Day Trip from Bologna: What to See and Where to Go
If you’re planning a getaway from the city, the first question is: what is there to see near Bologna? The answer depends on how far you’re willing to travel, but breathtaking landscapes begin just a few kilometers beyond the city walls. In this article, you’ll find our suggestions: for most of the destinations mentioned, a full day is the ideal amount of time to enjoy the visit without rushing. However, if you want to combine multiple stops, such as Rocchetta Mattei and Dozza, consider staying overnight in a countryside agriturismo for a relaxing weekend.
A day trip near Bologna among timeless villages
Among the must-see places near Bologna, Rocchetta Mattei is unmissable. Located in the Bolognese Apennines, this eclectic residence looks like something out of One Thousand and One Nights, with its unusual mix of Moorish, medieval, and Art Nouveau styles. It’s one of the most popular destinations for those looking for something truly unique near Bologna.
Not far away, the village of Dozza is also worth a stop: a true open-air art gallery where house walls are decorated with contemporary murals. It’s the perfect place for a romantic walk, ideally ending with a tasting at the Regional Wine Shop located in the cellars of the Sforza Fortress.
Nature and views: the Bolognese hills and Corno alle Scale
For those who love the outdoors, head straight for the hills around Bologna. In particular, the Gessi Bolognesi and Calanchi dell'Abbadessa Park, just outside the city, offers spectacular trails among sinkholes and clay formations shaped over time.
Another extraordinary destination, also (or especially) for its historical significance, is Monte Sole: a place of memory immersed in greenery, perfect for combining a nature walk with reflection in the Monte Sole Historical Park.
If you’re craving a taste of high mountains, Corno alle Scale is perhaps the most beautiful peak in the Bolognese Apennines: its landscapes are dotted with waterfalls, such as the Dardagna Falls, and ridgelines offering spectacular views stretching all the way to the sea.
Tips for getting around outside Bologna
If you decide to travel by car for your day trip from Bologna, keep in mind that the roads toward Rocchetta Mattei or Corno alle Scale are scenic but full of curves. Enjoy the journey at a relaxed pace, ideally with a car that makes you feel in control of the road: among the rental options in Bologna or other locations in Emilia-Romagna, you’ll surely find a vehicle suited to your needs.
When returning to the city, remember that Bologna’s ZTL gates are always active. Bologna was the first major Italian city to become a “City 30”: if you don’t have a permit to enter the limited traffic zone, which covers the entire historic center, it’s best to park in major interchange hubs such as the Tanari parking lot or the former Staveco area and reach the center by bus or bike.
