Bologna interesting places. What is worth seeing in Bologna? How to get from the airport to the city center

Bologna is an Italian city popular among tourists, the center of the province of the same name and the "culinary capital" of Italy. Even the most demanding gourmets will not be disappointed by visiting local restaurants and cafes. The world's oldest functioning university is located here, so you can always meet students in Bologna, which creates its own unique atmosphere. The Italians often call the city "red" because of the abundance of tiled roofs, which have been preserved since ancient times, despite the presence of new building blocks.

Having been in Bologna, you cannot ignore or because they are also part of the history of Italy.

Many Gothic and Romanesque churches, museums and ancient palaces, as well as towers, squares, fountains and other architectural monuments attract tourists to Bologna no less than to other Italian cities.

The Fountain of Neptune is located on the square of the same name in Bologna, near Piazza Maggiore, and for its huge size it received the second name "Giant". This masterpiece was conceived as a symbol of the wise rule of Pope Pius the Fourth. In the 1560s, the fountain was built according to the designs of the architects Laureti and Giambologna. Since then, the building has been restored five times.

In the center of the bowl there is a statue of the god of the seas, and around it there are figures of Neptune's subjects and mythical creatures. Students have a belief: if you go around the fountain twice counterclockwise, you will be lucky in the exams. In addition, the trident that squeezes Neptune was inspired by the creators of the famous Maserati logo.

Address: Italy, Bologna, Piazza del Nettuno, 40124.
Telephone: +39 051 239660.
Website: www.bolognawelcome.com.
Working mode: around the clock.
Visit: for free.

falling towers

Known as the "Two Towers" or "The Leaning Towers", the two structures, named after the Asinelli and Garisenda families, are impressive even for modern times: 97 and 48 meters, respectively. And for the XII century, these were real colossi. Both buildings have a slope visible to the naked eye and have become the hallmark of Bologna, not inferior in popularity to the tower in Pisa.

According to legend, the Asinelli tower was built by order of a young man in love who found a golden treasure and spent it all in order to win the hand and heart of his beloved. You can still climb to the observation platform, having overcome almost five hundred steps. The Asinelli Tower is the tallest of all the "falling" towers. As for the Garisenda tower, it used to be taller, but in the 14th century it had to be shortened due to ground subsidence in order to avoid collapse.

Address: Italy, Bologna, Piazza di Porta Ravegnana.
Telephone: +39 051 647 2113.
Website: www.bolognawelcome.com.
Working mode: seven days a week, in summer - from 9.00 to 18.00, in winter - from 9.00 to 17.00.
visit: from 3 euros.

There is evidence that a Christian church existed on the site of the modern Cathedral of St. Peter in the tenth century. However, the documented date for the consecration of the cathedral is 1184. This grandiose temple did not acquire its modern appearance in the Baroque style right away - it was rebuilt several times and once it almost collapsed entirely.

Fortunately, the huge building has survived to this day and continues to operate, and visitors still have the opportunity to admire the magnificent frescoes and listen to the bell ringing. The largest bell bears the name "Grandma" and weighs as much as three tons! Since the 16th century, it is in St. Peter's Basilica that Bolognese has been called using a unique style.

Address: Italy, Bologna, via Indipendenza, 7, 40124.
Telephone: +39 051 222112.
Website: www.italiavirtualtour.it/dettaglio.php?id=94653.
Working mode: daily, from 7.30 to 18.45; visiting the treasury - on Sundays, from 15.30 to 17.00.
visit: for free.

Today, the Ducati brand is known not only to motorists, but also to most people who are at least a little interested in technology. And in the 1920s, it was a modest enterprise founded by two brothers. You can learn about how Adriano and Marcello Ducati managed to develop their offspring and turn it into a world-class company by visiting the Ducati Museum, opened in 1998, fifty years after the start of motorbike production.

The exposition occupies a thousand square meters and is adjacent to the plant itself. In addition to rare photographs and documents, visitors can see more than three dozen motorcycles that were produced in different years. Each of them became a real hit of its time. You can learn about the history of the brand by ordering a guided tour.

Owners of Ducati vehicles can visit the museum at a discounted price.

The National Pinacoteca in Bologna is an art museum where all art lovers can see a collection of paintings, icons, altarpieces and other priceless masterpieces. Most of the items collected here were created in the period from the 12th to the 16th century. The museum was founded in the 18th century by Cardinal Prospero Lambertini. The collection initially included mainly icons, but expanded over time.

In 1802, the Pinakothek was placed in the building where it is located to this day - earlier it was the abode of the Jesuit order. Today, the museum is equipped with everything necessary for excursions, and among the masterpieces presented, you can see the works of Raphael, Perugino and many other prominent masters.

Address: Italy, Bologna, Via delle Belle Arti, 56, 40126.
Telephone: +39 051 420 9411.
Website: www.pinacotecabologna.beniculturali.it.
Working mode: all days except Monday, from 9.00 to 19.00.
visit: 4 euros.

As the oldest university in the world, the University of Bologna is a real historical and architectural marvel. Founded in the XI century, it survived the Middle Ages, the Renaissance and the New Age, while it is still a functioning university! By the way, as an educational institution it is quoted at the highest level. Once grown out of the school of arts and law, the university produced many famous people: Copernicus, Dante, Durer, Petrarch, Paracelsus, Umberto Eco and others.

Once upon a time, the most notable people of Europe came here, and students were under the protection of the German emperor. Today, the University of Bologna invites applicants to more than two dozen faculties and keeps up with the times. The library and botanical garden at the university, founded more than four hundred years ago, deserve special attention. Like the 900-year-old university itself, collections of rare plants and books attract the attention of tourists.

The palace, located on Neptune Square, was built in 1245 and was conceived as a new residence for the mayor and close associates. However, just four years later, King Enzo of Sardinia found himself in Bologna as a prisoner. For him, the palace became a prison for more than two decades, so the name is quite right. According to legend, Enzo, who was allowed many more ordinary captives, became the ancestor of the famous Bentivoglio dynasty.

Tourists visiting the palace can see the prison and court premises, the appearance of which has been preserved unchanged. The building also houses a chapel and the old archive of Bologna. The palace was restored and rebuilt several times, but each of the halls still remains a masterpiece worthy of special attention.

Also known as the Palazzo del Podesta, the Palace of Justice in Bologna is one of the oldest buildings. It was erected on Piazzo Maggiore in the 13th century and served as a residence for city managers. Later, in the 15th century, the facade was rebuilt: it was originally Gothic, but acquired typical Renaissance features. In the 16th century, the passage was decorated with figurines of saints, and later the palace was restored several more times.

Having gone through a variety of times, the Palace of Justice remains one of the main monuments of Bologna to this day. Tourists have the opportunity to view the exterior of the unique building and see the interior halls. For Russian travelers, this building is of particular interest, since the architect Fioravanti, who led the restoration in the 15th century, built the Assumption Cathedral of the Kremlin in Moscow.

Cathedral of Saint Francesco

Located on the square of the same name, the Cathedral of St. Francesco was erected, as you might guess, by the Franciscan monks. The building was built in the XIII-XIV centuries, and in its appearance one can notice the influence of French Gothic. Later, the bell towers, sacristy, chapels were completed, so that the cathedral acquired its modern look only by the 19th century. It was damaged during World War II but has been restored.

The original Gothic style of the building was complemented by Romanesque influence, and therefore the Cathedral of St. Francesco is one of the most architecturally interesting. The interior decoration leaves no one indifferent. Inside the cathedral are the tombstones of the XIII Accursio and Romanzi families, as well as the tomb of Pope Alexander the Fifth.

Address: Italy, Bologna, Piazza S. Francesco, 14.
Telephone: +39 051 221762.
Website: www.bolognawelcome.com.
Working mode: daily, from 6.00 to 12.00 and from 15.00 to 19.00.
Visit: for free.

The Basilica of San Petronio is the main church in Bologna because it is dedicated to St. Petronius, the patron saint of the city. Construction began at the end of the 14th century, but it still cannot be called fully completed: although services have been held in the basilica for a long time, the facade has not yet been completely finished. The structure has a length of 132 meters, and, if it were not for the special ban of Pope Pius the Fourth, the building would have surpassed the famous St. Peter's Basilica in Rome.

Inside the basilica, visitors can see wooden choir stalls, ancient organs and frescoes from the 15th-16th centuries. One of the frescoes depicts the Prophet Muhammad, which is why the building currently has to be heavily guarded from radical Islamists. Colored stained-glass windows and a 66-meter-high sundial deserve special attention.

The relics of St. Petronius have been kept in the basilica since 2000.

Address: Italy, Bologna, Piazza Galvani, 5, 40124.
Telephone: +39 051 231415.
Website: basilicadisanpetronio.it.
Working mode: daily, from 7.30 to 13.30 and from 15.00 to 18.00 in winter, from 7.45 to 12.30 and from 15.00 to 18.00 in summer.
visit: for free.

The eventful history of Bologna is reflected in many architectural masterpieces. Some of them are almost a thousand years old, and some were built relatively recently. Tourists who are interested in ancient architecture will hardly regret their trip to Bologna. This city should definitely be included in the list of places to visit for all connoisseurs of Italian monuments and attractions.

The city of Bologna is a well-known university center not only in Italy, but throughout Europe. University of Bologna considered the oldest operating educational institution in the world.

Bologna is distinguished by narrow "medieval" streets, many museums and cozy cafes. It is worth noting that the cuisine in Bologna considered the best in all of Italy. What to see in Bologna?

Medieval Museum

This museum will acquaint guests of the city with the gloomy and at the same time beautiful era of the Middle Ages. Here you can see unique exhibits from around the world.

The museum also has an amazingly beautiful fountain, which was created by an unknown craftsman back in the 13th century, as well as a bust of Mercury. In the Museum of the Middle Ages, tourists can get acquainted with the features of Syrian ceramic products, admire Turkish saddles (there is one gilded saddle), caskets of noble ladies of that time, as well as skillful musical instruments.

The museum is located at: Via Alessandro Manzoni 4, 40121 Bologna, Italia. You can get acquainted with the sights of the museum from Tuesday to Friday, from 9:00 to 15:00. On weekends, the museum is open from 10:00 to 18:30.

Ticket price - five euros, for students and seniors (over 65 years old) - three euros, for minors and disabled people admission is free. You can get to the museum by buses number 11 and 27 (you need to get to the Indipendenza stop).

Bologna map and photos

University of Bologna

The University of Bologna is the oldest university in Europe, founded in 1088. Nicolaus Copernicus, Carlo Goldoni and other famous people were educated in this educational institution.

It is noteworthy that even in the Middle Ages women could study at the university, and this fact is evidence of the incredible progress of that time.

Currently, the University of Bologna is better known as a tourist attraction. Visitors can see here anatomical theater and museum of medicine. The halls of this museum are richly decorated with stucco and skillful paintings.

The university is located at: Via Zamboni 33, 40126 Bologna, Italia. You can get to it by bus number C (you need to get off at the Teatro Comunale stop).

National Pinacoteca

The National Pinakothek of Bologna is an art gallery where visitors can see paintings by medieval and Renaissance artists.

By purchasing a ticket to this museum, you can admire masterpieces by Titian, Lorenzo Costa, Raphael and other great artists.

In addition to the famous paintings, there are icons and sculptures. The Pinakothek also has rooms that display works by contemporary masters, as well as objects of scientific and pedagogical activity.

The National Pinakothek is located at: Via Belle Arti 56, 40126 Bologna, Italy. The museum is open every day (Monday is a day off). Opening hours - from 9:00 to 19:00. The ticket price is four euros, preferential conditions are possible - two euros.

You can get to the Pinakothek by buses No. 19, 20, 14, 25, 27, 37, 187, 211, 188 (you need to get off at the Porta San Donato stop).

Catacombs of the Capuchins in the Italian city of Palermo - many interesting photos from the main "Museum of the Dead".

Bologna Public Theater

The Public Theater is the leading opera stage in Italy. The theater was built in 1755.

The facades of this famous building are decorated with galleries, and the interior decoration combines luxurious decorations and high-quality acoustic characteristics. Luxurious frescoes can be seen on the ceiling of the auditorium. Myself the interior is decorated in golden color.

In the 19th century, operas by Vincenzo Bellini, as well as concerts by Richard Wagner, were performed on the stage of this theater. Currently, theatergoers can purchase a ticket for a classical opera and a concert of symphonic musical works. Performing at the Bologna Theater the world's best performers.

The theater is located at: Largo Respighi 1, 40126 Bologna, Italia. As a rule, performances start at eight o'clock in the evening. Ticket can be buy from tuesday to friday, from 12:00 to 18:00 (on Saturday - from 10:30 to 16:00).

Days off are Monday and Sunday. Ticket prices range from 10 to 150 euros, discounts are possible for students and pensioners. You can get to the theater by bus number C, the building is located at the Teatro Comunale stop.

Please note that children under the age of six can't get to the concert.

Basilica of San Petronio

This Bologna Cathedral was consecrated in honor of the bishop of this city, who was later canonized. The construction of the basilica began in the 14th century. The opening of this cathedral dates back to 1954.

It is worth noting that in the Basilica of San Petronio can fit as many as 28,000 people. At the entrance to the building, the visitor can notice magnificent sculptures.

The interior of the room is distinguished by picturesque stained-glass windows, frescoes and two ancient organs. In addition, the basilica has world's largest sundial(the diameter of their dial is 66 meters).

But The main relic of the cathedral is the relics of St. Petronia, which not so long ago were in another basilica of Bologna - San Stefano.

The basilica is located at: Piazza Galvani 5, 40124 Bologna, Italia. The cathedral is open every day from 7:45 to 13:00 and from 15:00 to 18:00.

Free admission. You can get to this place by bus number 29B (get off at the Piazza Galvani stop) or by bus number A (get off at the Piazza Maggiore stop).

Botanical Garden

The Bologna Botanical Garden was founded in 1568. At the moment, its area is two hectares, and the collection of this garden includes five thousand kinds of various plants.

On the territory of this attraction there are zones with famous Italian medicinal plants and large trees (we are talking about oaks and beeches). In certain areas, visitors can see broad-leaved and Mediterranean type forests.

Botanical Garden famous for its luxurious greenhouses. In these greenhouses, tourists can admire the unique collections of orchids, ferns, as well as insectivorous plants. Every year, the employees of this garden arrange special scientific exhibitions of plants.

Bologna Botanical Garden is located at: Via Irnerio 42, 40126 Bologna, Italy. The garden is open from Monday to Friday, from 8:30 to 15:30 (on Saturday from 8:30 to 13:00). Visitors can visit the garden for free.

You can get to this attraction on the 14th, 19th, 27th, 28th, 188th, 94th, 99th buses (you need to get off at the bus stop Porta San Donato).

Hello travel lovers! Today we will talk about one of the beautiful cities of Emilia-Romagna, which turned out to be “enchanted” for us. A city through which we passed 4 times and never got out. On this trip, we decided to “break the spell” and live in it for at least a couple of days. Now we have considered all the sights of Bologna and want to tell you about them.

So, Bologna is a city in northern Italy, the region of Emilia-Romagna. In terms of area, it is comparable with our Kaluga (170.5 km²) and with the state of Liechtenstein (160 km²). The area of Bologna is 140.73 km², but to be honest, the language does not turn to call it a town. Everything is so grand here.

Bologna is a city of arches, covered galleries that save you from the hot Italian sun, towers and majestic buildings. It is worth planning 2 days to explore the city. For a more detailed one (with visits to museums, galleries, studying frescoes) 3-4 days.

It is worth considering that there are many restaurants and restaurants in Bologna with delicious national cuisine.

Walking along its streets and squares, you have to lift your head all the time - the Italians built the buildings of this city on such a large scale and generously. Not only towers and cathedrals, but also the houses of the nobility, which the center of Bologna is proud of, amaze the imagination and do not fit into the lens.

scope

Each time, setting up her Canon for the next shot, Galya grumbled: "Well, who builds like that." The inhabitants of Bologna did not expect that after only 400 years we would take unimaginable poses and twist our cameras to take a normal picture of the building.

By the beginning of the 20th century, Bologna still retained the appearance of a medieval city.

Now Bologna is a major industrial center and the main transport hub of northern Italy.

Where do tourists go first of all in Italy? I'm sure they will be in the TOP,. Bologna, although known among travelers, still often remains in the second tier. So it was with me. I got to Bologna only on my nth trip to Italy. And very in vain!

The main piece of advice I can give to anyone considering visiting Italy is to make sure to include Bologna in your travel plan! And come not for one day, and not even for a weekend, but at least three days! Stay here the longer the better! Bologna is an absolutely mesmerizing city with medieval architecture, countless cozy streets and, of course, insanely delicious cuisine (well, you probably knew this without me).

Bologna is the capital of the Italian province, known to the whole world, primarily because of the oldest University of Bologna in Europe, Università degli Studi di Bologna (and it has existed since the 11th century). Therefore, the city is very busy, with a huge number of students.

But the most important thing in Bologna, in my opinion, is the local cuisine. It is recognized as one of the most delicious in all of Italy (and this is not only my opinion, many Italians think so too). In my opinion, Bologna is the perfect combination of architectural, cultural and gastronomic aesthetics.

How to get there

Bologna is connected with other countries and other cities of Italy by excellent infrastructure. From abroad (including from Russia) can be reached by plane. From other parts of Italy and European countries - by train (a large railway station is located a 10-minute walk from the city center), by bus or again by plane (no one has canceled the well-developed network of European low-cost airlines). It all depends on the point of departure. Despite the fact that the Adriatic coast is relatively close to Bologna (about an hour by train), I do not advise you on sea transport, ferries practically do not go there now.

By plane

You can get to Bologna by plane quite economically. Of course, it all depends on the specific date, but Alitalia has affordable ticket prices, a ticket from Moscow to Bologna and back will cost 150 EUR (9,500 RUB), but this is not a direct flight, but with a short transfer in Rome (all the time about 6-7 hours on the way). There are also good offers from Air France and Lufthansa, with transfers in Paris and various German cities, respectively. Their flights usually cost around 180–200 EUR (11,440–12,700 RUB). You can choose the length of the transfer, usually the journey takes about 8-9 hours. If you would like to fly direct, Alitalia and Aeroflot have them. They have the same travel time - 3 hours 30 minutes, but they will cost more: 305 EUR (19,400 RUB) and 261 EUR (16,600 RUB), respectively.

There are no direct flights from St. Petersburg, but with a transfer in Amsterdam, you can fly with KLM. The minimum travel time is 9-11 hours, and the flight will cost 230 EUR (14,500 RUB). Lufthansa flights with a transfer in Munich cost about the same, but it is slightly shorter, the journey will take 7-9 hours.

Ticket prices can be compared.

How to get from the airport to the city center

Bologna is so well developed in terms of transport links that even Guglielmo Marconi airport is located only 6 km from the city center, and it is not difficult to get from it.

You can take a taxi at the airport (look for white cars with a Taxi checker), the road will cost about 15-17 EUR.

It can also be reached by Aerobus. An adult one-way ticket will cost 6 EUR, the airbus arrives at the Stazione Centrale train station. That is, if you are traveling at least three of us, it will be cheaper to take a taxi to the center of Bologna :). But the Aerobus ticket is valid for another 90 minutes on other routes in the city. This is a way to save money if you are traveling alone or as a couple.

But the station itself is, as I already wrote, within walking distance from the center. I advise you to look in advance on the map where your hotel is located and, accordingly, choose which one from the airport will be more profitable and more convenient for you to get there. On the map below, I showed the route from the station to the very center - Piazza Maggiore.

By train

Bologna is a fairly large railway junction. You can get to it by train quite easily from other cities. Try to buy tickets in advance, if the train is called Regionale, then its price will not change, you can buy it at the station before leaving, there are always tickets. And if there is another type of train (Frecciarossa, Frecciabianca, etc.), it is better to take it in advance, they are getting more expensive. But if you buy in a couple of months, you can find more than economical options:

the transfer from Milan will cost about 16.8 EUR (the journey will take about 2 hours),
from Florence - 9.35 EUR (1.5 hours),
from Venice - 10 EUR (2 hours),
from Rome - 20 EUR (2 hours 15 minutes).

You can view the schedule and buy a ticket on the Trenitalia website - this is the main site with all the information on the railway message.

How to get from the station to the city center

The station is very close to the center, I would say, on its border. Therefore, you can even get a cheap taxi if you do not want to lug your suitcases. Look for white cars at the station square, there are always a lot of them :).

If you are traveling light, you can take a bus (there are nos. 30, 37 and 25 directly to the central square) or even walk, it will take about 20 minutes, but it will already be part of a walk in the center of Bologna.

By bus

You won’t get to Bologna from Russia, but if this city is part of your trip to Europe, the most budgetary (and at the same time quite comfortable) way is by bus. For example, FlixBus. They have a very wide route network, and there are buses to Bologna not only from all parts of Italy, but also from France, Germany, Austria, the Czech Republic, Switzerland, etc. For example, a ticket from Milan will cost from 7.90 EUR, and the journey will take 2–3 hours, from Rome a ticket will cost from 13.90 EUR and the travel time will be 4–6 hours, depending on the route. Tickets can be bought online for them, you do not need to do this in advance, the price does not change.

As you can see, tickets are much cheaper, but the journey will take more time compared to the train. Despite such a price, traveling on such a bus is quite comfortable: they are new and clean, there is free Wi-Fi in the cabin and there is an outlet for each seat.

At the station, you can easily distinguish their bright green buses from regular regular buses :).

The bus also arrives at the Bologna train station, how to get from it, read above.

By car

From Russia

The way from Russia to Bologna is long, almost 3,000 km. But if you have already decided on such a long car trip, there are two main routes that are almost the same in distance.

Through Belarus, Poland, Czech Republic and Austria.
Through Belarus, Poland, Slovakia, Hungary and Slovenia.

A long border crossing can await you in Brest (you can spend many hours in line), but once you have entered the Schengen zone, there are no borders, you can move freely.

If you are going to drive from Russia in the winter season, do not forget that driving on studded tires is prohibited in Europe, and you will be fined for this.

From Italy

In terms of road communication, Bologna is well developed. There are 3 major highways passing through the city:

E45, which links it with (216 km) and Rimini (118 km),
E35 comes from (104 km),
A13 from Padua (117 km).

Also on the E45 can be reached from (80 km).

Clue:

Bologna - the time is now

Hour difference:

Moscow 1

Kazan 1

Samara 2

Yekaterinburg 3

Novosibirsk 5

Vladivostok 8

When is the season. When is the best time to go

In general, I can advise a trip to Bologna almost all year round. The only exception is July and August, when it is very hot in Italy, and many shops, cafes and restaurants can close for the holidays (this applies to small establishments in the first place). Due to such heat at this time, there are fewer tourists in the city.

But the most preferred months for travel, I would call the intervals of March-June and September-October. Although even in winter the temperature usually does not drop below zero, so in December and January the trip will also be quite comfortable. Sometimes it can, of course, rain, but it's not very cold outside. And in December, on the eve of Christmas, it is also worth going to feel the whole atmosphere of this main Italian holiday.

If we talk about the price of a vacation, then there is no difference between the seasons, so do not think about this criterion when choosing a time for a trip, better focus on the weather.

Bologna in summer

As I wrote above, the height of summer is not the best time of the year to visit Bologna, unless you like to walk around the city and see the sights in extreme heat :). If in June (especially the first half) there is still nothing, then in July and August the temperature during the day rarely drops below +30 degrees. In addition, restaurants and shops often go on vacation, which, on average, last from two to four weeks. Their owners and employees also need a rest.

That is why I do not think that summer is the best season to travel.

Bologna in autumn

In my opinion, autumn is one of the most pleasant periods for traveling to Bologna. In September it is still very warm (about +25 degrees somewhere), in October and November it is also comfortable - +10-20 degrees. In my opinion, this is the ideal temperature for long walks.

Of course, closer to winter it may rain more often, and there is a risk of spending all walks under an umbrella. But since it is usually not cold in Bologna and there is no strong wind, this is not a problem for me. Check the weather forecast in advance and grab an umbrella and waterproof shoes - and the problem is solved.

Bologna in spring

Spring is the second best time of the year to visit Bologna in my opinion. Since the beginning of March, it is already warm enough and not too hot to make it pleasant to walk around the city and enjoy its beauties (the average temperature is +15 degrees). Closer to June in the city you will notice more and more students rushing to the university for exams or preparing for them in the fresh air.

Bologna in winter

It is not very cold in Bologna in winter, the temperature fluctuates around 0-5 degrees. However, it is not the most pleasant weather for long walks, in my opinion. Therefore, if you are going to Italy in winter, I would advise you to go in December. So at least you will get to the pre-Christmas period :). And you can drink hot mulled wine at the Christmas market, which opens in the central square of Piazza Maggiore.

Compared to Germany or Switzerland, Italian cities are modestly decorated for the holidays, but Bologna is changing. I would call it "simple and tasteful". I definitely advise you to see the city at this time and feel this atmosphere.

Bologna - monthly weather

Clue:

Bologna - monthly weather

Districts. Where is the best place to live

The city center in Bologna is large enough, only you can walk and walk all day long. Therefore, in this case, I would advise you to live within it (marked on the map below), just there a large number of hotels are concentrated. On average, you can find a decent and clean single room for 35 EUR, or for about 50 EUR a double room. But if you prefer to relax in expensive comfortable hotels, there are also such in Bologna. Let it be not world-famous chains, but also very worthy accommodation options. The cost of a double room per night will be approximately 200-300 EUR.

The only thing, in the center, I would not advise living near the Stazione Centrale train station. As in any city, it is a little dirty, vain and not very pleasant to walk in the dark.

What are the prices for holidays

Bologna is a student city. So if you are planning a budget trip, this is the right place. not the cheapest country in itself, but in Bologna you can find a way to save money. It is worth staying in a hostel, of which there are enough. And their level, I must say, is very even (below is a good example - this is a camera in Dopa Hostel). A night in a hostel in a room for 6-8 people will cost from 15 EUR.

You can eat inexpensively in pizzerias where there are no tables. Accordingly, you will not need to pay coperto, which in the amount of 1.5–3 EUR per person will always be added to the bill if you eat at the table.

The entire center can be walked on foot and thus almost completely eliminate the cost of transport. And, as I already wrote, the airport is located near the city, so it will be inexpensive to get there.

Clue:

The cost of food, lodging, transportation, etc.

Currency: Euro, € US dollar, $ Russian ruble, rub

Main attractions. What to see

Walking around Bologna is a real aesthetic pleasure. I love the architecture of this city, probably even more than the Roman one. Almost every building in the city center hides its own history. But in Bologna there is something interesting not only for lovers of architecture and long walks, but also for art and, of course, gourmets!

When you walk around the city, pay attention to its distinctive feature - the arcades that run through the entire center of the city (they say that their length reaches 28 kilometers). This is the hallmark of Bologna. Well, a great place to hide from the rain and not interrupt the walk along it :).

Top 5

It is very difficult to single out only 5 of the most-most sights of Bologna, believe me! In my opinion, this city is one big beautiful attraction! But as an absolute must-see, I will note the following places:

Churches and temples. Which are worth a visit

In addition to the churches I write about above, in my opinion, the following are worth visiting:

Museums. Which are worth a visit

In Bologna, in addition to architectural beauties, there are many more interesting places worth visiting. Below are the most interesting museums:

parks

Bologna is a fairly green city with a large number of public gardens, small boulevards and parks.

Montagnola Park (Parco Montagnola) I would not advise you, it is located near the railway station, there are many immigrants there and it was not very pleasant for me to be there. But if you really want to still see this 18th century park, I advise you to do it during daylight hours.

Address: Piazza VIII Agosto.

tourist streets

I must say right away that when I come to the center of Bologna, I close the map and just go wherever my eyes look, because among its streets, lanes, courtyards and squares it is very difficult for me to choose my favorites. But if you are limited in time or want to miss nothing at all, I will describe the main streets below:

Via dell'Independenza one of the central and busy streets of Bologna, it goes from the Stazione Centrale railway station to the central Piazza Maggiore. It houses the Cathedral, a counted number of shops, cafes and restaurants. You can see the famous arcades, which I write about above, and go shopping and have a bite to eat.
By Via Rizzoli you can walk to the Bologna towers, and also a good place for shopping (it is on it that the Apple Store is located).
Via Zamboni leads to the famous University of Bologna, it is also nice to walk along it, plunge into a real student town :) and, by the way, there are inexpensive cafes where you can eat economically.

I marked these streets in red on the map. Green I marked a lot of small streets, which are also very nice to walk :).

What to see in 1 day

So, if for some reason you have only a day in this wonderful city, this, of course, is very short, but let's try to come up with the most intense program:

19:00 - I advise you to return to Piazza Maggiore at night or at sunset, it is incredibly beautiful.
20:00 - the most delicious part of the trip comes :). Romanesque cuisine is excellent, so choose your favorite restaurant (I'll list a few of my favorites below).

What to see in the surroundings

As always happens in Italy, there is something to see in Italy! And even more so in Emilia Romagna!

(80 km)

Unusually beautiful medieval mosaics, the proximity of the Adriatic coast and such delicious Romanesque dishes and seafood.

Getting there is easy: trains run from Stazione Centrale about every hour, the journey takes 1 hour 20 minutes, the ticket costs 7.35 EUR. Since this is not an express train, but just a regular train, you do not need to buy a ticket in advance, you can buy it at the station before departure.

Ferrara (52 km)

The historic center of Ferrara is under the patronage of UNESCO, there really are enough attractions that can interest tourists and Italian lovers (in addition to the same delicious cuisine). You can see medieval cathedrals, palaces and houses, look into the world's oldest wine bar Al Brindisi (it was opened back in 1435). Trains also run from Stazione Centrale, travel time depends on the train, but is usually 30-50 minutes. The ticket price is 4.35 EUR.

(100 km)

I think comments are generally unnecessary here :). Everyone who comes to Italy dreams of getting to Florence. And the Italians themselves love to go there. Be sure to go to the Uffizi Gallery (keep in mind that the ticket must be bought online in advance). You will reach Florence in about 30-40 minutes, the ticket will cost 22.9 EUR.

Food. What to try

Italian cuisine is famous all over the world and it is not for nothing that it is considered one of the most delicious. But the heart of Italian cuisine is in Emilia Romagna, even many Italians recognize this. Below I will tell you about the most delicious traditional dishes of this province, you should try them even if you are on a diet :). And in general, forget about the diet in case of a trip to Bologna, the food there is very tasty, but heavy.

Minced meat tagliatelle (tagliatelle al ragu) - flat fresh pasta with minced meat and tomato sauce. In Russia, this sauce is called bolognese, but in Bologna it is called stew.

Tortellini with minced meat or broth (Tortellini in brodo or al ragu) is a pasta in the form of small dumplings (without filling inside). If it’s al ragu sauce, it’s still the same tomato sauce with minced meat that I write about above. And in brodo is with broth. This is my definite favorite!

***

Lasagna and even ravioli are served with the same sauce!

Veal a la bolognese (Cotoletta alla bolognese) - do not be confused by the word сotoletta in Italian. This is not a cutlet at all, but a whole piece of meat. In this case, veal. Meat is cooked with prosciutto and parmesan;

Crescentine are local flatbreads specific to this region. They are usually served with assorted salami and prosciutto, as well as red wine.

All of the above dishes are served in 99% of restaurants in Bologna. Therefore, go to any Italian restaurant with the inscription cucina tipica (traditional cuisine) and try everything you like.

There are restaurants in the city for every budget: from inexpensive student restaurants to gourmet ones.

Budget

With thousands and thousands of students coming to Bologna every year, this city is a paradise for the budget traveler. But again, you need to know where to go for an inexpensive lunch or dinner. I recommend the following places:

Pasta fresca Naldi. Address: via del Pratello, 69;
Mercato di Mezzo. Address: via Clavature, 12;
Pizzartist. Address: via Marsala, 35/A;
La Prosciuterria Bologna. Address: via Oberdan 19/a, angolo via San Simone;
Ruggine. Address: vicolo Alemagna 2/C laterale via Santo Stefano.

Intermediate level

Salumeria Simoni. Address: via Pescherie Vecchie, 3B - Laboratorio;
L "Arcimbolgo. Address: via Galliera, 34;
Sfoglia Rina. Address: vi Castiglione, 5/a;
Trattoria del Ghiottone. Address: via Andrea Costi, 136/B;
Trattoria da me. Address: via San Felice, 50.

Expensive

Italians do not often recognize their cuisine as exquisite, they definitely consider it the best, but do not classify it as haute cuisine. However, in Bologna you can find some delicious restaurants of this level:

Antica Trattoria del Regno. Address: via del Traghetto 5/3;
I Carracci Ristorante. Address: via Alessandro Manzoni, 2;
Aqua Pazza. Address: via Augusto Murri, 168/d;
La Porta Restaurant. Address: Piazza Vieira de Mello, 4;
Antica Osteria Romagnola. Address: via Rialto 13.

Holidays

For Italians, every day is a holiday, in my opinion :). Therefore, they have relatively few public holidays (especially compared to Russia). Of the important and interesting, the following can be distinguished.

Christmas

Undoubtedly, the holiday number 1 in all of Italy. It is celebrated traditionally, with family and friends it is not customary to celebrate Christmas. Therefore, from lunch on December 24 until 26, everything is closed. On December 25, only Mc "Donalds" and kebab eateries will be open in the city, and only tourists and migrants will walk the streets. That's the only thing this day is good for - it's for leisurely walks in silence.

New Year

Now this is a more fun and by no means a family holiday for Italians. They celebrate it noisily, with friends. And often there are many parties in the city. Therefore, I highly recommend celebrating the New Year in Italy. Everyone has dinner, opens champagne, fireworks. But at the same time they don’t give gifts, they do it only at Christmas.

Valentine's Day

The Italians are quite romantic, and they approach this holiday quite responsibly. If you want to have a good time with your soul mate, I can strongly advise Bologna. Restaurants and cafes are decorated and offer special menus.

Ferragosto (Ferragosto)

A holiday in honor of the end of the main agricultural work, which is traditionally celebrated on August 15. In honor of this, the restaurants serve a seasonal menu of freshly painted products. Even tastier than you can imagine.

Safety. What to watch out for

I can’t name any special things in Bologna that tourists should be wary of. Well, apart from pickpockets in the city center. Not very pleasant at night in the area near the railway station, I have not heard of any incidents there, but just not very comfortable. If you arrive in the evening, it is better to take a taxi right away.

As I wrote above, pay attention to via dell "Independenza and via Rizzoli. The latter has a Coin shopping center - a fairly common chain of clothing stores in Italy. They are presented as budget brands, but mostly brands with more expensive clothes. Usually there presented men's and women's clothing, cosmetics and perfumes, bags and other accessories.

If you want to walk through the boutiques, then immediately go to via Farini, just look at the map, there are a lot of designers in Galleria Cavour.

On the central streets, in the galleries, look at the shop windows, where you can find small local designers who also have very beautiful and high-quality things :). Still, this is.

Sales traditionally take place in January and July, discounts are usually large, from 30% to 70%. Indeed, you can save a lot.

Bars. Where to go

Don't be confused by the Bar signs on the establishments, in the case of Italy, this means that coffee and pastries are served there. But some bars in the evening offer Aperitif - in my opinion, the most popular Italian tradition among tourists. This is a meal between lunch and dinner around 18-19 hours (and dinner, respectively, starts at 20-21). An aperitif consists of a cocktail or a glass of wine and appetizers. It can be either a few bruschettas or olives with chips, or a buffet, in which case an aperitif can easily replace dinner. And it will cost not 20–30 EUR, but 5–10 EUR. But even without an aperitif, but simply as snacks, you will be offered sliced salami in any Bologna bar :).

Restaurants usually close at midnight, or even at 23:00.

I would advise you to go to the following bars:

La Tana del Bianconiglio. Address: via Castelione 13/B;
Enoteca al Risanamento. Address: via Zamboni, 57;
Il Punto. Address: via San Rocco 1/g;
Enoteca re Crudo. Address: Via delle Lame, 59.

In Emilia Romagna, pay attention to establishments with the Enoteca sign, where you can order a glass of the most delicious wine from this region and even dine.

Clubs and nightlife

Thanks to the large number of students in Bologna, there is no shortage of parties and clubs :). In my opinion, this is one of the most fun cities in Italy. Just keep in mind that it is usually the students who go dancing on Friday night, and those who are older - on Saturday. So don't be surprised if the dance floor on Friday reminds you of a school disco.

Entrance is often paid, it costs about 10 EUR. But sometimes for girls it is free. The fun begins around midnight and continues, as it should be, somewhere until 3-4 in the morning. Face control is most often present.

My favorite establishments:

Covo Club. Address: viale Zagabria, 1. An institution with inca rock music and excellent cocktails;
Locomotive Club. Address: via Sebastiano Serlio 5/1;
hobbyone. Address: via Mascarella, 2;

Souvenirs. What to bring as a gift

From Italy, the best gifts, in my opinion, are divided into 2 types: clothing and food. Above, I already told you where you can go shopping in Bologna, so look for gifts for loved ones there :).

In terms of food, it could be a good bottle of wine from the local Enoteca, or fresh tortellini, for example (usually sold in the supermarket's fresh food section or in small shops). And, of course, do not forget about salami and delicious cheeses. Here choose everything to your taste, since there is plenty to choose from.

How to move around the city

If you will only walk in the center of Bologna, I would advise you to do it on foot. Beautiful and don't risk missing anything. In Piazza Maggiore, opposite the Basilica of San Petronia, there is a tourist center where you can get a map of the city for free. Or download some application with online maps in advance to your phone. And then go on a long journey.

But you can rent a bike, rental and parking points are located in different parts of the city. There is a large one at the Stazione Centrale station.

Taxi. What features exist

Uber is not very popular in Italy, as it is more expensive than a regular taxi, so you should not rely on this application.

Legal taxis in Italy are easy to recognize: they are white checkered cars, they usually stand in specially designated parking lots, they are equipped with a meter and you can see the tariffs there. It is not far to go from the airport to the center of Bologna, so the trip will cost about 15–17 EUR.

Catching a ride on the street is not worth it, in Italy it is not accepted. And if someone stops, no one will guarantee your safety.

Buses

You can buy a bus ticket from the driver, from the vending machine at the bus stop, if available, or from the Tabacchina tobacco shop. I advise the last option: the price is the same everywhere (1.5 EUR for a ticket that is valid for an hour after it is punched), because there are far from machines everywhere, and the driver may simply not have them. Therefore, it is better to buy several at Tabacchina at once and just compost them at the entrance to the bus.

Transport rental

If your trip is limited to Bologna, then I do not advise you to rent a car. In my opinion, it's useless. The center is not so sick, transitional, you simply cannot pass by car.

But if you plan to go to one of the cities I listed above or to other parts of Italy, then a car is a very convenient way to travel (considering the prices for Italian trains, renting a car for 4-5 people will be cheaper).

Still, Bologna is a big city, so there are offices of international car rental services: Hertz, Europcar, Avis, but there are also local ones. I can not say that the conditions and the price are very different. If you book a car in advance, you can find offers that are quite affordable (about 100 EUR per day). Personally, I prefer to book from them, since you can rent a car, for example, in Bologna, and return it in Rome or Milan, that is, you don’t need to go back, waste your time and money on gasoline. The latter, by the way, is more expensive than in Russia. A liter costs about 1.4–1.5 EUR.

To rent at any rental, you will need an international driving license (this is a must, make them in Russia in advance), and a bank card on which the deposit for the car will be frozen.

Price options for various cars can be viewed.

In the center of Bologna, many streets are pedestrian, cars are not allowed to enter. In Italian it is called zona pedonale, follow the signs carefully, because this car is a big fine.

An important point when choosing a car in Italy is the narrow streets. Even an average (by Russian standards) car for Italy will be simply huge, it will not be easy to drive in some places and find parking.

Bologna - holidays with children

To be honest, despite the fact that Italians love children, there are not so many places that could interest them in Bologna. Of the truly worthwhile, I can only single out the Zoological Museum, one of the largest in Italy, there is something for children to see, the exposition is quite large: there are dinosaur skeletons, rhinos, and a whale. Entrance to it is free, the museum is open from 8.30 to 18.00 on weekdays and from 10.00 to 17.00 on weekends.

Address: Via Selmi, 3.

Bologna is an amazing city, one of the largest in Northern Italy. But it attracts tourists not only with its scope. Unique architecture, greenery of parks and gardens, beautiful arched galleries stretching over forty kilometers, and most importantly, the famous university.

What to see in Bologna on your own?

Beautiful places and main attractions: photos with descriptions in Russian.

University of Bologna

Medieval Bologna was considered an intellectual center thanks to its university. Petrarch, Dante, Copernicus, Durer received knowledge here, law, literature, philosophy, and medicine were taught here.

The university is currently active. Its structure includes campuses in different parts of the city, research centers, museums, the oldest botanical garden in Europe, a huge library, branches in Italy and abroad.

Church of St. Luke

In the Catholic Church of the Madonna di San Luca there is a miraculous icon of the Virgin, painted by the evangelist Luke himself.

The length of the gallery leading to the basilica is 3796 m. It is believed that a pilgrim who has mastered the path to the shrine patiently and meekly is forgiven of all sins.

And the contemplation of the building itself, this baroque masterpiece, and the beautiful view of Bologna from a bird's eye view can reward a tired traveler.

two towers

The towers of Asinelli (97 m) and Garisenda (47 m) are considered the symbol of the city. They were named after the names of the rich people who built them.

Due to incorrect calculations and haste, high-rise buildings began to lean towards each other even during construction. The deviation of Garisenda from the vertical is 3 m, so tourists are not allowed there.

But it’s worth climbing Asinelli to admire the red roofs and endless galleries of the city to your heart’s content.

Fountain "Neptune"

The fountain, built on the square of the same name, has another name - "Giant", being 3.2 m high and 2.2 tons in weight.

Neptune is the lord of the sea element, the embodiment of masculinity and power. He stands majestically on a pedestal. In the hand of the ancient god is a trident, which served as a prototype for the badge of the Maserati automobile company.

All kinds of inhabitants of the underwater kingdom are located around the central figure, and on the sides there are heraldic shields.

The Pinacoteca is a famous museum in Bologna

The museum contains a large number of exhibits that have been collected since 1796. The very first works were seized from monasteries and churches. At that time, the administration of Napoleon was engaged in the seizure. The museum has several sections. The first section is painting related to the 13th-14th century.

The second section is the work of artists who did not live in Bologna. The third is Renaissance painting. The fourth is the Baroque Art Hall.

Museum and library of international level

This museum is located in the historical center of the city. The name is not original, it was changed in 2004. The building was reopened only after a major renovation. It was possible to save unique frescoes.

These frescoes were painted in the 18th and 19th centuries and are a clear indicator of the style of Napoleon's times. Bologna has a very large musical heritage. This museum was created in order to show the society this heritage.

Cathedral of Saint Pietro

The cathedral is one of the few that have survived to our time. According to its dimensions, the temple is on the 15th place in size. The builders were guided by the goal of making the cathedral larger than Peter's Cathedral in Rome.

In 1530, the coronation of Emperor Charles V took place here. The construction itself took a very long time, about several centuries. But, despite this, this cathedral in our time still cannot be called complete.

Archigymnasium

The gymnasium is practically the most valuable building in the city. Not so long ago, the building was a university where a lot of popular figures studied. The university was heard all over Europe.

The building currently serves as a library. Construction began in the 16th century. The goal was to create one university in which all faculties would be located. At that time, the faculties were located throughout the city. Construction ended in 1563.

Palazzo d'Accursio

Palazzo d'Accursio is a palace located on Piazza Maggiore, in the historic center of Bologna. The history of the complex goes back to the 13th century: it once belonged to a professor at the University of Bologna, later it hosted meetings of the Council of Elders and the city government, it served as a library, museum and summer residence of legate cardinals.

Now the magnificent complex, standing on a hill and visible from any part of the city, is open to visitors. Everyone who wants to touch history can visit the gallery located in it, which stores the works of painters of the 12th-19th centuries. and the Morandi Museum.

Inside, the castle is decorated with luxurious frescoes by the best Italian masters of different centuries - throughout its existence, it was completed, reformed and decorated, and many halls have retained their luxurious decoration to this day.

Address: Piazza Maggiore, 6.
Opening hours: 9:00 - 18:30 Tuesday - Thursday; 10:00-18:30 - Saturday and Sunday; Monday - closed

Neptune Square

Neptune Square, located in the heart of Bologna, got its name from the fountain of the same name, which has adorned its center since the 16th century.

It has long been one of the most popular tourist spots in the city: on one side of the square there is a municipal building, behind whose walls a monument to the partisans who died in World War II is kept and Salaborsa, the city library.

On the other side stands the castle of Palazzo Re Enzo, which in the 13th century became a prison for King Enzo until his death. In 1905, it was rebuilt to give it its former Gothic appearance and recreate the medieval staircase.

Now the building is used for exhibitions and other events. The area attracts tourists not only with its architecture, but also with the close proximity of Via Indipendenza, the main shopping street of the city.

Address: Piazza Nettuno, 1
Opening hours: Permanent.

City Archaeological Museum

The Municipal Archaeological Museum of Bologna was founded in 1881 and consists of 8 sections, organized in a special way, allowing you to get acquainted with all the exhibits in just one not very long excursion.

Even the most sophisticated visitor will surely find an exhibition to their liking by choosing one of the halls: Egyptian, Numismatic, Greek, Etruscan-Italian, Ancient Roman and the halls of prehistoric, Etruscan and Gallic Bologna.

Initially, the collection was formed by the collections of the University of Bologna and the artist Pelagio Palagi, after which it was constantly replenished. The building itself, built in the 15th century and located in the historic center of the city, is also worthy of attention - it impresses with its sophistication and sophistication inherent in the architecture of Italy.

Address: Via Dell "Archiginnasio, 2
Opening hours: 9:00 – 15:00
Entrance fee: 5 euros per person

Ducati Museum

Bologna is not only famous for its breathtaking architecture and gourmet cuisine: progress does not stand still, and in 2016 the Ducati Museum opened in the city. The opening was timed to coincide with the annual Ducati World Week in July, and on September 23 the museum opened its doors to the general public.

The exhibits in it are grouped into 3 areas: the history of serial models of the company's motorcycles, the history of racing specimens and the department as a whole, and Ducati Moments - people associated with the company, facts and inventions. Museum employees provide visitors with a unique opportunity to immerse themselves in the world of motorcycles that existed in the past and are relevant in the present.

In addition, a visitor center has also been opened, where you can drop off outerwear in the cloakroom, have a snack or buy souvenirs.

Address: Via Antonio Cavalieri Ducati, 3.
Opening hours: 9:00 - 18:00.

Basilica of San Domenico

One of the main churches of Bologna, the Basilica of San Domenico, is located in the heart of the city near the well-known Piazza Maggiore.

But the basilica also has fame both in the circles of believers and among tourists, because it is here that the magnificent tomb of the work of the best Italian masters with the relics of St. Dominic stored in it is located.

Even the young Michelangelo had a hand in its creation - work on the tomb was carried out for five centuries. The efforts paid off: the temple is famous not only for its luxurious interior decoration, but also for the Roman facade made in 1240. In addition, the basilica has a small museum and a monastery nearby, where you can see the preserved cell of St. Domenico and a fresco from the 14th century.

Address: Piazza S. Domenico, 13.
Opening hours: 8:30 - 13:00, 15:00 - 19:30.

Museum of Modern Art of Bologna

In 2007, Bologna provided proof that Italian creativity was not a thing of the past: the Museum of Modern Art was inaugurated in the building of the city's former bakery.

It presents a permanent exhibition, the exhibits of which were previously exhibited at the Gallery of Modern Art. The interior decoration and installation can impress even an avid lover of the classics, and the inner garden can serve as a real salvation on a hot day.

In addition, the museum hosts film screenings, theatrical performances and exhibitions. Many visitors especially note the bookstore, where you can not only replenish your book collection, but also get a couple of very unusual notebooks or sketchbooks.

Address: Via Don Giovanni Minzoni, 14
Opening hours: Tuesday, Wednesday, Friday - Sunday 10.00-18.00; on Thursday 10.00− 22.00
Entrance ticket price: 6 euros

Palazzo Poggi

Palazzo Poggi is one of the main palaces of Bologna, which houses the Museum of the University of Bologna. It is a complex of buildings made in the Renaissance style, which is a significant landmark of the city.

Founded in the 18th century, at first the museum was dedicated to astronomical discoveries, but now it includes 15 rooms dedicated to completely different areas of natural science: natural history, anatomy and obstetrics, physics and chemistry, military architecture, library, geography and navigational science .

It also houses the administrative offices and auditorium of Giosuè Carducci, a famous poet from Bologna. In addition, there is a small courtyard allegedly created by Trianchini, decorated with a statue of Hercules and busts of people who played an important role in the history of the institution.

Address: Via Zamboni, 33
Opening hours: 8:30 – 19:00
Entrance ticket price: 3 euros

Morandi Museum

Museums in Bologna are literally everywhere - for example, the Morandi Museum is located on the top floor of the Palazzo d'Accursio city hall, built in the 14th century.

It is dedicated to the work of Giorgio Morandi, famous for writing still life compositions from bottles, cans and other utensils. The visitor of the museum sees the artist's studio, his work is a composition of many glass containers, similar to those that he depicted.

In addition, there is a workshop of modern painting. The exhibition will be of particular interest to fans of the painter's work, but an inexperienced visitor can also discover a lot for himself: in addition to the most interesting exhibition, the building is beautiful in itself.

Address: Via Don Giovanni Minzoni 14 | Palazzo Comunale 3F.
Opening hours: 12:00 - 20:00.
Entrance ticket price: 6 euros.

Finestrella

Another place of tourist pilgrimage in Bologna, but a little less famous than the main attractions.

However, this does not detract from the beauty and unusualness of this curious little attraction. Finistrella is a real "window to Venice": once the city was all cut up by canals that ensured the well-being of the city, but now only two water arteries remain unhidden in pipes. It is on them that the view opens through a small hole cut in the stone wall on Via Piella.

You can also look at the canal from the bridge from the other side, but the view is much less picturesque than through the window. However, before enjoying the views, you still need to find it - a small opening, the door of which is painted in the color of the wall, is very easy to miss.

Address: Via Piella, 5−9.
Opening hours: Permanent.

Cemetery "Chertoza"

This attraction, unlike the others, is located on the outskirts of Bologna - the Certosa cemetery appeared at the very beginning of the 19th century, 5 centuries later than the monastery of San Girolamo.

Being one of the most famous European cemeteries, Certosa has become an eternal abode for members of the ruling or simply the richest families of Bologna, politicians, painters and writers.

A separate War Memorial is dedicated to the memory of the fallen during the Second World War. Certosa is a unique, but undeniably captivating place with its beauty. It could not be otherwise - the best sculptors worked on the crypts and tombstones.

It is interesting to note that during the work to increase the territory in the 19th century, an ancient burial site of the Etruscan period was found; now they are part of the exposition of the City Archaeological Museum.

Address: Via della Certosa, 18.
Opening hours: Permanent.

Medieval Museum

The Museum of the Middle Ages, which has been operating in Bologna since 1985, is located in the Palazzo Gisilardi, built several centuries ago on the ruins of an ancient palace. It is divided into 4 zones, which, in turn, include halls where you can see a great variety of exhibits dedicated to medieval Bologna, including costumes, decor items, weapons, and even tombstones.

Among the museum's most popular exhibits is the statue of Pope Boniface VIII, which is believed to be the first to be erected in a public place. A visit to the sights will be interesting if you know English or Italian - it is on them that the signatures for the exhibited items are presented, but even without knowledge of a foreign language you will not get bored there - unique frescoes and elegant statues speak for themselves.

Address: via Manzoni, 4.
Opening hours: Tuesday - Friday 9:00 - 15:00; Saturday and Sunday - 10:00 - 18:30.
Entrance ticket price: 5 euros.

San Michele in Bosco

Another religious complex that Bologna is famous for is San Michele in Bosco. It includes a church and a monastery of the Olivet Order, which was bought out by the city authorities in the middle of the 20th century and turned into an orthopedic center, but is still the home of several monks.

The monastery was built in the 16th century, the church a few centuries earlier, and both buildings are decorated with magnificent frescoes that win the hearts of tourists year after year. Also adjacent to the complex is a beautiful garden where you can relax after a tiring walk, and from the hill you can enjoy a breathtaking view of Bologna.

Address: Piazzale San Michele in Bosco
Opening hours: Saturday and Sunday 9:00 - 12:00, 16:00 - 18:00.

Piazza Maggiore

In the XIII century, Piazza Maggiore appeared in the very heart of Bologna, which later became the symbol of the city. It can be said with full confidence that it is one of the five most popular tourist places in the city, attracting people with the architecture of the buildings located on it and its rich history.

The square acquired its current appearance only two centuries later, and the appearance of the Neptune Fountain became the final touch of the picture - now this part is considered a separate square and bears the name of the fountain that adorns it. Piazza Maggiore itself impresses with its majestic and exquisite palaces and the Cathedral of St. Petronius, which is also one of the most visited tourist attractions.

The length of the square is 115 meters, the width is 60 meters and from time to time it becomes the venue for such events as a film festival, city holidays and fairs.

Address: Piazza Maggiore.
Opening hours: Permanent.

Basilica of San Petronio

Speaking of Bologna, you can not ignore the Basilica of San Petronio (Basilica di San Petronio), built in the XIV century, the main church of the city. Located on the famous Piazza Maggiore, dedicated to the patron saint of Bologna who lived in the 5th century.

Being the fifth largest church in the world, the basilica accommodates about 28 thousand people, and this scope is felt in everything: in one of the chapels you can see the largest sundial in the world, since the 17th century it has been decorated with two organs that are still in working state, and the interior decoration impresses the visitor with its luxurious paintings and exquisite stained-glass windows.

Moreover, in the Middle Ages, a project was proposed to rebuild the church in such a way that it had the shape of a cross at the base, but fortunately or unfortunately, this project was banned by the Pope.

It is also noteworthy that inside the cathedral there is a fresco depicting Muhammad and the demons tormenting him from Dante's "Hell", because of which Muslim terrorists at the beginning of our century attempted to destroy the attraction.

Address: Piazza Galvani, 5.
Opening hours: in winter 7:30 - 13:30, 15:00 - 18:00; in summer 7:45 - 12:30, 15:00 - 18:00

Basilica of Santo Stefano

The Basilica di Santo Stefano, also called the "Seven Churches", hinting at the fact that this is a whole complex of buildings, cannot be deprived of attention. Erected in the early Middle Ages, its appearance resembles the Jerusalem Church of the Holy Sepulcher: the central church of the same name is an octagon with a dome supported by twelve columns of marble and brick.

The most famous elements are the black marble column, similar to the crucifixion of Christ, the spring, which was once part of the temple of Isis, on the site of which the basilica stands, and the aedicola of San Petronio.

It is worth mentioning that it accepted its current temple quite recently, a couple of centuries ago after restorations that caused extremely mixed responses. In addition to the sacred buildings, there is a museum on the territory that stores frescoes, images and sculptures moved from the temples.

Address: Via Santo Stefano, 24.
Opening hours: 8:00 - 19:00.

Museum of the History of Bologna

More recently, in 2012, the Museum of the History of Bologna opened its doors to the general public, occupying the first three floors in the Pepoli Palace built in the 14th century. Despite the fact that over several centuries of its existence the building has undergone various changes, the part given to the museum has retained its original appearance.

The exhibition contains more than 30 halls, each of which is dedicated to a certain aspect of history, telling the story of the city that lasts more than 2 millennia. The visitor's gaze opens up magnificent collections of ancient objects and the electronic and neon signs accompanying them - such a contrast is striking and unusually attractive.

Also in the museum you can watch 3d films and high-tech presentations covering the history of Bologna.

Address: Palazzo Pepoli Antico, Via Castiglione, 8.
Opening hours: Tuesday - Sunday 10:00 - 19:00.

Theater "Komunale"

In addition to museums, Bologna, as a true Italian city, boasts theaters. Teatro Comunale di Bologna, one of the central opera venues in Europe, built in the 18th century, became the successor to the first theater in the city, destroyed by fire.

Exquisite in its decoration, the bell-shaped hall has become a stage for staging operas by Rossini, Bellini, Verdi, Wagner and many other great composers. Despite the rather high protection from fire, at the beginning of the 19th century, the theater located in the city center was again subjected to fire, and after a four-year restoration, it presented the audience with a classic horseshoe-shaped hall with an increased capacity.

Now eight operas are staged here every year, attracting even the most sophisticated visitors from all over the world.

Address: Largo Respighi, 1.
Opening hours: Depends on the schedule.
Entrance fee: Varies.

Museum of the memory of the victims of Ustica

In addition to the classics, you can also find places of "dark tourism" in Bologna, and the Museum of the Memory of the Victims of Ustica is one of them. It is dedicated to the plane crash that occurred in Ustica in 1980, when a plane crashed off the coast of Sicily with 81 people, each of whom died.

The museum is located in Bologna, since this city was the starting point; It is still unclear what exactly caused the crash. The collection features aircraft wreckage arranged in such a way that visitors can literally walk in the middle of it.

Moreover, there are hidden speakers throughout the museum, from which whispered messages are heard. All this creates an oppressive atmosphere of a terrible catastrophe that only people with strong nerves can endure.

Address: Ex Magazzino ATC, Via di Saliceto, 5.

Palace of Davia Bargellini

Right in the center of the city, just half a kilometer from the main square, is the majestic Palazzo Davia Bargellini, built under the leadership of Uri in the 17th century.

At the same time, the strict and luxurious facade of the building catches the eye, and the uncharacteristic shape of the basement and cornices distinguish it from other similar ones. It also bears the name "Palace of the Giants", obtained thanks to the statues of Atlanteans, made by Brunelli and Agnesi, standing at the main entrance.

Since 1924, the building houses the museum of the same name, the collection of which consists of such decorative items as furniture and products from various materials (glass, wood, metal). It will also please art connoisseurs with the works of such famous masters as da Bologna, da Imola, dei Crocefissi and others.

Address: Strada Maggiore, 44.
Opening hours: Tuesday - Saturday 9:00 - 14:00; Sunday and holidays 9:00 - 13:00.

Collezioni Comunali d'Arte

In the very center of the city, on the main square of Bologna, there is the Collezio ni Comunali d "Arte, an art museum that is extremely unpopular among tourists. However, it has something to delight even the most sophisticated visitor: the works of such famous masters of painting as Tintoretto, Signorelli are exhibited in magnificent halls , Francha and others, starting from the Middle Ages and ending with relatively new authors.

The museum can become a real outlet for those who are tired of the hubbub of the crowd and want to enjoy works of art in silence. The undoubted advantage is that the exposition can be photographed, and from the windows of some rooms you can admire a beautiful view of the very heart of Bologna. For non-Italian-speaking tourists, booklets in English with information about the museum and exhibits are provided.

Address: c / o Palazzo D "Accursio Piazza Maggiore 6.
Opening hours: Tuesday - Friday 9:00 - 18:00; Saturday and Sunday 10:00 – 18:30

Ice Cream Museum

Italian ice cream is famous all over the world for its taste, and many people go to Bologna to visit the ice cream museum located in it.

There, visitors are not only introduced to the history of ice cream and stories about how, for example, it was stored before the invention of refrigerators, but they also discover the secrets of the production of delicacy and talk about the differences between ice cream and sorbet.

Did you know that the recipe was discovered by an alchemist during the search for the philosopher's stone quite by accident, and then presented to Catherine de Medici? Also, museum guests are invited to attend a master class on making sweets, and after the tour, perhaps the most pleasant part awaits them: tasting ice cream prepared both according to the latest recipes and according to the standard of the 19th century.

Address: Via Emilia, 45, 40011 Anzola dell "Emilia BO Opening hours: Tuesday - Saturday 9:00 - 18:00
Entrance ticket price: depends on the duration of the tour, from 7 euros

Trade Palace

Just a couple of hundred meters from the main Piazza Maggiore, the Palace of Commerce (Palazzo della Mercanzia), erected in the 14th century, is imposingly located.

The elegant building, made in the Gothic style, was rebuilt twice: at the end of the 19th century, restoration work was carried out, and in 1949, during the Second World War, a bomb exploded near it, which led to severe destruction of the building, after which it had to be restored.

Now the palace serves as the residence for the city's Chamber of Commerce and is closed to the public, but even an external examination of the building makes a strong impression on tourists admiring the elegance of the building. Its arches and spiers look even more spectacular in the dark, when the building's lighting is turned on.

Address: Via Santo Stefano 4.
Opening hours: Closed to the public.

Arriving in Bologna, try to see everything. After all, there is not a single place that should be left unattended.