Bologna’s historic center offers the perfect setting for a self-guided walking tour through medieval towers, stunning piazzas, and ancient porticoes.
Starting Point: Piazza Maggiore
Begin your tour at Piazza Maggiore, Bologna’s main square and the heart of the city since medieval times.
- Visit Basilica di San Petronio – Open daily 7:30-18:30
- Admire Fountain of Neptune (Fontana del Nettuno)
- Explore Palazzo d’Accursio – City Hall, open Mon-Sat 10:00-18:00
The Two Towers
Walk east on Via Rizzoli to reach Bologna’s iconic Two Towers (Due Torri), with Torre degli Asinelli standing 97 meters tall.
️ Tower Access: Torre degli Asinelli entrance fee: €5, open daily 9:00-20:00
The University Quarter
Head north through Via Zamboni to explore Europe’s oldest university, founded in 1088.
- Palazzo Poggi – University Museums (Via Zamboni, 33)
- Teatro Anatomico – Historic anatomy theater (Via Zamboni, 35)
- Biblioteca Universitaria – Historic library
Santo Stefano Complex
Walk south to reach Piazza Santo Stefano, home to the unique Seven Churches complex.
Opening Hours: Daily 9:00-19:00, free admission
Food Stops Along the Way
- Quadrilatero – Historic market area near Piazza Maggiore
- Mercato delle Erbe – Via Ugo Bassi, 25 (Open Mon-Sat 7:00-19:30)
- Osteria del Sole – Historic wine bar, Vicolo Ranocchi, 1/D
Best Photo Spots
- Piazza Maggiore at sunset
- Top of Torre degli Asinelli
- Piazza Santo Stefano’s architectural complex
- Via Marsala’s porticoes
Walking Tour Tips
- Wear comfortable shoes – Bologna’s historic center features cobblestone streets
- Start early morning to avoid crowds and heat (especially in summer)
- Total walking time: 2-3 hours at a leisurely pace
- Distance covered: approximately 3 kilometers
Download the official Bologna Welcome app for offline maps and additional points of interest.
Hidden Gems
- Finestrella di Via Piella – Window view of Bologna’s hidden canal
- Chiesa di Santa Maria della Vita – Houses terracotta sculptures
- Ghetto Ebraico – Historic Jewish Quarter with narrow streets
Portico Walk Extensions
Bologna boasts 40 kilometers of covered walkways. Consider these notable stretches:
- Portico di San Luca – World’s longest portico (3.8 km)
- Via Saragozza – Elegant shopping porticoes
- Via dell’Indipendenza – Main shopping street
Evening Activities
- Via del Pratello – Local nightlife and aperitivo spots
- Piazza Verdi – Student hangouts and cultural events
- Via Mascarella – Jazz clubs and traditional osterie
Practical Information
- Tourist Information Office: Piazza Maggiore, 1/e
- Emergency number: 112
- City police: 051 266626
- Public restrooms marked on Bologna Welcome app
Conclusion
This self-guided walking tour covers Bologna’s essential landmarks while offering flexibility to explore hidden corners and culinary delights. The city’s compact historic center and extensive portico system make it ideal for walking exploration in any weather. Remember to look up at the medieval towers, pause in the peaceful piazzas, and take time to savor Bologna’s rich gastronomic heritage along the way.
Pro tip: Consider spreading this walk across two days to fully appreciate each stop and include extended visits to museums and churches.
FAQs
- What is the best time of year to take a self-guided walking tour in Bologna?
Spring (April-May) and fall (September-October) offer the most pleasant temperatures and fewer crowds. Summer can be very hot, while winter is cold but features beautiful holiday decorations. - How long does it take to walk through Bologna’s historic center?
The historic center can be explored in 2-3 hours, but a full day allows you to properly visit major attractions like Piazza Maggiore, Two Towers, and the Archiginnasio. - What are the must-see landmarks on a self-guided walking tour of Bologna?
Essential stops include Piazza Maggiore, Basilica di San Petronio, Two Towers (Due Torri), Basilica di Santo Stefano, Archiginnasio, and the Quadrilatero food district. - Are Bologna’s famous porticos accessible year-round?
Yes, Bologna’s 40km of porticos are accessible year-round and provide shelter from both rain and sun. These UNESCO-listed covered walkways connect most major attractions. - Is it necessary to book tickets in advance for attractions on the walking route?
Most street-level attractions are free, but climbing the Asinelli Tower requires advance booking. Museums like the Archiginnasio can be visited without pre-booking. - Where can I find the best viewpoint of Bologna during my walk?
The Asinelli Tower (97m) offers the best panoramic view of Bologna. San Michele in Bosco viewpoint outside the city center is another excellent option. - How wheelchair-friendly is Bologna’s historic center for walking tours?
The historic center is mostly flat and the porticos provide smooth paths, though some streets have cobblestones. Many major attractions have wheelchair access. - What’s the best area to stop for authentic Bolognese food during the walk?
The Quadrilatero district, near Piazza Maggiore, is the best area for local specialties like tortellini, mortadella, and tagliatelle al ragù. - Is there a recommended walking route to see Bologna’s hidden canals?
Via Piella offers the famous “Little Venice” window view of Bologna’s canal. The best route includes Via Malcontenti and Via Oberdan to spot historic water channels. - Where can I find a reliable map for my self-guided tour?
Tourist information offices in Piazza Maggiore provide free walking maps. Digital maps are available through the Bologna Welcome app and official tourism website.
