Free walking tours in Bologna and what to see

Must-sees

Bologna is the capital of Emilia-Romagna and is easy to explore on foot thanks to its porticoes, the arcades covering kilometres of pavement that UNESCO has declared a World Heritage Site. The centre revolves around Piazza Maggiore, with the basilica of San Petronio, whose façade was never finished, and the Palazzo d'Accursio, the town hall, whose clock tower looks out over the whole red-roofed city. Next to it is Giambologna's Fountain of Neptune, and close by the Two Towers, Asinelli and Garisenda, the city's symbol.

It is worth going inside the Archiginnasio, the old seat of the university, with its wooden anatomical theatre, and visiting the Santo Stefano complex, known as the Seven Churches. For food, the Quadrilatero, next to the square, is a maze of streets with delis, fresh pasta shops and markets. If you have time, climb to the sanctuary of the Madonna di San Luca, on a hill to the south-west, along a portico several kilometres long that starts in the city.

Free tours and guided visits

Bologna has free walking tours of the historic centre, a good way to get your bearings on the first day among the squares, towers and porticoes. There are also paid guided tours and private tours, as well as entry to the Palazzo d'Accursio with a climb up the tower. Out of the city there is the trip to Ravenna to see its mosaics and tickets for the Lamborghini Museum, on the nearby plain, for car lovers.

How long to spend

A full day lets you see the essentials: Piazza Maggiore, San Petronio, the Two Towers, the Archiginnasio and Santo Stefano, with a long lunch in the Quadrilatero. With two days you can climb to San Luca, visit the National Gallery and stroll through the university district. Bologna also works as a base: Modena, Parma, Ravenna or Ferrara are a short train ride away.

Where to stay

The most convenient option is to stay in the historic centre, near Piazza Maggiore or the Two Towers, where there are hotels, apartments and guesthouses in old buildings. If you will be getting around by train, the central station area is practical and a stroll from the centre. Bear in mind that occupancy rises sharply during trade fairs, so book well ahead.