Bologna on a Budget: The Ultimate 4-Day Guide

Indulge in Italian culture without breaking the bank in Bologna.

21 June 2023

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.

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Travel plan

Getting latest place information
Day 1

Arriving in Bologna

  • Check into Hotel Atlantic: A cosy and affordable hotel with a central location and great service.
  • Stroll through Piazza Maggiore: Bologna's main square is bustling with energy and surrounded by historic buildings.
  • Visit the Basilica di San Petronio: This magnificent church is a must-see for its stunning architecture and beautiful artwork.
  • Lunch at Trattoria da Me: A gourmet foodie experience that won't break the bank. Try the homemade tagliatelle al ragu.
  • Walk along Via dell'Indipendenza: A popular pedestrian street with plenty of shopping opportunities and lively street performers.
Day 2

Exploring Bologna's Food Scene

  • Breakfast at Bar Camst: Start your day with a classic Italian breakfast of cappuccino and a cornetto.
  • Visit the Mercato di Mezzo: A bustling market filled with fresh produce and local delicacies. Don't leave without trying some mortadella.
  • Take a pasta making class: Learn to make tortellini or tagliatelle from a local chef and indulge in your creations for lunch.
  • Visit Pasticceria Gamberini: A charming bakery with a vast range of pastries and cakes. Try the sfogliatelle and mignon croissants.
  • Finish the day at Osteria del Sole: A traditional bar that doesn't serve food. Bring your own snacks and enjoy a glass of wine with the locals.
Day 3

Day Trip to Ravenna

  • Take the train to Ravenna: A beautiful city known for its stunning mosaics and rich history.
  • Visit the Basilica di San Vitale: A UNESCO World Heritage site that boasts some of the world's best preserved Byzantine mosaics.
  • Explore the Mausoleum of Galla Placidia: A unique and enchanting site with intricate mosaic work.
  • Have lunch at Enoteca Ca de Ven: A local wine bar that offers delicious Emilian cuisine made with local ingredients.
  • Visit the Museo Nazionale di Ravenna: Learn about the city's history and culture through a collection of artefacts and art.
Day 4

Relaxing in Bologna

  • Breakfast at Pastificio Giuseppe Cocconi: Known for its handmade pastries and coffee. Try the brioche with Nutella.
  • Visit Parco della Montagnola: A peaceful park with walking trails and lovely views of the city. Take a picnic and enjoy a day in the sun.
  • Relax at Terme Felsinee: A thermal spa located in the heart of the city. Experience the healing powers of thermal waters and indulge in a massage.
  • Have dinner at Trattoria da Fabio: A friendly trattoria that offers rustic Emilian cuisine. Try the tortellini in brodo and the zuppa inglese for dessert.
  • End the night at Bar dei Musei: A trendy bar with a great atmosphere and exotic cocktails. Try the signature drink, "Death in Bologna".

Length of stay

1 day 2 days 3 days 4 days 5 days

Type of trip

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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!

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Number of days

1 2 3 4 5

Type of trip

Standard trip Budget Family Friendly Romantic Stag do

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