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What to do in Bologna: 10 suggestions

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Located in the heart of Emilia-Romagna, Bologna is a lively, charming city full of art, arcades, and above all, built on a human scale. Visiting it is easy and fun, but if you're short on time, it can be tough to choose what to do and see. Don’t worry: we’ve gathered these tips to help even the most undecided plan the perfect day. 

1. Admire the Asinelli and Garisenda Towers

Visiting Bologna without stopping by one of its most iconic landmarks would be a shame. The Two Towers, symbols of the medieval city, tower over the historic center and are a legacy of the architecture that still defines the cityscape. To fully appreciate their grandeur, we recommend a stop at Piazza di Porta Ravegnana.

2. Sit on the Crescentone in Piazza Maggiore

Piazza Maggiore is one of the oldest squares in Italy and the vibrant heart of Bologna. The pink granite rectangle at the center of the square, raised like a step, is known to all locals as the Crescentone, named after Bologna’s beloved savory focaccia, the crescente. We suggest sitting in the middle of the Crescentone to enjoy the spectacular view of the surrounding palaces and buildings.

3. Visit the Basilica of San Petronio

With its strikingly unfinished marble façade, the Basilica of San Petronio is one of the key historical attractions overlooking Piazza Maggiore. The basilica is open daily from 7:45 AM to 6:00 PM, and between frescoed walls, high ceilings, and colorful stained glass, it's absolutely worth a visit. The Cassini sundial traced on the floor measures 67 meters, making it the longest in the world.

4. Discover the Seven Churches of Piazza Santo Stefano

Piazza Santo Stefano is one of the most charming places in Bologna’s city center. In its distinctive rectangular layout, it houses: the Church of the Crucifix, the Basilica of the Holy Sepulcher, the Church of Saints Vitalis and Agricola, the Court of Pilate, the Church of the Martyrium, the Medieval Cloister, and the Museum of Santo Stefano — all together known as the Seven Churches complex. Though built in different eras, each structure blends with the next in a magical and romantic harmony.

5. Get Lost in Bologna’s Historic Libraries

Bologna is home to dozens of historic libraries that are part of its university legacy—ancient buildings steeped in centuries of history.

  • Archiginnasio: originally built to house the lectures of the Alma Mater Studiorum, it's the most famous building in the city. Inside, you must visit the Stabat Mater Hall and the Anatomical Theatre with its stunning Chair of the Skinned Men. 
  • Salaborsa: overlooking Piazza Nettuno and Via Ugo Bassi, Salaborsa is Bologna’s public library, spread across four floors. From the glass and iron floor of the so-called Covered Square, you can see Roman-era archaeological excavations.
  • The International Museum and Library of Music on Strada Maggiore: located inside the prestigious Palazzo Sanguinetti, it houses over 80 musical instruments and documents from some of the greatest composers in history.

6. Join an Event at the Bologna Exhibition Centre

Throughout the year, the Bologna Exhibition Centre hosts over 40 fairs and events involving more than 14,000 exhibitors and drawing over 1.3 million visitors. The Book Fair, Arte Fiera, Bologna Beer Festival, and Cosmoprof are just a few of the leading trade shows. In addition to being a great area to book your hotel in Bologna, it’s just a few minutes’ drive from the historic center.

7. Taste One of the Local Dishes

Just think of a plate of tagliatelle al ragù and you’ll understand why Bolognese cuisine is among the most sought-after in the world. From lasagna to mortadella mousse and crescentine, you’ll be spoiled for choice when it comes to lunch or dinner in Bologna. Our tip? Head to the Mercato di Mezzo and lose yourself in a world of flavors, food, and gastronomic tradition.

 

  1. B&B HOTELS
  2. What to do in Bologna: 10 suggestions