This iconic pilgrimage walk is honestly one of the coolest things you can do while exploring what to do in Bologna, combining spiritual history with some of the most incredible views you’ll find anywhere in the city.
Getting There: Choose Your Adventure
The walk to the sanctuary follows a mostly flat path until the final ascent, making it manageable for most visitors. However, if you have mobility concerns or simply want to conserve energy for other activities, there are several convenient alternatives:
- Public Transportation: City buses run directly to a stop just below the basilica, making it the most budget-friendly option.
- Drive Yourself: While possible, you’ll miss out on the incredible viewpoints and photo opportunities that make the portico walk so special.
- Taxi Up, Walk Down: A smart compromise. Take a taxi to the sanctuary, then leisurely stroll back through the porticos at your own pace.
- San Luca Express: This charming and a bit quirky, little tourist train departs from Piazza Maggiore and is an absolute hit with families. At €13 for adults, €6 for children, and just €3 for kids under 5, it’s worth every euro to save your legs from the 5-kilometer journey. Plus, what kid doesn’t love a train ride? You can take it both ways or just use it for the uphill journey and walk back down. Grab your tickets for the San Luca Express here.
The Sanctuary Experience
The Santuario di Madonna di San Luca is a stunning 18th-century baroque basilica that houses Bologna’s most revered religious icon and offers panoramic views over the entire city and countryside.
Practical Information:
- Entrance: Free admission to the main sanctuary
- Hours: Church open 7am-7pm daily, square accessible 6:30am-7:30pm
- Sky Experience: For €5 (kids under 10 free), climb the spiral staircase inside the dome to reach the terrace for unparalleled city views. You will need to purchase the tickets online. Here’s the link to book your sky experience.
The combination of the world’s longest portico, spiritual atmosphere, and spectacular vistas makes this a truly unforgettable Bologna experience.
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Lunch At Le Moline
We discovered Le Moline after watching a video that absolutely raved about their authentic Bolognese cuisine. Though we’ll admit we approached with some healthy skepticism. Viral food spots often disappoint with long waits and overhyped dishes.
Le Moline, however, completely exceeded our expectations and became one of our most memorable meals in Bologna.
The atmosphere alone is worth the visit. We snagged a table in their charming little alleyway, as we savored perfectly prepared tagliatelle al ragù and rich lasagna alla Bolognese. And of course we paired it all with a lovely local wine.
Getting a Table: We walked in without a reservation and were seated right away, though if you’d rather not leave it to chance (especially during peak dining hours), you can secure your spot by making a reservation at Le Moline. You can make a reservation to Moline here.
Alternate Option: Craving something lighter? Head to La Prosciutteria Bologna instead for fresh salads, hearty focaccia sandwiches, or beautifully curated charcuterie boards. It’s casual counter service. Simply order at the bar and find your own cozy spot to settle in.
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Climb the Clock Tower – Torre dell’Orologio
One of the absolute highlights our weekend in Bologna was getting those incredible panoramic views from the Clock Tower terrace. It’s truly breathtaking and gives you a whole new perspective on the city’s famous red rooftops.
Essential Booking Information
Important: You must book your tickets online in advance. There’s no ticket office at the tower itself. Don’t worry, it’s not difficult to secure tickets, though we learned this the hard way and ended up quickly booking on our phones while standing right outside.
Your ticket includes access to the Municipal Art Collections too, which is a nice bonus if you have time.
Timing Tip: We visited on a Monday when the Municipal Art Collections were closed, but since the ticket is valid for two days, we could have returned the next day. Unfortunately, we were heading to Florence, so we missed out on that part of the experience.
Pricing & Age Requirements
- Adults: €10
- Children 4-11: €7
- Children 3 and under: Free
- Minimum age for terrace access: 8 years old
Important for families: The terrace visit is honestly the best part of the entire experience, so if you’re traveling with children under 8, you might want to skip this attraction and focus on other Bologna adventures instead.
Hours: The tower opens at 10am with varying closing times depending on the season, so check the current schedule when booking your tickets. Check out the official website for more up-to-date information.
Alternate Option: When we were visiting Bologna, the Torre Prendiparte was recently renovated and open for tours. This iconic tower is only open on Sundays for 50-minute tours that require advance booking. We sadly missed this opportunity. If you are interested and the times work out, book your tour time here for the Torre Prendiparte experience.
Note: The Asinelli Tower, which is the tallest of the two remaining towers, is unfortunately, currently closed for maintenance and restoration. I’ll be monitoring the situation and will update when it reopens.
These two famous medieval towers in Bologna would be absolutely incredible to climb if available during your visit.
Grab An Aperitivo
After all that climbing and sightseeing, it’s time for one of the most important Italian traditions, aperitivo hour. When you’re packing so much into just 2 days in Bologna, it becomes even more crucial to pause and embrace the Italian art of slowing down.
This isn’t about finding the “perfect” or most Instagram-worthy spot. It’s about wandering through Bologna’s charming streets until you stumble upon a patio that simply speaks to you. Maybe it’s the way the evening light hits the tables, or the sound of locals chatting and laughing, or just the inviting atmosphere that draws you in.
Settle in with a refreshing Aperol spritz or a glass of local wine (you can’t go wrong!). Then, take it all in. Watch the world go by from under those famous porticoes, soak up the golden hour light bouncing off Bologna’s red brick buildings, and let yourself truly be present in this beautiful moment.
Being in Italy is as much about these unhurried experiences as it is about checking off must-see sights. So resist the urge to rush to your next activity. This is your time to breathe, people-watch, and fall a little more in love with Bologna’s effortless charm.
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Learn How To Make Bolognese Cuisine
What better way to wrap up your weekend in Bologna than by learning to recreate the incredible flavors you’ve been tasting throughout your trip?
A hands-on cooking class is the perfect finale to your culinary adventure, ensuring you can bring a taste of authentic Bolognese cuisine back home with you.
Two Fantastic Options to Consider
Pasta and Tiramisu at a Local’s Home – For a truly intimate and authentic experience, try this in-home cooking class. You’ll learn to prepare two different fresh pasta dishes alongside the classic Italian dessert, tiramisu. The price point makes this incredible hands-on experience accessible for most travelers, and you can’t beat the personal touch of cooking in a real Italian home. Indicate when you reserve if you need a ride and they will offer to conveniently pick you up right in Bologna.
Felsina Culinaria – Located just outside the city in the charming countryside, this culinary school requires a short train ride to Castel San Pietro Terme, but the journey is absolutely worth it. You can customize your experience by choosing which specific dishes you’d like to master in a private lesson, or join their popular shared classes held every Sunday for a more social cooking experience.
Both options provide an unforgettable way to connect with Bologna’s rich culinary heritage while gaining practical skills you’ll treasure long after your trip ends.
Is Bologna Worth Visiting?
After wandering through miles of UNESCO porticoes, savoring incredible pasta, and experiencing genuine local hospitality, the question “is Bologna worth visiting?” becomes almost laughable. This city is an absolute gem. I was so taken by it.
Bologna offers something rare: an authentic Italian experience without overwhelming crowds. What makes Bologna special is the perfect combination of incredible food culture, fascinating history, stunning architecture, and that indefinable Italian magic.
Whether you’re climbing ancient towers, learning pasta-making from a local, or enjoying aperitivo under those famous red buildings, every moment feels both extraordinary and authentically Italian.
This city proves that the best travel experiences come from places that capture your heart unexpectedly. Bologna will do exactly that, and leave you planning your return before you’ve even left.
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