Weekend in Bologna: What to See and Where to Go

A weekend in Bologna is an immersion into flavors, academic history, and the iconic UNESCO-listed porticoes. While the historic center is best explored strictly on foot (Bologna is a “City 30,” with excellent public transport and the chance to move comfortably beneath its endless arcades), the surrounding area is an open invitation to get behind the wheel and explore. In this article, you’ll find our suggested itinerary for an unforgettable weekend in Bologna and its surroundings!

Bologna’s historic center: what to see in a weekend

Spend your first day soaking in the city’s atmosphere without rushing. Forget the car and let yourself be guided through the medieval maze of red-brick streets: in Piazza Maggiore, admire the majestic Neptune Fountain and the Basilica of San Petronio; climb the Asinelli Tower (if open) for an unmatched view of the city’s red rooftops; then visit the ancient University and the Anatomical Theatre. Finish your day with an aperitivo in the Quadrilatero (the old market district) and a dinner featuring Bologna’s culinary musts: tortellini in brodo and tagliatelle al ragù.

Weekend in Bologna: what to see by car

With your own car or a rental the second day turns into an unforgettable journey through the hills and some of Italy’s most charming villages. About thirty kilometers from Bologna, the medieval village of Dozza is an open-air art gallery: the walls of its houses are canvases covered with stunning murals painted by international artists. Park just outside the walls and lose yourself among the colorful streets, ending your visit at the Rocca Sforzesca, which also houses the Regional Wine Cellar (Enoteca Regionale).

Continuing toward the Apennines, you’ll come across a place that looks straight out of a dream: Rocchetta Mattei. This extravagant 19th-century castle is a labyrinth of styles from Gothic to Moorish and a must-see for photography lovers, worth every kilometer of the trip.

Just a few minutes from Rocchetta, the tiny village of La Scola feels like a leap back to the 14th century perfect for a short stop before exploring the rolling landscapes of the Bolognese Hills. This is the land of Pignoletto wine, so take advantage of your drive to stop at one of the many wineries and pick up a few bottles to take home an authentic souvenir of these scenic lands.

If you have an extra day or want to make the most of your car, consider a trip to one of the nearby cities, all within easy reach: Modena, about 40 km away, is perfect for combining culture and a passion for motors (you’ll find the Ferrari Museums here); Ravenna is a bit farther (around 80 km), but the journey is more than rewarded by its priceless Byzantine mosaics. Rent a car in Bologna and set off on an adventure!