Bologna City Walking Tour

Choose from a morning of afternoon departure, then make your way to the tourist office in Piazza Maggiore, which is situated in the heart of Bologna Old Town. After introductions, pop in your headphones (if your group consists of eight people or more) to ensure you can hear the live narration, and set off on foot with your guide.

Bologna is the capital of the Emilia-Romagna region in Northern Italy. Italians have several nicknames for the handsome city, one of which is ‘La Rossa’ meaning ‘The Red.' This nickname is partly due to the dominant red hue of the city’s buildings and façades.

Before leaving Piazza Maggiore, admire the 16th-century Fontana del Nettuno, which depicts the sea god Neptune in all his muscly glory. Make your way to the nearby Basilica di San Petronio, a superb example of Gothic architecture. Listen as your guide talks you through its standout features including a large sundial on the interior floor, and several unfinished details on the façade.

Continue on foot toward Piazza della Mercanzia and stroll around the narrow streets surrounding the square, where rows of vendors hawk local food products. As you browse the quality produce, it will soon become clear why Bologna is frequently cited as one of Italy’s top food cities.

Next, arrive at the courtyard of the Archiginnasio, the former seat of the University of Bologna. The university, which is Europe’s oldest, dates back to the 11th century.

After hearing about Bologna’s scholarly past, stop into the Church of Santa Maria della Vita to admire a monumental group of life-size Baroque terracotta sculptures. The work depicts several figures mourning over the dead Christ.

Lastly, cast your eyes skyward to view the leaning Asinelli and Garisenda towers. Commonly known as the Two Towers (Due Torri), they are Bologna’s most conspicuous landmarks. Yout tour then concludes at this location.