Bologna Guided Tour
About this activity
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Experience Highlights
This urban itinerary lasts approximately 2 hours and is the perfect way to learn about the history of Bologna. An expert and certified guide will accompany you through the old town, telling you the history and anecdotes of its most famous monuments.
- Walk through the old town of Bologna with an expert guide.
- Learn about the history of the Basilica of San Petronio, the Archiginnasio, the Quadrilatero and other significant points.
- Explore the city in just 2 hours
What’s included
- Tour of the old town
- Expert guide
Select participants and date
Step by Step
This walking tour lasts about 2 hours and goes through the heart of Bologna. An expert guide will accompany you along the itinerary and tell you about the history of the city, which includes medieval, baroque and renaissance buildings and monuments.
The meeting point is usually a central location, such as the splendid Piazza del Nettuno, where the statue representing the god of the sea is located. As usual, the guide will show you the following attractions:
- Basilica di San Petronio - It is located in the central Piazza Maggiore and is famous mainly for two things: its unfinished façade (with the contrast between white marble and brick) and the medieval fresco depicting Mohammed. Charles V was crowned here in 1530.
- Archiginnasio - One of the most beautiful buildings in Bologna. It was built in the 16th century at the behest of Pope Pius IV to reform the local university (the oldest in the world!). Within its walls is the Anatomical Theatre, where human anatomy was studied.
- Quadrilatero - The epicentre of Bologna's mercantile life. During the Middle Ages, this is where the artisan workshops and market stalls were located. Today it concentrates a good number of restaurants serving traditional cuisine.
- Due Torri - The Garisenda and Asinelli towers stand in the heart of the historical centre. During the Middle Ages, local families demonstrated their economic and social power by erecting watchtowers. Most of them have not survived the centuries, with the exception of these two. From the top of the Torre degli Asinelli you can enjoy an unbeatable panorama.
- Piazza Santo Stefano - A triangular space a stone's throw from the university. Here you will find the homonymous basilica and the elegant Bolognini Isolani and Bolognini Amorini Salina palaces.
The urban route is easy and can be done at any time of the year. I recommend that you wear comfortable clothes and shoes.
