5-Day Italy city break in Bologna

Your exciting city break begins as soon as you arrive in the beautiful city of Bologna. You’ll stay in Bologna for 4 nights.

Drop by the renowned Porta Maggiore. This popular landmark has been rated an average of 4.4 out of 5 stars by 1,462 visitors.

When the afternoon arrives, make your way to the hotel of your choice in downtown Bologna. Check-in at hotels in Italy normally starts around 2 to 3 PM. Each accommodation option in Bologna offers a unique blend of comfort and style in addition to prime access to the city’s top attractions.

After a full day of exploring, we recommend you try one of the best places to eat in Bologna. Enjoy the local flavors, unwind, and reflect on the day's adventures.

Take your Bologna getaway to new heights by dining at Ahimè, a luxury restaurant. Renowned for its world-famous rating and a variety of creative and refined dishes, Ahimè consistently impresses foreign and local diners, garnering praise for its exceptional country cooking cuisine.

A renowned dining spot in Bologna is I Portici, which holds a rating of 1 Michelin stars. This Bib Gourmand establishment’s inviting ambiance and menu leave a lasting impression on everyone who dines here. Its creative and contemporary menu, characterized by its exquisite flavors, is a true testament to the I Portici’s culinary mastery.

Experience a taste of local culinary excellence while in Bologna and reserve a table at Trattoria di Via Serra. Its delectable emilian menu has contributed to impressive reviews from many previous guests. At this lavish dining spot, expect a perfect blend of sumptuous cuisine and exceptional service.

For a sip of relaxation, head over to BrewDog Bar Bologna, a top-notch spot in the city scene. Whether you're unwinding solo or with pals, BrewDog Bar Bologna has charmed many with its 4.5 out of 5-star rating, as attested by 1,504 happy guests.

Or, join the buzz at Macondo - Cocktail Bar, where locals and fellow explorers gather for good times and good chats. Macondo - Cocktail Bar captures hearts with its 4.3 out of 5-star rating, drawing acclaim from 808 merry-makers.

And don't miss out on Osteria del Sole, another local party gem in Bologna. This bar has an average rating of 4.6 out of 5 stars from 1,643 reviews, highlighting its charm and popularity in the area.

This is the time to raise a toast for your 5-day city break in Bologna! Savor the moment and look forward to immersing yourself in the vibrant culture, stunning sights, and local delicacies of the city for the next few days to come!

On day 2 of your fun city break in Bologna, you’ll experience more of the best attractions and activities in the city. You now have 3 nights left in Bologna.

Make Cattedrale Metropolitana di San Pietro one of your first sightseeing stops in Bologna. Rated an average of 4.6 out of 5 stars by 3,852 travelers, a visit to this local attraction makes for a great introduction to the area.

Palazzo Re Enzo is a worthwhile attraction you can visit next. This palazzo is a valued place of interest in the area, with an average rating of 4.6 out of 5 stars from 2,072 reviews.

Today is also the perfect opportunity to drop by Fontana del Nettuno. This fountain has been rated an average of 4.7 out of 5 stars by 3,952 visitors.

If you’re keen to explore more, head to Piazza Maggiore. A trip to this popular square is also your opportunity to see if it lives up to the reputable 4.7 out of 5-star rating as given by 64,523 previous visitors.

Another top place to visit is Basilica of San Domenico. This church enjoys an average rating of 4.7 out of 5 stars from 3,380 local and international travelers.

You can learn more about Bologna today by going on a tour. Bologna offers many top-rated tours and unique experiences that will inspire you. You can browse and select your favorites below.

You have plenty of options for restaurants and bars in Bologna. So when you’re hungry or need a break from exploring, all you have to do is take your pick.

Reserve your spot at Ristorante da Nello al Montegrappa, a popular local restaurant in Bologna. This culinary hotspot and its flavorful dishes have left a lasting impression on guests. Its dedication to culinary mastery is reflected by its 4.4 out of 5-star rating from 1,633 satisfied guests.

Make it a priority to experience L'Arcimboldo during your stay in Bologna. This popular local restaurant offers an unparalleled menu, with a rating of 4.6 out of 5 stars, by 1,070 discerning guests.

If you’re looking for a bar to end the evening at, many locals recommend Bar Senza Nome, claiming it’s one of the best in the city. This bar has an average rating of 4.5 out of 5 stars from 1,552 customers.

Another popular place to go for a drink is Bar Maurizio. It is rated an average of 4.4 out of 5 stars by 581 customers.

Caffè De Marchi is a place where you can easily spend an hour or two of fun or relaxation. This bar is rated an average of 4.3 out of 5 stars by 553 customers.

Wind down and recharge for tomorrow's escapades in Bologna, Italy. With each day comes new experiences to cherish and enjoy.

Wake up to day 3 of your exciting city break in Bologna. You still have 2 nights left in Bologna, and we recommend that you spend this day relaxing, sightseeing, and dining at the most wonderful places the city has to offer. Here's how you can make the most of today!

Start your sightseeing with a visit to Pinacoteca Nazionale. This art museum is rated an average of 4.5 out of 5 stars from 2,400 visitors. Pinacoteca Nazionale welcomes around 15,573 visitors every year.

Two Towers is another popular attraction you could visit today. This tower has a rating of 4.7 out of 5 stars from 25,975 visitors.

Piazza Santo Stefano is also highly recommended by travelers. This square has a rating of 4.8 out of 5 stars from 7,617 visitors.

Porta Castiglione is an attraction you won’t want to miss. This city gate is rated an average of 4.4 out of 5 stars in 1,086 reviews.

Another attraction you have the opportunity to visit today is Villa Ghigi. This park has received an average rating of 4.7 out of 5 stars from 2,035 travelers.

There are plenty of experiences you can choose from in Italy that will add excitement to your vacation. When you’re keen to discover what else Bologna has in store for you, use this day to go on a tour. This tour allows curious travelers like you to experience the best of the country. You can make the most of your time in Italy by scrolling down and selecting tours and activities to include on your itinerary for the day.

When it’s time for dinner, try one of the most popular restaurants in Bologna. Make sure to reserve a table in advance, as the best restaurants fill up quickly.

Make sure to reserve a table at Ristorante San Pietro, an iconic dining spot in Bologna. This culinary treasure and its outstanding menu have enchanted food enthusiasts from around the world. Its dedication to culinary innovation is evident in its 4.5 out of 5-star rating from 1,152 satisfied guests.

Don't miss the opportunity to enjoy culinary excellence at Ristorante Da Cesari while in Bologna. This renowned dining destination showcases an exquisite menu, distinguished with an exceptional rating of 4.6 out of 5 stars, treasured by 995 previous guests.

A visit to a top-rated local bar is one of the most refreshing ways to cap off a beautiful night in Bologna. At Officina dei Sapori, you can enjoy a mix of fun and relaxation. This bar is rated an average of 4.5 out of 5 stars by 362 customers.

Alternatively, unwind and relive your best memories of this day of your adventure at Caffè Ristretto, another popular bar in the city. Customers have rated this fantastic bar an average of 4.5 out of 5 stars in 209 reviews.

Aurum is also one of the best places in Bologna where you can let loose and enjoy some celebratory drinks. This bar has an average rating of 4.8 out of 5 stars from 136 customers.

Raise a toast and celebrate another memorable day in Bologna, Italy!

As day 4 dawns in Bologna, embark on another day of exploration and adventure. Discover the city's vibrant culture, delicious cuisine, and captivating sights at your own pace. With 1 night left, the possibilities for discovery are endless.

Drop by the renowned Parco della Chiusa. This popular park has been rated an average of 4.6 out of 5 stars by 2,583 visitors.

Another unforgettable place to experience is Parco Talon. Rated 4.7 out of 5 stars by 2,343 visitors, this park deserves a spot on today's sightseeing itinerary.

We also recommend a visit to Devotional Portico of St. Luke. This point of interest has been rated an average of 4.8 out of 5 stars in 626 reviews.

Another favorite attraction in the area is Arco Del Meloncello. This arch and popular place of interest enjoys a rating of 4.6 out of 5 stars from 3,755 local and international travelers.

If you’re keen to explore even more, then consider a visit to Palazzo Pallavicini. With an average rating of 4.5 out of 5 stars from 2,173 travelers, this museum is an attraction many avid travelers highly recommend visiting while in Bologna.

Immerse yourself in the local scene through top-rated tours and activities. You can choose from a wide variety of easy to challenging tours and easily add them to your travel package below.

When you’re ready to eat, treat yourself to a nice meal at a top-rated restaurant in the city.

Plan ahead and secure a table at Al Sangiovese Restaurant, an acclaimed dining establishment in Bologna. This restaurant and its exquisite cuisine have earned the admiration of diners far and wide. Its commitment to culinary excellence shines through its 4.6 out of 5-star rating from 811 satisfied guests.

Do not overlook the culinary excellence of All'Osteria Bottega while experiencing the best of Bologna. This renowned restaurant presents a refined menu, distinguished with an exceptional rating of 4.4 out of 5 stars, celebrated by 815 discerning diners.

Indulge in the rich flavors of Trattoria Bertozzi, an elegant culinary destination in Bologna. A menu crafted to perfection guarantees a dining experience that will satisfy even the most discerning palate. Its stellar reputation is reflected in its 4.5 out of 5-star rating from 702 previous guests.

Unwind after a long day in one of the best and most popular bars in Bologna, Bar River. This famous place has an average rating of 4.3 out of 5 stars from 187 customers.

Another trendy bar is Bar Latteria Fontana E Bonaiuti. This bar’s extensive drink menu, amazing vibe, and friendly atmosphere have earned it an average of 4.7 out of 5 stars, based on the reviews of 116 customers.

Locals also recommend Bar Onda Marina by Night. This bar’s welcoming atmosphere has earned it an average rating of 4.4 out of 5 stars, thanks to the reviews of 458 delighted customers.

No matter where in Bologna you end up, an amazing evening of relaxation and enjoyment is guaranteed.

Your city break in Bologna is coming to an end, and it's soon time to say goodbye to the city. Before you leave, make sure to capture a few last moments to cherish your rejuvenating vacation in Italy.

Depending on how much time you have to spare on your departure day, you may want to do some last-minute shopping or sightseeing. Downtown Bologna offers excellent shopping opportunities and is the perfect place to browse for souvenirs and gifts to bring home. Take a walk and discover unique items you can purchase to remind you of your city break in Bologna.

If you would rather go for some last-minute sightseeing, the remarkable Porta Galliera is an attraction you could visit today. This city gate has an average rating of 4.3 out of 5 stars from 1,185 visitors.

Before you conclude your city break in Bologna, drop by a top-rated restaurant for your last chance at a memorable dining experience in the city. Savor the destination's vibrant atmosphere over a delicious meal.

Enjoy a memorable meal at Trattoria Pizzeria La Mela. This popular restaurant offers a whole menu of delectable dishes and is rated an average of 4.3 out of 5 stars by 836 customers.

We also recommend Trattoria Nonna Gigia for a lovely dining experience to cap off your getaway in Bologna. Trattoria Nonna Gigia has an average rating of 4.5 out of 5 stars from 681 customers.

If you prefer a restaurant that is popular among locals, try Botanica Lab Cucina. This restaurant serves excellent food, as evident by its average rating of 4.4 out of 5 stars by 745 customers.

As you conclude your city break in Bologna, treasure the memories you've made. May they accompany you on your journey homeward while carefully planned travel arrangements ensure your safe return. It's time to say, "See you later, Bologna!" and travel onwards.