Bologna’s best tours cut straight to what matters most in this fascinating Italian city. Traditional walking tours efficiently cover the must-see spots – the massive San Petronio Basilica and medieval Two Towers are absolute highlights. The real gems are the food-focused walks, where passionate local guides share insider spots for authentic tortellini and mortadella, away from tourist traps.
For those interested in Italian wine culture, small-group wine tastings in historic cellars offer genuine value and expertise. Families will appreciate the engaging 2-hour walks that keep kids interested with stories of medieval life and architecture.
Let’s look at our carefully selected tours that bring Bologna’s rich history and flavors to life.
Key Points
- Highly rated city walking tours in Bologna cover key landmarks like Basilica of San Petronio, Neptune Statue, and the Two Towers, lasting around 2 hours.
- Specialized tours, such as the City Center Walking Tour, highlight Piazza Maggiore, porticos, and markets, while private tours offer personalized experiences with hotel pick-up/drop-off.
- Culinary and wine tours combine sightseeing with local food and wine tastings, showcasing regional specialties like Lambrusco and Sangiovese.
- Tours are led by certified guides and expert sommeliers, providing engaging storytelling and personalized attention in small group sizes.
- Unique tour options include an open-top bus tour with multilingual audio guides and kid-friendly tours designed to engage children.
Bologna City Walking Tour
The Bologna City Walking Tour provides travelers with a comprehensive introduction to the historic city of Bologna.
The 4.5-star tour takes visitors through key landmarks, including the Basilica of San Petronio, the Neptune Statue, and the iconic Two Towers.
Led by certified guides, the walking tour offers insights into Bologna’s rich cultural, gastronomical, and civic history.
While some travelers found the pace a bit slow, the tour’s informative content and knowledgeable guides are widely praised.
The tour is an excellent choice for first-time visitors seeking to understand Bologna’s renowned attractions and landmarks.
With a maximum group size of 30 and a starting price of $26.74 per person, the Bologna City Walking Tour offers a well-rounded and accessible exploration of this captivating Italian city.
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Bologna: City Center Walking Tour
Offering a comprehensive exploration of Bologna’s historic city center, the Bologna: City Center Walking Tour invites travelers to discover the architectural gems and cultural riches that define this captivating Italian destination.
The 2-hour guided experience showcases the iconic landmarks of Piazza Maggiore, including the Basilica of San Petronio and the towering Asinelli.
Strolling through the city’s charming porticos and markets, guests gain insights into Bologna’s storied past from expert guides.
With convenient start locations and an accessible price point, this walking tour provides an immersive introduction to the heart of the city.
Catering to small groups, the experience offers a personalized, engaging way to experience Bologna’s living history.
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Bologna Private City Kickstart Tour
Exploring Bologna’s cultural riches, the Bologna Private City Kickstart Tour offers travelers an immersive introduction to the city’s historic center.
Featuring a private walking experience, the tour maximizes personal attention with a local guide who shares insights into Bologna’s history, top sights, and hidden gems.
Flexibility allows the itinerary to be tailored, ensuring a personalized experience. With a city orientation and helpful recommendations, the tour helps visitors make the most of their time in Bologna.
Offering hotel pick-up and drop-off, the tour provides a seamless, hassle-free exploration of this Italian gem, earning a stellar 96% recommendation rate from past travelers.
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Bologna: Red Bus City Tour and Local Food Tasting
For travelers seeking a rundown of Bologna’s renowned landmarks and a taste of the city’s local culinary delights, the Bologna Red Bus City Tour and Local Food Tasting offers an ideal solution.
Priced from $37.83 per person, this 1-day tour allows participants to explore the city’s top sights aboard a modern open-top bus, complete with multilingual audio guides.
The experience also includes a 30-minute food tasting at a historical market, providing a unique opportunity to sample the region’s renowned gastronomic offerings.
With a 3.7/5 overall rating based on 365 reviews, the tour is a popular choice for those looking to maximize their time in Bologna.
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Bologna Private Tours With Locals: 100% Personalized, See the City Unscripted
Travelers seeking a truly authentic and personalized exploration of Bologna can discover the city through Bologna Private Tours With Locals.
These private tours offer a 3- or 5-hour walking experience with a local host, providing a unique and insightful journey through the city’s history, culture, and cuisine.
With flexible meeting options and free cancellation, the tours can be tailored to individual interests and preferences.
Positive reviews highlight the hosts’ expertise, adaptability, and friendliness, ensuring an exceptional experience.
Whether visitors want to explore Bologna’s secrets, savor local delicacies, or enjoy the city’s vibrant atmosphere, these private tours promise an unscripted and unforgettable adventure.
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Bologna: Kid-friendly Guided Tour of the City Highlights
Families visiting Bologna can discover the city’s highlights on a kid-friendly guided tour.
The 2.5-hour tour, priced from $194.43 per person, covers major attractions like Piazza Maggiore, the leaning towers, and the Neptune fountain. Kids will enjoy fun activities and games led by a private guide, as well as quizzes and entertaining commentaries to keep them engaged.
The tour also includes a walk under the Portici, a UNESCO World Heritage Site, and a visit to Piazza Santo Stefano to view hidden canals. Entrance fees and gratuities are included.
However, the tour isn’t suitable for wheelchair users or those with mobility issues. Comfortable shoes and weather-appropriate clothing are recommended.
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5-hour Bologna City and University Walking Tour
This 2.5-hour Bologna City and University Walking Tour provides an immersive exploration of the city’s rich history and renowned university.
Priced from €130.00 per person, the private tour is led by expert guides and covers Bologna’s highlights, including the Piazza del Nettuno and the oldest university in the world.
Wheelchair and stroller accessible, the tour concludes back at the meeting point in Piazza del Nettuno.
While food, drinks, and museum entrance fees are excluded, the tour is highly rated, with reviewers praising the guides’ knowledge and the tour’s flexibility.
However, some customers have reported issues with cancellations and communication from the local operators.
Bologna: Guided Walking Tour of the City Highlights
Enjoy the captivating history and iconic landmarks of Bologna during this 3-hour guided walking tour. Priced at $194.43 per person, this private tour allows you to explore the city’s UNESCO-listed Porticos, the Asinelli and Garisenda Towers, and the stunning Piazza Maggiore.
Led by an expert guide, you’ll uncover hidden gems like the Jewish Ghetto and the lost canal via Piella, while learning about Bologna’s administrative buildings and rich architectural heritage.
With free cancellation up to 24 hours in advance and the option to reserve without upfront payment, this tour offers a seamless and flexible way to discover the best of Bologna’s city highlights.
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Bologna: Highlights and Hidden Gems of the City Tour
Frequently, travelers to Bologna seek to uncover the city’s captivating history and iconic landmarks.
The “Bologna: Highlights and Hidden Gems of the City Tour” provides a personalized experience that delves into both the renowned attractions and the lesser-known gems beloved by locals. Priced from $114.06 per person, this 3-hour private tour allows guests to explore the city with a knowledgeable Bolognese guide.
The flexible itinerary can be tailored to individual interests, and transportation options are available at an additional cost. While food and drinks aren’t included, they can be arranged for an extra fee.
With a 3.7/5 rating based on 3 reviews, this tour offers a comprehensive and customized way to discover the best of Bologna.
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Bologna: City Center Guided Wine Walking Tour
For those seeking a deeper exploration of Bologna’s rich wine heritage, the “Bologna: City Center Guided Wine Walking Tour” offers an immersive experience.
Priced from $72.52 per person, this 2-3 hour tour takes participants on a journey through the city’s hidden spots, guided by a local certified sommelier. Guests can expect to sample 2-5 different wines from the Colli Bolognesi and Emilia Romagna regions, along with traditional snacks.
The tour’s small group size ensures a personalized experience, and the option for a private “Secret enoteca experience” is available for those seeking an even more exclusive encounter.
With an impressive 4.9/5 rating based on 193 reviews, this tour is a must for wine enthusiasts visiting Bologna.
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The Sum Up
Bologna offers a variety of engaging city tours that allow visitors to explore its rich history, architecture, and culinary delights. From walking tours that showcase the city’s highlights to more specialized experiences focused on food, wine, and the university, there’s something to suit every traveler’s interests. Whether you’re looking for a quick overview or a more in-depth exploration, Bologna’s diverse tour options make it easy to discover the best of this vibrant Italian city.