What to see in Bologna in 1 day in a walking tour
What to see in Bologna: a Walking Tour in the Historic Center. Bologna la Dotta, la Grassa, la Turrita. Exploring Bologna by foot is the best way to experience its essence and be captivated by its extraordinary historical and gastronomic heritage.
I assure you that the Center of Bologna will enchant you at first sight: a maze of porticoes, ancient buildings, towers, and osterias where you can breathe in the true soul of the city. Here, time seems to slow down—perfect for a stroll through its architectural wonders and authentic Bolognese flavors.
On weekends and holidays, the city’s beating heart—the famous “Zona T,” which includes Via Ugo Bassi, Via Rizzoli, Strada Maggiore, and part of Via dell’Indipendenza—is entirely pedestrianized. It’s the perfect opportunity to experience the Center of Bologna without the hassle of traffic.
If you are visiting Bologna for the first time or have limited time, here is an essential itinerary to discover what to see in Bologna in its historic center. No worries: the most iconic monuments and sights are all close to each other, perfect for an intense yet stress-free experience!
COSA TROVERAI IN QUESTO POST:
How to Reach the Center of Bologna
By Train: Bologna is one of Italy’s major railway hubs, and Bologna Station is right in the center, making it an excellent option!
By Car: The historic center is normally a Limited Traffic Zone (ZTL) and is completely closed to cars and public transport on weekends. I recommend leaving your car at the Tanari Parking Lot, which offers a shuttle service to the city center.
By Plane: Land at Guglielmo Marconi Airport and reach the center with a special bus that connects the city center and the railway station. Alternatively, you can take a taxi and arrive in Piazza Maggiore in about 20 minutes!
What to See in Bologna: a Walking Tour of the Center of Bologna
Piazza del Nettuno
Let’s start here. “Let’s meet under Neptune’s butt!” This is how we Bolognesi arrange to meet for a “walk in the center,” so I suggest you start here. The Fountain of Neptune is a city symbol and also the protagonist of a curious secret—one of Bologna’s seven secrets.
The spacious square is surrounded by stunning historic buildings that you can admire from the outside, but some also allow visitors inside.
One day, I played the tourist in my own city and let myself be guided through its many beauties. You can find my review here, and if you’d like to book directly.
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The Voltone del Podestà
Right next to the fountain, you enter a portico where, at the center, under the Torre dell’Arlengo, four pillars form a vaulted ceiling. I don’t want to spoil the surprise, but this place holds one of Bologna’s seven secrets—a fascinating acoustic trick.
Palazzo Re Enzo
This stunning palace housed King Enzo of Swabia as a prisoner from 1249 to 1272. It is usually closed to the public, but if you’re lucky, you may find it open for an exhibition or special event.
Sala Borsa Library
Opposite Palazzo Re Enzo stands the Sala Borsa Library, renovated and inaugurated in 2001. Inside its covered square, thanks to the transparent flooring, you can admire the remains of Etruscan and Roman Bologna. You can also visit these remains with a small donation. Opening hours: Monday from 2 PM to 7 PM, other days from 10 AM to 7 PM. For guided tour info, visit the official Sala Borsa Library website.
Basilica of San Petronio
Say goodbye to Neptune and continue to the adjacent Piazza Maggiore, the city’s main square. Cross the square, but don’t do it diagonally—it is said to bring bad luck! Legend has it that those who cross it diagonally will not graduate or get married.
One of the most famous frescoes here is “Muhammad in Hell,” which is why the church is constantly guarded by army vehicles.
I highly recommend visiting the terrace of the basilica. For just €3, an elevator takes you to the top, where you can enjoy a breathtaking city view.
Palazzo d’Accursio
Continuing the Walking Tour through the Center of Bologna, you’ll arrive at the seat of Bologna’s City Hall, an impressive building that has expanded over the centuries. You’ll recognize it by the clock tower (once an astronomical clock). Statues decorate its facade, including the Madonna of Piazza (by Niccolò dell’Arca) and Pope Gregory XIII (a Bolognese). Inside, you’ll find historical and political memorabilia of the city.
For centuries, Palazzo d’Accursio hosted the “Torrone criminal court,” which also served as the city prison, named after the imposing tower still characterizing the building today.
Via D’Azeglio
One of Bologna’s most elegant shopping streets, Via D’Azeglio is partially pedestrianized. Every Christmas, it is adorned with lights displaying lyrics from famous songs by artists connected to Bologna, like a local Carnaby Street.
In recent years, these lyrics have included “L’anno che verrà” by Lucio Dalla, “Nessuno vuole essere Robin” by Cesare Cremonini, and a tribute to the great Raffaella Carrà, born in Bologna.
You can relax at a café here, often hearing Lucio Dalla’s songs playing. His house, at number 15, is open for visits for €15.
The Two Towers: Garisenda and Asinelli
From Piazza Maggiore, walk towards Via Rizzoli to reach the Two Towers. In medieval times, Bologna had nearly two hundred towers, earning it the nickname “Bologna la Turrita.” Today, around twenty remain, with the most famous being the Asinelli and the shorter, leaning Garisenda.
You can climb the Asinelli Tower—the world’s tallest leaning tower. Reservations are required, and tickets cost €5 for adults, €3 for reduced admission, available on the official Two Towers website. It’s a challenging climb—498 steep steps—but the panoramic view is worth it.
Former Jewish Ghetto of Bologna
Under the Garisenda Tower, continuing along Via de’ Giudei, you officially enter Bologna’s former Jewish Ghetto, a labyrinth of medieval alleys full of ancient charm. This is one of the most picturesque areas of the Center of Bologna, with buildings once belonging to Jewish bankers and merchants, artisan shops, and vintage-style bars.
For a journey back in time, you can take a virtual tour of Medieval Bologna!
Piazza della Mercanzia
This small square is the perfect place for a break or an aperitivo, right under the Palazzo della Mercanzia. Renovated over the centuries, its facade recalls the Gothic style and now houses the Bologna Chamber of Commerce.
Strada Maggiore and the Three Arrows
The continuation of Via Rizzoli, the ancient Roman Via Emilia, is called Strada Maggiore. This street is lined with porticoes on both sides, and you will find several shops for a pleasant shopping experience. A little further ahead, at the entrance of Corte Isolani (which leads you to Piazza Santo Stefano), look up and you’ll see three arrows stuck in the wooden ceiling, where they have remained for centuries.
Piazza Santo Stefano
You can reach Piazza Santo Stefano by walking through Corte Isolani, halfway down Strada Maggiore, or by continuing straight from Piazza della Mercanzia.
After just a few meters, you will find yourself in what I believe is the most beautiful square in Bologna: Piazza Santo Stefano. With its round cobblestone pavement, the Seven Churches, and the porticoes of many noble palaces, it is a breathtaking sight. It is magnificent at any time of the day, but my favorite moment is early in the morning, when it is completely empty, and you can admire it in silence as the sun rises behind the Basilica.
In the evening, the square becomes incredibly lively, with young people filling the many bars and cafés under the porticoes.
If you happen to be here on the first Sunday of the month, don’t miss the antique market—if you’re a fan of vintage treasures, you might find some real bargains!
Frescoes of the Portico in Via Farini
Walk past the square and turn into Via Farini, where you’ll find the entrance to Galleria Cavour. Continue toward Piazza Cavour, and you’ll come across the portico of the Banca d’Italia, which I consider the most beautiful in the city. I’m sure you’ll love its vividly painted and beautifully preserved frescoed vaults.
The Archiginnasio
From Via Farini, continue your Walking Tour of the Center of Bologna towards Piazza Galvani and walk under the Pavaglione Portico. Beneath this portico, you’ll find dozens of shops and majestic historic buildings, including the Archaeological Museum and the Archiginnasio, which you can recognize by its large inner courtyard with glass windows above.
Built in the 16th century, the Archiginnasio was the main seat of the University, unifying all faculties that were previously scattered throughout the city. The most fascinating part inside is undoubtedly the Anatomical Theater, which was rebuilt using its original pieces after being damaged by bombings during World War II.
The entrance fee is only €3, and it is absolutely worth visiting!
The Portico of Death
A particularly intriguing spot is the Portico of Death, which you’ll recognize by the sign of the historic Nanni Bookstore. Dating back to the 1400s, its eerie name comes from the Confraternity of Death, which operated here, where the city’s ancient hospital was once located.
The Quadrilatero
You can continue either through the Portico of Death by heading down Via Clavature or return to the Pavaglione Portico and turn into one of the small streets on your right. This is the Quadrilatero, which also leads to the Mercato di Mezzo.
This area is famous for its nightlife and excellent restaurants—perfect for an aperitivo with a view of the square or a traditional dinner.
What to eat in Bologna?
You’re in Bologna—there’s no way you can miss stopping by a traditional osteria and tasting our specialties!
Among my favorite dishes, at least six belong to the rich To eat in Bologna tradition, so it’s easy for me to list them for you. But be warned—this menu is not for those on a strict diet! Check out my article on Typical Dishes of Bologna to discover all the delicious food you can find in the city!
If you’re looking for recommendations on where to taste authentic Bolognese tortellini, I have a personal list of trattorias in the Center of Bologna, titled “Extraordinary Tortellini and Where to Find Them.“
Bologna by foot – The best way to explore!
Exploring Bologna by foot allows you to experience every corner of the city, from medieval alleys to endless porticoes, from towering landmarks to lively piazzas. The Center of Bologna is a true gem, best enjoyed at a relaxed pace, letting your curiosity and the aroma of traditional cuisine guide you.
Now that you know What to see in Bologna, all that’s left is to embark on this adventure and discover a city ready to surprise you with its history, culture, and unique hospitality!
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