Best Things to do in Bologna | Must-see attractions 2025

Torre della Specola e Museo Astronomico

Tu-Su,PH 10:30+,12:00+,15:30+ "by appointment"; Jan 01,May 01,Aug 15,Dec 24-25 off

Museum

Via Zamboni 33

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Torre della Specola e Museo Astronomico in Bologna offers a glimpse into astrological history, housed in an 18th-century observation tower with rich cultural significance.

Duration: 1 to 2 hours.

Paid entry: Adults €6, Children (under 12) €3.

Galleria d'arte moderna "Raccolta Lercaro"

10:00 AM–5:50 PM

Museum

Via Riva di Reno 57

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Galleria d'arte moderna 'Raccolta Lercaro' in Bologna features significant modern art pieces, including works by Giacomo Manzu and Giorgio Morandi, established in 1971.

Duration: More than 2 hours.

Free. Special exhibitions may require a ticket.

Re Enzo Palace

Event hall

Piazza del Nettuno 1 (Piazza Maggiore)

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Re Enzo Palace, a 13th-century historical venue in Bologna, Italy, is notable for its grand interior and associations with King Enzo, son of Frederick II.

Duration: Variable, depending on events.

Free entry during public events; special exhibitions may require a paid ticket.

Palazzo Fava

10:00 AM–6:00 PM

Museum

Via Alessandro Manzoni 2

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Palazzo Fava in Bologna is a Renaissance museum showcasing 17th-century frescoes and hosts prominent art exhibitions. A cultural gem with historic significance.

Duration: 1-2 hours.

€6 to €14 for adults; €5 to €10 for reduced tickets. Some exhibitions may have additional costs.

San Paolo in Monte

9:00 AM–6:00 PM

Church

Via Dell'Osservanza 88

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San Paolo in Monte in Bologna, Italy, is a historic church known for its unique architecture and tranquil location, attracting visitors interested in art and history.

Duration: 1 to 2 hours.

Free. No special exhibitions or paid events currently.

Corpus Domini

10:00 AM–5:00 PM

Church

Via Tagliapietre 19

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Corpus Domini is a historic monastery in Bologna, Italy, known for its significant contributions to the local religious and cultural landscape since its founding in the 15th century.

Duration: Approximately 1.5 hours.

Free. Special events may have a ticket fee.

Museo Morandi

10:00 AM–5:00 PM

Museum

Via Don Giovanni Minzoni 14 Palazzo Comunale 3F

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Museo Morandi in Bologna highlights the work of painter Giorgio Morandi, displaying over 120 works alongside personal items in a dedicated venue.

Duration: Approximately 1 to 2 hours.

€6 for adults. Reduced rates available for students and seniors.

Santissima Annunziata a Porta Procula

9:00 AM–7:00 PM

Church

Via San Mamolo 2

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Santissima Annunziata a Porta Procula, a historical church in Bologna, Italy, features remarkable architecture and rich artistic heritage, reflecting the city's deep religious roots.

Duration: 30 minutes to 1 hour.

Free.

MuseOrfeo

9:00 AM–8:00 PM

Museum

Via Orfeo 24

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MuseOrfeo in Bologna showcases a unique blend of music, history, and art featuring interactive exhibits and live performances.

Duration: Approximately 2 hours.

Adults: €10, Children (under 12): Free, Discounts for groups available.

Oratorio dello Spirito Santo

9:00 AM–6:00 PM

Monument

Bologna Emilia-Romagna

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Oratorio dello Spirito Santo in Bologna, Italy, is a historic church renowned for its unique architecture and cultural significance, attracting visitors for its beauty and serenity.

Duration: 1 to 2 hours.

Free. Special events may require a ticket purchase.

Historical Didactic Museum of Tapestry "Vittorio Zironi"

10:00 AM–6:00 PM

Museum

3 Via di Casaglia

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The Historical Didactic Museum of Tapestry 'Vittorio Zironi' in Bologna offers insight into tapestry art and techniques, showcasing rich historical pieces and craftsmanship.

Duration: Approximately 2 hours.

€6 for adults, €4 for students and seniors, free for children under 12.

Museum of Prehistory "Luigi Donini"

10:00 AM–6:00 PM

Museum

Via Fratelli Canova 49

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Museum of Prehistory 'Luigi Donini' in San Lazzaro di Savena, Italy, features ancient artifacts showcasing over 250,000 years of human history in a modern facility.

Duration: About 2 hours.

Free. Some special exhibitions may require a paid ticket.

Museo storico del Soldatino "M. Massacesi"

Mo-Su 08:30-12:30

Museum

Via Toscana 19

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Museo storico del Soldatino 'M. Massacesi' in Bologna exhibits a vast collection of toy soldiers, showcasing their historical significance and craftsmanship.

Duration: Approximately 1-2 hours.

Free. Special exhibitions may require a ticket purchase.

Palazzo Pallavicini

9:00 AM–7:00 PM

Museum

40122 Bologna Emilia-Romagna

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Palazzo Pallavicini in Bologna, Italy, showcases 15th-century architecture, featuring a monumental staircase and historical art, reflecting its noble past.

Duration: About 2 hours.

Free. Special exhibitions may require a paid ticket.

Parco dei Cedri

6:00 AM–10:00 PM

Park

Via Cracovia 21

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Parco dei Cedri is a prominent cycling park in Bologna, Italy, featuring paths for cycling enthusiasts as well as ample green spaces for relaxation and recreation.

Duration: 1-2 hours.

Free.

Mast

10:00 AM–6:00 PM

Museum

Via Speranza 42

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Mast, the technology museum in Bologna, Italy, offers insights into innovation with interactive exhibits on photography, robotics, and data science.

Duration: Approximately 2 hours.

Free. Some special exhibitions may require a paid ticket.

City Art Collections

10:00 AM–5:50 PM

Museum

40124 Bologna Emilia-Romagna

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City Art Collections in Bologna features a historic collection of 13th-19th century art, including paintings, sculptures, and a model of Medieval Bologna.

Duration: More than 2 hours.

Free. Special exhibitions may require a paid ticket.

Palazzo Albergati

10:00 AM–6:00 PM

Museum

28 Via Saragozza

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Palazzo Albergati in Bologna, Italy, is a 16th-century Renaissance villa known for its exquisite frescoes and historic significance in local culture.

Duration: Approximately 1.5 to 2 hours.

Free. Some special exhibitions may require a paid ticket.

Santuario della Madonna del Baraccano

9:00 AM–7:00 PM

Church

Piazza del Baraccano 2

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Santuario della Madonna del Baraccano, a revered sanctuary in Bologna, Italy, features striking Baroque architecture and rich historical significance dating back to the 17th century.

Duration: Approximately 1 hour.

Free. Some guided tours may have a fee.

Chiesa dei Santi Giuseppe e Ignazio

9:00 AM–7:00 PM

Church

Via Castiglione 67

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Chiesa dei Santi Giuseppe e Ignazio is a notable church in Bologna, Italy, renowned for its Baroque architecture and cultural significance in the region.

Duration: Approximately 1 hour.

Free. Donations are appreciated for maintenance and restoration.

Bologna City Museum of the Risorgimento

10:00 AM–6:00 PM

Museum

Piazza Giosue' Carducci 5

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Bologna City Museum of the Risorgimento showcases Italy's unification history through artifacts, documents, and interactive exhibits, located in Bologna, Italy.

Duration: About 2 hours.

Free admission. Special exhibitions may require a paid ticket.

Ponte della Bionda

Open all day

Bridge

Via Dei Terraioli 13

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Ponte della Bionda is a historical bridge in Bologna, Italy, renowned for its unique architecture and cultural significance, connecting key areas of the city.

Duration: About 30 minutes.

Free. No admission fees for access.

Palazzo Belloni

10:00 AM–6:00 PM

Museum

Via Barberia 19 Corner Via 'de Gombruti

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Palazzo Belloni in Bologna hosts interactive art and culture exhibitions, engaging visitors with a rich historical narrative and unique installations.

Duration: Approximately 1.5 hours.

Free. Special exhibitions may incur a fee.

Piazza of Santo Stefano

Open all day

Church

Piazza Santo Stefano

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Piazza di Santo Stefano in Bologna features historic architecture surrounding a charming square, inviting exploration and reflection in a serene atmosphere.

Duration: 1-2 hours.

Free entry.

Museo Memoriale della Liberta

10:00 AM–5:00 PM

Museum

Bologna Emilia-Romagna

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Museo Memoriale della Liberta in Bologna, Italy, focuses on war history and remembrance. The museum showcases artifacts, documents, and exhibits from significant conflicts.

Duration: Approximately 2 hours.

Free. Special exhibitions may require a paid ticket.

Casa Giorgio Morandi

10:00 AM–6:00 PM

Museum

Via Fondazza 36

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Casa Giorgio Morandi, in Bologna, Italy, is a museum dedicated to the famous painter, showcasing his works along with personal items and an insight into his life.

Duration: Around 1.5 hours.

Free. Some special exhibitions may require a paid ticket.

Monumento a Wladyslaw Anders

Open 24 hours

Park

Viale Felsina

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Monumento a Wladyslaw Anders in Bologna honors the Polish general who led the 2nd Corps during WWII. It's a cherished site for Polish heritage and remembrance.

Duration: 30 minutes.

Free. Donations are welcome to support maintenance.

FICO World Eataly

Mo-Su 10:00-23:00

Theme Park

via Paolo Canali 1

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FICO World Eataly in Bologna, Italy, is the world's largest agro-food park featuring interactive exhibitions, eateries, and a variety of Italian food experiences.

Duration: Approximately 3-4 hours.

Free entrance. Some workshops and tastings may require a ticket.

Chiesa Santi Filippo e Giacomo

9:00 AM–12:00 PM, 4:00 PM–6:00 PM

Church

Via delle Lame 105/107

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Chiesa Santi Filippo e Giacomo is a historic church in Bologna, known for its Baroque architecture and extensive artwork, including several notable frescoes.

Duration: About 1 hour.

Free.

Parco Cavaioni

6:00 AM–9:00 PM

Park

Via Cavaioni 1

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Parco Cavaioni in Bologna, Italy, offers expansive green spaces, walking paths, and a serene lake, ideal for relaxation and recreation amidst nature.

Duration: About 2 hours.

Free. No ticket required for general entry.

Giardino del Ghisello

7:00 AM–7:00 PM

Park

Via Claudio Treves

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Giardino del Ghisello is a serene park in Bologna, Italy, known for its lush greenery, historical significance, and unique botanical features that attract visitors year-round.

Duration: Approximately 1-2 hours.

Free. Special events may have varied pricing.

Giardini Stefano Casagrande

8:00 AM–8:00 PM

Park

Bologna Emilia-Romagna

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Giardini Stefano Casagrande is a serene park in Bologna, Italy, offering vibrant greenery, walking paths, and a children's playground in a peaceful urban setting.

Duration: About 1-2 hours.

Free.

Palazzo Comunale

9:00 AM–7:00 PM

Architectural Building

Piazza Maggiore 6

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Palazzo Comunale is Bologna’s historic town hall complex, dating from the 14th century, featuring a rich art collection and significant architectural elements.

Duration: 1-2 hours.

Free. Some special exhibitions may require a paid ticket.

Teatro degli Angeli

12:00 PM–11:00 PM

Theater

Via Massa Carrara 3 Angolo via Arno

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Teatro degli Angeli in Bologna, founded in 1847, is a historic theatre known for its rich artistic heritage and charming architecture, hosting various performances and cultural events.

Duration: 2 hours.

Varies. Some events are free, while ticketed performances range from €10 to €30.

Teatro Del Navile

2:00 PM–7:00 PM

Theater

Via Marescalchi 2/b

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Teatro Del Navile in Bologna, Italy, is a vibrant theater known for its cultural significance and innovative performances, hosting a diverse range of events throughout the year.

Duration: Approximately 2 hours.

Entry fees vary; general tickets average €10, with discounts for students and seniors.

Capriolandia

10:00 AM–7:00 PM

Theme Park

40135 Bologna Emilia-Romagna

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Capriolandia in Bologna offers a unique amusement park experience tailored for children and families, featuring rides, play areas, and themed attractions.

Duration: Approximately 3-4 hours.

€12 for adults, €8 for children ages 3-12, free for kids under 3. Discounts for groups and special events may apply.

Estragon Club

6:00 PM–3:00 AM

Theater

Via Stalingrado 83 North Park

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Estragon Club in Bologna, Italy, is a dynamic concert venue hosting diverse music events, attracting both local and international artists.

Duration: Approximately 4 hours.

Varies by event. Typically ranges from €10 to €30.

National Art Gallery of Bologna

10:00 AM–7:00 PM

Museum

Via delle Belle Arti 56

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National Art Gallery of Bologna houses Italian artworks from the 13th to 1700s, featuring significant Renaissance pieces by Bolognese artists and more.

Duration: About 2-3 hours.

€8 for adults, €4 for reduced fare. Free for children under 18 and first Sunday of the month.

Land Rover Arena

10:00 AM–11:00 PM

Stadium

8 Piazza Manfredi Azzarita

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Land Rover Arena in Bologna, Italy, hosts various sporting events and concerts. This multifunctional venue accommodates thousands, showcasing state-of-the-art facilities.

Duration: 2-3 hours for events.

Varies. Standard adult tickets are approximately €20-€50 depending on the event.

Stadio Renato Dall'Ara

10:00 AM–6:00 PM

Stadium

Via Andrea Costa

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Stadio Renato Dall'Ara is a multi-purpose stadium in Bologna, Italy, serving as the home ground for the Bologna FC and hosting various sporting events and concerts.

Duration: 2-3 hours.

Paid. Prices vary based on event and seat location.

Basilica of San Petronio

10:00 AM–5:00 PM

Monument

Piazza Galvani

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The Basilica of San Petronio in Bologna, Italy, is a massive Gothic church known for its unfinished facade and 22 artistic chapels, significant to local heritage.

Duration: 1 to 2 hours.

Free entry. Cappella dei Re Magi requires €3 entrance fee.

Fountain of Neptune

Open

Fountain

Bologna Emilia-Romagna

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The Fountain of Neptune in Bologna features a majestic bronze statue of Neptune atop a detailed 16th-century fountain, surrounded by mermaids and cherubs.

Duration: Approximately 30 minutes.

Free.

Basilica of San Giacomo Maggiore

9:00 AM–12:00 PM, 4:00 PM–7:00 PM

Monument

Piazza Gioacchino Rossini

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Basilica of San Giacomo Maggiore in Bologna, Italy, features a grand 14th-century structure showcasing diverse architectural styles and Renaissance art.

Duration: 1-2 hours.

Free. Donations are appreciated.

Medieval Museum

10:00 AM–5:50 PM

Museum

4 Via Manzoni

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The Medieval Museum in Bologna showcases the city's rich medieval heritage, featuring bronzes, armor, and illuminated books in a historic 15th-century palazzo.

Duration: About 2 hours.

Free. Some special exhibitions and events may require a paid ticket.

Botanical Garden and Herbarium

9:00 AM–7:00 PM

Museum

42 Via Irnerio

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Bologna's Botanical Garden and Herbarium, founded in 1568, features 5,000 plant species and a significant collection of dried plants. A must-visit for nature lovers.

Duration: Approximately 2 hours.

Free. Some special exhibitions and events may require a paid ticket.

Civic Museum of Industrial Art and Davia Bargellini Gallery

10:00 AM–5:30 PM

Museum

44 Strada Maggiore

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Civic Museum of Industrial Art and Davia Bargellini Gallery in Bologna, Italy, exhibits industrial design and decorative arts, enriching cultural heritage and artistic insights.

Duration: About 2 hours.

Free. Some exhibitions may require a ticket.

San Giovanni in Monte

9:00 AM–5:00 PM

Church

Piazza San Giovanni in Monte 3

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San Giovanni in Monte is a Catholic church in Bologna, Italy, known for its historical significance and distinct architectural features.

Duration: Approximately 30 minutes.

Free. Donations are appreciated for maintenance and special events.

Bologna Exhibition Centre

9:00 AM–6:00 PM

Business Center

Piazza della Costituzione 5

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Bologna Exhibition Centre, a key trade fair venue in Bologna, Italy, hosts diverse exhibitions, conventions, and events throughout the year.

Duration: 2-3 hours.

Paid entry for most events. Specific exhibitions may have varying prices.

EuropAuditorium Theater

10:00 AM–11:00 PM

Theater

Piazza della Costituzione

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EuropAuditorium Theater in Bologna hosts various events, including concerts, conferences, and exhibitions in a modern architectural setting.

Duration: Approximately 2-3 hours.

Varies by event. Typically starts at €20 for adults.

Sanctuary of Santa Maria della Vita

9:00 AM–12:00 PM, 3:00 PM–6:00 PM

Church

8-10 Via Clavature

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Sanctuary of Santa Maria della Vita in Bologna showcases remarkable Gothic architecture, a large dome, and significant art including the famous Compianto sul Cristo Morto.

Duration: 1 to 1.5 hours.

Free.