{"id":18201,"date":"2023-06-07T15:06:42","date_gmt":"2023-06-07T14:06:42","guid":{"rendered":"https:\/\/www.walksofitaly.com\/blog\/?p=18201"},"modified":"2026-11-01T11:14:42","modified_gmt":"2026-11-01T11:14:42","slug":"bologna-from-florence","status":"publish","type":"post","link":"https:\/\/www.walksofitaly.com\/blog\/things-to-do\/bologna-from-florence","title":{"rendered":"Perfect Day Trip to Bologna from Florence: What to See, Do &#038; Eat"},"content":{"rendered":"<p>One of the top advantages of having Florence as base during your trip to Italy is the ability\u00a0 to visit other equally beautiful and fascinating destinations in just one day. A top contendor? The <strong>magical and captivating Bologna, <\/strong>a city full of history, culture, and art. And this is in addition to boasting the oldest university in Europe and having one of the most influential gastronomies in Italy! <strong>A day trip to Bologna from Florence<\/strong> will surprise you with its beautiful squares, architecture, porticoes, towers, delicious food, and much more.<\/p>\n<div id=\"attachment_18215\" style=\"width: 1010px\" class=\"wp-caption alignnone\"><img decoding=\"async\" aria-describedby=\"caption-attachment-18215\" class=\"wp-image-18215\" src=\"https:\/\/www.walksofitaly.com\/blog\/wp-content\/uploads\/2023\/06\/dsd09pnzpeq.jpg\" alt=\"people walking outside building\" width=\"1000\" height=\"1333\" srcset=\"https:\/\/www.walksofitaly.com\/blog\/wp-content\/uploads\/2023\/06\/dsd09pnzpeq.jpg 900w, https:\/\/www.walksofitaly.com\/blog\/wp-content\/uploads\/2023\/06\/dsd09pnzpeq-768x1024.jpg 768w\" sizes=\"(max-width: 1000px) 100vw, 1000px\" \/><p id=\"caption-attachment-18215\" class=\"wp-caption-text\">Bologna is famous for its storied history, beautiful porticos, and delicious food. Photo credit: Maria Bobrova on Unsplash<\/p><\/div>\n<div id=\"ez-toc-container\" class=\"ez-toc-v2_0_80 counter-hierarchy ez-toc-counter ez-toc-grey ez-toc-container-direction\">\n<div class=\"ez-toc-title-container\">\n<p class=\"ez-toc-title\" style=\"cursor:inherit\">Table of Contents<\/p>\n<span class=\"ez-toc-title-toggle\"><a href=\"#\" class=\"ez-toc-pull-right ez-toc-btn ez-toc-btn-xs ez-toc-btn-default ez-toc-toggle\" aria-label=\"Toggle Table of Content\"><span class=\"ez-toc-js-icon-con\"><span class=\"\"><span class=\"eztoc-hide\" style=\"display:none;\">Toggle<\/span><span class=\"ez-toc-icon-toggle-span\"><svg style=\"fill: #999;color:#999\" xmlns=\"http:\/\/www.w3.org\/2000\/svg\" class=\"list-377408\" width=\"20px\" height=\"20px\" viewBox=\"0 0 24 24\" fill=\"none\"><path d=\"M6 6H4v2h2V6zm14 0H8v2h12V6zM4 11h2v2H4v-2zm16 0H8v2h12v-2zM4 16h2v2H4v-2zm16 0H8v2h12v-2z\" fill=\"currentColor\"><\/path><\/svg><svg style=\"fill: #999;color:#999\" class=\"arrow-unsorted-368013\" xmlns=\"http:\/\/www.w3.org\/2000\/svg\" width=\"10px\" height=\"10px\" viewBox=\"0 0 24 24\" version=\"1.2\" baseProfile=\"tiny\"><path d=\"M18.2 9.3l-6.2-6.3-6.2 6.3c-.2.2-.3.4-.3.7s.1.5.3.7c.2.2.4.3.7.3h11c.3 0 .5-.1.7-.3.2-.2.3-.5.3-.7s-.1-.5-.3-.7zM5.8 14.7l6.2 6.3 6.2-6.3c.2-.2.3-.5.3-.7s-.1-.5-.3-.7c-.2-.2-.4-.3-.7-.3h-11c-.3 0-.5.1-.7.3-.2.2-.3.5-.3.7s.1.5.3.7z\"\/><\/svg><\/span><\/span><\/span><\/a><\/span><\/div>\n<nav><ul class='ez-toc-list ez-toc-list-level-1 ' ><li class='ez-toc-page-1 ez-toc-heading-level-2'><a class=\"ez-toc-link ez-toc-heading-1\" href=\"https:\/\/www.walksofitaly.com\/blog\/things-to-do\/bologna-from-florence\/#How_Far_Is_Bologna_from_Florence\" >How Far Is Bologna from Florence?<\/a><\/li><li class='ez-toc-page-1 ez-toc-heading-level-2'><a class=\"ez-toc-link ez-toc-heading-2\" href=\"https:\/\/www.walksofitaly.com\/blog\/things-to-do\/bologna-from-florence\/#Getting_to_Bologna_from_Florence\" >Getting to Bologna from Florence<\/a><ul class='ez-toc-list-level-3' ><li class='ez-toc-heading-level-3'><a class=\"ez-toc-link ez-toc-heading-3\" href=\"https:\/\/www.walksofitaly.com\/blog\/things-to-do\/bologna-from-florence\/#By_Train_from_Florence_to_Bologna\" >By Train from Florence to Bologna<\/a><\/li><li class='ez-toc-page-1 ez-toc-heading-level-3'><a class=\"ez-toc-link ez-toc-heading-4\" href=\"https:\/\/www.walksofitaly.com\/blog\/things-to-do\/bologna-from-florence\/#By_Bus_from_Florence_to_Bologna\" >By Bus from Florence to Bologna<\/a><\/li><li class='ez-toc-page-1 ez-toc-heading-level-3'><a class=\"ez-toc-link ez-toc-heading-5\" href=\"https:\/\/www.walksofitaly.com\/blog\/things-to-do\/bologna-from-florence\/#By_Car_or_Taxi_to_Bologna\" >By Car or Taxi to Bologna<\/a><\/li><\/ul><\/li><li class='ez-toc-page-1 ez-toc-heading-level-2'><a class=\"ez-toc-link ez-toc-heading-6\" href=\"https:\/\/www.walksofitaly.com\/blog\/things-to-do\/bologna-from-florence\/#What_to_see_in_a_day_in_Bologna\" >What to see in a day in Bologna<\/a><ul class='ez-toc-list-level-3' ><li class='ez-toc-heading-level-3'><a class=\"ez-toc-link ez-toc-heading-7\" href=\"https:\/\/www.walksofitaly.com\/blog\/things-to-do\/bologna-from-florence\/#Piazza_Maggiore\" >Piazza Maggiore<\/a><\/li><li class='ez-toc-page-1 ez-toc-heading-level-3'><a class=\"ez-toc-link ez-toc-heading-8\" href=\"https:\/\/www.walksofitaly.com\/blog\/things-to-do\/bologna-from-florence\/#Basilica_di_San_Petronio\" >Basilica di San Petronio<\/a><\/li><li class='ez-toc-page-1 ez-toc-heading-level-3'><a class=\"ez-toc-link ez-toc-heading-9\" href=\"https:\/\/www.walksofitaly.com\/blog\/things-to-do\/bologna-from-florence\/#The_Leaning_Towers_Asinelli_and_Garisenda\" >The Leaning Towers: Asinelli and Garisenda<\/a><\/li><li class='ez-toc-page-1 ez-toc-heading-level-3'><a class=\"ez-toc-link ez-toc-heading-10\" href=\"https:\/\/www.walksofitaly.com\/blog\/things-to-do\/bologna-from-florence\/#La_finestrella_di_Via_Piella_Canal_windows_on_Via_Piella\" >La finestrella di Via Piella (Canal windows on Via Piella)<\/a><\/li><li class='ez-toc-page-1 ez-toc-heading-level-3'><a class=\"ez-toc-link ez-toc-heading-11\" href=\"https:\/\/www.walksofitaly.com\/blog\/things-to-do\/bologna-from-florence\/#Bolognas_Porticoes_Portici\" >Bologna&#8217;s Porticoes (Portici)<\/a><\/li><li class='ez-toc-page-1 ez-toc-heading-level-3'><a class=\"ez-toc-link ez-toc-heading-12\" href=\"https:\/\/www.walksofitaly.com\/blog\/things-to-do\/bologna-from-florence\/#Quadrilatero_and_Mercato_di_Mezzo\" >Quadrilatero and Mercato di Mezzo<\/a><\/li><\/ul><\/li><li class='ez-toc-page-1 ez-toc-heading-level-2'><a class=\"ez-toc-link ez-toc-heading-13\" href=\"https:\/\/www.walksofitaly.com\/blog\/things-to-do\/bologna-from-florence\/#FAQs_%E2%80%93_A_Trip_to_Bologna_from_Florence\" >FAQs &#8211; A Trip to Bologna from Florence<\/a><ul class='ez-toc-list-level-3' ><li class='ez-toc-heading-level-3'><a class=\"ez-toc-link ez-toc-heading-14\" href=\"https:\/\/www.walksofitaly.com\/blog\/things-to-do\/bologna-from-florence\/#Is_Bologna_worth_visiting_in_a_day\" >Is Bologna worth visiting in a day?<\/a><\/li><li class='ez-toc-page-1 ez-toc-heading-level-3'><a class=\"ez-toc-link ez-toc-heading-15\" href=\"https:\/\/www.walksofitaly.com\/blog\/things-to-do\/bologna-from-florence\/#Whens_the_best_time_of_year_to_do_a_day_trip_to_Bologna_from_Florence\" >When&#8217;s the best time of year to do a day trip to Bologna from Florence?<\/a><\/li><li class='ez-toc-page-1 ez-toc-heading-level-3'><a class=\"ez-toc-link ez-toc-heading-16\" href=\"https:\/\/www.walksofitaly.com\/blog\/things-to-do\/bologna-from-florence\/#What_food_is_Bologna_famous_for\" >What food is Bologna famous for?<\/a><\/li><\/ul><\/li><\/ul><\/nav><\/div>\n<h2 data-pm-slice=\"1 1 []\"><span class=\"ez-toc-section\" id=\"How_Far_Is_Bologna_from_Florence\"><\/span>How Far Is Bologna from Florence?<span class=\"ez-toc-section-end\"><\/span><\/h2>\n<p>Bologna is approximately<strong> 57 miles (91 km) from Florence as the crow flies, or around 63 miles (101 km) by road.<\/strong> So&#8230; its not far at all, and the journey is quick and easy and perfectly manageable for a day trip, or overnight trip.\u00a0You can choose to go by car, train or bus, and for most visitors, the train is the quickest and most convenient option, avoiding traffic and the challenges of parking in Bologna&#8217;s historic centre.<\/p>\n<ul>\n<li>High-speed train services from Florence&#8217;s Santa Maria Novella station to Bologna Centrale take as little as <strong>35\u201340 minutes<\/strong><\/li>\n<li>By car, the drive typically takes around <strong>1 hour 10 minutes to 1 hour 30 minutes<\/strong>, depending on traffic.<\/li>\n<li>The bus journey to Bologna from Florence takes around <strong>1 hour 15 minutes to 1 hour 40 minutes,<\/strong> depending on the service and traffic.<\/li>\n<\/ul>\n<h2><span class=\"ez-toc-section\" id=\"Getting_to_Bologna_from_Florence\"><\/span>Getting to Bologna from Florence<span class=\"ez-toc-section-end\"><\/span><\/h2>\n<p>As you can see above, getting to Bologna from Florence is fast and easy, by car, train or bus, depending on your preference. Here are further details of the best way to do a day trip to bologna from Florence.<\/p>\n<h3 data-pm-slice=\"1 1 []\"><span class=\"ez-toc-section\" id=\"By_Train_from_Florence_to_Bologna\"><\/span>By Train from Florence to Bologna<span class=\"ez-toc-section-end\"><\/span><\/h3>\n<p>Taking the train from Florence&#8217;s Santa Maria Novella station to Bologna Centrale is one of the quickest and easiest ways to travel between the cities. Both <strong>Trenitalia<\/strong> and <strong>Italo<\/strong> operate direct high-speed services, with journey times of around 35 &#8211; 40 minutes. Trenitalia also runs slower regional services, which typically take around 90 minutes, depending on the departure.<\/p>\n<p>High-speed tickets generally cost more than regional fares, but booking in advance can help you find competitive prices, and promotional fares sometimes make high-speed travel surprisingly affordable. Both operators offer frequent departures throughout the day, so if your plans are flexible, compare timetables and fares before choosing your train as prices can vary considerably throughout the day.<\/p>\n<blockquote><p><strong>Practical tip:<\/strong> Compare options on the official <a href=\"https:\/\/www.trenitalia.com\/en.html?utm_source=chatgpt.com\" target=\"_blank\" rel=\"noopener\">Trenitalia<\/a> and <a href=\"https:\/\/www.italotreno.com\/en?utm_source=chatgpt.com\" target=\"_blank\" rel=\"noopener\">Italo<\/a> websites and always check for special promotional or seasonal offers!<\/p><\/blockquote>\n<h3 data-pm-slice=\"1 1 []\"><span class=\"ez-toc-section\" id=\"By_Bus_from_Florence_to_Bologna\"><\/span>By Bus from Florence to Bologna<span class=\"ez-toc-section-end\"><\/span><\/h3>\n<p>If you&#8217;re looking to save money, travelling by bus from Florence to Bologna is a good alternative to the train. <strong>Itabus<\/strong> operates services between the two cities, with fares advertised from as little as \u20ac4.99, although prices depend on your travel date, departure time, and availability.<\/p>\n<p>The journey typically takes around 1 hour 15 minutes to 1 hour 40 minutes, depending on the service and traffic. Some buses depart from Villa Costanza, on the outskirts of Florence, while others stop at Piazzale Montelungo, close to the city centre. Check your departure point carefully and allow extra time to reach it. Booking in advance and comparing departure times can help you find the best fare.<\/p>\n<blockquote>\n<p data-pm-slice=\"1 1 []\"><strong>Practical tip:<\/strong> Book ahead on the <a href=\"https:\/\/www.itabus.it\/en\/bus-routes\/florence-bologna\" target=\"_blank\" rel=\"noopener\">Itabus website<\/a>, remember to check the specific departure location!<\/p>\n<\/blockquote>\n<h3 data-pm-slice=\"1 1 []\"><span class=\"ez-toc-section\" id=\"By_Car_or_Taxi_to_Bologna\"><\/span>By Car or Taxi to Bologna<span class=\"ez-toc-section-end\"><\/span><\/h3>\n<p>Driving from Florence to Bologna takes around 1 hour 15 minutes to 1 hour 30 minutes via the A1 motorway, covering approximately 63 miles (101 km).\u00a0Hiring a car gives you flexibility to explore the Tuscan countryside along the way, while a taxi or private transfer offers a more convenient, door-to-door option.<\/p>\n<p>However, motorway tolls, fuel, and parking can add to the cost, and Bologna&#8217;s historic centre has restricted traffic zones (ZTL), so if you are driving independently also check parking arrangements before setting off, so you know which areas may be off limits.<\/p>\n<blockquote><p><strong>Practical tip:<\/strong> For Bologna\u2019s official parking information, including the restricted traffic zone (ZTL) and restrictions, see <a href=\"https:\/\/www.bolognawelcome.com\/en\/information\/how-to-get-around?utm_source=chatgpt.com\" target=\"_blank\" rel=\"noopener\">Bologna Welcome \u2013 Parking and getting around<\/a><\/p><\/blockquote>\n<div id=\"attachment_18213\" style=\"width: 1210px\" class=\"wp-caption alignnone\"><img decoding=\"async\" aria-describedby=\"caption-attachment-18213\" class=\"wp-image-18213\" src=\"https:\/\/www.walksofitaly.com\/blog\/wp-content\/uploads\/2023\/06\/ekayvii82i.jpg\" alt=\"an example of the architectural portico structures you can see on a day trip to Bologna from florence \" width=\"1200\" height=\"800\" srcset=\"https:\/\/www.walksofitaly.com\/blog\/wp-content\/uploads\/2023\/06\/ekayvii82i.jpg 1600w, https:\/\/www.walksofitaly.com\/blog\/wp-content\/uploads\/2023\/06\/ekayvii82i-768x512.jpg 768w, https:\/\/www.walksofitaly.com\/blog\/wp-content\/uploads\/2023\/06\/ekayvii82i-1536x1023.jpg 1536w\" sizes=\"(max-width: 1200px) 100vw, 1200px\" \/><p id=\"caption-attachment-18213\" class=\"wp-caption-text\">Traveling from Florence to Bologna? By taking the high-speed train, you can be here in less than an hour. Photo credit: Thaddaeus Lim<\/p><\/div>\n<h2><span class=\"ez-toc-section\" id=\"What_to_see_in_a_day_in_Bologna\"><\/span>What to see in a day in Bologna<span class=\"ez-toc-section-end\"><\/span><\/h2>\n<h3><span class=\"ez-toc-section\" id=\"Piazza_Maggiore\"><\/span><strong>Piazza Maggiore<\/strong><span class=\"ez-toc-section-end\"><\/span><\/h3>\n<p>Start your day by exploring the <strong>vibrant Piazza Maggiore,<\/strong> where locals and tourists alike gather to enjoy its charming atmosphere. The center of Bologna, this square is the perfect place to immerse yourself in the Bolognese culture.<\/p>\n<p>Pay close attention to every detail that surrounds you, taking a moment to admire the stunning <strong>architecture of Palazzo Comunale, Palazzo del Podest\u00e0, Palazzo dei Notai,\u00a0Palazzo dei Banchi, and Basilica di San Petronio. <\/strong><\/p>\n<p>One thing that makes this square unique is its red and white mosaic pavement, commonly called <strong><em>Crescentone. <\/em><\/strong>This is because locals relate its rectangular shape to the <em>crescente<\/em>, a typical Bolognese focaccia. If you don&#8217;t notice the mosaic, you can spot it from the top level of the Palazzo Comunale.<\/p>\n<div id=\"attachment_18217\" style=\"width: 1010px\" class=\"wp-caption alignnone\"><img decoding=\"async\" aria-describedby=\"caption-attachment-18217\" class=\"wp-image-18217\" src=\"https:\/\/www.walksofitaly.com\/blog\/wp-content\/uploads\/2023\/06\/edpbtj3br-y.jpg\" alt=\"people walking near Bologna's Piazza Maggiore under blue and white skies\" width=\"1000\" height=\"1333\" srcset=\"https:\/\/www.walksofitaly.com\/blog\/wp-content\/uploads\/2023\/06\/edpbtj3br-y.jpg 900w, https:\/\/www.walksofitaly.com\/blog\/wp-content\/uploads\/2023\/06\/edpbtj3br-y-768x1024.jpg 768w\" sizes=\"(max-width: 1000px) 100vw, 1000px\" \/><p id=\"caption-attachment-18217\" class=\"wp-caption-text\">Bologna&#8217;s Piazza Maggiore is the perfect place to start your visit. Photo credit: Maria Bobrova on Unsplash<\/p><\/div>\n<p>Piazza Maggiore also hosts events throughout the year, including concerts and festivals. One of the highlights of Bologna\u2019s summer calendar is Sotto le Stelle del Cinema (Under the Stars of Cinema), a popular open-air film festival that brings the square to life with free screenings on warm summer evenings.<\/p>\n<h3><span class=\"ez-toc-section\" id=\"Basilica_di_San_Petronio\"><\/span><strong>Basilica di San Petronio<\/strong><span class=\"ez-toc-section-end\"><\/span><\/h3>\n<p>In the same Piazza Maggiore, you will see the remarkable architecture of<strong>\u00a0the\u00a0Basilica San Petronio, known for its unfinished facade<\/strong>. This church is one of the most important in Bologna, as it is dedicated to the patron of the city, San Petronio.<\/p>\n<p>This basilica is one of the largest of the Middle Ages, and is one of the <a href=\"https:\/\/www.walksofitaly.com\/blog\/art-culture\/art-in-bologna\">best places to see art in Bologna<\/a>. You can appreciate its magnitude from the inside with its 22 chapels, some of them adorned with <strong>frescoes by influential artists such as Giovanni da Modena, Jacopo di Paolo, and Giacomo Francia.<\/strong> A visit to this church is like admiring an art gallery.<\/p>\n<div id=\"attachment_18146\" style=\"width: 1210px\" class=\"wp-caption alignnone\"><img decoding=\"async\" aria-describedby=\"caption-attachment-18146\" class=\"wp-image-18146\" src=\"https:\/\/www.walksofitaly.com\/blog\/wp-content\/uploads\/2023\/05\/Devour_Bologna_Food-Tour_High-Res_0199.jpg\" alt=\"A Devour guide in Bologna leads guests in front of the church of Basilica di San Petronio, in Piazza Maggiore\" width=\"1200\" height=\"800\" \/><p id=\"caption-attachment-18146\" class=\"wp-caption-text\">Soak up the architecture and atmosphere in Bologna&#8217;s Piazza Maggiore, including the Basilica di San Petronio<\/p><\/div>\n<h3><span class=\"ez-toc-section\" id=\"The_Leaning_Towers_Asinelli_and_Garisenda\"><\/span><strong>The Leaning Towers: Asinelli and Garisenda<\/strong><span class=\"ez-toc-section-end\"><\/span><\/h3>\n<p>If you thought that the leaning tower was a phenomenon only to be seen in Pisa, Bologna confirms that this is not the case.\u00a0Ainelli and Garisenda\u00a0are the city&#8217;s two leaning towers and the iconic landmarks of Bologna.<\/p>\n<p>These towers are a reminder of the city&#8217;s rich culture and history. Despite their age, they stand tall thanks to impressive engineering techniques to prevent them from falling. Among the best things to do in Bologna is climbing both towers, which offer a spectacular view of the city. If you love beautiful views, this is a must-do on your visit to Bologna from Florence.<\/p>\n<blockquote><p><strong>Insider&#8217;s tip:<\/strong> Looking for more activities in this charming city? Check out the Devour Tours guide to the <a href=\"https:\/\/devourtours.com\/blog\/best-things-to-do-in-bologna\/\" target=\"_blank\" rel=\"noopener\">best things to do in Bologna<\/a>.<\/p><\/blockquote>\n<div id=\"attachment_18216\" style=\"width: 1210px\" class=\"wp-caption alignnone\"><img decoding=\"async\" aria-describedby=\"caption-attachment-18216\" class=\"wp-image-18216\" src=\"https:\/\/www.walksofitaly.com\/blog\/wp-content\/uploads\/2023\/06\/vxpcptl2tt4.jpg\" alt=\"aerial view photography of Bologna from the tower\" width=\"1200\" height=\"800\" srcset=\"https:\/\/www.walksofitaly.com\/blog\/wp-content\/uploads\/2023\/06\/vxpcptl2tt4.jpg 1600w, https:\/\/www.walksofitaly.com\/blog\/wp-content\/uploads\/2023\/06\/vxpcptl2tt4-768x512.jpg 768w, https:\/\/www.walksofitaly.com\/blog\/wp-content\/uploads\/2023\/06\/vxpcptl2tt4-1536x1024.jpg 1536w\" sizes=\"(max-width: 1200px) 100vw, 1200px\" \/><p id=\"caption-attachment-18216\" class=\"wp-caption-text\">On a short day trip to Bologna from Florence, climbing one (or both) of the city&#8217;s towers is an ideal activity. Photo credit: Bogdan Dada on Unsplash<\/p><\/div>\n<h3><span class=\"ez-toc-section\" id=\"La_finestrella_di_Via_Piella_Canal_windows_on_Via_Piella\"><\/span><strong>La finestrella di Via Piella (Canal windows on Via Piella)<\/strong><span class=\"ez-toc-section-end\"><\/span><\/h3>\n<p>Opening a window and finding a magical and beautiful world behind it seems like a fairy tale, but visiting <strong>the window of Via Piella<\/strong> in Bologna is the real thing.<\/p>\n<p><em>La finestrella di via Piella<\/em>\u00a0is<strong> a window that encourages you to contemplate the beauty of Bologna. <\/strong>The window overlooks the old town, with its beautiful buildings and a canal that gives the impression of being in Venice. This hidden treasure in the city offers an unforgettable experience to visitors from all over the world.<\/p>\n<div id=\"attachment_18219\" style=\"width: 1210px\" class=\"wp-caption alignnone\"><img decoding=\"async\" aria-describedby=\"caption-attachment-18219\" class=\"wp-image-18219 size-full\" src=\"https:\/\/www.walksofitaly.com\/blog\/wp-content\/uploads\/2023\/06\/adam-gritco-Mt6R6cy-vBI-unsplash-via-Piella.jpg\" alt=\"Tiny window looking out onto the canals in Bologna\" width=\"1200\" height=\"1600\" srcset=\"https:\/\/www.walksofitaly.com\/blog\/wp-content\/uploads\/2023\/06\/adam-gritco-Mt6R6cy-vBI-unsplash-via-Piella.jpg 1200w, https:\/\/www.walksofitaly.com\/blog\/wp-content\/uploads\/2023\/06\/adam-gritco-Mt6R6cy-vBI-unsplash-via-Piella-768x1024.jpg 768w, https:\/\/www.walksofitaly.com\/blog\/wp-content\/uploads\/2023\/06\/adam-gritco-Mt6R6cy-vBI-unsplash-via-Piella-1152x1536.jpg 1152w\" sizes=\"(max-width: 1200px) 100vw, 1200px\" \/><p id=\"caption-attachment-18219\" class=\"wp-caption-text\">This corner of Bologna is called This corner of the city is known as &#8220;little Venice&#8221; for its beautiful canal views. Photo credit: Adam Gritco on Unsplash<\/p><\/div>\n<h3><span class=\"ez-toc-section\" id=\"Bolognas_Porticoes_Portici\"><\/span><strong>Bologna&#8217;s Porticoes (<\/strong><strong>Portici)<\/strong><span class=\"ez-toc-section-end\"><\/span><\/h3>\n<p>Bologna is known as the\u00a0<em>&#8220;citt\u00e0 dei portici&#8221; <\/em>or city of porticoes, because it is the city with the most porticoes in the world. But what exactly is a portico?<\/p>\n<blockquote><p>A portico is a covered walkway, usually with a roof supported by columns or arches, that runs along the front of a building or beside a street.<\/p><\/blockquote>\n<p><strong>Bologna is famous for its extensive porticoes which form a distinctive part of the city&#8217;s architecture.<\/strong> Among them, <a href=\"https:\/\/whc.unesco.org\/en\/list\/1650\/\" target=\"_blank\" rel=\"noopener\">12 have UNESCO Heritage designations<\/a>, and others have records of being the tallest in the world. For example, there&#8217;s the San Luca portico which stands at 3,796 meters; the widest, as the church of Santa Maria dei Servi; the highest, as Palazzo Acivescovile at 10 meters high; and the Via Senzanome, the narrowest at just 95 meters.<\/p>\n<p>The porticoes were initially born thanks to urban planning; citizens were required to expand their apartments on the upper levels, leaving the lower level for public use. Residents soon learned that the porticos provided the ideal way to get around the city during rainy or hot days. Even when the weather is nice, you&#8217;ll still want to explore the stores, cafes, and restaurants that line them all.<\/p>\n<h3><span class=\"ez-toc-section\" id=\"Quadrilatero_and_Mercato_di_Mezzo\"><\/span><strong>Quadrilatero and Mercato di Mezzo<\/strong><span class=\"ez-toc-section-end\"><\/span><\/h3>\n<p>Crossing Piazza Maggiore through the Palazzo dei Banchi is the Quadrilatero and Mercato del Mezzo area, the magical world of Bologna <strong>for foodies and shopping lovers<\/strong>. This area has been the trade center for centuries and the pulsating heart of the Bolognese. It is home to <strong>countless shops, restaurants, bars, cafes, galleries<\/strong>, and other attractions, where you can find everything from fresh produce to artisanal products.<\/p>\n<p>In the Quadrilatero and Mercato del Mezzo, you will discover several historic stores that are still active in which to immerse yourself in the history of Bologna and its culture.<\/p>\n<blockquote><p><strong>Insider tip:<\/strong> This is the ideal place to taste the <a href=\"https:\/\/www.walksofitaly.com\/blog\/food-and-wine\/food-from-bologna-parma-emilia-romagna-italy\">flavors of Bolognese cuisine<\/a> via the many food, drink, and street food stalls.<\/p><\/blockquote>\n<div id=\"attachment_18218\" style=\"width: 1210px\" class=\"wp-caption alignnone\"><img decoding=\"async\" aria-describedby=\"caption-attachment-18218\" class=\"wp-image-18218 size-full\" src=\"https:\/\/www.walksofitaly.com\/blog\/wp-content\/uploads\/2023\/06\/Food-tour-Bologna-DevourTours-274-e1729249778710.jpg\" alt=\"Guests on bologna food tour eating pasta and drinking wine at a restaurant\" width=\"1200\" height=\"800\" \/><p id=\"caption-attachment-18218\" class=\"wp-caption-text\">Bologna food will not disappoint&#8230; dig into pasta, wine, and charcuterie like you&#8217;ve never experienced.<\/p><\/div>\n<h2><span class=\"ez-toc-section\" id=\"FAQs_%E2%80%93_A_Trip_to_Bologna_from_Florence\"><\/span>FAQs &#8211; A Trip to Bologna from Florence<span class=\"ez-toc-section-end\"><\/span><\/h2>\n<h3><span class=\"ez-toc-section\" id=\"Is_Bologna_worth_visiting_in_a_day\"><\/span>Is Bologna worth visiting in a day?<span class=\"ez-toc-section-end\"><\/span><\/h3>\n<p>Yes, Bologna is an excellent choice for a day trip from Florence. With frequent high-speed trains connecting Florence and Bologna in around 40 minutes, you can spend most of the day exploring without a long journey. Its historic centre is compact and walkable, making it easy to see highlights such as Piazza Maggiore, the Two Towers, the porticoes and the Quadrilatero food market in one day. Bologna is also famous for its food, so leave time for a traditional lunch or a taste of local specialities.<\/p>\n<h3><span class=\"ez-toc-section\" id=\"Whens_the_best_time_of_year_to_do_a_day_trip_to_Bologna_from_Florence\"><\/span>When&#8217;s the best time of year to do a day trip to Bologna from Florence?<span class=\"ez-toc-section-end\"><\/span><\/h3>\n<p>Spring (April to June) and early autumn (September and October) are generally the best times for a day trip to Bologna, thanks to comfortable temperatures for walking and sightseeing. Summer can be hot, particularly in July and August, while winter is often cold, damp and foggy. However, Bologna&#8217;s extensive porticoes provide shelter from both sun and rain, making the city a worthwhile destination year-round. If you&#8217;re visiting in summer, plan outdoor sightseeing for the morning and enjoy a leisurely lunch during the hottest part of the day.<\/p>\n<h3><span class=\"ez-toc-section\" id=\"What_food_is_Bologna_famous_for\"><\/span>What food is Bologna famous for?<span class=\"ez-toc-section-end\"><\/span><\/h3>\n<p>Bologna is renowned for its cured meats and traditional charcuterie, particularly Mortadella Bologna, a smooth, delicately spiced pork sausage often studded with cubes of pork fat. You\u2019ll also find prosciutto di Parma, aged ham from nearby Parma, and salame rosa, a cooked pork sausage typical of Bologna. Look out for these specialities in the Quadrilatero market district, where traditional delicatessens serve them sliced fresh, often alongside local cheeses and bread.<\/p>\n<div id=\"attachment_22273\" style=\"width: 1210px\" class=\"wp-caption alignnone\"><img decoding=\"async\" aria-describedby=\"caption-attachment-22273\" class=\"wp-image-22273 size-full\" src=\"https:\/\/www.walksofitaly.com\/blog\/wp-content\/uploads\/2015\/11\/Devour_Bologna_Food-Tour_Web-Res-Temp_0005-mortadella-deli-meat-market.jpg\" alt=\"A typical Italian butcher shop with massive glass display of various meats.\" width=\"1200\" height=\"900\" srcset=\"https:\/\/www.walksofitaly.com\/blog\/wp-content\/uploads\/2015\/11\/Devour_Bologna_Food-Tour_Web-Res-Temp_0005-mortadella-deli-meat-market.jpg 1200w, https:\/\/www.walksofitaly.com\/blog\/wp-content\/uploads\/2015\/11\/Devour_Bologna_Food-Tour_Web-Res-Temp_0005-mortadella-deli-meat-market-768x576.jpg 768w\" sizes=\"(max-width: 1200px) 100vw, 1200px\" \/><p id=\"caption-attachment-22273\" class=\"wp-caption-text\">A typical Italian butcher shop and delicatessen with an impressive display of local specialities meats.<\/p><\/div>\n<p><strong>Ready to turn your trip to Italy into an unforgettable experience?\u00a0<\/strong><\/p>\n<p>Make the most of your time in Emilia-Romagna with a local expert who can bring the city\u2019s history, culture, and cuisine to life. Discover our <a href=\"https:\/\/www.walksofitaly.com\/bologna-tours\/?utm_source=chatgpt.com\">Bologna tours<\/a>, explore the Renaissance treasures of Florence on our <a href=\"https:\/\/www.walksofitaly.com\/florence-tours\/?utm_source=chatgpt.com\">tours of Florence<\/a>, or sample the region\u2019s delicious specialities on a <a href=\"https:\/\/www.walksofitaly.com\/bologna-tours\/bologna-tastes-traditions-food-tour\/?utm_source=chatgpt.com\">Bologna food tour<\/a>.<\/p>\n<p>From world-famous landmarks and museums to immersive food and cultural experiences, these small-group guided tours offer deeper insight, seamless access, and unforgettable moments you\u2019d miss on your own.<\/p>\n<p>&nbsp;<\/p>\n<p>&nbsp;<\/p>\n","protected":false},"excerpt":{"rendered":"<p>One of the top advantages of having Florence as base during your trip to Italy is the ability\u00a0 to visit other equally beautiful and fascinating destinations in just one day. A top contendor? The magical and captivating Bologna, a city full of history, culture, and art. And this is in addition to boasting the oldest [&hellip;]<\/p>\n","protected":false},"author":75,"featured_media":18146,"comment_status":"closed","ping_status":"closed","sticky":false,"template":"","format":"standard","meta":{"footnotes":""},"categories":[3],"tags":[98,64],"ppma_author":[165],"class_list":["post-18201","post","type-post","status-publish","format-standard","has-post-thumbnail","hentry","category-things-to-do","tag-bologna","tag-florence"],"authors":[{"term_id":165,"user_id":75,"is_guest":0,"slug":"yarelip","display_name":"Yareli Parra","avatar_url":{"url":"https:\/\/www.walksofitaly.com\/blog\/wp-content\/uploads\/2023\/01\/Foto-devour-Yareli-2.png","url2x":"https:\/\/www.walksofitaly.com\/blog\/wp-content\/uploads\/2023\/01\/Foto-devour-Yareli-2.png"},"user_url":"","last_name":"Parra","first_name":"Yareli","job_title":"","description":"Yareli is a Dominican travel writer based in the beautiful city of Lucca, Italy. Traveling and exploring every corner of Tuscany are her passions. She enjoys trying new flavors while traveling. As well as sharing her travel experiences through her blog Wandering and Tasting and Instagram @wanderingandtasting."}],"_links":{"self":[{"href":"https:\/\/www.walksofitaly.com\/blog\/wp-json\/wp\/v2\/posts\/18201"}],"collection":[{"href":"https:\/\/www.walksofitaly.com\/blog\/wp-json\/wp\/v2\/posts"}],"about":[{"href":"https:\/\/www.walksofitaly.com\/blog\/wp-json\/wp\/v2\/types\/post"}],"author":[{"embeddable":true,"href":"https:\/\/www.walksofitaly.com\/blog\/wp-json\/wp\/v2\/users\/75"}],"replies":[{"embeddable":true,"href":"https:\/\/www.walksofitaly.com\/blog\/wp-json\/wp\/v2\/comments?post=18201"}],"version-history":[{"count":15,"href":"https:\/\/www.walksofitaly.com\/blog\/wp-json\/wp\/v2\/posts\/18201\/revisions"}],"predecessor-version":[{"id":26423,"href":"https:\/\/www.walksofitaly.com\/blog\/wp-json\/wp\/v2\/posts\/18201\/revisions\/26423"}],"wp:featuredmedia":[{"embeddable":true,"href":"https:\/\/www.walksofitaly.com\/blog\/wp-json\/wp\/v2\/media\/18146"}],"wp:attachment":[{"href":"https:\/\/www.walksofitaly.com\/blog\/wp-json\/wp\/v2\/media?parent=18201"}],"wp:term":[{"taxonomy":"category","embeddable":true,"href":"https:\/\/www.walksofitaly.com\/blog\/wp-json\/wp\/v2\/categories?post=18201"},{"taxonomy":"post_tag","embeddable":true,"href":"https:\/\/www.walksofitaly.com\/blog\/wp-json\/wp\/v2\/tags?post=18201"},{"taxonomy":"author","embeddable":true,"href":"https:\/\/www.walksofitaly.com\/blog\/wp-json\/wp\/v2\/ppma_author?post=18201"}],"curies":[{"name":"wp","href":"https:\/\/api.w.org\/{rel}","templated":true}]}}