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.

Kick off the day at Porta Maggiore, a top pick for today’s sightseeing. This landmark is rated an average of 4.4 out of 5 stars in 1,462 reviews.

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.

Before you know it, it’s time to head out for dinner. Treat yourself to a delicious meal at a nice restaurant in Bologna.

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 Celtic Druid Irish Pub, a top-notch spot in the city scene. Whether you're unwinding solo or with pals, Celtic Druid Irish Pub has charmed many with its 4.5 out of 5-star rating, as attested by 2,968 happy guests.

Or, join the buzz at Va Mo Là, where locals and fellow explorers gather for good times and good chats. Va Mo Là captures hearts with its 4.3 out of 5-star rating, drawing acclaim from 2,876 merry-makers.

And don't miss out on Ca' Pelletti - Altabella, another local party gem in Bologna. This bar has an average rating of 4.3 out of 5 stars from 2,464 reviews, highlighting its charm and popularity in the area.

Celebrate the start of your 5-day city break in Bologna with a toast!

On day 2 of your city break, you will set out to discover Bologna, including some of the most amazing things to see and do in the city. You’ll stay 3 nights in Bologna and enjoy plenty of time for exploring.

Start your day with a visit to Cattedrale Metropolitana di San Pietro. This extraordinary catholic cathedral is rated an average of 4.6 out of 5 stars by 3,852 visitors.

Next, make your way to Palazzo Re Enzo. This top attraction is a palazzo with an average rating of 4.6 out of 5 stars by 2,072 visitors.

We also recommend a visit to Fontana del Nettuno. This fountain is rated 4.7 out of 5 stars by 3,952 travelers.

If you’re keen to keep exploring, visit Piazza Maggiore. This highly recommended sightseeing destination has received an average rating of 4.7 out of 5 stars from 64,523 travelers.

Today is also your chance to spend some time at Basilica of San Domenico. This church is rated an average of 4.7 out of 5 stars by 3,380 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.

Before you know it, it’s time to head out for dinner. Treat yourself to a delicious meal at a nice restaurant in Bologna.

Make sure to reserve a table at Trattoria dal Biassanot, 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 4.4 out of 5-star rating from 2,616 satisfied guests.

Don't miss the opportunity to enjoy culinary excellence at Trattoria di Via Serra 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 1,547 previous guests.

Delight in the culinary creations of Trattoria del Tempo Buono, a favorite in Bologna. Its innovative menu offers a symphony of flavors that will tantalize your taste buds. With a reputation for excellence, it has earned a 4.6 out of 5-star rating from 1,531 discerning guests.

Order some of the best-tasting cocktails and celebrate the night away at Cantina Bentivoglio. This famous bar in Bologna has a rating of 4.4 out of 5 stars from 2,094 customers.

You can also check out an equally popular bar in the area, BrewDog Bar Bologna. This amazing place never disappoints with its variety of drinks and fantastic ambiance. BrewDog Bar Bologna has received an average rating of 4.5 out of 5 stars from 1,504 customers.

If you want to visit another bar, we recommend Corner Bar. This bar offers guests many choices of alcoholic and non-alcoholic beverages to pair with a great night, helping it earn an average rating of 4.5 out of 5 stars from 934 customers.

Reflect on the adventures of the day as you unwind in the comfort of your hotel in Bologna. Tomorrow holds new possibilities and discoveries!

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

Make Pinacoteca Nazionale one of your first sightseeing stops in Bologna. Rated an average of 4.5 out of 5 stars by 2,400 travelers, a visit to this local attraction makes for a great introduction to the area. This art museum attracts 15,573 visitors every year.

Two Towers is a worthwhile attraction you can visit next. This tower is a valued place of interest in the area, with an average rating of 4.7 out of 5 stars from 25,975 reviews.

Today is also the perfect opportunity to drop by Piazza Santo Stefano. This square has been rated an average of 4.8 out of 5 stars by 7,617 visitors.

If you’re keen to explore more, head to Porta Castiglione. A trip to this popular city gate is also your opportunity to see if it lives up to the reputable 4.4 out of 5-star rating as given by 1,086 previous visitors.

Another top place to visit is Villa Ghigi. This park enjoys an average rating of 4.7 out of 5 stars from 2,035 local and international travelers.

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.

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.

Elevate your experience by savoring a meal in Naama Cafè, a distinguished dining establishment in Bologna. It has a rating of 4.5 out of 5 stars, thanks to the positive reviews of 1,538 satisfied guests and a menu that’s committed to quality and flavor.

Another dining spot you shouldn't miss while in Bologna is Ristorante da Nello al Montegrappa. This popular restaurant’s appealing menu has garnered a rating of 4.4 out of 5 stars, thanks to the positive reviews shared by 1,633 happy diners.

Ristorante I Portici stands out as a local favorite in Bologna. It offers a menu that promises to take you on a flavorful journey. Due to its reputation for delivering a good dining experience, it has earned a 4.3 out of 5-star rating from 1,677 customers.

Wrap up your evening by visiting the renowned Macondo - Cocktail Bar, a must-visit hotspot in the city of Bologna. This bar has garnered an impressive average rating of 4.3 out of 5 stars, backed by 808 delighted customers.

Alternatively, quench your thirst at the popular Ristorante Enoteca da Lucia, consistently rated 4.5 out of 5 stars in reviews.

Or, for an authentic local recommendation, head over to Wiener Haus, one of the top-rated bars in Bologna, with an average rating of 4.1 out of 5 stars by 4,370 satisfied customers.

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

Wake up to day 4 of your exciting city break in Bologna. You still have 1 night 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!

When you're ready to see some sights, Parco della Chiusa is a great place to start with. This park is rated an average of 4.6 out of 5 stars by 2,583 visitors.

Another popular attraction you can visit today is Parco Talon. This park has an average rating of 4.7 out of 5 stars from 2,343 travelers.

We also recommend a stop at Devotional Portico of St. Luke. The sightseeing destination has been rated an average of 4.8 out of 5 stars by 626 visitors.

If you're keen to explore more, consider visiting Arco Del Meloncello. This arch is a popular attraction with an average rating of 4.6 out of 5 stars from 3,755 reviews.

Palazzo Pallavicini is another easily accessible place to visit on this day of your trip. Stop by this museum, rated 4.5 out of 5 stars in 2,173 reviews, to discover more of what makes it unique.

If you have an appetite for more adventure, check out the fantastic selection of tours and tickets offered in Bologna on this day of your trip. You'll find the most recommended ones 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 La Bottega di Franco, 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 4.5 out of 5-star rating from 1,223 satisfied guests.

Do not overlook the culinary excellence of L'Arcimboldo while experiencing the best of Bologna. This renowned restaurant presents a refined menu, distinguished with an exceptional rating of 4.6 out of 5 stars, celebrated by 1,070 discerning diners.

Quench your thirst after a long day of adventure at Victoria Station, a prime hotspot for fun and relaxation seekers in the city. Victoria Station boasts an impressive 4.2 out of 5-star rating from 3,968 customers.

Or, try the exciting drinks at Osteria del Sole, a vibrant place where locals and travelers converge for spirited toasts and amazing stories. Osteria del Sole has an average rating of 4.6 out of 5 stars from 1,643 customers.

As the sun dips below the horizon, make a stop at another famous bar in the area, Bar Senza Nome. This bar is a local favorite, with an impressive rating of 4.5 out of 5-star from 1,643 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.

As your city break in Bologna draws to a close, cherish the memories you've made. With your travel plans in place, you're all set for a safe journey home. Until next time, take care and safe travels!