Exploring Bologna’s historic waterways by bike is an enticing proposition. Visitors can enjoy the city’s rich past, guided by knowledgeable locals who share captivating tales. The tour showcases architectural gems like the Finestrella di Via Piella and the Antico Porto di Bologna, offering a unique perspective on Bologna’s water-based heritage. And what better way to end the adventure than with an aperitif at the charming Irnerio10 Ristorante? This guided bike tour promises to be a delightful blend of history, sightseeing, and culture – an experience that just might leave you eager to uncover more of Bologna’s hidden gems.
Key Points
- 4-hour guided bike tour through Bologna’s historic canals, exploring key sites like Finestrella di Via Piella and Two Towers.
- Tour includes an aperitif at the end at Irnerio10 Ristorante, providing a complete cultural experience.
- Knowledgeable guides share insights on Bologna’s water-based history and its impact on the city’s development.
- Tour highlights significant sites such as Centrale idroelettrica del Cavaticcio and Chiusa medioevale sul torrente d’Aposa.
- Flexible cancellation policy with free cancellation up to 24 hours in advance and no upfront payment required.
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Tour Overview
A 4-hour guided bike tour of Bologna’s historic canals, the "Bologna delle acque" (Bologna of waters), offers visitors the opportunity to explore the city’s intricate waterways.
Priced from CZK 1,629 per person, the tour is available in English and Italian. Participants can enjoy free cancellation up to 24 hours in advance and reserve their spot without upfront payment.
The tour starts at Irnerio10 Ristorante Bologna and hits key highlights like the Finestrella di Via Piella, Piazzetta della Pioggia, and the Two Towers.
An aperitif is included at the end of the tour, allowing guests to savor the experience.
Itinerary Highlights
The tour begins at Irnerio10 Ristorante Bologna, where participants embark on their journey to discover Bologna’s historic canals.
Key stops along the way include the picturesque Finestrella di Via Piella, the charming Piazzetta della Pioggia, and the Antico Porto di Bologna, an ancient port on the Canale delle Moline.
Cyclists will also visit the Centrale idroelettrica del Cavaticcio, a former hydroelectric power plant, and the Opificio delle Acque, an old water works.
The tour continues through the Porta Saragozza, the Chiusa medioevale sul torrente d’Aposa, and the iconic Piazza San Domenico and Piazza Santo Stefano, before reaching the famous Two Towers and Piazza San Martino.
The experience concludes with an aperitif back at Irnerio10 Ristorante.
Historical Context
Why explore Bologna delle acque (Bologna of waters)? The historic canals of Bologna were built in the 12th century to power mills, tanneries, and spinning mills.
This infrastructure contributed to Bologna’s status as Italy’s leading textile center. Visitors can discover the rich history of these waterways that still flow beneath the city.
The guided bike tour takes you along the ancient canals, allowing you to uncover the city’s fascinating water-based past. From the Finestrella di Via Piella to the Chiusa medioevale sul torrente d’Aposa, you’ll gain a deeper appreciation for Bologna’s watery heritage and its impact on the city’s development over the centuries.
Tour Experience
Knowledgeable tour guides lead the guided bike tour, sharing anecdotes and curiosities to enrich the experience.
Cyclists discover the rich history of Bologna’s waterways still flowing beneath the city, exploring:
- Finestrella di Via Piella, a picturesque window overlooking a hidden canal
- Piazzetta della Pioggia, a charming square with a unique rainy microclimate
- Centrale idroelettrica del Cavaticcio, an old hydroelectric power station
- Porta Saragozza, a historic gateway with medieval canals and locks
- Chiusa medioevale sul torrente d’Aposa, a medieval sluice gate on the Aposa stream
The tour culminates with an aperitif at Irnerio10 Restaurant, allowing participants to relax and reflect on their immersion in Bologna’s enchanting aquatic heritage.
Inclusions
The guided bike tour package includes an aperitif at the Irnerio10 Restaurant, allowing participants to unwind and reflect on their exploration of Bologna’s enchanting aquatic heritage.
The tour also provides a knowledgeable English/Italian-speaking guide who shares anecdotes and curiosities about the city’s historic canals.
Bike rental is included, ensuring a comfortable and eco-friendly mode of transportation.
While the tour covers a range of significant sites, additional fees may apply for entry to certain locations.
Guided Bike Tour
Although the historic canals of Bologna have been largely forgotten, the guided bike tour offers visitors an opportunity to rediscover this enchanting aquatic heritage.
Led by knowledgeable guides, the tour takes participants on a journey through the city’s hidden waterways, revealing fascinating anecdotes and hidden gems along the way.
The experience includes:
- Cycling past the Finestrella di Via Piella, a picturesque window overlooking a canal
- Exploring the Antico Porto di Bologna, the city’s former river port
- Visiting the Centrale idroelettrica del Cavaticcio, a historic hydroelectric power plant
- Discovering the Opificio delle Acque, a former water-powered mill
- Ending with an aperitif at the Irnerio10 Restaurant, providing a taste of local culture.
Aperitif at Irnerio10
After the bike tour, participants are treated to a refreshing aperitif at the Irnerio10 Ristorante. This cozy restaurant serves as the tour’s starting and ending point.
The aperitif provides a chance to unwind and reflect on the tour’s highlights. Guests can savor local wines or cocktails, complemented by light appetizers.
This concluding activity allows participants to mingle, share their experiences, and gain additional insights about Bologna’s history and culture from the knowledgeable tour guide.
The aperitif caps off the comprehensive tour, leaving visitors with a deeper appreciation for the city’s renowned waterways and their integral role in its development.
Cancellation Policy
Free cancellation is available up to 24 hours in advance. This allows travelers to book their spot without committing upfront.
Should plans change, they can receive a full refund by canceling their reservation a day prior to the tour. The cancellation policy provides flexibility and peace of mind.
Key details include:
- Cancel up to 24 hours before the tour for a full refund
- No upfront payment required to reserve a spot
- Allows travelers to book now and pay later
- Hassle-free cancellation process
- Ensures travelers aren’t penalized for last-minute changes
This cancellation policy makes the guided bike tour an attractive option, giving travelers the freedom to plan their Bologna experience with confidence.
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Frequently Asked Questions
What Is the Group Size for the Tour?
The tour group size is not specified in the provided information. The tour details focus on the itinerary, duration, pricing, and inclusions, but do not mention the group size.
Are There Any Age Restrictions for Participants?
The tour doesn’t specify any age restrictions. Participants of all ages can join the guided bike tour, though children may require parental supervision. The tour is suitable for a range of ages.
Can the Tour Accommodate Dietary Restrictions?
The tour accommodates dietary restrictions. Participants with special dietary needs can inform the tour operator in advance, and the guide will ensure they’re provided with appropriate alternatives during the aperitif.
What Happens in Case of Inclement Weather?
In case of inclement weather, the tour operator will provide rain ponchos or reschedule the tour. Guests can request a full refund if the tour is canceled due to weather and they cannot be rescheduled.
Are There Any Additional Tips or Gratuities Expected?
No additional tips or gratuities are expected on this tour. The tour price includes the guided bike ride, bike rental, aperitif, and services of the English/Italian-speaking guide. Participants simply need to enjoy the experience.
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Recap
Discover Bologna’s captivating canal-side history on a guided bike tour that showcases its architectural gems and concludes with a refreshing aperitif. This 4-hour experience, priced from CZK 1,629, offers an immersive exploration of the city’s water-based heritage, led by knowledgeable guides who share fascinating insights. Explore key highlights like the Finestrella di Via Piella and the Antico Porto di Bologna, then unwind at Irnerio10 Ristorante, engaging with fellow travelers.