Discover what to see in Bologna: 8 must-visit places featuring UNESCO-listed porticoes, historic squares, medieval towers, art, gardens and local flavours.

Discover Bologna: 8 Must-See Places for History, Beauty and Flavours

Some cities are places you visit, while others are places you fall in love with as you wander through their streets. Bologna is one of them. It captivates you with its endless porticoes, lively squares, medieval towers that shape the skyline of its historic centre, and the aromas of traditional cuisine drifting from its food shops and osterie.

Whether you're planning a romantic weekend, a cultural getaway or a holiday discovering the flavours of Emilia, Bologna offers delightful surprises at every turn. The best part? Many of its most famous attractions are within walking distance, allowing you to explore the city at your own pace and follow your curiosity.

Here are 8 must-see places in Bologna to experience the city's art, history, atmosphere and gastronomy.

1. Piazza Maggiore: The Heart of Bologna

The best way to start exploring Bologna is by heading to Piazza Maggiore, the grand square that has been at the centre of city life for centuries. Here, historic buildings, cafés, monumental palaces and locals gather, creating a lively atmosphere where people stop to chat or admire the architecture.

Your attention will immediately be drawn to the Basilica of San Petronio, Palazzo d'Accursio and the nearby Fountain of Neptune. It's the perfect place to soak up Bologna's atmosphere, take a few photographs and begin exploring the historic centre at a leisurely pace.

Don't miss: Take a few minutes to admire the square from different perspectives and appreciate the details of its historic buildings. You can easily reach Piazza Maggiore on foot from Phi Hotel Bologna!

2. Bologna's Porticoes: A Walk Through a UNESCO World Heritage Site

In Bologna, porticoes are more than just an architectural feature: they are an integral part of the city's identity. They accompany everyday strolls, provide shelter from the rain and sun, and create a captivating connection between streets, squares, shops and historic buildings.

In 2021, Bologna's porticoes were recognised as a UNESCO World Heritage Site. Walking beneath their arches means discovering a city best experienced at a leisurely pace, with ever-changing perspectives, colours and views.

You can start in the historic centre and continue along some of the city's most distinctive stretches of porticoes, or dedicate part of your day to the route leading to the Sanctuary of the Madonna di San Luca.

Don't miss: Choose a walking route and notice how the shapes, materials and decorations of the porticoes change from one street to another.

Want to find out more? Explore our dedicated guide to Bologna's porticoes.

3. The Two Towers: Bologna's Medieval Landmark

The Two Towers, Garisenda and Asinelli, are among Bologna's most recognisable landmarks. Their distinctive silhouettes tell the story of the city's medieval past, when influential families built towers as symbols of prestige and power.

Even today, visiting the area around the towers is an essential stop for anyone discovering Bologna for the first time. Take a moment to admire them from below and explore the surrounding streets, where you'll find shops, cafés and other characteristic corners of the historic centre.

Practical tip: Before planning a panoramic visit or climbing a tower, check the latest opening hours and access conditions.

4. Basilica of San Petronio: Art and History in Piazza Maggiore

Overlooking Piazza Maggiore, the Basilica of San Petronio is one of Bologna's most important religious buildings. Its façade, with its lower section clad in marble and its upper section in brick, creates an instantly recognisable architectural contrast.

The interior is equally worth exploring. Its monumental scale, chapels and works of art tell the story of centuries of religious and artistic heritage. It's an ideal stop for anyone wishing to discover Bologna's cultural treasures beyond its busiest streets.

Don't miss: Take your time admiring the façade and explore the interior, checking opening hours and access conditions beforehand.

5. Archiginnasio: Step into the History of the University of Bologna

Bologna is also renowned for its long academic tradition. The Archiginnasio, the university's former headquarters, offers a fascinating glimpse into this history through its monumental rooms, coats of arms and decorative details, which bear witness to generations of students and scholars from across Europe.

One of its most famous spaces is the Anatomical Theatre, historically associated with medical teaching. The building is an interesting stop for anyone who loves art, architecture and the stories hidden within historic places.

Don't miss: Look closely at the coats of arms and inscriptions throughout the historic rooms. They offer a fascinating insight into Bologna's long academic tradition.

6. The Quadrilatero: Bologna's Most Delicious Side

If you want to discover Bologna through its cuisine, the Quadrilatero should be on your itinerary. This network of streets in the historic centre is known for its traditional food shops, delicatessens and businesses dedicated to local culinary heritage.

Here, you can sample regional specialities, watch historic shops at work and enjoy a break surrounded by enticing aromas and flavours. It's the perfect place for anyone who loves discovering a city through its everyday traditions.

Mortadella, fresh pasta, cured meats and other local specialities showcase a culinary heritage that has made Bologna famous far beyond the region.

Don't miss: Take your time wandering between the food shops and sampling some local specialities.

To plan your culinary adventure, read our guide to what to eat in Bologna: 10 traditional dishes to try, or immerse yourself in hands-on fresh pasta-making classes at our very own Atipico Bottega!

7. Santo Stefano: A Charming Corner of Churches and Tranquillity

Piazza Santo Stefano is one of the most enchanting spots in Bologna's historic centre. Intimate and atmospheric, it invites you to slow down and admire the architecture of the buildings surrounding it.

Here you'll find the Santo Stefano religious complex, also known as the “Seven Churches”. This collection of religious buildings and spaces from different historical periods preserves an important part of Bologna's religious heritage.

It's the perfect stop to balance the lively atmosphere of the city centre with a quieter moment among courtyards, ancient brickwork and timeless surroundings.

Don't miss: Visit the square at a time when you can pause, take in the atmosphere and appreciate its architectural details without rushing.

8. Giardini Margherita: A Green Escape in the City

After exploring the squares, churches and streets of the historic centre, take a relaxing break at Giardini Margherita, one of Bologna's best-known public parks.

Tree-lined avenues, lawns and open spaces create a pleasant setting for a stroll, reading a book or unwinding after a morning of sightseeing. It's particularly appealing for families and anyone wishing to discover a quieter side of the city.

Don't miss: Enjoy an unhurried walk and take a break from the pace of the historic centre.

Bologna in a Weekend: How to Plan Your Visit

If you have two days, dedicate the first day to Piazza Maggiore, the Basilica of San Petronio, the Archiginnasio, the Two Towers and the Quadrilatero. On the second day, explore the porticoes, visit Santo Stefano and finish with a relaxing walk through Giardini Margherita.

For a more detailed itinerary, read our guide to Bologna in two days.

Before setting off, check the opening hours of the monuments and any access restrictions so you can organise your stops around the time available.

Where to Stay to Discover Bologna

To enjoy Bologna at your own pace, choosing accommodation in the historic centre makes exploring the city more convenient and allows you to reach many of its attractions on foot.

Phi Hotel Bologna is located on Via de' Fusari, just a few steps from Piazza Maggiore. It's an ideal base for discovering the city's historic streets, porticoes and most iconic landmarks.

During your stay, you can also discover Atipico Osteria, next to the hotel, and Atipico Bottega, where you can explore the culinary experiences and flavours associated with Phi Hotels.

Bologna is waiting for you! Plan your next stay and let yourself be surprised by a city that brings culture, beauty and great food together.