Take the train from Florence and arrive in Bologna: in less than an hour, you’ll find yourself in a vibrant, authentic city ready to reveal its most precious treasures. Make the most of your free time to explore Bologna following our suggestions, so you can experience it to the fullest and discover its wonders step by step.

Your visit can begin right in the beating heart of the city, between Piazza Maggiore and Piazza del Nettuno. Here, you’ll be amazed by the majestic Basilica di San Petronio, one of the largest churches in Europe, and you can admire the famous Fountain of Neptune, a Renaissance symbol beloved by locals and visitors alike.

If you have time, we recommend stepping inside Palazzo d’Accursio, now the City Hall and Civic Museum, full of frescoed halls and historic works of art. Just a few steps away, you’ll find the Archiginnasio, the ancient seat of the University of Bologna. Wander through its beautiful halls decorated with hundreds of noble family crests and don’t miss the striking Anatomical Theatre, an extraordinary wooden room where the first anatomy lessons were once held.

Continue your walk towards the Two Towers, Garisenda and Asinelli, medieval icons of Bologna. If you feel up to it, climb the nearly 500 steps of the Asinelli Tower: the view over Bologna’s red rooftops and the surrounding hills is well worth the effort. (The tower are temporarily closed)

After this little adventure, stroll along Via Rizzoli and get lost in the narrow streets of the Quadrilatero, the city’s ancient market district. Here you’ll find the most genuine atmosphere of Bologna, among pasta shops, historic delicatessens, and small osterias — the perfect place to stop for an aperitivo or taste local specialties like fresh tortellini, mortadella, and regional cheeses.

If you still have some time, take a short detour to Via Piella: through the famous “Finestrella” you can peek at the Canale delle Moline, a hidden and romantic corner that offers an unexpected glimpse of Bologna as a city of water — a little view that feels like a touch of Venice in the heart of Emilia-Romagna.

To end your day on an even more special note, you’ll have the chance to take part in a short cooking experience to discover the local culinary traditions up close — and maybe even try your hand at preparing a traditional recipe. A simple, authentic moment to bring home a piece of Bologna… in your heart and on your plate!

On request, we can arrange additional activities.