A Dreamy Long Weekend in Bologna, Italy

Bologna, the city of love and pasta, awaits your romantic getaway.

22 April 2023

Bologna, Italy is the perfect destination for a romantic trip. Known for its historic architecture, delicious food, and vibrant culture, this city offers an idyllic setting for couples to explore together. From strolling down the charming streets to indulging in traditional Italian cuisine, Bologna promises unforgettable memories for any pair seeking a romantic getaway.

Save and get deals

Travel plan

Getting latest place information
Day 1

Get Lost in the Red City

  • Check-in at the elegant Grand Hotel Majestic gia' Baglioni, where luxury and charm blend perfectly in the heart of the city.
  • Visit the iconic Piazza Maggiore and its beautiful Basilica di San Petronio, admiring the red bricks that earned Bologna the nickname "la Rossa".
  • Wander through the narrow streets of the historic center, stop by the Quadrilatero market for a taste of local food.
  • Climb the Torre degli Asinelli, the leaning tower that offers panoramic views of the city from 97 meters high.
  • End your day in style with a romantic dinner at the Michelin-starred I Portici Restaurant, savoring inventive seasonal cuisine.
Day 2

Art, History and Gelato

  • Explore the amazing collection of Renaissance masterpieces at Pinacoteca Nazionale di Bologna.
  • Discover the secrets of the city's symbols, the Neptune Fountain and the Archiginnasio Palace, the ancient seat of Bologna University.
  • Take a break from the busy city life in the tranquil Giardini Margherita, enjoying a delicious gelato at Cremeria Santo Stefano.
  • Learn about the local wine culture and taste some of the best wines in the region at Enoteca Italiana.
  • Toast to your love surrounded by colorful frescoes and fine dining at the extraordinary Osteria Francescana, holding three Michelin stars and ranked as one of the world's best restaurants.
Day 3

Motor Valley Adventure

  • Get behind the wheels of iconic Italian sports cars at Motor Valley. Visit the Ferrari, Lamborghini, and Pagani factories, test driving your dream car with professional drivers.
  • Visit the Ducati, Romeo Ferraris and Maserati museum to discover the evolution of the crafts and the art of engineering.
  • Satisfy your appetite with a hearty Emilia-Romagna meal at Trattoria di Via Serra, indulging in homemade pasta and local salami.
  • Discover the ancient traditions of the city's porticoes and symbols of its architecture, admiring the sunset from the Basilica di San Luca, a breathtaking view from above.
  • Stroll back to the hotel to relax and refresh for an evening in Bologna's bustling nightlife scene.
Day 4

Relax and Rejuvenate

  • Take a day off and unwind in the peaceful atmosphere of Terme San Luca San Pellegrino, a luxurious thermal spa that mixes modern and ancient wellness rituals.
  • Enjoy a romantic couple's massage, relaxing in natural hot springs and saunas.
  • Savor a light lunch at the beautiful La Serra degli Olivi, admiring the beautiful scenery of the surrounding hills.
  • Return to the city's vibrant life, shopping for souvenirs at the Mercato delle Erbe, a lively market with local handmade crafts and food products.
  • End your stay with a memorable experience at the Teatro Comunale di Bologna, admiring a performance of the world-class opera or symphony.

Length of stay

1 day 2 days 3 days 4 days 5 days

Type of trip

Standard trip Budget Family Friendly Romantic Stag do

How to get there

Plane

The best way to get to Bologna by plane is to fly into Bologna Guglielmo Marconi Airport, which is located approximately 6 kilometers from the city center. Many major airlines offer direct flights to Bologna from cities across Europe, including London, Paris, and Frankfurt.

Car

If you prefer to drive, Bologna is easily accessible from several major highways, including the A1, which runs from Milan to Bologna and on to Rome. You can rent a car from major providers at Bologna Guglielmo Marconi Airport, or you can drive your own car and park in one of the city's public parking lots.

Train

Traveling to Bologna by train is easy thanks to the city's central location and excellent rail connections. Bologna Centrale is the main train station in the city, and it operates high-speed trains to destinations throughout Italy, including Rome, Florence, and Venice.

Boat

While there is no direct ferry service to Bologna, it is possible to take a ferry to nearby coastal cities such as Ravenna and Ancona and then travel to Bologna by train or bus. Alternatively, you can charter a private boat to travel to one of the marinas located on nearby bodies of water such as Lake Garda or the Adriatic Sea.

Bus

There are several bus companies that provide services to Bologna from other Italian cities such as Florence, Pisa, and Milan. The main bus station in Bologna is located next to the train station, making it easy to connect to other destinations. Tickets can usually be purchased online or at the bus station.

Destination

Bologna

Looking for a city with a name that sounds like a lunchmeat? Look no further than this charming Italian destination! And no, the city isn't made of bologna...but the food sure is delicious!

 Save and get deals

Number of days

1 2 3 4 5

Type of trip

Standard trip Budget Family Friendly Romantic Stag do

More travel plans

Bologna Bliss: A Family-Friendly 2-Day Adventure

Bologna, Italy offers a perfect blend of history, culture, and delicious food, making it an ideal destination for a family-friendly trip. Walk along the vibrant streets of the city's historical center, filled with beautiful medieval buildings and stunning architecture, where you can explore landmarks like the Two Towers or the Basilica di San Petronio. Indulge in the local cuisine, including mouthwatering pasta dishes and the famous Bolognaise sauce, while the kids enjoy gelato or try their hand at making pizza at a cooking class.

Bologna Bliss: A Budget-Friendly Familial Escape in Italy

Bologna, Italy offers a delightful family-friendly trip with its rich history, vibrant culture, and mouthwatering cuisine. Explore the famous medieval towers, fascinating museums, and beautiful historic sites like Piazza Maggiore and Basilica di San Petronio. Children will also enjoy the interactive science museum, MAMbo art museum, and the delicious gelato shops sprinkled throughout the city.

Bologna on a Budget: The Ultimate 4-Day Guide

Discover the charm of Bologna, Italy on a limited budget trip. Walk around the red-brick buildings and explore markets, churches, and landmarks, including the Two Towers. Savor local cuisine such as Pasta al Ragu, freshly baked bread, and gelato at cost-effective restaurants and street food trucks.

3 Days in Bologna: Uncovering Italian Culture

Bologna, Italy is a fascinating destination for tourists who want to experience the finest of Italian cultural delights. From stunning Renaissance and Medieval architecture to delicious traditional Italian cuisine, this city has it all. Visitors can explore the famous Piazza Maggiore, shop at the local markets, or dive into the city's rich history at the Archaeological Museum.