Bologna
What you need to know before you go
Bologna is the spirited capital of the Emilia-Romagna region, and is kept progressive and youthful by the students of the University of Bologna – an establishment founded way back in 1088. This sun-drenched city maintains an upmarket vibe, where visitors can shop for finery, catch an opera, then dine out in one of the many restaurants in what is arguably the food capital of Italy.
The medieval city is awash with remnants from its past, from the tallest of the Two Towers piercing the terracotta-tiled cityscape, to Piazza Maggiore – a sweeping plaza, framed by arched colonnades, and dotted with landmarks like the Renaissance City Hall and the spectacular Fountain of Neptune.
What to see & do in Bologna
Featured stories & fun stuff10 Best Things to Do in Bologna
Our guide to the best things to do in Bologna proves that the city is more than a foodie’s paradise. It’s the capital city of the Emilia-Romagna region where some of Italy’s well-known pasta dishes, meats, cheeses and...10 Things to Do in Bologna on a Small Budget
There are plenty of things to do in Bologna on a small budget. With a tradition of culture and knowledge...10 Best Things to Do for Couples in Bologna
Bologna offers plenty for couples and romantics, and we’ve picked out some great ideas among Bologna’s most romantic places. Some...10 Places to Experience Bologna Like a Local
Bologna still has a wealth of hidden gems to discover even after you’ve seen the city’s well-known landmarks. Students...17 Best Things to Do with Kids in Bologna
Bologna is one of Italy's best cities for families, thanks to many fun places to take the kids. You can...10 Things to Do with Your Family in Bologna
Compared to other major Italian cities, Bologna may not offer as much by way of theme parks, waterparks and other...
Where & what to eat in Bologna
10 Best Local Restaurants in Bologna
When searching for the best local restaurants in Bologna, you’re likely to be overwhelmed by the array of tempting establishments throughout Emilia-Romagna’s historic capital. While many Italian towns and cities can rightfully claim to be ‘culinary capitals’, Bologna must...10 Best Local Dishes from Bologna
The best local dishes from Bologna include pasta dishes as well as succulent Italian sausages and hams, delicious cheeses, cakes...10 Great Restaurants in Bologna
These great restaurants in Bologna help make it a top foodie destination in Italy as well as one of the...
Where to shop & what to buy in Bologna
10 Best Markets in Bologna
The best markets in Bologna are bursting with exquisite food, vibrant flowers, rare vintage goods, and local handicrafts. The city values artistry, whether that's handwoven fabric, artisan silver, or gourmet food. Many markets have been around for centuries, making them...10 Best Places to Go Shopping in Bologna
The best places to go shopping in Bologna are great for loading your suitcase with must-have items. Although the city’s legacy dates back hundreds of years, it also offers a forward-thinking outlook, with stylish boutiques and large-scale...
Where to go & what to do at night in Bologna
10 Best Things to Do After Dinner in Bologna
There’s no shortage of things to do after dinner in Bologna, from people-watching to late-night shopping and wild nights on the town. The historic northern city has a thriving cultural scene, and the action doesn’t stop when the sun goes down. If you’re not ready to hit the hay after a long day of sightseeing, you’ll find after...
Useful information
Bologna Travel Essentials
Our Bologna Travel Essentials lays out the essential information you need to help planning your trip to one of the most popular destinations in Italy. No matter how frequently you travel, some questions will always need answers: What’s the weather like? How can I get from the airport to my hotel? What currency and type of plug do I need...