Bologna Holidays

The land of pasta, porticoes, and piazzas - this vibrant Italian city blends history, cuisine, and charm, perfect for foodies, families, and everyone in between.

Highlights

• Home of Bolognese Sauce - Taste the authentic ragu, the pasta dish that put Bologna on the map!

• Medieval Architecture - Wander through the famous porticoes and marvel at the medieval towers.

• University Life - Discover the world’s oldest university, creating a lively, youthful atmosphere.

• Food Heaven - Renowned as Italy’s food capital, Bologna is brimming with trattorias, markets, and delis offering proper good Italian bites.

Getting around

Getting around Bologna is a doddle. With an excellent public transport network, you can hop on buses and trams that crisscross the city. Bologna’s historic centre is compact, making it easy to navigate on foot while admiring the stunning porticoes and historic squares. For those looking to explore beyond the city, the central train station connects you to other Italian gems like Florence, Venice, and Milan in just a short journey. Biking is also popular here - there are rental options galore if you fancy a pedal through the city streets.

Things to do for families in Bologna

Bologna has plenty to keep the kiddos entertained. Start at La Macchina del Tempo, a VR experience that lets families travel back to medieval Bologna—ideal for bringing history to life in a fun, interactive way. Then, pop over to Parco della Montagnola, a sprawling green park where the little ones can run wild, while you kick back and soak up the sunshine. If you’re in the mood for some science, Museo della Specola is a fascinating astronomical museum with telescopes and observatories that will wow any budding astronomers. For an added treat, take the kids to one of the local gelaterias and try some of Bologna’s famous creamy ice cream.

Things to do for couples in Bologna

Romance is in the air in Bologna. Start your day with a leisurely wander through the Quadrilatero district, with its narrow lanes lined with artisan shops, delicatessens, and bars. Grab a coffee or a glass of local wine and share a moment in one of the bustling piazzas. Next, climb the Asinelli Tower—it’s a whopping 498 steps to the top, but the panoramic view over the red rooftops of Bologna is well worth it. If you’re a couple who loves art, Pinacoteca Nazionale di Bologna houses works by Italian masters, offering a beautiful cultural experience. End your day with a cosy dinner at a traditional trattoria, indulging in the city’s signature Bolognese pasta. With candlelight and vino flowing, it’s a 10/10 date night.

Things to do for groups in Bologna

For groups looking to make the most of their holibobs, Bologna is the perfect playground. Kick things off with a food tour of the Mercato di Mezzo, where you can sample everything from Parma ham to fresh pasta. Afterwards, visit FICO Eataly World, a sprawling food theme park showcasing Italy’s culinary delights—ideal for group photos and cheeky tastings! For those who want a bit of thrill, take a day trip to Motor Valley, where you’ll find museums dedicated to Ferrari, Lamborghini, and Ducati. Back in the city, hit up some of Bologna’s buzzing bars, like Le Stanze, set in a former chapel. End the night with a visit to Labas, a popular cultural space with live music and events—perfect for a proper good night out with your mates.

Things to do for foodies in Bologna

Foodies, Bologna is calling. This is the birthplace of iconic dishes, so come with an appetite. Start with a stroll through the Quadrilatero district, an open-air food market where every corner is bursting with cheeses, meats, and fresh produce. You can’t leave without trying a true tagliatelle al ragù (aka Bolognese), best savoured at a traditional osteria where the recipe has been passed down through generations. If you’re in the mood for a cooking adventure, join a pasta-making class to learn how to create pasta from scratch—imagine the dinner party bragging rights! Finally, don’t miss Osteria del Sole, one of Italy’s oldest wine bars, where you can bring your own food and sample a wide selection of local wines. It’s the ultimate foodie experience, topped with a splash of culture.