Italy is loaded with places to see throughout the country. Rightfully so, places like the Colosseum, Cinque Terre, Pantheon, Trevi Fountain, Cathedral of Santa Maria del Fiore, Roman Forum, Leaning Tower of Pisa, and the Spanish Steps are high on traveler’s bucket lists. However, cities like Bologna Italy offer a low-key experience you can’t find in the more touristy spots.
Bologna Italy in the Emilia-Romagna region. This is the same region where you’ll find Parma Italy and Modena Italy. When you combine these three destinations into one itinerary, it makes for an incredible experience. Not only can you find historical sites for any history buff to see, but the food scene accommodates any foodie that accompanies you on your trip.
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Best Credit Cards to Use in Bologna Italy
There are some cards that I can’t leave the country without. These are cards issued by American Express, Chase, and Citi. When traveling internationally, relevant bonus earning categories and no transaction fees are key for me. With that said, the Amex Gold Card, Chase Sapphire Reserve, and Citi Premier Card are ideal candidates for cards to have in your back pocket.
The Amex Gold Card earns 4x points at restaurants and US grocery stores. You earn 3x points on dining and travel with the Chase Sapphire Reserve. The Citi Premier Card earns 3x points at restaurants, supermarkets, gas stations, air travel, and hotels.
When is the best time to visit Bologna Italy?
April to October gets my vote for the best time to visit Bologna Italy. The highs average 63°-86° while the lows average 49°-69°. Of these months, May and September are prime-time weather months. The average May temps are 73° / 57° and the average September temps are 77° / 62°.
We visited in April and the Bologna Italy weather was more than ideal. Average April temperatures are 63° / 49°. However, we visited during a warmer weather wave so it was pleasant. Walking around during the day was perfect in long/short sleeves and/or pants/shorts.
How to Fly to Bologna Italy
Bologna Guglielmo Marconi Airport (BLQ) is the airport serving Bologna. Ryan Air has the largest presence in terms of the number of flights. However, major airlines like Air France, Alitalia, Austrian Airlines, British Airways, Emirates, Iberia, KLM, Lufthansa, Scandinavian Airlines, TAP Air Portugal, and Turkish Airlines fly into BLQ.
We flew into Venice Marco Polo Airport (VCE) and then drove to Bologna Italy with friends. In total, it’s about a two-hour drive between the cities. You also have the option to train from Venice to Bologna. Per Google Maps, the train ride takes roughly two hours.
Examples of flights to BLQ that you can book include:
- Atlanta (ATL) > Amsterdam (AMS) > Bologna (BLQ) – KLM
- Dallas (DFW) > Frankfurt (FRA) > Bologna (BLQ) – Lufthansa
- Los Angeles (LAX) > Paris (CDG) > Bologna (BLQ) – Air France
Where to Stay in Bologna Italy
Bologna isn’t blessed with a plethora of hotels that you can book with points. Of the major points hotel brands, IHG has the Holiday Inn Bologna – Fiera, and Marriott have the AC Hotel Bologna. If you don’t mind a commute, there are points hotels outside of Bologna in cities like Florence.
Another option to consider is Airbnb or Google Hotels. Each of these platforms has plenty of properties to choose from. We actually stayed at Emilia Suite Home, an Airbnb property in Modena. As usual, the place fit our needs for this trip.
Best Places to Visit in Bologna Italy
Day 1 of Bologna Italy Travel
Once you’re well-caffeinated after sleeping off your hearty Italian meal, buy tickets to check out the Two Towers. You’ll then walk over to Basilica di San Petronio. The architecture inside this church will blow your mind. Next, take in the Piazza Maggiore, the central square of the city. The Fountain of Neptune is in the Piazza Maggiore so you can pop over there while in the central square. Lunch at a cafe near the square concludes your first morning.
After lunch, there’s no shortage of places to grab an afternoon pick-me-up, in the form of espresso. Leisurely stroll around Piazza Maggiore or check out nearby sites. These include Basilica di Santo Stefano, Basilica of San Domenico, or Biblioteca Comunale dell’Archiginnasio. If art is your thing, Basilica of San Domenico, Fountain of Neptune, and David of Michelangelo are Michelangelo sculptures. Close down day one with dinner.
Day 2 of Bologna Italy Travel
With the way our schedule worked, we didn’t have two full days in Bologna. So, here’s how we’ll play it when we return. Coffee starts day two followed by a visit to Museo Ducati, FICO World Eataly, Museo Ferruccio Lamborghini, and Bologna Food Tour. Museo Ferruccio Lamborghini is outside the city so we’d start the morning there. On the way back we’d hit Museo Ducati and/or FICO World Eataly. A Bologna Italy Food Tour sounds amazing and would be how we’d finish out our 48 hours in Bologna.
Bologna Italy Travel FAQs
What is Bologna in Italy known for?
The city is known primarily for its food and architecture, both of which are evident upon arrival. Churches throughout the city display incredible attention to detail in their design.
Is Bologna Italy worth visiting?
Once you’ve checked off major cities like Venice and Rome, Bologna Italy is worth visiting. Bologna is laid back and ideal to recharge the batteries.
Is Bologna a safe city?
We never felt unsafe walking around the city.
Is Bologna Italy expensive?
Nah, not really. You certainly won’t feel like you’re getting price gouged as the city is primarily filled with locals.
Where is Bologna Italy located?
North of Florence and southwest of Venice in the Emilia-Romagna region.
Conclusion on 48 Hours in Bologna Italy
Bologna is generally a city that flies under the radar in terms of Italian destinations. However, this travel guide just makes you want to visit. If you decide to check out Bologna, it’s key to bring cards that earn transferable points while you’re there. Late spring and early fall are ideal times to visit, and you can access the city via the local airport or train. There aren’t many points hotels so keep that in mind. During your time in the city, architecture, museums, and food should keep you occupied.
What would you see and do during your Bologna Italy travel? Please let me know in the comments or by sending me an email on my contact page.
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