Travel Tips for Bologna, Italy

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Bologna is a city that rewards those who visit with rich history, deep culture and unforgettable food. Known as La Grassa (The Fat One) for its incredible cuisine, La Dotta (The Learned One) for its ancient university, and La Rossa (The Red One) for its terracotta buildings and leftist politics, Bologna offers an authentic Italian experience without the overwhelming crowds.

It’s a city of porticoes, medieval towers and long lunches. I would highly recommend a visit!

How to Get There

If you are flying, travel to Bologna Guglielmo Marconi Airport (BLQ), which is well-connected to major European cities. From the airport, the Marconi Express monorail takes you to the central train station in under 10 minutes.

By rail, Bologna Centrale has high-speed trains that connect to Florence (35 mins), Milan (1 hr), Venice (1.5 hrs), and Rome (2 hrs).

If you are travelling with a car, remember that Bologna is centrally located in northern Italy so it is easy to reach. Driving in the city centre is restricted (ZTL zones), so park outside and walk in.

Language, Currency & Weather

The main language is Italian, and while some people will speak English, it will help to have a few basic Italian phrases to use when you are in shops or restaurants. The currency is the Euro (€).

I visited Bologna in April and it was perfect. Another great time is the autumn as the weather will be cooler and there will be lots of food festivals. The summer in Bologna is quite hot and humid and some places close mid-August. Winter is quieter and chillier with fewer tourists around.

Public Transport

Bologna is perfect for exploring via foot, which is mainly what I did. Make sure you walk under the city’s 40 kilometres of UNESCO-listed porticoes.

Operated by TPER, buses are reliable and reach beyond the city centre. You can buy tickets at newsstands or use the Roger app.

Taxis are available but expensive. Uber doesn’t operate in Bologna, so opt for local taxi apps like ItTaxi.

Where to Stay

The historic centre is where you’ll want to be. It is close to major sights, restaurants, and nightlife. Make sure to stay near Piazza Maggiore for convenience.

You also have the option to stay in the University District. It is lively and youthful, filled with cheap restaurants, bars and an energetic vibe.

Bologna Fiere or San Donato are more good options for business travellers or those driving. The areas have modern hotels and easy access to the ring road.

Where to Go & What to Do

Piazza Maggiore is the heart of Bologna. It is surrounded by grand medieval buildings like Basilica di San Petronio and Palazzo d’Accursio, so make sure to visit.

I would highly recommend climbing Torre degli Asinelli. This medieval tower (498 steps!) has views over red rooftops and the Apennines.

Travel to the world’s oldest university and its ornate anatomical theatre: Archiginnasio and Teatro Anatomico. They are fascinating and beautiful.

Don’t miss walking the Portico di San Luca, which is a 3.8 kilometre covered walkway to the Sanctuary of San Luca. It has great views and it’s also a bit of a workout!

If you are interested in museums, then visit MAMbo and Palazzo Fava.

What & Where to Eat

As I mentioned already, Bologna is known as La Grassa (The Fat One) for its incredible cuisine. One of my favourite places to eat was Trattoria di Via Serra. This is also beloved by locals, and it serves classic dishes with warm hospitality. Make sure to make a reservation.

Sfoglia Rina is another great spot. They make fresh pasta daily, which is perfect for lunch. Try the Tagliatelle al Ragù!

I also travelled to Mercato di Mezzo which is an indoor food market where you can sample everything from pizza to craft beer.

Try Lambrusco or Pignoletto. These are the local sparkling red and white wines that are perfect with Bolognese cuisine.

Bologna is definitely a place to slow down, indulge and live like a local. Enjoy!