- Must visit
Pinacoteca Nazionale di Bologna
Major art museum with important Emilian paintings from the 13th to 18th centuries, including works by Giotto, Raphael, and the Carracci.
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Regionale 17800
Regionale 17800
Regionale 17852Catching trains to Bologna offers an excellent alternative to buses and flights, making it easy to transfer from major airports to one of northern Italy's most exciting destinations. Trains run into central Bologna, putting travelers very close to the heart of the action, and connections from Rome and Milan couldn't be much better, facilitating seamless arrivals from across the Atlantic.
Most trains will arrive at Bologna Centrale, which, as the name indicates, is very close to the center of town. Passengers will emerge on the northern edge of the city center, From there, they can walk down the Via dell'Indipendenza straight to the Centro Storico and the Ghetto Ebraico, but TPER bus A also runs into the center and may be a faster option.
Trains bound for Bologna will usually be operated by Trenitalia. Italy's major rail company provides a mix of slower standard options and inter-city Frecciargento and Frecciarossa services, which come with bonuses like WiFi. Some services may also be provided by Italo.
Trains often make the most sense when picking ways to get around Italy. For starters, they are often the fastest mode of transport. When transfers to airports and time spent waiting for baggage are factored in, trains usually come out faster. For instance, Milan is just an hour away by train and two hours by bus. Trains also provide convenient ways to transfer from flights across the Atlantic. Passengers can easily get from Rome Fiumicino or Milan Malpensa to Bologna. When the convenient location of Bologna Centrale is added to the mix, there aren't many better options.
Bologna isn't large, but it's packed with palaces, churches, galleries, and much more so planning itineraries is always a wise move. When hopping between attractions, using bike hire services like BikeInBo is an interesting option, but buses are also plentiful. Standouts are too numerous to mention here, but must-see attractions include the Asinelli Tower, the elegant Piazza Maggiore, and the beautiful Church of San Petronio. But that's far from everything there is to see and do. For a slightly more unusual afternoon activity, why not join cookery classes? There are quite a few local academies that teach the principles of the region's world-class cuisine.
Discover the best of Bologna — top attractions, local food, transport tips, budget advice, and currency essentials. Plan your perfect Bologna trip today.
Major art museum with important Emilian paintings from the 13th to 18th centuries, including works by Giotto, Raphael, and the Carracci.
Bologna’s leading modern and contemporary art museum, known for rotating exhibitions and the Morandi collection.
Important archaeological museum with Egyptian, Etruscan, Greek, and Roman collections in a historic central building.
Bologna’s main square and social heart, surrounded by major historic buildings and lively throughout the day.
Famous covered walkway climbing toward San Luca, ideal for a scenic walk and one of Bologna’s defining urban features.
Historic central district of narrow lanes near Piazza Maggiore, valued for atmosphere, porticoes, and classic Bologna street life.
Fresh egg tagliatelle served with Bologna’s classic slow-cooked meat ragù. It is one of the city’s signature dishes and more traditional than spaghetti bolognese.
Small ring-shaped pasta filled with meat and served in rich capon or beef broth. A deeply traditional Bolognese dish, especially associated with festive meals.
Layered pasta made with green spinach sheets, ragù, béchamel, and Parmigiano Reggiano. It is a classic Sunday and holiday dish in Bologna.
Well-known pasta shop and eatery specializing in fresh stuffed pasta, tagliatelle, and quick traditional lunches in a central informal space.
Elegant fine dining restaurant in a historic setting, known for refined Emilian cuisine and tasting menus with polished service.
Historic traditional trattoria known for handmade pasta, tortellini, and classic Bolognese dishes in a warm, old-school setting.
Moderate for Italy: food and coffee are reasonable, while central hotels cost more in peak season.
Service is usually included or covered by coperto. Tipping is not required, but rounding up or leaving 5-10% for great service is appreciated; small change for taxis is enough.
Official public transport app
Bologna Centrale, Bologna -> Piazza Maggiore, Bologna
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