Self-guided audio tour in Bologna

Discover the hidden gems of Bologna with our audio tour. In addition to the well-known attractions, our English-speaking audio guide reveals the city's hidden treasures as you enjoy a delightful walk.

Your walk through the historic center of Bologna

Bologna is a city that perfectly balances history and modernity. It is home to the oldest university in the world, founded in 1088, and is known for its impressive medieval architecture. The city is famous for its kilometers of porticoes (covered walkways), which protect you from the sun and rain as you stroll through the streets.

Additionally, Bologna is a gastronomic paradise. Known as the "belly of Italy," the city offers an abundance of culinary delights, from traditional tagliatelle al ragù (better known as Bolognese sauce) to delicious mortadella.

With its bustling squares, picturesque markets, and rich cultural heritage, Bologna is a city that will surprise you time and again. With a walking route and audio guide from CityAppTour, you have the perfect companion to discover and experience this fascinating city.

Embark on a self-guided walking tour through the center of Bologna with the CityAppTour app.

Sights you shouldn't miss in Bologna

Bologna is a beautiful city with a rich history and culture. There are plenty of sights to see and things to do, so it can be hard to know where to start. That's why we've sorted everything out for you, so you won't miss a thing. Here are some of the highlights you'll encounter with our audio tour while walking through the center:

• Le Due Torri: These are the two most famous towers of Bologna, symbolizing the city. The Asinelli Tower is the taller of the two and offers a stunning view over the city. Did you know they lean significantly, just like the Tower of Pisa?

• Piazza Maggiore: This is Bologna's main square, always bustling with people. The square is surrounded by beautiful buildings, including the Basilica di San Petronio and the Palazzo del Podestà.

• Fontana del Nettuno: This impressive fountain stands in the middle of Piazza Maggiore and is one of Bologna's most famous landmarks. The fountain also contains one of Bologna's seven secrets...

• Basilica di San Petronio: This is the largest church in Bologna and a magnificent example of Gothic architecture. The church was never fully completed—want to know why not? Our audio guide will tell you.

• Palazzo del Podestà: This beautiful palace once served as Bologna's town hall and now houses a museum with artworks and historical artifacts.

• Canali di Bologna: Bologna has a network of canals that were once used to transport goods to and through the city. Nowadays, there isn't much to see at first glance, but our audio tour will take you to a secret window that offers a view of one of the city's most beautiful and oldest canals.

• Mercato delle Erbe: This market is a great place to buy fresh produce, cheese, meat, and other local delicacies. The market is also a fun spot to people-watch and soak up the local atmosphere. And enjoy a nice glass of wine on one of the many terraces.

These are just some of the many sights you will visit with our audio tour during a walk through the center of Bologna.

Practical tips and information for a city trip to Bologna

Transportation

• Book your flights and accommodation in advance, especially during peak season. Bologna is a popular tourist destination, so demand is high.
• The city center of Bologna is compact and easy to explore on foot. You can also use the bus and tram network. For day trips to the surrounding area, you can take the train.
• Consider purchasing a Bologna Card. This card gives you free access to many museums and attractions, as well as unlimited use of public transport.
• Bologna Airport is about ten kilometers northwest of the city. The Marconi Express takes you to Bologna's central station. For prices, check here.
• Prefer a taxi to the city? Expect to pay around €25 for a ride of about fifteen minutes.

Food and Drink:

• Bologna is a paradise for foodies. The city is known for its gastronomy, especially the fresh pastas, sauces, and cheeses. Be sure to try tagliatelle al ragù, mortadella, and parmigiano-reggiano.
• Bologna has a unique culinary district known as Quadrilatero. This gastronomic center is located next to Piazza Maggiore, the city's main square, and is characterized by narrow, winding streets filled with spice shops, local specialties, market stalls, restaurants, and bars. In the late afternoon, this area comes to life as people gather on the many terraces to enjoy their aperitivo. Platters with snacks appear, plastic bowls with chips are shared, and the glasses of wine and Aperol Spritz are constantly refilled. Aperitivo time in Bologna has become one of the most enjoyable times of the day.
• Unlike breakfast, Italians spend a lot of time on lunch and dinner. Adjust your daily schedule accordingly so you can fully enjoy all the culinary delights Bologna has to offer.
• Tipping is customary: round up the bill or leave about 5-10% tip in restaurants.

Other Tips:

• Wear comfortable shoes. You'll be doing a lot of walking while exploring the city.
• Bring a bottle of water. Especially in the summer, it can get very hot in Bologna.
• Learn a few basic phrases in Italian. This will help you communicate with the locals.
• Respect local customs and traditions.