Getting around Bologna with a private driver is a smart choice for travelers who want to maximize their experience in this fascinating Italian city. Local drivers here really know their stuff – from the medieval towers to the best tortellini spots – and can create custom routes based on what interests you most.
I’m particularly impressed with the morning city tours, which let you beat the crowds while visiting key sites like Piazza Maggiore and the Two Towers. The full-day food and wine tours into the surrounding countryside are another standout, combining Bologna’s famous gastronomy with scenic drives through Emilia-Romagna.
Services typically include comfortable vehicles, English-speaking drivers, and flexible pickup locations. Most tours offer wheelchair accessibility and free cancellation up to 24 hours in advance.
Check out these recommended private driver tours that showcase the best of Bologna and its surroundings:
Key Points
- Private driver services in Bologna offer personalized insights and flexibility in itinerary planning, enhancing the overall travel experience.
- Private drivers are knowledgeable about local history, attractions, and transportation, ensuring a comfortable and convenient experience.
- Many private driver tours in Bologna accommodate accessibility needs, dietary requirements, and are designed to be wheelchair and stroller-friendly.
- Booking private drivers in advance is recommended, especially during peak seasons, to ensure availability and personalized attention.
- Private driver experiences in Bologna are highly rated by travelers and provide opportunities to explore the city’s cultural and historical highlights at a personalized pace.
The Award-Winning PRIVATE Food Tour of Bologna: 6 or 10 Tastings
Although Bologna is renowned for its rich culinary heritage, navigating the city’s vibrant food scene can be daunting for first-time visitors. That’s where the Award-Winning PRIVATE Food Tour of Bologna shines.
Offering 6 or 10 tastings of high-quality local products, this private, personalized experience with a local foodie guide is a must for any discerning traveler. With vegetarian alternatives available and a sustainable, carbon-neutral approach, the tour showcases Bologna’s highlights between food stops.
While some guests have reported limited food variety and pacing issues, the hosts acknowledge feedback and are committed to improving the experience. For an intimate look at Bologna’s gastronomic delights, this tour is a compelling option.
Read our full review: The Award-Winning PRIVATE Food Tour of Bologna: 6 or 10 Tastings Review
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You can also read our reviews of more tours and experiences in Bologna.
Private Food Tour With Tastings Near Bologna
This Private Food Tour with Tastings near Bologna offers an intimate glimpse into the rich culinary heritage of the Emilia Romagna region.
Led by a knowledgeable guide, guests will sample 5 local specialties over 3 hours, including freshly baked breads, cured meats, artisanal cheeses, handmade pasta, and decadent pastries.
The tour also includes a visit to traditional shops and eateries, as well as a chance to discover the picturesque Canals on the Reno River.
At $120.87 per person, it’s a fantastic value, with free cancellation up to 24 hours in advance and a reserve now, pay later option.
Wheelchair accessible and with a licensed guide, this tour is an immersive culinary experience not to be missed.
Read our full review: Private Food Tour With Tastings Near Bologna Review
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Highlights & Hidden Gems With Locals: Best of Bologna Private Tour
A private half-day walking tour in Bologna, Italy, this Highlights & Hidden Gems With Locals: Best of Bologna Private Tour offers an immersive experience exploring the city’s major sights, historic bridges, hidden squares, and lively neighborhoods.
Boasting 76 reviews with a 4.9 overall rating and a Badge of Excellence, this customized tour is recommended by 99% of travelers.
Accompanied by a private guide, you’ll engage with locals, learn about Bologna’s history and culture, and get tips on avoiding tourist traps and finding the best food and deals.
While entrance tickets for select attractions are included, reviewers note some limitations regarding famous sights.
With free cancellation and unlimited rescheduling, this tour provides a CO2-neutral, personalized way to discover the best of Bologna.
Read our full review: Highlights & Hidden Gems With Locals: Best of Bologna Private Tour Review
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Experience Enchanting Bologna: Private Walking Tour
For those seeking an intimate glimpse into Bologna’s captivating past, the Experience Enchanting Bologna: Private Walking Tour offers an immersive exploration of the city’s historic heart.
Priced from $136.64 per person, this 2-hour private guided journey takes visitors through Piazza Maggiore, the grand medieval piazzas, and the Basilica of San Petronio.
Along the way, the knowledgeable guide reveals the stories and secrets of Bologna’s storied past. Guests can also experience the vibrant Mercato di Mezzo, the historic market district, and conclude at the “Jerusalem of Bologna” complex.
With flexible cancellation policies and a range of language options, this tour provides an insider’s perspective on the city’s architecture, culture, and culinary traditions.
Read our full review: Experience Enchanting Bologna: Private Walking Tour Review
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Private Bologna Tours by Locals, Highlights & Hidden Gems, Custom
Locals in Bologna offer private tours that allow visitors to customize their experience, focusing on the city’s highlights and hidden gems.
Guests can choose from 2, 4, 6, or 8-hour walking tours, meeting their guide at a convenient central location. The personalized itineraries cater to individual interests, whether that’s history, food, or off-the-beaten-path discoveries.
Along the way, travelers will see major attractions like Piazza Maggiore and the Due Torri, as well as lesser-known gems. Guides receive high praise for their knowledge, friendliness, and ability to provide immersive cultural insights.
While most experiences have been positive, some guests noted a desire for more in-depth information, especially from newer guides.
Read our full review: Private Bologna Tours by Locals, Highlights & Hidden Gems, Custom Review
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Portraits in Bologna: Private Vacation Photographer Tour
Capturing the essence of Bologna through the lens of a professional photographer, the Portraits in Bologna: Private Vacation Photographer Tour offers a unique opportunity for visitors to immortalize their experiences in the city.
Priced from $285.77 per group, this 1-3 hour tour allows up to 8 participants to explore custom locations with a focus on contemporary and candid photography.
Guests can choose from family, romantic, or group photoshoot options and receive professionally edited photos within 5 working days.
The tour’s flexibility, including free cancellation and pay-later booking, make it an attractive choice for those seeking to capture lasting memories of their time in Bologna.
Read our full review: Portraits in Bologna: Private Vacation Photographer Tour Review
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Private Emilia Romagna Food Tour Full Day
The Private Emilia Romagna Food Tour Full Day offers visitors a chance to embark on a culinary adventure through the renowned food regions of Bologna, Parma, and beyond.
This private, full-day tour (7 hours) includes hotel pickup, an expert guide, and a professional driver. Highlights include tastings of Parmigiano, Parma ham, and balsamic vinegar, as well as a visit to a medieval town and a lunch featuring local cured meats, cheeses, and regional wines.
The tour is wheelchair accessible and stroller friendly, with dietary requirements accommodated. Guests consistently praise the knowledgeable guides and engaging experiences, though some suggest clearer communication on meeting points and pacing.
Read our full review: Private Emilia Romagna Food Tour Full Day Review
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Private Tour in the Ferrari World – 2 Test Drives Included
This private Ferrari tour experience offers visitors a chance to enjoy the legendary world of Ferrari.
At $3,626.18 per person, it’s an 8-hour adventure that includes visits to the Ferrari and Enzo Ferrari museums, as well as test drives of several Ferrari models.
Guests can take the wheel of the Ferrari 488 Challenge, Ferrari 812 GTS Superfast, and more, for an exhilarating on-track and on-road experience.
The tour also includes a gourmet lunch at the prestigious Cavallino Restaurant, plus the services of a live tour guide.
With free cancellation and a reserve now, pay later option, this Ferrari-focused experience provides an exclusive, personalized look into the heart of Italy’s automotive heritage.
Read our full review: Private Tour in the Ferrari World – 2 Test Drives Included Review
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Bologna Private Food Tour With a Local Foodie: Bolognas Tastiest Treats
Bolstered by high ratings and glowing traveler reviews, the Bologna Private Food Tour with a Local Foodie promises an immersive culinary experience that showcases the city’s most delectable treats.
Over 3 hours, participants can expect 6-8 tastings of local specialties, including the iconic tortellini and mortadella, complemented by 2 drinks from 2-3 local eateries.
Passionate local guides lead the way, sharing their deep knowledge of Bologna’s history and cuisine. The personalized tours cater to participants’ interests, ensuring a tailored experience.
With a wheelchair-accessible route and service animals allowed, the tour is designed to be inclusive.
At $200.04 per person, the Bologna Private Food Tour offers a delicious glimpse into the heart of this Italian gastronomic capital.
Read our full review: Bologna Private Food Tour With a Local Foodie: Bolognas Tastiest Treats Review
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Bologna: Private and Personalised Walking Tour
Offering a personalized journey through Bologna’s rich history and vibrant culture, the private walking tour invites travelers to uncover the city’s hidden gems.
Priced from $114.31 per person, the 3-to-8-hour experience allows for flexible duration and a tailored itinerary to match individual interests.
Accompanied by a knowledgeable local guide, participants explore iconic attractions and off-the-beaten-path spots, sampling local cuisine and discovering independent shops.
With a 4.8/5 overall rating, the tour provides exceptional value, earning praise for its engaging guides and personalized service.
Complemented by optional pickup and restaurant recommendations, the walking experience promises an immersive and enriching exploration of Bologna’s enchanting streets.
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Private or Semi-Private Tour of the Historic Center of Bologna
Setting out on a private or semi-private guided walking tour of Bologna’s historic center, travelers can enjoy the city’s rich cultural heritage.
This highly recommended tour, with a 100% recommendation rate, offers an intimate experience for up to 10 travelers. Guided by licensed professionals, the tour covers major landmarks such as Piazza Maggiore, Basilica of San Petronio, and the iconic twin medieval towers.
Along With exploring Bologna’s history, the tour provides insights into the city’s renowned cuisine and the world’s oldest university.
With inclusions such as snacks, insurance, and gratuities, this tour offers a comprehensive and hassle-free experience for visitors to Bologna.
Read our full review: Private or Semi-Private Tour of the Historic Center of Bologna Review
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Best of Bologna: Private & Personalised Walking Experience
The “Best of Bologna: Private & Personalised Walking Experience” provides an intimate exploration of the city’s iconic landmarks and hidden gems.
Priced at $82.56 per person, this 2-3 hour tour allows visitors to discover Bologna through the eyes of a knowledgeable local guide.
With a maximum group size of 6, the experience is tailored to each group’s interests and preferences.
Reviewers praise the personalized approach, local insights, and overall value.
While the tour itself is free to cancel up to 24 hours in advance, participants can also reserve their spot and pay later.
With an overall rating of 4.7/5, this private walking tour offers an immersive and memorable way to experience the best of Bologna.
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Bologna Private Walking Food Tour With Secret Food Tours
Visitors to Italy’s culinary capital, Bologna, can indulge in a private walking food tour with Secret Food Tours.
This tour offers a chance to discover authentic eateries and specialty food shops in Bologna’s old town, led by a local foodie guide. Guests can expect to sample local delicacies, including fresh pasta, parmesan cheese, prosciutto ham, and a variety of other regional specialties.
The tour is customized to individual preferences and pace, and includes transportation and gratuity.
With a 5.0 overall rating and 98% of travelers recommending the experience, this private walking food tour is an excellent way to take in Bologna’s renowned culinary culture.
Read our full review: Bologna Private Walking Food Tour With Secret Food Tours Review
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Bologna: Private Pasta-Making Class at a Locals Home
A unique culinary experience awaits visitors to Bologna, as they’re invited to a private pasta-making class held in the home of a local Italian family.
Over the course of 3 hours, you will learn to create 3 authentic regional pasta recipes under the guidance of a certified Italian home cook. The class accommodates small groups and caters to various dietary requirements.
Priced from $152.40 per person, the experience allows guests to connect with local families, taste the prepared dishes paired with local wines, and work at individual stations equipped with all necessary tools and ingredients.
With a 5/5 overall rating based on 17 reviews, this pasta-making class offers an unparalleled immersion in Bologna’s rich culinary heritage.
Read our full review: Bologna: Private Pasta-Making Class at a Locals Home Review
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Bologna Private City Kickstart Tour
Whereas the Bologna Private City Kickstart Tour offers an excellent introduction to the city’s highlights, it’s a private experience that caters to small groups.
At just $62.19 per person, this tour provides exceptional value, with a knowledgeable local guide leading the way.
Travellers can expect a city orientation, insider tips, and hotel pick-up and drop-off service.
The tour’s perfect 5.0 rating from 28 reviews speaks to its quality, with guests praising the guide’s flexibility, historical insights, and ability to enhance the overall experience.
The only potential drawback is that the tour isn’t wheelchair accessible, but it’s near public transportation and suitable for most travelers.
Read our full review: Bologna Private City Kickstart Tour Review
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Bologna : Highlights & Hidden Gems Private Walking Tour
Exploring the best of Bologna’s highlights and hidden gems is a captivating experience with the Bologna : Highlights & Hidden Gems Private Walking Tour.
Lasting 3 hours, this private walking tour led by a local guide showcases the city’s iconic landmarks, including the Two Towers, Basilica di San Petronio, and Fountain of Neptune.
Priced at Kč 2,265 per person, the tour offers flexibility with free cancellation and a reserve now & pay later option.
Participants can expect a customized experience, gaining insights into the local lifestyle and receiving personalized tips for further exploration.
With a 5-star rating, the tour promises an enriching and memorable adventure through the charming streets of Bologna.
Read our full review: Bologna : Highlights & Hidden Gems Private Walking Tour Review
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Bologna Private Tours With Locals: 100% Personalized, See the City Unscripted
Setting out on a private tour through Bologna with a local guide offers a truly personalized experience.
With a rating of 4.9 out of 5 and 100% traveler recommendation, these tours provide an intimate look at the city’s highlights and hidden gems.
Lasting 3 to 5 hours, the tours are priced competitively from €78.59 per person. Guests can choose to explore on foot or utilize public transport or taxis, with the option to be picked up from their hotel.
The tours include food, drinks, attraction tickets, and transportation costs, making them a convenient and all-inclusive way to discover Bologna.
Knowledgeable guides, such as Paulina, Claudio, Gabriele, and Claudia, receive praise for their ability to tailor the experience to individual interests.
Read our full review: Bologna Private Tours With Locals: 100% Personalized, See the City Unscripted Review
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Bologna: Classic Private Walking Tour
Although Bologna is renowned for its rich history and stunning architecture, the classic private walking tour offers visitors an intimate glimpse into the heart of this captivating city.
Lasting 2.5 hours, the tour begins and ends at Piazza del Nettuno, showcasing the city’s Renaissance landmarks, including the impressive Basilica of San Petronio.
Guests will explore the UNESCO-listed porticoes and the vibrant Quadrilatero market area, while enjoying a small food tasting at the end.
With knowledgeable guides available in multiple languages and the tour being wheelchair accessible, this private experience caters to a diverse range of travelers seeking an authentic exploration of Bologna.
Read our full review: Bologna: Classic Private Walking Tour Review
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Bologna: Private Parmesan, Balsamic, Prosciutto Tasting Tour
For those seeking a more epicurean adventure in Bologna, the private Parmesan, Balsamic, Prosciutto Tasting Tour offers an immersive culinary experience.
Led by knowledgeable local guides, this tour takes visitors on a delicious journey through the city’s renowned food producers. Guests will sample the finest Parmesan cheese, savor the rich flavors of aged balsamic vinegar, and indulge in the smooth, salty delights of prosciutto.
Along the way, they’ll learn about the traditional production methods and the cultural significance of these iconic Italian delicacies.
Whether a foodie or simply curious, this private tasting tour promises to tantalize the palate and expand one’s appreciation for the culinary treasures of Bologna.
Read our full review: Bologna: Private Parmesan, Balsamic, Prosciutto Tasting Tour Review
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From Bologna: Private Full-Day Ravenna and Rimini Day Trip
From the heart of Bologna, travelers can venture out on a private full-day excursion to the captivating cities of Ravenna and Rimini.
This private tour offers a comprehensive exploration of the region’s rich history and cultural heritage. In Ravenna, visitors will be mesmerized by the stunning Byzantine mosaics adorning the UNESCO-listed monuments.
They’ll then journey to the seaside city of Rimini, known for its vibrant coastal promenade and Roman ruins.
Throughout the day, a knowledgeable private driver will provide valuable insights, ensuring a personalized and enriching experience.
This private day trip presents an ideal opportunity to discover the unique charm and beauty of these two remarkable Italian destinations.
Read our full review: From Bologna: Private Full-Day Ravenna and Rimini Day Trip Review
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Sum Up
Bologna offers a variety of top-notch private tours for foodies and sightseers alike. From tastings of local delicacies to comprehensive city explorations, these private experiences provide an intimate and customized way to discover the city’s rich history and vibrant culture. Whether you’re interested in hidden gems or iconic landmarks, Bologna’s private tour options cater to diverse interests and preferences.
More Tour Reviews in Bologna
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- From Bologna: Parmesan, Wine, and Prosciutto Tour
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