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Short on time in Bologna but still want to see the best of it? Let us show you how.
This two-day Bologna itinerary is based on our own time wandering through the city’s terracotta streets, slurping tagliatelle, and soaking in the history that seems to echo from every portico. It’s the perfect blend of architecture, food, and local flavor—designed to help you experience the best of Bologna, even with limited time.
From must-see landmarks and underrated museums to unforgettable pasta-making classes and day trips into the countryside, this guide includes all our favorite tours, restaurants, and insider tips. Whether you’re here for the culture, the cuisine, or both, just follow along for a laid-back, food-filled, and stress-free visit!
Don’t Miss Out On Our Top Choice!
The tour we loved the most and suggest booking ASAP is this one!
Our personal FAVORITE thing we did in Bologna was this culinary tour! As Italy’s most famous food region, we loved going behind the scenes to learn how various cheeses, meats, balsamic, and wine were produced. And we ate a lot, of course!
Check out the 1,000+ 5-star reviews and book this tour here!
Day 1
Breakfast – Caffè Terzi Bologna
Caffè Terzi Bologna pulls you in the moment you step through the door—glowing lights, rich coffee aromas swirling through the air, and baristas who treat you like a regular even if it’s your first visit. Their coffee lives up to the hype, and the pastries are exactly what you want in Italy: buttery, flaky, and worth every crumb.
There’s no need to rush here too early, but arriving between 8 and 9 a.m. is ideal before it gets too busy. Even better, it’s only a 5-minute walk from the first tour of the day, so you can take your time, soak up the vibe, and still make it with plenty of time to spare. It’s a cozy, low-key way to kick off your first day in Bologna.
Visit the Biblioteca Salaborsa
If you finish up breakfast with time to spare, take a few minutes to explore one of Bologna’s most underrated gems—Biblioteca Salaborsa. Tucked behind an easy-to-miss entrance in Palazzo d’Accursio, this stunning public library opens into a grand hall with soaring ceilings and elegant architecture that completely took us by surprise. The highlight is the glass floor in the center of the main atrium that lets you peer straight down at Roman ruins below.
Best of all, it’s totally free to enter and literally steps from where your walking tour will begin, right on Piazza Nettuno. It’s a quick, quiet wander that won’t take up too much time but adds a memorable layer to your morning. Definitely worth popping in, even just for a few photos and that “wow” moment when you step inside.
Morning – See Bologna on a walking tour
This historic walking tour is hands-down the best way to get your bearings in Bologna, and it fits perfectly into the first half of your day. We joined the 10:30 a.m. tour and wrapped up around 12:30 p.m., and it was just enough time to dive into the city’s story without feeling rushed.
Our guide, Christine, was a natural storyteller. We kicked things off at the Basilica di San Petronio, where she pointed out that it’s still technically unfinished (built in 1390, not 1930!), which honestly blew our minds.
From there, we stepped into the Archiginnasio di Bologna, the elegant former seat of Europe’s oldest university. Then we wandered through the Quadrilatero—an old-world market district bursting with fresh pasta shops, prosciutto, cheese counters, and narrow alleyways filled with character.
We also passed under the looming shadows of Le Due Torri, Bologna’s iconic leaning towers. Even though we didn’t climb them, just standing underneath and hearing the stories behind them was enough to feel their impact.
The tour ended in the peaceful Piazza Santo Stefano, a quiet square wrapped in beautiful architecture and the perfect place to catch our breath. Doing this tour first thing really set the tone for the rest of our time in the city and gave us a deeper appreciation for everything we saw after.
Reserve this popular history tour here and get FREE cancellation before you go!
Lunch – Mò Mortadella Lab
After a couple of hours on your feet, you’ve earned a proper Bolognese lunch, and nothing hits the spot like a mortadella sandwich from Mò Mortadella Lab. This tiny hole-in-the-wall spot is just a 4-minute walk from Piazza Santo Stefano, and it’s the place locals rave about for Bologna’s most iconic street food.
Mortadella was born here (literally), and this place takes serious pride in doing it right. The sandwiches are stacked high with thick, velvety slices of Mortadella Bologna IGP—fragrant, melt-in-your-mouth, and nothing like the stuff you’ve had elsewhere. You can go classic, or level up with toppings like pistachio cream, truffle, or burrata. We split two just to try more options, and honestly, we’d go back for a third!
Afternoon – Explore Bologna on your own
The morning may have been all about history and landmarks, but the afternoon is your chance to wander at your own pace and discover even more of Bologna’s charm. These next few hours are perfect for hitting a few extra sights that weren’t included in the walking tour. Plus, there’s time for a snack (or two) before heading off to a fun cooking class later in the evening.
You don’t have to see everything, so feel free to pick and choose based on your mood. But if you’re up for it, here is how we spent the afternoon:
Museo Civico Archeologico
Tucked right behind the Basilica di San Petronio, Museo Civico Archeologico is one of Bologna’s best-kept secrets. The collection spans ancient Etruscan artifacts, Roman sculptures, and even Egyptian mummies, all housed in a beautiful building just a 4-minute walk from Neptune’s Square. It’s surprisingly large and usually quiet, so you can wander without the crowds, which honestly makes the experience even better.
Not everything has English translations, but the displays are fascinating enough that it hardly matters. We weren’t expecting much and ended up spending way more time here than planned—it’s that kind of place.
Basilica Santuario Santo Stefano
You’ll have ended your walking tour in Piazza Santo Stefano, but now’s your chance to actually go inside. This basilica complex, often called the “Seven Churches,” is quiet, spiritual, and wonderfully atmospheric.
It’s a peaceful place to reflect, with shadowy chapels, cloisters, and ancient stone underfoot. We lingered a little longer than expected, just soaking in the stillness. Bonus: it’s only about a 7-minute walk from Neptune’s Square, so it’s super easy to fit in.
Cremeria la Vecchia Stalla
Right around the corner from the basilica is one of Bologna’s top gelato spots, Cremeria la Vecchia Stalla. We couldn’t resist a scoop (or two). Their pistachio is silky and rich, and the seasonal flavors rotate regularly, so don’t be surprised if you find something totally unexpected on the menu. It’s a sweet little detour that keeps the afternoon energy going strong!
University of Bologna
From there, head into the student-filled heart of the city: the University Quarter. Home to the University of Bologna, the oldest university in the Western world (founded in 1088), this area buzzes with youthful energy and cool side streets full of bookshops, cafés, and murals. It’s fun just to walk through and take it all in, especially after spending the earlier part of the day deep in Bologna’s more traditional sights. You’ll feel the contrast immediately!
Museo di Palazzo Poggi
As you explore the university area, don’t miss Museo di Palazzo Poggi. It’s a total hidden gem that’s part science museum, part cabinet of curiosities. Inside are rooms filled with centuries-old anatomical wax models, scientific instruments, and oddities that feel like something out of an old textbook. It’s quirky, educational, and way more interesting than we expected. Plan for about an hour or two here, it’s well worth the €7 ticket.
Related Read: If you have extra time in your schedule, check out our 6 best things to do in Bologna blog!
Dinner/Evening – Learn how to make traditional Bolognese dishes
After a full day of exploring, there’s no better way to wind down than by learning how to cook like a true Bolognese. This small-group cooking class is just a short stroll from Neptune’s Square and feels more like a cozy dinner party than a formal lesson.
We joined the 7 p.m. class, which lasted about three hours and kicked off with an aperitivo of mortadella, crescenta focaccia, and a glass of crisp Pignoletto. It was the perfect way to settle in and chat with our fellow food-lovers before getting our hands dirty.
We also learned how to mix up a Casoni spritz, a regional twist on the classic drink that’s totally different from the usual Aperol version. It’s herbier and more complex!
Then came the main event: handmade tagliatelle. No machines here—it was all rolling pins, elbow grease, and laughter. Our local host (aka our sfoglina) guided us through making the dough from scratch, shaping it into long ribbons, and simmering it with their slow-cooked house ragù. Paired with aged Parmigiano Reggiano and a generous pour of San Giovese, eating something we’d just made ourselves was ridiculously satisfying.
We ended the night with coffee, amaro, and a full belly, feeling like we’d just cooked with friends in a local kitchen. And yes, you’ll even get the recipes sent to you so you can relive the magic back home!
This class was a highlight of our trip, and it’s clear we aren’t the only ones who loved it—just check out the hundreds of five-star reviews here!
Don’t miss out – book this cooking class here before it sells out!
Related Read: Heading to Verona next? Make sure you check out our 3-day Verona itinerary here to help you plan the perfect blend of sightseeing, food, and local experiences!
Day 2
Breakfast – On the go!
This morning’s breakfast depends on which full-day adventure you’ve chosen. If you’re joining the early morning food tour, skip breakfast altogether—trust us, you’ll be eating plenty. The tour starts at 7 a.m. and includes a proper Bolognese breakfast as part of the experience, so just bring your appetite.
On the other hand, if you’re heading out on the Ferrari day trip, you’ll have a little more flexibility. Grab something quick and local near your hotel, or take advantage of your hotel’s breakfast spread if available. A coffee and a cornetto is the classic Italian way to fuel up—simple, quick, and perfect before a day of engines and Emilia-Romagna countryside.
Option 1: Morning/Afternoon – Experience Bologna’s best food tour
For the food lovers out there, this full-day culinary tour is the ultimate way to experience the flavors of Emilia-Romagna. It’s an early start at 7 a.m. sharp with no hotel pickup, so be sure to set your alarm and skip breakfast (you’ll be eating plenty!).
The day kicks off at a Parmigiano Reggiano factory, where you’ll watch each cheese wheel come to life in a mesmerizing, centuries-old process. Tasting it fresh from the source is next-level. Then it’s off to the Modena countryside to explore the world of traditional balsamic vinegar. Walking among the aging barrels and sampling the rich, syrupy vinegar is a total standout.
Your final stop is a prosciutto factory, where the focus shifts to delicate, paper-thin slices of savory perfection. After a deep dive into the production process, it’s time for a serious reward: a long, indulgent lunch of handmade pasta, cured meats, cheeses, and free-flowing local wine. We were so full by the end that dinner wasn’t even a consideration.
This tour runs until about 4 p.m. and covers some of the best bites in the region—all guided by food-loving locals who make the day feel educational and unforgettable!
We loved how personal and behind-the-scenes the whole experience felt, and it’s clear we’re not the only ones—just check out the glowing five-star reviews here and see why travelers rave about this experience.
Book our favorite Bologna tour here!
Why We Book Tours with Viator
Viator is a trusted online booking system for tours around the world! We almost always book our tours using Viator for a couple of reasons:
- Free cancellation on most tours – Most of the tours on Viator allow you to cancel and get a full refund up to 24 hours in advance. This is handy in case plans change, or if booking an outdoor activity, the weather forecast is looking grim.
- Reserve now and pay later – You can secure your spot on some of the most popular tours well in advance and not pay until closer to the day of the tour.
- Lowest price guarantee – If you happen to find the same tour at a lower price elsewhere, Viator will refund you the price difference.
- Pay in your chosen currency – Avoid costly international transaction fees by choosing to pay in your home currency.
- Peace of mind – When booking with tour operators you find in person on the street or in small booking offices, you are often promised one thing and given another. This online platform holds tour operators accountable with a written description of inclusions as well as the opportunity for customers to leave reviews.
Check out the Viator website here! Or, for more info, read our detailed review about Viator here.
Option 2: Morning/Afternoon – Ferrari, Lamborghini & Pagani: Italy’s ultimate supercar day trip
If you’re more into horsepower than hand-rolled pasta, this full-day tour is an unforgettable ride through Italy’s most iconic supercar brands. It starts a little later than the food tour at 8:30 a.m., includes hotel pickup, and takes all the stress out of organizing visits to multiple factories and museums.
The day begins at the Ferrari Museum in Maranello, where you’ll walk through decades of automotive history, from vintage roadsters to Formula 1 beasts. There’s also an F1 driving simulator, which was a blast—even if your racing skills are more “Sunday driver” than Schumacher.
Next, it’s off to the sleek world of Lamborghini. Touring the museum is cool, but the real thrill is seeing the supercars being assembled on the actual production line. Even if you’re not a die-hard car fan, watching these machines come to life is undeniably impressive.
The final stop is at Pagani, where performance meets high design. These ultra-luxury cars feel more like sculptures than vehicles. Each one is handcrafted and built for ridiculous speed!
Between stops, you’ll enjoy a relaxing lunch in the countryside, and the whole day wraps up around 4:30 p.m. It’s smooth, exciting, and a must for anyone even remotely into cars!
Check availability and book this Motor Valley tour here!
Dinner – Sfoglia Rina
To wrap up your second night in Bologna, head to Sfoglia Rina, one of the city’s most beloved pasta spots, and for good reason. This place consistently ranks among the top-rated restaurants in Bologna, and after one bite, you’ll understand why.
The menu strikes a perfect balance between tradition and creativity. You’ll find local favorites like tagliatelle al ragù alongside seven specials that change every single week, so there’s always something new to try. Whether it’s your first visit or your fifth, the experience never feels the same twice. It’s casual, cozy, and everything you want in a final meal before saying ciao to Bologna!
Evening – Toast to your trip
After two full days of exploring, eating, and adventuring your way through Bologna, it’s time to slow down and raise a glass to an unforgettable trip. Whether you’re in the mood for a cozy glass of red or a self-guided tasting, Bologna has no shortage of excellent bars and wine spots to wind down.
Here are two of our favorites to cap off your night:
Camera A Sud
Tucked into the heart of the university district, Camera A Sud is one of Bologna’s most loved wine bars, and it’s easy to see why. The atmosphere is laid-back but lively, with a creative crowd, shelves of natural wine, and occasional rotating art displays on the walls. It’s open until 1 a.m., making it a great late-night spot to settle in with a glass or two and soak up those last bits of Bolognese charm.
Bottega botlé
For a more hands-on wine experience, head to Bottega botlé, a modern wine bar with a twist. Here, you’ll get a prepaid card that lets you sample dozens of wines from across Italy, including plenty from the Emilia-Romagna region. Choose your pour size (small, medium, or large), taste at your own pace, and even rate the wines using their interactive system. It’s like a wine vending machine, but classy. Just note: they close at 9 p.m. and aren’t open on Sundays, so plan accordingly.
Related Read: Continuing your travels after Bologna? Check out our ideal 3-day Florence itinerary to help you plan!
Where to Stay in Bologna, Italy
Now that your Bologna itinerary is set, it’s time to find the perfect place to stay! Bologna has plenty of options, but some are much better than others. So to make it easier, I’ve rounded up the best hotels in the city for every budget!
Luxury – $$$
Grand Hotel Majestic già Baglioni is the ultimate luxury stay in Bologna. Set in an 18th-century palace near Piazza Maggiore, this 5-star hotel has elegant rooms, two on-site restaurants, and a stylish bar. Plus, breakfast is included, so you can start your day in Bologna the right way!
Prices vary depending on the time of year but usually range between €600 to €800 per night. You can check prices and book this stay on Booking.com.
Mid-range – $$
Starhotels Excelsior is a solid mid-range pick in Bologna, perfectly located next to the gardens of Parco della Montagnola and just a 15-minute walk from Bologna Cathedral and Piazza Maggiore. The rooms are spacious and modern, with soundproofing for a quiet night’s sleep. There’s also an on-site restaurant, bar, and fitness center—plus, breakfast is available to start your day right!
Prices are usually around €150 per night and you can book this stay on Booking.com.
Budget – $
Hotel Maggiore is a great budget-friendly stay in Bologna, offering clean and comfortable rooms with air conditioning, free Wi-Fi, and minibars. It’s located just outside the city center, with easy bus access to Bologna’s top sights. Guests can also take advantage of the on-site bar and free bike rentals for exploring the city!
Rooms can start as low as €90 per night. You can reserve your room here on Booking.com!
For more options, see all of the hotels in Bologna here!
Renting a Car in Italy
Renting a car in Italy is one of the best ways to explore the country beyond the cities—think charming Tuscan villages, dramatic Amalfi Coast drives, and hidden gems in the countryside. While Italy’s roads can be a little chaotic (especially in cities), with the right preparation, renting a car here can be an unforgettable and rewarding experience!
We always use Discover Cars when booking our rentals, and highly recommend them. They compare dozens of providers to find you the best rates, include important filters like “automatic transmission,” and offer affordable full insurance coverage. For more info, you can read our in-depth Discover Cars review here.
Tips for Renting a Car in Italy
- Drive on the right: Italians drive on the right-hand side of the road and overtake on the left. Right turns on red are illegal, and you must often yield to vehicles coming from the right at intersections.
- Stay alert and confident: Italian driving can feel aggressive in cities—expect assertive drivers, scooters weaving through traffic, and liberal horn use (often just a form of communication). Stay calm and practice defensive driving.
- Insurance is a must: We highly recommend adding full coverage insurance when booking. Minor damage like scratches and dents is common, especially in cities, and Discover Cars’ full protection gives you peace of mind at a low cost!
- Mind the ZTL zones: Many city centers have restricted traffic zones called ZTLs. Entering without a permit can result in a fine. Check with your hotel and use GPS with ZTL alerts.
- Choose the right vehicle: Roads in Italy can be narrow and parking tight, so a compact car is usually best. Most rentals are manual, but if you need an automatic, you can easily filter for one when booking with Discover Cars.
What You Need to Rent a Car in Italy
- A valid driver’s license from your home country.
- If you’re from outside the EU, you’ll likely need an International Driving Permit (IDP).
- A credit card in the driver’s name is typically required for the security deposit.
- You must be at least 18 years old, but renters under 25 may incur a young driver surcharge.
Ready to hit the road? Book your car with Discover Cars here and discover the freedom of exploring Italy on your own terms!
Don’t Forget Travel Insurance!
If you’re looking to save money on travel insurance, we currently use and recommend SafetyWing. We’ve been using their coverage since 2018 and they’ve had our backs when we needed emergency flights and got sick overseas.
SafetyWing is one of the cheapest providers out there and covers everything from medical costs to lost luggage, travel delays, and emergency flights. A huge difference we’ve found between them and other companies is that they let you take out a policy AFTER leaving your home country. We’ve also found it handy that it’s a monthly payment rather than a lump sum, and you can get a refund for unused time.
SafetyWing has helped us out in some scary situations before and their affordable coverage has given us peace of mind. You can read our honest review of SafetyWing for all the pros and cons.
Thanks for reading!
Bologna was truly a dream destination filled with amazing food, beautiful historic buildings, and a charm that is so unique to Italy. I know that you will experience the best of Bologna if you follow this itinerary – we certainly did!
To make the most of your travels, check out the rest of our Italy blogs. We have been all over the country and love sharing our personal experiences, favorite places, and hidden gems with fellow travelers. Here are a few blogs to help with your planning: