Best things to do in Bologna

Bologna Essentials

Bologna, known as 'La Grassa, La Rossa, e La Dotta,' is defined by its 40 kilometers of UNESCO-listed porticoes and medieval brickwork. This selection features the 12th-century Two Towers and the Basilica of San Petronio, which houses one of the world's longest solar meridian lines. The list highlights the city's academic history at the Archiginnasio and its culinary traditions in the Quadrilatero market. From the hilltop Sanctuary of San Luca to the industrial heritage of the Ducati Museum, these sites represent Bologna's transition from a medieval powerhouse to a modern cultural hub.