For lovers of Italy, we consider the main attractions of Bologna and the surrounding area. The result was an overview of 25 interesting places with photos and descriptions, where you can go on your own or with the help of an excursion in Russian. As a bonus, we added the best restaurants in the city according to tourists' reviews, which are ideal for an evening dinner.
Bologna's rich historical heritage attracts tourists from all over the world. Travelers come to plunge into the atmosphere of the old quarters, see magnificent temples and palaces, stroll through elegant parks and feel the emotions that amazing shopping gives.
Before the trip, we suggest that you get acquainted with the TOP of popular attractions and practical tips that will come in handy during the trip.
La torre Asinelli and La torre Garisenda towers
They are considered the symbol of the city, the main attraction of Bologna. Construction took place in the 11th century. In those centuries, such buildings were considered status among the rich, only they could afford to erect tall buildings. Moreover, many competed in the height of the building, the higher, the greater the wealth.
Tradition says that the construction of the structures is associated with a dispute between two influential families. They competed in the height of the buildings. Due attention was not paid to the observance of the instructions.
Bologna was strewn with such masterpieces of architecture, but after several earthquakes, only a few survived, only 20 buildings out of 152.
As for the described two towers, through the centuries they served both as residential buildings and prisons. La torre Asinelli reaches a height of 98 meters and is slightly inclined. The nearby Garisenda is slightly lower and grows more to the side. It is worth noting the quality of the building, both objects have withstood the natural elements and war. The width of the walls at the base reaches 2 meters, closer to the top point, the width narrows to 1 meter. The main material is concrete, which was poured between the inner and outer masonry.
Centuries later, the towers have tilted, it seems that the buildings are about to fall. But this is not happening. There is an observation deck on Azinelli. From here you can see the surroundings. Don't forget to take souvenir photos on your evening walks in the city.
Piazza Maggiore
Created in the 12th century. The square is called the heart of Bologna, indeed, it is the largest in the city, and we advise you to plan the route of the sightseeing walk from here. In those centuries, trading rows were located here, mainly selling meat. Gradually (towards the end of the 15th century), the area was overgrown with administrative buildings. The form in which we see her took shape by the 16th century.
If you start your acquaintance with the city from here, you will be able to see the main attractions in Bologna (Italy). The following objects are located here:
- Palace of the City Council,
- Basilica of San Petronio deserves no less attention. Entrance from the basilica is free, but you can climb to the observation deck, the cost is 3 euros.
- Palazzo Podesta, was built in 1190. Served for meetings, performances and entertainment, is now a shop.
- the former city hall of the city - Palazzo Comunale, ticket price 7 euros for an adult, opening hours from 10 to 18 hours.
Neptune Square
Located in the center of Bologna. The arrangement is associated with the name of Cardinal Cesi (16th century). The cardinal ordered to demolish the old buildings and turn the place into an urban center. The decoration of the square is called a fountain made in the form of a sea deity.
The sculpture was created by Giambologna. For a long time, the image of a deity was a symbol of the rule of the Pope. Superstition is associated with the fountain. Students believe that if you walk around the tank, then no exams are scary. Therefore, there are always a lot of young people here.
Independence street
You will find it in the city center, considered one of the main streets with cafes and inexpensive shops. To visit the street, we recommend first of all to tourists who do not know where to go in Bologna for shopping. This is a real paradise for shopaholics from the middle price segment to brand boutiques. Ideal for walking in the rain, there are arcades on both sides of the street, under which you can walk in any weather.
Traveler reviews indicate that it is profitable to buy clothes and shoes, souvenirs. Don't forget to take your checks. You will be able to arrange tax-free with them. If you get tired of walking, go to a restaurant. Get familiar with the local cuisine, but gourmet foodies are encouraged to check out our list of good establishments at the end of this article.
City Archaeological Museum
The museum includes 18 rooms. Most of it is occupied by archaeological finds. It is possible to trace not only the history of the city, but also to get acquainted with the development of mankind.
Finds from Ancient Egypt and Rome deserve special attention of tourists. Death masks, jewelry, household items, figurines are on display. It is always crowded here, we recommend you come in the afternoon or in the morning. The people are getting smaller.
Opening hours from 10 to 18.30 hours. Do not forget that on the first Sunday of the month, admission is free.
History museum
The exhibits were housed in a luxurious mansion. The collections tell the story of how the city developed. Learn about the personalities who contributed to the cultural development of the capital. Documents, photos, drawings and many other interesting exhibits are presented.
The museum is well equipped. You can watch films about the historical past of the old polis. All materials are in Italian. Those who know English take audio guides (cost 12 euros) and tour with it. The fund is diverse and curious. Even children like it here.
Opening hours from 10 to 18.30 hours.
National Museum of the Middle Ages
Among the museums of Bologna, this institution is worth noting. The foundation was housed in a building built in the 15th century. They were erected on the site of an ancient palace building. This already deserves attention.
The collection is based on donations from individuals dating from the 12th century. They donated their relics to the museum. You will see household items, jewelry, ceramics. Particularly noteworthy is the collection of tombstones, depicting scenes from the lives of students. Also on display: books, household items and dishes in excellent condition, ornaments.
Entrance to the museum - 6 euros. Opening hours from 10 to 18.30 hours.
Museum of Zoology
Founded in the middle of the 19th century. Today it is considered the largest museum of this type in the state. The collection is very interesting. Even young travelers will like it here. Local schoolchildren make excursions here very often.
Particularly noteworthy are exhibits dating from the 16th century. They survived thanks to the efforts of the professors of the University of Bologna. The halls also display stuffed animals. You will be able to see the inhabitants of all continents.
Basilica of San Domenico
The most famous church. Built in the 12th century. See the image in guidebooks with photos of the city. This is a pilgrimage site. The relics of the saint are kept here, after whom the monastery is named.
An interesting fact is that the instrument that Mozart played is kept here. The musician's fans come here. The statue deserves attention. The great Michelangelo worked on it.
Basilica of San Petronio
From what to see in Bologna, we should note this shrine. It is ranked 5th in the list of the largest cathedrals in the world. Up to 28 thousand people can attend the service at the same time. A solemn, strict atmosphere reigns here.
An interesting fact is that the building was laid as a communal structure. It acquired the status of a church only in the 20th century. The luxurious interiors of the monastery amaze. The walls are richly decorated with frescoes, and a sundial is placed on the floor.
Basilica of St. Stephen
Famous temple in the Catholic world. He is known under a different name - "7 churches". The unusual architectural style in which the building is made is surprising.It resembles the Jerusalem Tomb of the Lord.
The temple receives visitors daily. Tourists often come here. But during the services they are not allowed to enter. Respect other people's traditions, do not break the rules.
Temple of Madonna St. Luke
Monument of the 12th century. According to legend, the shrine was erected to preserve the image painted by Luke. The icon is still in the temple. Pilgrims from all over the world come to bow to her.
The temple is known for one more fact. The covered gallery is considered the longest on the planet. It was equipped so that pilgrims could wait out the bad weather under a roof. A famous monastery in the Catholic world.
The church is open for all comers from 7 am to 12 pm and from 2.30 pm to 7 pm. Free admission.
Palazzo Podesta
This information is useful for tourists looking for information on which sights of Bologna to see on their own in one day. First of all, we are interested in the palace building. Date of construction - 13th century. The building was erected as the residence of the local leader.
The appearance of the palace changed in the 15th century. Initially, the building served as a model of the Gothic, but then it was redesigned in the tradition of the Renaissance. You will only be able to enter the first floor, there are shops here. It is also possible to climb higher, but only on the days of exhibitions.
Certosa cemetery
More like an open-air museum than a burial place. Featured in guidebooks with attractions in Bologna with photos and descriptions. There used to be a monastery on the site. The beginning of the 19th century was marked by the opening of the cemetery.
People come here to admire the family tombs. They are luxurious, arousing a sense of admiration. You will also find mass graves of soldiers. Famous personalities are buried here, including the singer L. Dall.
Margarita Gardens
A popular park, an interesting place where both townspeople and vacationers love to come. The local municipality was responsible for the arrangement of the recreation area. The park is designed in the English style. On the territory there are sculptures, benches, gazebos. It is so pleasant to relax on the shore of the pond on a hot day.
The area of the gardens is impressive. It is 26 hectares. Everyone will like it here, regardless of age. Entertainment is provided for all visitors.
The little ones go to the playgrounds. Adults are enjoying their time in a cafe. Fans of active entertainment play sports games. Young people are usually passionate about attractions.
Opera Theater "Komunale"
The opera house is famous in the world. 8 operas are shown per season. At this time, opera fans gather here. Tickets are booked long before the start of the premiere.
A. Galli is called the author of the project. The architect won a competition to determine who would be involved in the construction. The auditorium was made in the form of a bell. The ceilings were designed in such a way that it felt like you were in the open air.
The name of Arturo Toscanini is inextricably linked with the theater. This is a famous conductor who worked in the theater until the middle of the last century. In 1931, the building was badly damaged in a fire, the theater was closed. But already 4 years later, the doors of the Italian opera were reopened.
Anatomical theater
The Anatomical Theater in Bologna is no less famous. The church forbade the opening of bodies after death. Many doctors went to crime. They secretly bought the deceased from relatives and did research.
At the beginning of the 17th century, when the ban was lifted, a theater appeared in the city. It was used by students for research work. The design of the interiors is reminiscent of a theater: the same stage, the same spectator rows. Now spectators gather here to watch the performances.
Secret channels
Located along Piella street. If you do not know that they are here, it is easy to pass by. Pay attention to the window in the wall. This is the exit to the channels.
The fact is that there was not enough water from the only river for the needs of the city. And in the vicinity of Bologna, there are 2 more rivers. From them, the residents ran canals. An event took place at the end of the 12th century. Since then, there has been no shortage of water.
Archimnasium
The building was built in the second half of the 16th century. Until the beginning of the 19th century, the University of Bologna was located here. The institution was considered the largest in Europe. Some objects located on the territory of the building are worthy of the attention of tourists.
The old chapel and arches have been preserved. You can admire the paintings made in the Middle Ages and the coats of arms. Those who wish to visit the halls of the library. The legendary anatomical theater is also located here.
National Pinakothek
An art gallery that houses paintings by Italian painters. The canvases belong to different eras. See masterpieces from the 13th to the 19th century. In addition to paintings, there is a collection of icons.
The idea of creating a pinakothek belongs to Pope Benedict XIV. The event took place at the beginning of the 18th century. For 2 centuries we managed to collect an impressive collection. People come from all over the world to admire the works of art.
Sights of Italy in other cities:
Villa Aldrovandi Mazzacorati
A museum that will not leave any boy indifferent. A collection of toy soldiers is presented. The institution appeared thanks to the efforts of Mario Massachezi and his associates. The man and his friends were a fan of toy warriors and were happy to collect figures.
Visitors can see 12 thousand exhibits. But the fund is more than 30 thousand storage units. Soldiers of all shapes and sizes, from different materials are presented. Reconstructions of historical battles deserve attention.
Archbishop's palace
Dates back to the 13th century. Adjacent to the Church of St. Peter. The palace was built by order of Enrrico della Fratta, an Italian cardinal. After 3 centuries, the appearance of the building has changed somewhat. A portico was added to it.
The final appearance that we see today was formed by the 19th century. The structure was erected between two leaning towers. It fits harmoniously into the general background. It seems that a single architectural complex has been created.
Botanical Garden
The oldest garden on the planet. Created in the middle of the 16th century. Moved several times, but did not cease to exist. The place where we see him now, he took in the 19th century. Occupies an area of 5 thousand square meters.
The garden was badly damaged during the Nazi conquests. The greenhouse that had existed since the time of Napoleon was lost. After the end of hostilities, the garden was put in order. The area has increased to 2 hectares.
Antique market
Located at Via S. Stefano, 24. Lovers of antiquity will love it. It will be possible to find rare, rarity gizmos, prices are quite affordable.
Visitors celebrate the special atmosphere that reigns here. Music plays quietly, cafes work. It's nice to wander around just like that, even if you're not going to buy anything. If you have time, be sure to check it out.
Piazza Trento Trieste Park
The park is small in size, but cozy. Vacationers are attracted by the unusual design. There are benches and cafes everywhere. Places for picnics are equipped.
Come here in spring when everything is blooming. At this time, it is especially crowded here. Young people sit on the grass and prepare for exams, older people relax by the fountains. It's nice to relax in the shade of the trees when the sun beats down.
Excursions in Bologna in Russian
Where to stay in Bologna?
Where to eat deliciously?
Well, now we recommend the best restaurants in Bologna, which we have selected based on reviews of tourists and ratings of independent sites. All establishments are ideal for an evening dinner after long walks around the city and a gastronomic trip to the World of Italian cuisine.
- Traditional cuisine is not complete without pizza - delicious pizza is cooked in Corten on Via Garibaldi n.5 / H.
- Ristorante Sotto l'Arco on Via Aretusi 5. Not a well-known place among tourists, but locals love to spend the evening here. This means that you can start acquaintance with Italian dishes here as well.
- Ristorante Corbezzoli on Via Altura 11 / bis of the Relais Bellaria. It is famous for its author's cuisine and presentation, cozy atmosphere and service.
- For dessert lovers, we definitely recommend Cremeria da paolo on Via Lombardia 19 / C, you will not find better and tastier.
- Who misses Japanese food? In the restaurant Giapponese yoshi Via Emilia Levante 164 serves seafood masterpieces.
- Gessetto Ristorante at Piazza San Martino 4 / A. Ideal for lunch. Here you can eat tasty and inexpensive traditional Italian dishes and sit at a table on the street.
- If you are relaxing in Bologna for two, then for a romantic dinner we recommend a cozy La Porta at Piazza Sergio Vieira de Mello 4.
La Porta Restaurant
