Top 10 Bologna Attractions For First-Time Visitors Like Me

by Javier Rios

From Author

As a digital nomad visiting Bologna, Italy for the first time, I was amazed by the history, culture, and cuisine. From towering basilicas to ancient university buildings, Bologna has no shortage of sights. Here I share my top 10 Bologna favorite attractions after spending a week exploring this underrated Italian city.

Top 10 Bologna Attractions For First-Time Visitors Like Me

1) Le Due Torri

The iconic Le Due Torri are two medieval towers that have come to symbolize the Bologna skyline. The taller of the towers, Torre degli Asinelli, was built in 1109 and stands at nearly 330 feet tall with an incredibly steep 498 step climb to the top. But making the strenuous ascent rewards you with stunning aerial views of Bologna’s sea of red-tiled rooftops, winding alleyways, and surrounding countryside. It’s amazing to gaze out over the historic city center and realize not much has changed since these towers were built nearly 1000 years ago! Don’t leave Bologna without snapping a photo next to Le Due Torri.

2) Basilica of San Petronio

The Basilica of San Petronio dominates one side of Piazza Maggiore and is impossible to miss. As one of the largest churches in the world, its imposing Gothic facade left me awestruck. I loved admiring the intricate details on the marble archways and high-reaching pointed spires. The vast interior space creates an airy, peaceful atmosphere for contemplation. Don’t miss the massive sundial designed by astronomer Giovanni Domenico Cassini which stretches 66 feet across the floor. According to my guide, it was once used to set the official city time. Overall, the sheer size and grandeur of this 14th-century basilica make it one of Bologna’s must-see attractions and absolutely deserving of a spot in any top 10 in Bologna list.

3) San Luca Sanctuary

For jaw-dropping panoramic views of Bologna and the surrounding countryside, take the hike, bus, or train up to the San Luca Sanctuary located on top of Colle della Guardia hill. The sanctuary itself contains a Byzantine icon of the Madonna as its centerpiece, but the real draw is the country’s longest portico stretching over two miles. As you traverse under the series of arches flanked by rows of columns, you’ll wind your way upwards getting tantalizing glimpses of the landscapes ahead. Reaching the hilltop sanctuary rewards you with the iconic vista looking out over Bologna’s sea of red-tiled rooftops. The breezy viewpoint also serves as the perfect pitstop to relax and refuel before wandering back down the covered portico. Don’t miss this pleasant pilgrimage just outside the city that deserves a spot on any top 10 in Bologna list!

San Luca Sanctuary

4) Archiginnasio of Bologna

Upon entering the ornate courtyard of the Archiginnasio building, it’s hard to believe this was once the main site of the University of Bologna, founded over 900 years ago. Today, the university is largely located elsewhere, but this historic building houses an anatomy theater built in 1637. The intricate wooden terraced seats and marble dissection table at the center create an almost eerie atmosphere. But it’s also fascinating to visualize students packed into this space to watch anatomical dissections and scientific demonstrations from the world’s oldest university. Anatomical sketches and wax models used for study are also on display. Wandering the staircases and grand rooms of the palace gives you a sense of Bologna’s proud academic history.

5) Neptune Fountain

While exploring Piazza Maggiore, Bologna’s grand main square, an imposing figure emerges from the pavement – the towering Neptune Fountain constructed in 1565. Neptune, the Roman god of the sea, stands tall wielding his trident surrounded by mythical figures like mermaids, cherubs, and hippocampi. The dedication plaque indicates it was built to provide drinking water to city residents. As the largest fountain in the city, it makes for an excellent landmark and meeting point. I enjoyed sitting on the edge watching tourists and locals alike gather around Neptune, who seems to proudly lord over his domain in the center of the piazza. Don’t forget to toss a coin over your shoulder into the water for good luck!

6) Quadrilatero

No first visit to Bologna is complete without exploring the Quadrilatero, a small neighborhood packed with delicious food shops and restaurants. The indoor covered walkways make it perfect for wandering even in poor weather while ducking into stores. My taste buds went wild sampling mortadella, parmesan, balsamic vinegar, and any other regional specialty sold in the various shops. I especially loved the numerous bakeries filled with artisanal pastries and pignoletto cookies native to Bologna. Sit down cafe and restaurants serving up fresh pasta and pizza provide the perfect places to refuel during your food tours. For me, the Quadrilatero was foodie heaven and embodied the culinary culture Bologna is renowned for.

Quadrilatero

7) Museo Civico Medievale

Immerse yourself in medieval history at the Museo Civico Medievale located within a 13th century palace in Bologna. As you enter, you feel transported to the Renaissance era surrounded by elaborate terra cotta decorations adorning the walls and exposed wooden beam ceilings. The museum collection includes paintings, sculpture, and furniture providing insight into medieval art and lifestyle. An exhibit on medieval armor containing swords, shields, crossbows, and plate mail was a highlight during my visit. Don’t miss the recreation of a mediaeval scriptorium showcasing tools medieval monks used to produce illuminated manuscripts and early printed books by hand. Beyond the artifacts, this museum’s setting within a former grand residence allows you to vividly imagine what life may have been like during the Middle Ages.

8) Pinacoteca Nazionale di Bologna

The Pinacoteca Nazionale di Bologna is an art museum not to be missed by any art lover visiting the city. It houses an extensive collection of works by Italian Renaissance masters like Titian, Raphael, and Parmigianino. I was particularly impressed by the number of large altarpieces and religious art from the 14th-16th centuries. Works by Giotto, El Greco, and Guido Reni are also highlights of this museum’s offerings. The building itself was once a 15th century convent, which has an ideal layout for wandering through exhibits in an interconnected maze of rooms. With over 600 paintings in their permanent collection, I appreciated being able to take a chronological journey through different artistic styles and influential works of Italian art history all under one roof.

9) Museo Ducati

Even as someone who is not an avid motorbike enthusiast, I found the Ducati Museum offers an engaging look behind the scenes at this iconic Italian motorcycle company. Located right at their Bologna factory headquarters, the museum has a modern industrial feel appropriate for showcasing these racing and road bikes. It traces Ducati’s 90+ year history from their humble beginnings to today’s sleek award-winning designs through historical images, memorabilia, and of course the motorbikes themselves. A highlight is the room filled with nearly every model they’ve produced, demonstrating the evolution of their engineering over decades. From interactive displays to racing simulations, this museum takes you on an immersive ride through the Ducati brand.

10) Museo della Storia di Bologna

For a comprehensive journey through Bologna’s extensive history spanning from prehistoric times to World War II, the Museo della Storia di Bologna is a must. The museum is housed in the opulent Palazzo Pepoli, a 16th century palace in itself worth exploring. Exhibits cover ancient artifacts, medieval armor and art, renaissance maps, and more from Bologna and the surrounding region. I especially enjoyed seeing relics from ancient Etruscan and Roman settlements that preceded Bologna. The WWII section includes an underground air raid shelter and decimals recounting the resistance against the Nazis and fascists. This museum provides invaluable insight into the storied past of Bologna over the millennia.