Bologna, City of Music & Birthplace of Italian Cuisine
Currency: Euro
Language: Italian
Tax Refund: Can be done together on your final departure from European Union
From Airport / Train Station to the City
Bologna International Airport is known as the Guglielmo Marconi International Airport. It is located near to the city and a taxi will cost around 15 Euros. The airport is also connect by a special bus, Aerobus, the ticket cost 6 Euro and takes you from the main terminal to the Mille stop in the city center and also the train station, Stazione Centrale. Tickets can be bought online as well as in the station.
For those arriving by train, the station is located north of the city and you can reach anywhere on foot.
Attractions
Ducati Museum
Via Antonio Cavalieri Ducati, 3, 40132 Borgo Panigale, Bologna
Located near the airport and a short ride out of the city, this sleek museum showcases some of the rarest motorbikes and tells the history of the company. A factory visit is possible with a guided tour, the tour last 60 mins and a booking must be pre made. The museum and factory tickets cost 30 Euros and can be made via email to infotour@ducati.com. The museum is closed on Wed, Sat and Sun. the museum can be reached by a taxi (15 Euros) or Bus 36, 39 and 13 (1.50 Euros).
Piazza Maggiore
The main square and centre of Bologna this have been the gathering place for the locals since 1200. Surrounded by medieval buildings, it has its charms when it is dusk and all the lights are on. Most of the times there would be street musicians and streets shows being held.
Fontana di Nettuno
A 16th century fountain that is a tribute to the Greek god Neptune located right in the centre of the city. It is located right next to Plazza Maggiore.
University Quarter
The world oldest university is located north east part of the city centre, in Via Zamboni. This part has many affordable cafes and restaurants. It is worth a walk to admire the campus and enjoy the student life.
Portico Walk to San Luca
Experience talking a walk through the old part of Bologna from Porta Saragozza to the end of Via Saragozza. There is much historical buildings to admire and the portico is a must see.
Torre degli Asinelli & Torre dei Garisenda
The main symbol of the city, these two towers is the main icon in the skies of Bologna. Only the degli Asinelli is open to the public and can be climb for a nominal fee. The views are impressive at the top, although keep in mind that the stairs are narrow. Towering at 330 and 162 feet respectively. Both of them are built in the 12th century.
Palazzo Comunale
The city hall in Bologna it is also a museum where there is a huge collection of Renaissance paintings, sculptures and antique furniture it is also a 14th-century palace. It is also located in the central plaza.
Basilica of San Petronio
Another main site in Plaza Maggiore this vast Gothic Basilica housed 22 chapels, up to today, it is still unfinished with the iconic brick and marble façade. The Basilica houses an invaluable number of treasures such as the sundial by Cassini and Guglielmini.
The Lamborghini Museum
Via Modena, 12, 40019 Sant’Agata Bolognese BO, Italy
This museum is actually located outside of Bologna, roughly 25km away and reachable via bus 576, the ride takes 50mins. Located in Sant’Agata Bolognese, the factory and museum is worthy of a visit. The museum ticket cost 12 Euros and is open from 9.30am to 6pm, it is close on Sun. The tempting production line tour can also be done at a price of 50 euros, it includes entrance into the museum. The tours take place between 10am to 4pm on weekdays and bookings are necessary. Reservation can be made via email.
Giardini Margherita
The city main park, it used to be one of the nobles private park in the past. Located in the south of the city, it is lush and popular. Especially in the summer you will see many families out in the sun.
Food Tours
Being the culinary city of Italy, here you have many opportunities to embark on a culinary tour as well as taking part in a cooking lesson.
Truffle Tours with Bluone
Via Riva di Reno 4, 40122 Bologna
Embark on an amazing tour with this family run company and get in depth knowledge on the best of Italian cooked food. From truffle hunting to the most simple pasta in their kitchen. Enquires and booking may be made on their website or through email info@bluone.com
Shopping
Castel Guelfo The Style Outlets
Via del Commercio 4/2, 40023 Castel Guelfo di Bologna
A short distance away from the city of Bologna, this place offers much shopping satisfaction, furthermore there is a free shuttle service from the train station, FS Castel S.Pietro Terme. This outlet is open from 10am to 8pm on weekdays and till 8.30pm on weekends. From 30 – 80% off brands such as Adidas to Geox to Timberland.
Via Drapperie
Located behind the main square of the town, this narrow laneway consists of many little boutiques and quirky stalls. It is an adventure to walk through here, looking at many interesting stuff and the market stalls.
La Salumeria da Bruno e Franco
40126, Via Guglielmo Oberdan, 16, 40126 Bologna, Italy
Known as the best deli in the food city of Italy, this is the place to be in town for the best pasta, cheese, meat and oil. The tortellini is also superb. It is open from Mon to Thurs from 7.30am to 1pm and 4.30pm to 7.30pm, the whole day from Fri and Sat.
Restaurants
Trattoria Del Rosso
Via Augusto Righi, 30, 40126 Bologna, Italy
Rated as one of the best in Bologna, it is located right in the centre of town, helmed by Chef Stephano Curvucci, the Bolognese comes recommended. The house made fresh pasta is intriguing. Prices are affordable and well. They even have a lunch time 10Euro specials. The restaurant is open daily from 12pm to 3pm and 7pm to 11pm.
Il Gelatauro
Via San Vitale, 98/b, 40125 Bologna, Italy
One of the most popular ice cream shop in town, it is known for its popular creations. Besides their gelato, you can also find fresh bakes and sandwiches. It is open daily from 8.30am till 12am, on Sun and Mon it is closed earlier.
Trattoria Tony
Via Augusto Righi, 1 b, 40126 Bologna, Italy
A down to earth home cooking destination, expect family style dishes from the locals themselves. The noodles are exceptionally good and it is always crowded, reservations are recommended. It is open from Tues to Sat from 12pm to 2pm and 7pm to 10pm. The trifle is also a must order.
Matusel
Via Antonio Bertoloni, 2, 40126 Bologna, Italy
In the university zone, this reseaurant offers great and reasonable prices Italian food. The fish dishes here are even better. The restaurant is open from 12pm to 2.30pm and from 7.30pm to 11pm.
A.F. Tamburini
Via Caprarie, 1, 40124 Bologna, Italy
A perfect place to enjoy the sun with alfresco seats. It serves up authentic and delicious salami, cheese and awesome a must have aperol spritz. The must try are also their local bolognaise pasta. It is a great place to spend your afternoon. Open from 8.30am to 8pm on Mon to Sat and also 10am to 6.30pm on Sundays.