Bologna Travel Guide: A Foodie’s Dream Destination

Bologna is a charming university town nestled in the heart of Emilia-Romagna, a region renowned for its rich culinary heritage and stunning architecture. Often overlooked in favour of more famous Italian cities, Bologna offers a more authentic and immersive experience, making it a must-visit destination for any traveller seeking culture, history, and, most importantly, incredible food.

As a true foodie, visiting Bologna had been a dream of mine for the longest time. After watching Gastro Gay's Bologna travel guide video, my desire to explore this culinary paradise only grew stronger. Known as a complete haven for food lovers, it had been at the top of my travel list for years, and I was beyond excited to finally experience it for myself.

How to get to Bologna

We flew to Milan Malpensa Airport and then took a train from Milan to Bologna, which was only an hour. This is probably the cheapest and fastest way to get here. You can also fly directly to Bologna Guglielmo Marconi Airport, but flights are less frequent and often more expensive.

By taking the train from Milan, you get to enjoy the absolutely stunning Italian countryside of Tuscany. The train system in Italy is excellent—always on time and very efficient. From my days studying history in school, one thing that stands out from Italian history is that the train system was probably the only good thing the Fascist leader Mussolini did.

If you're planning your trip and looking for logistics, transport tips, and key highlights, this condensed Bologna travel guide can help streamline your plans - especially if you’re only visiting for a short time.

Bologna travel guide: Best time to visit

Summertime in Bologna is, of course, beautiful, with warm weather perfect for strolling through the city's historic streets. However, July and August can be extremely hot and crowded, particularly with American tourists. If you're looking for a more relaxed experience, May and June are ideal months to visit, offering pleasant temperatures and fewer crowds.

Many people using this Bologna travel guide opt for shoulder seasons for more enjoyable sightseeing and better access to local experiences without the summer rush.

Where to stay in Bologna

We stayed in the beautiful Royal Hotel Carlton, which was a slightly pricier option since we were

only staying for one night. However, there are plenty of nice Airbnbs and budget hotels in the area. One great thing about Bologna is that you won’t pay the high accommodation prices you’d expect in Milan or Rome, making it a fantastic destination for those seeking luxury or budget-friendly stays alike.

Where to eat in Bologna

Now the real stuff. No Bologna travel guide is complete without diving into its food scene. Since Bologna food was the main reason I had wanted to visit, I made sure to try some of the best spots in town:

• Sfoglia Rina – A popular spot for pasta lovers. While the food was great, I found the service lacking the warmth and hospitality you’d typically expect in an Italian eatery.

• Mercato di Mezzo – A fantastic market-style food hall perfect for a quick bite or an aperitivo. Visit during lunch or dinner for the best atmosphere—when we stopped by in between, it felt a little quiet.

• Trattoria Pizzeria Belle Arti – The absolute highlight of my Bologna food experience! I had one of the best pizzas I’ve eaten in a long time, and the tiramisu was simply divine.

  
  

What to see in Bologna

Beyond its legendary food, Bologna offers a range of beautiful sights that make exploring the city

a delight:

• La Piccola Venezia – Nicknamed ‘Little Venice,’ this picturesque window overlooking a canal is a cute photo spot, though not necessarily worth going out of your way for.

• Basilica di San Petronio – One of Bologna’s most iconic landmarks, this stunning church dominates Piazza Maggiore and is well worth a visit.

• Santuario Madonna di San Luca – Perched on a hill just outside the city, this sanctuary offers breathtaking panoramic views. We didn’t have time to visit, but shuttle buses run every 40 minutes, making it an easy trip.

  
  

Bologna travel guide: final thoughts

Bologna is the perfect blend of rich history, stunning architecture, and, of course, world-class cuisine. Whether you’re strolling through its medieval streets, indulging in Bologna food, or admiring its famous porticoes, this city offers an authentic slice of Italian life that’s hard to find elsewhere. If you’re planning your next Italy trip, be sure to include Bologna on your itinerary—you won’t regret it.

This Bologna travel guide only scratches the surface of what the city has to offer, but one thing is certain: Bologna will leave you wanting more. From its delicious pasta to its historic charm, it’s a city that deserves to be savoured, one bite at a time.