Bologna might not be the first city that comes to mind when you consider a visit to Italy, but let me tell you, once you’ve experienced Bologna, the only regret you’ll have is not having spent more time here!

In this post, I’m excited to share with you an itinerary on what to do and see to make the most of your 2-day stay. So, whether you’re a passionate foodie, an architecture enthusiast, or someone seeking authentic Italian experiences, these recommendations will ensure that your time in Bologna is nothing short of incredible.

Let’s dive in and discover the hidden gems that this captivating city has to offer!

What to do in Bologna in 2 days:

Day 1: the classics

1. Piazza Maggiore

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… and all those glorious buildings that surround the square. Piazza Maggiore is the heart of Bologna.

In this main square, you will find San Petronio Cathedral, the majestic church we will talk about later, the imposing Palazzo Re Enzo and the historical Palazzo D’Accursio, which currently serves as city hall. All these marvel monuments are open to visit.

Take your time to soak up the architectural splendor of the square. As you sit on the steps of San Petronio Cathedral you’ll have a privileged view of Bologna’s daily life upon your eyes.

Did You Know? Beneath Palazzo Re Enzo (facing San Petronio Cathedral), an intriguing phenomenon unfolds, you will find people talking to the wall. This practice is due to one of the city’s secrets: speak into the wall, and your voice will mysteriously reach a person diagonally across the opposite wall. A medieval twisted version of the broken telephone game!

2. The famous Neptune Fountain

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A few steps away from Piazza Maggiore rests the most famous “man” in Bologna: Neptuno and his amazing fountain. This fountain stands as a tribute to Pope Pius IV, yet it hides an artistic secret the Pope didn’t expect.

Did You Know? Close to the fountain, you can notice a darker stone on the ground. To unveil Neptune’s hidden secret, step onto the stone and observe the statue from this unique angle – behind. You will notice that one of Neptuno’s body part seem more pronounced than when looking from the front.

3. San Petronio Basilica

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Stepping foot onto Piazza Maggiore, the first thing you gravitate towards is the monumental and peculiar San Petronio Basilica. This masterpiece holds the distinction of being Bologna’s grandest church and stands as the fourth largest in all of Italy.

Entry is free, but do remember to dress appropriately. As you explore the interior, you’ll be captivated by a range of treasures: intricate stained glass windows, captivating wall frescoes, a remarkable altarpiece crafted from stone and even a Meridian Line.

Pro Tip: For an enhanced experience, consider obtaining a 5€ ticket to access the Chapel of the Magi, adorned with some of the most exquisite wall frescoes.

Opening hours: Monday to Sunday from 8.30am to 1.30pm and from 3.00pm to 6.30pm

Ticket Prices: Free for the church. 5€ Chapel of the Magi.

4. The oldest university of the Western world

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Did you know that the University of Bologna was founded in the 11th century? The echoes of this storied past still resonate within the walls of the Archiginnasio, the university’s home since the 16th century.

The visit price is 3€ and allows you to wander in the opulent palace, embrace the scholarly ambiance of the Stabat Mater Hall, housing a precious collection of age-old books, and marvel at the Anatomical Theater – a remarkable wooden room once employed for anatomical lectures and demonstrations.

Opening hours: Monday to Sunday from 10.00am to 6.00pm

Ticket Prices: 3€ for adults and free for visitors under 18 years old.

Just remember that the reservation is mandatory, so don’t forget to buy your ticket in advance!

5. Food Quadrilatero and Market

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Are you ready to understand why Italians call Bologna “the fat” (la grassa)? Prepare your senses for the gastronomic heaven known as the Quadrilatero. Next to the Archiginnasio, make your way into the food court where Bologna’s rich culinary traditions unfold. Here you will find typical restaurants to try Bologna’s finest delicacies, including mortadella (Bologna’s ham), charming traditional shops, and fruit and vegetable stands showcasing local products. 

Don’t forget to immerse yourself in the energetic market Mercato di Mezzo and grab some lunch!

6. Via dell’Indipendenza: Retail therapy

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What is a trip without a bit of shopping? Via dell’Indipendenza is a huge avenue where most Bologna shops are located. When enjoying your shopping trip, take note of the elegant porticos gracing both sides of via dell’Indipendenza.

7. San Pietro Cathedral

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Slightly hidden among the buildings of the shopping street, San Pietro Cathedral might often go unnoticed. Yet, as you step inside, a world of wonder awaits. This cathedral, though unassuming from the exterior, is one of Bologna’s biggest churches. It contains numerous secrets inside such as precious frescos, masterful sculptures, and even an archeological site.

Pro Tip: While the entrance to the church is free, I strongly recommend you invest in the 5€ ticket. This grants you access to the archeological site, as well as a visit to the bell tower. The tower offers one of the best (if not the best) views of Bologna, rivaling with the famous Asinelli tower, but with a much easier climb.

Opening hours: Monday to Friday from 7.00am to 7.00pm. Saturday from 7.00am to 11.00pm. Sunday from 8.00am to 7.00pm.

Ticket Prices: free for the Cathedral, 5€ for the bell tower and archeological site.

8. Two Towers: the icon of Bologna

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Bologna’s emblematic landmarks, the two towers, are the icons of the city’s rich medieval heritage. Asinelli Tower, the taller one, and Garisenda, the leaning tower, are examples of how Bologna’s skyline would look like centuries ago.

Garisenda Tower is progressively tilting more each year. To preserve this iconic structure, the Bologna city council has launched an ambitious project to reinforce Garisenda, a process expected to span over eight years, ensuring its stability and continued place in the city’s historic landscape.

9. Santo Stefano Church(s)

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Here you can visit not one, not two, nor three, but seven distinct churches! Santo Stefano Complex is the merger of multiple religious buildings dating back to the 5th century, a live testament to a rich history. While most of these churches may stand empty today, walking from building to building presents an opportunity to unravel Bologna’s long and complex history.

Opening hours: Tuesday to Sunday from 9.30am to 12.30pm and from 2.30pm to 7.00pm. Monday from 6.00pm to 7.30pm.

Ticket Prices: free, including the little museum inside

10. Dinner under the comfort of porticos

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When Bologna’s culinary panorama comes to mind, Sfoglia Rina rises as a renowned and undoubtedly exceptional establishment. The restaurant features handmade pasta crafted from the finest ingredients, prepared following the traditional Bolognese recipe. However; due to its fame, it’s wise to expect extended waiting lines (literally one hour or more during meal hours) and unfortunately reservations are not an option.

If you are looking for a traditional restaurant where you don’t have to wait, allow me to introduce Trattoria della Santa, a mere 5-minute walk from Archiginnasio. This charming restaurant serves quintessential Bolognese dishes such as Tagliatelle al ragù. Moreover, you may find slightly new interpretations of the classics on the menu, such as tortelloni with mushrooms (a must-try!). On the exterior, the sitting area is under the porticos, making you feel a true bolognese.

Opening hours: Monday to Saturday from 12.30pm to 14,30pm and from 7.30pm to 10.30pm. Closed on Sunday.

Day 1 of our Bologna escapade immerses us in the city’s historical tapestry. Stay tuned for our next exploration, where we delve into more of Bologna’s captivating offerings.

Day 2: Discovering Secrets

11. Pinacoteca – the home of bolognese painters

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After savoring a true Italian breakfast (creamy cappuccino and a croissant) get ready to be amazed by Italian art, particularly painting. In Pinacoteca Nazionale, you will find an exquisite selection of Emilian (from Emilia Romagna, the region Bologna is the capital) masterpieces from the 13th to the 18th century. Among the treasures are works by geniuses like Giotto and Raffaello, alongside paintings from artists linked to Bologna.

Opening hours: Tuesday to Wednesday from 9.00am to 2.00pm. Thursday to Sunday, including holidays, from 9.00am to 7.00pm. Closed on Mondays.

Ticket prices: 9€ for adults, 2€ for visitors between 18 to 25 years old and free for visitors under the age of 18.

12. The new University of Bologna

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Get to know the new(est) polo of Bologna University and the amazing portico architecture that graces your walk in Via Zamboni as you approach the center of the city.

13. Trattoria del Rosso: a heaven of tradition

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After your journey through the centuries at the Pinacoteca, it’s only right to recharge batteries – and what better way than with food?

No visit is complete without the traditional restaurant Trattoria del Rosso. You will find an array of typical bolognese dishes, surrounded by a classic Italian charm. Try out Tortellini al ragù, the signature pasta of Bologna with ground beef and tomato sauce, or as an alternative the Cotoletta alla bolognese, a veal, beef, or chicken cutlet covered in breadcrumbs and a slice of ham topped with Parmesan cheese. Delicious!

Opening hours: Monday to Sunday from 12.00pm to 3.00pm and from 7.00pm to 10.00pm.

It is highly recommended to book in advance as (top-notch) restaurants in the city center tend to be full.

14. The Hidden Venice

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Uncovering another Bologna secret: a small window unveils a glimpse of Bologna’s lost canals. In Via Piela, you will find a line of people waiting to look at it. The window, called “la finestrella”in Italian, seemingly embedded in the wall overlooks one of Bologna’s hidden canals and gives a great Instagram picture! Depending on the season, the canal can have water or be dried.

15. Galleria Cavour

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Known for their love for luxury fashion, Italians’ love for opulent goods finds its way even into the medieval city of Bologna.

Next to Archiginnasio, you find a world of luxury in Galleria Cavour, a small shopping gallery with the most famous Italian fashion luxury brands. From Gucci to Prada, you can lose yourself in this premium window shopping.

If you are drawn to this world of opulence yet prefer not to splurge, cross the street and…

16. Luxury Gelato at Cremeria Cavour

…satisfy your desire for luxury in Cremeria Cavour, one of Bologna’s best ice creams. Not only is the ice cream texture silky and creamy, the flavors are outstanding. Don’t miss out on the nocciola (hazelnut) flavor, a classic and indulgent pleasure, trust me!

Opening hours: Tuesday to Saturday from 12.00pm to 11.30pm. Sunday and holidays from 11.00am to 11.30pm.

17. Giardini Margherita

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A mere 15-minute walk from the city center you can connect yourself with nature in Margherita Garden, the largest in Bologna. Where you will find tree-lined avenues, a serene lake, a playground for kids, and more. As the Apertivio hour approaches (5.30pm) you may want to follow the tradition in one of the garden’s cafes.

Opt for tranquility by visiting the café called Chalet near the lake. As an alternative embrace a youthful vibe and go for le Serre, a coworking space with greenhouses that also hosts a cafe. Regardless of your choice don’t forget to ask for a Spritz: Aperol, Campari, or even Limoncello Spriz, my favorite!

Opening hours:

• Chalet every day from 8.00am to 0.30am or 1.00am.

• Le Serre every day from 8.00am to 1.00am.

18. The last supper in Bologna

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As your two days in Bologna end, an exquisite final dinner awaits. Allow me to propose the perfect end to your trip at Via Castiglione, one of Bologna’s liveliest streets, where you will find a blend of students and also locals.

In Va Mo Là restaurant you can try one of the best Mortadella (Bologna special ham), the classic Tagliatelle al ragù or Lasagna, all of it in a chill and fun environment. Don’t forget to raise a toast with a glass of Pignoletto, a white wine, or if you are eating meet, the red Sangiovese, both characteristic of the Emilia Romagna region.

Opening hours: Monday to Saturday  from 12.00am to 3.00pm and from 7.00pm to 11.30pm.

Transport and moving around 

You can easily reach Bologna by train:

Milan – 1 hour

Padova – 1 hour

Venice – 1 hour & 30 min

Rome – 2 hours & 10 min

If you prefer to move around in a rented car we would recommend to park it somewhere in the town and take a stroll.

Hopefully this itinerary on what to do in Bologna in two days helped you create memories filled with exquisite flavors, orange sights, and historical monuments.