Bologna tours

Things to do in Bologna

Bologna, fondly dubbed La Grassa for its abundant culinary past, envelops you in its terracotta warmth and enticing aromas. Through your local guide's perspective, your private Bologna tour brims with personal anecdotes and hidden nooks. Roam through the historic Quadrilatero on a walking tour, where artisan stalls offer a sensory banquet of mortadella and freshly made tortellini. Join a food and wine tour to relish the city’s gourmet offerings, savouring each flavour like a local. Skip the line to uncover Bologna’s mysteries, from its ancient university to its intricate porticos, making your visit as richly detailed as its famous ragù. This isn’t a one-size-fits-all itinerary, you can tailor your private tour to match your interests, pace and personality with a local who knows Bologna inside and out. If you’re looking for more inspiration, take a look at our curated list of things to do in Bologna. Walking tours & neighbourhoods Consider taking a private walking tour to explore Bologna and include some of its vibrant neighborhoods in your itinerary. With a local guide, you’ll dive into the rich culture and lively atmosphere of the city. - Centro Storico: This historic center is perfect for cultural tourists and families. With its iconic towers and bustling markets, it offers a dynamic blend of history and modernity. - University District: Known for its youthful energy and intellectual vibe, this area is great for those seeking meaningful connections and unique cafes. It’s a lively spot for multi-generational groups. - Bolognina: An emerging neighborhood with a diverse community, Bolognina is ideal for food enthusiasts and art lovers. Explore its street art and enjoy the local food scene. Day trip ideas from Bologna Use Bologna as your base and branch out on easy day trips to food towns, art cities, and quiet hill villages nearby, which pair well with your tour in the city. Modena: For food fans, this is balsamic vinegar country and a short train ride away, with time to visit a traditional acetaia, browse Mercato Albinelli for local snacks, and see the Romanesque Duomo and main square without rushing. Parma: Cheese and ham are the headline, but the historic centre rewards a slow walk, with the pink marble Baptistery, elegant porticoes, and cafe stops that suit anyone who wants culture and flavour in the same day. Ravenna: Mosaic masterpieces sit in calm neighbourhoods, so you can step between UNESCO-listed churches, learn how these tiny tiles tell big stories, and still have time for a relaxed lunch near the Adriatic side of Emilia-Romagna. Ferrara: A flat, bike-friendly city with Renaissance streets and a moated castle at the core, great for travellers who like easy cycling on the old walls or long walks through shady lanes and quiet piazzas. Dozza: A small hill town painted with open-air murals, good for art lovers who want a compact stop, simple wine tastings from local producers, and views over the vineyards that feel a world away yet sit under an hour from Bologna. A private tour with a local guide is the best way to really get to know a place. Skip the crowds, follow your interests, and see a side of Bologna most travellers miss.