Bologna’s walking tours deliver exactly what this food-loving, history-rich city promises. The food and market tours are my favorites – you’ll taste mortadella, aged Parmigiano, and fresh pasta while learning from locals who know their stuff.
Medieval towers and Europe’s oldest university make the city center tours especially worthwhile, and the porticoed streets are perfect for walking in any weather.
The best tours hit all the essentials: the main squares, historic food markets like Quadrilatero, and those magnificent churches.
Small-group options work great here, letting you duck into tiny delis and workshops where bigger groups can’t fit.
For the best experience in this remarkable Italian city, consider these tested-and-proven walking tours.
Key Points
- Bologna offers a range of food and culinary walking tours, including tastings of local specialties, handmade pasta, cured meats, and artisanal cheeses.
- Cultural walking tours focus on the city’s notable landmarks, architecture, and historical significance, often including literary references or nightlife experiences.
- Private and customized walking tours allow for personalized experiences, tailored to individual interests and pacing, with options for up to 8 hours.
- Accessibility features such as stroller-friendly options and wheelchair accessibility are available on select walking tours in Bologna.
- Walking tours in Bologna are highly rated, with food tours averaging 4.8/5 and city center tours receiving over 4.6/5 based on thousands of reviews.
Bologna: Walking Food Tour With a Local Guide
Set out on a captivating food tour through the heart of Bologna, where a local guide leads you on a tantalizing journey to discover the city’s rich culinary heritage.
Spanning 3 hours, this tour offers a 10% discount, allowing you to savor the flavors of local cafés, bakeries, and the renowned Osteria del Sole for just €75.60 per person.
Indulge in homemade pasta, cold cuts, cheeses, and local wines, while learning about balsamic vinegar production and tasting the best gelato in town.
With a 4.8/5 rating and positive reviews highlighting knowledgeable guides and authentic experiences, this walking food tour is a must-try for anyone seeking to enjoy Bologna’s vibrant gastronomic scene.
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Bologna: City Center Walking Tour
Immersing visitors in Bologna’s captivating history, the city center walking tour offers a comprehensive exploration of the area’s cultural gems.
Spanning a duration of 2 hours, the tour provides an affordable experience, with prices ranging from $28.77 to $25.90 per person, inclusive of up to 10% savings.
Highlighting iconic landmarks like the Asinelli Tower, Basilica of San Petronio, and Fountain of Neptune, the tour delves into the city’s architecture and local history through expert guide narratives.
Catering to diverse traveler preferences, the tour accommodates French, Spanish, Italian, and English speakers.
With a stellar 4.6/5 overall rating based on over 2,000 reviews, this walking tour offers an enriching and well-organized exploration of Bologna’s captivating city center.
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Classic Walking Tour Bologna
The Classic Walking Tour Bologna offers visitors a comprehensive exploration of the city’s cultural and culinary highlights. Rated 4.5 out of 5 stars by 50 reviewers, this tour takes participants through Piazza Maggiore, the Two Towers, and the Basilica of San Petronio, providing insights into Bologna’s rich history and architecture.
Guided by certified professionals, the tour culminates in a tasting of local specialties at a gourmet shop. While the tour isn’t wheelchair accessible, it’s suitable for most travelers.
With a range of group sizes and the option for private tours, the Classic Walking Tour Bologna provides a well-rounded experience for those seeking to discover the essence of this captivating Italian city.
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Bologna Private Walking Food Tour With Secret Food Tours
This private Bologna walking food tour with Secret Food Tours invites you to discover the rich culinary heritage of Italy’s gastronomic capital.
Led by a local foodie guide, you’ll visit authentic eateries and specialty food shops, savoring highlights like homemade pasta, prosciutto, aged balsamic vinegar, and artisanal gelato.
The tour includes a selection of local wines, espresso, and a secret dish, providing a comprehensive taste of Bologna’s renowned cuisine.
With transportation and gratuity included, this highly-rated experience (98% traveler recommendation) offers a convenient and immersive way to explore the city’s vibrant food scene.
Just be mindful of dietary restrictions, as pork is central to Bologna’s culinary traditions.
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Bologna Private Walking Tour With a Local Host
Explore Bologna’s rich history and vibrant culture on a private walking tour with a local host.
You’ll visit the city’s highlights like Piazza Maggiore and Due Torri, as well as hidden gems known only to locals.
The tour can be customized to your interests and pace, with options ranging from 2 to 8 hours.
Your knowledgeable guide will provide an engaging and personalized experience, sharing insights and facilitating discussions.
With 98% traveler recommendation and a Badge of Excellence, these private tours offer an exceptional way to discover Bologna.
Accessible for wheelchair users and stroller-friendly, the tours can be easily booked with a pay-later option and free cancellation.
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Taste Bologna Food Walking Tour
Enjoy Bologna’s rich culinary heritage on the Taste Bologna Food Walking Tour.
This 3-hour experience takes you through the Quadrilatero area, exploring historic shops and food stalls. Savor tastings of balsamic vinegar, tigella with Bolognese ragù, handmade tortellini, and artisanal gelato.
With a maximum of 15 travelers, you’ll enjoy personalized attention from your knowledgeable guide. Most reviewers praise the guides’ expertise and the enjoyable blend of history and food.
While some found the food quality average, the tour generally delivers an informative and delicious introduction to Bologna’s renowned gastronomic delights.
Just note it’s not solely a food-focused experience, as it also provides historical context.
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Walking Tour Unveiling Bologna
The Walking Tour Unveiling Bologna provides an intimate exploration of the city’s rich history and captivating landmarks.
Led by knowledgeable guides, the tour takes a maximum of 15 travelers on a journey through the heart of Bologna.
Highlights include a visit to Neptune Square, a coffee tasting at Caffè Terzi, and a lunch break featuring the local street food, piadina.
With an overall rating of 5.0 from 6 reviews, the tour offers a personalized experience and valuable recommendations for local restaurants.
Although not wheelchair accessible, the tour is stroller accessible, and service animals are allowed.
The tour starts and ends at the convenient location of Neptune Square, near public transportation.
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Welcome to Bologna! Private Walking Tour
Seamlessly, travelers embark on a captivating private walking tour that unveils the rich tapestry of Bologna’s history and architectural gems.
Led by the knowledgeable and personable guide, Francesco Antonelli, this 5-star rated experience offers a customized journey through the city’s iconic landmarks.
From the Fontana del Nettuno to the Two Towers, the tour is wheelchair and stroller accessible, ensuring inclusivity.
Customers praise the guide’s storytelling abilities and flexibility in catering to various interests, making this a must-do activity.
Priced at $173.47 for up to 8 participants, the tour’s free cancellation policy and “Reserve Now, Pay Later” option provide added convenience.
This private walking tour is an immersive way to discover the heart of Bologna.
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Bologna: First Discovery Walk and Reading Walking Tour
Exploring Bologna’s historic center on a first discovery walking tour allows visitors to uncover the city’s captivating past.
The “Bologna: First Discovery Walk and Reading Walking Tour” offers a 2-hour stroll through the heart of the city, guiding participants to iconic sites like Piazza Maggiore and the Two Towers.
Along the way, the knowledgeable guide shares insights into Bologna’s rich history and architecture, providing a comprehensive introduction to this vibrant Italian destination.
Guests can also enjoy a reading from a local author, seeing the literary culture of the city.
With a 4.6 rating and starting at $28.43, this walking tour is an excellent way for first-time visitors to orient themselves and gain a deeper appreciation for Bologna’s remarkable heritage.
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Bologna Walking Food Tour With Secret Food Tours
Although Bologna is renowned for its historic architecture and cultural attractions, the city’s culinary heritage is equally captivating.
Those seeking a deeper dive into the local food scene can embark on the Bologna Walking Food Tour with Secret Food Tours. This 3-hour excursion allows participants to sample a tantalizing array of regional specialties, from Parmigiano Reggiano and homemade pasta to aged balsamic vinegar and artisanal gelato.
Along the way, knowledgeable guides share insights into Bologna’s culinary traditions and lead visitors through the vibrant Quadrilatero market. With a maximum group size of 12, the tour offers an intimate and immersive experience for foodies.
Notably, the tour has received overwhelmingly positive reviews, with travelers praising the delicious offerings and the expertise of the guides.
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Bologna: Taste Local Specialties on a Guided Walking Tour
Enjoy the culinary heritage of Bologna with the “Bologna: Taste Local Specialties on a Guided Walking Tour.”
This 2-hour excursion invites participants to discover the city’s renowned flavors, guiding them through the vibrant Quadrilatero Market and introducing them to a selection of local delicacies.
Priced from $63.18 per person, the tour includes three food tastings, a glass of local wine, and a voucher for a sweet treat.
Led by a certified guide, the experience also covers Bologna’s art, food, and culture, with visits to historic landmarks like the Basilica of San Petronio and the iconic towers.
With a 4.3/5 overall rating, this tour promises an immersive and enjoyable exploration of the city’s culinary traditions.
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Private Walking Food Tour of Bologna With a Certified Tour Guide
Travelers looking to savor the essence of Bolognese cuisine can embark on a private walking food tour led by certified guide Paolo.
For $110 per person, the tour takes guests on a culinary journey through Bologna’s traditional flavors, including handmade pasta, cured meats, and artisanal cheeses, accompanied by local wines and Italian coffee.
The tour starts and ends at Mercato delle Erbe, a lively food market. The intimate experience accommodates dietary restrictions and provides personalized attention from the guide.
Based on 5-star reviews, the tour offers a unique opportunity to discover Bologna’s gastronomic heritage with an expert while exploring the city on foot.
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Private 3-Hour Walking Tour of Bologna With Private Official Tour Guide
On this private 3-hour walking tour of Bologna, an official tour guide will lead you through the city’s historic streets, revealing its captivating architecture, rich cultural heritage, and renowned gastronomic delights.
The tour, operated by Tour Travel & More, costs from $239.41 per person and offers a personalized experience for your group.
You’ll meet your guide at the Teatro Arena del Sole or your centrally located hotel, and the tour concludes at the same spot.
While the tour isn’t wheelchair accessible, it’s near public transportation, and most travelers can participate.
COVID-19 safety measures are in place, and you’ll want to secure your spot soon, as this tour is likely to sell out.
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Bologna: City Center Guided Wine Walking Tour
This guided wine walking tour through Bologna’s city center offers a delightful opportunity to discover the rich wine heritage of the Emilia Romagna region.
Led by a local certified sommelier, the tour allows you to taste 2-5 varieties of regional wines while visiting traditional venues like an enoteca and osteria.
Depending on the tour length, you can also enjoy a traditional snack in the oldest tavern.
With private or small group options, and free cancellation up to 24 hours in advance, this tour provides a flexible and immersive experience to explore Bologna’s wine culture.
Praised for its exceptional host, knowledge, and value, this is a must-do activity for oenophiles visiting the city.
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Bologna Food & Cultural Walking Tour
Eager to explore Bologna’s renowned culinary heritage? The Bologna Food & Cultural Walking Tour offers an immersive experience.
At €150.30 per person, this private tour takes visitors on a 2-hour journey through the city’s historic center.
Led by a licensed guide, the tour includes tastings of local products and a glass of Colli Bolognesi wine.
Participants will also visit the impressive San Petronio Basilica.
While not wheelchair accessible, the tour is stroller-friendly and allows service animals.
Dress code requires covered shoulders and long trousers/skirts.
With a 4.0/5 rating based on 5 reviews, this tour provides an excellent opportunity to discover Bologna’s rich food culture and architectural gems.
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Bologna By Night Walking Tour
Visitors seeking a captivating glimpse into Bologna’s enchanting nightlife can embark on the Bologna By Night Walking Tour. Offered by Bologna Tour & Best Italy Tour, this 3-hour excursion takes guests through the city’s historic center after dark.
Accompanied by a knowledgeable guide, the tour includes a welcome by Bologna Tour staff, tasting vouchers, and a map to help explore. Although not wheelchair accessible, the tour is stroller-friendly and open to most travelers.
With a 4.5/5 rating based on reviews, this tour is an ideal way to explore Bologna’s rich history and vibrant atmosphere early in one’s visit.
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Seven Secrets of Bologna (And More!) Half Day Walking Tour
Exploring the captivating “Seven Secrets of Bologna (and more!)” on this half-day walking tour offers visitors a comprehensive glimpse into the city’s rich history and hidden gems.
Priced at $171.77 for a group of up to 8 people, this private tour takes you on a journey through the streets of Bologna, led by a professional and licensed guide.
Highlights include wheelchair and stroller accessibility, as well as free cancellation up to 24 hours in advance.
While food and beverages aren’t included, the tour is suitable for most travelers, with the exception of those with certain medical conditions.
Recent reviews praise the tour’s ability to exceed expectations and reveal more than the promised secrets.
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Best of Bologna: Private & Personalised Walking Experience
For those seeking a more personalized and in-depth exploration of Bologna, the “Best of Bologna: Private & Personalised Walking Experience” offers a captivating alternative to the previously mentioned group tour.
This 2-3 hour private walking tour allows visitors to discover the city at their own pace, led by a knowledgeable local guide who tailors the experience to individual interests. Priced from $82.07 per person, the tour includes complimentary hotel pickup and is wheelchair accessible.
Highlights include exploring iconic landmarks and hidden gems, such as Via del Pratello and Giardini Margherita.
With an overall rating of 4.7/5 from 33 reviews, this private walking experience provides a flexible and immersive way to uncover Bologna’s rich history and vibrant culture.
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Bologna Wine & Cocktails Walking Tour
Amidst Bologna’s historic streets, the “Bologna Wine & Cocktails Walking Tour” offers a delightful immersion into the city’s vibrant beverage scene.
Led by a local guide, this private tour includes tastings of regional products, two glasses of local wine, and a cocktail or spritz.
The tour culminates with a dinner, allowing participants to savor the flavors of Bologna.
Conveniently meeting at Piazza del Nettuno, the tour is accessible to most travelers, though not wheelchair-friendly.
With a perfect 5-star rating based on a single review, the “Bologna Wine & Cocktails Walking Tour” promises an engaging and enjoyable experience for those seeking to explore the city’s wine and cocktail culture.
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Bologna: Churches and Cathedrals Walking Tour
Nestled within Bologna’s historic heart, the “Bologna: Churches and Cathedrals Walking Tour” offers visitors an immersive exploration of the city’s rich religious heritage.
Priced at $115.84 per person, this 3-hour guided tour takes participants through Bologna’s medieval streets, showcasing architectural marvels like the Cathedral of San Pietro, the Basilica of San Domenico, and the world’s largest brick-built Gothic church, San Petronio.
Along the way, a knowledgeable multilingual guide provides insights into the history and significance of these sacred spaces.
The tour includes a food tasting voucher, and though the route may change due to religious events, the experience promises an in-depth look at Bologna’s captivating ecclesiastical landmarks.
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Break Down
Bologna offers a variety of immersive walking tours, from food-focused excursions to comprehensive city explorations. Whether you’re craving a deep dive into the area’s culinary scene or a broader historical overview, there’s a walking tour to suit your interests. These tours provide an excellent way to experience Bologna’s vibrant culture, architecture, and local flavors up close and personal.