Explore Bologna

Bologna: where history meets taste under the arcades of the heart of Italy.



Bologna is a city rich in history, art and traditions, but its surroundings offer just as much to discover. If you plan to explore beyond the confines of the historic center, we invite you to discover some of the most fascinating places surrounding this unique city. From green hills to ancient abbeys, via medieval villages and breathtaking landscapes, Bologna is the ideal starting point for an unforgettable trip.



Piazza Maggiore



Piazza Maggiore is the beating heart of Bologna, the main square overlooking some of the city's most important monuments. Here you will find the Basilica of San Petronio, one of the largest religious buildings in Italy, with an incomplete but fascinating facade. A few steps away, the Palazzo del Podestà and Palazzo Re Enzo testify to Bologna's historical power during the Middle Ages. The square is also surrounded by historic cafes, ideal for a relaxing break while observing the daily life of the city.

The Two Towers: Asinelli and Garisenda



The Two Towers are one of the most iconic symbols of Bologna. The Asinelli Tower is the tallest and offers the possibility of climbing up to enjoy a panoramic view of the city and surrounding hills. The Garisenda Tower, although lower, is famous for its inclination, which adds charm to its figure. Both towers are an integral part of the urban landscape and bear witness to Bologna's rich medieval history.

The Basilica of San Petronio



The Basilica of San Petronio is one of the largest Gothic buildings in Europe and a major attraction in Bologna. The basilica is dedicated to San Petronio, the city's patron saint, and boasts an incomplete but impressive facade. Inside, you can admire the beautiful altar of San Petronio, as well as numerous works of art and frescoes, including those by artists such as Giovanni da Modena. The basilica also houses a solar meridian, which was once used to calculate the time accurately.

Bologna Hills: Nature and Unforgettable Views



The hills surrounding Bologna offer a perfect retreat for those seeking peace and natural beauty. With a network of trails winding through forests, vineyards and ancient villages, the hills of Bologna are ideal for walking, hiking and biking.

San Michele in Bosco: One of the most scenic destinations, this convent offers spectacular views of the city, and is an ideal place for a walk in the green.
Monte delle Formiche: Located southeast of Bologna, Monte delle Formiche is one of the city's main natural areas, famous for its biodiversity and hikes that offer extraordinary views of the surrounding area.



St. Stephen's Square and the Seven Churches



Piazza Santo Stefano is one of the most fascinating and mysterious places in Bologna. At the center of the square is the Basilica of Santo Stefano, which is actually a complex of seven churches, built at different times and in different architectural styles. This place, which seems suspended in time, is ideal for a peaceful walk to discover a corner of Bologna rich in spirituality and history.

The Quadrilateral: The Historical Market of Bologna



The Quadrilatero is Bologna's historic market, a maze of narrow streets that stretch behind Piazza Maggiore. Here you will find a variety of traditional stores selling fresh produce, local specialties and crafts. It is the ideal place to enjoy the typical flavors of Bolognese cuisine, such as tortellini, ragù alla Bolognese, and mortadella, perhaps accompanied by a glass of local wine.

Don't miss out



Pinacoteca Nazionale di Bologna: The Pinacoteca Nazionale is a museum that houses one of the most important collections of Renaissance and Baroque art in Italy. Among its most famous works are paintings by artists such as Raphael, Guido Reni, El Greco and Parmigianino. Located in the heart of the city, it is a must-see for art lovers.

Bologna Archaeological Museum: The Bologna Archaeological Museum is one of the city's most important museums, housed in a former medieval convent. Inside are collections of Etruscan, Roman and medieval artifacts that tell the story of the Emilia-Romagna region and its inhabitants over the centuries. Among the most fascinating exhibits are Etruscan artifacts from the nearby Etruscan Civilization of Felsina, ancient Bologna.


The Museum of Palazzo Poggi: The Museum of Palazzo Poggi is a scientific museum located inside a historic building, and is one of the most interesting museums in Bologna. Inside, you can explore collections ranging from botany to physics, medicine to engineering, with numerous exhibits and historical scientific instruments. The museum is perfect for those who love science and the history of discovery.