Explore Bologna: A 5-Day Culinary and Cultural Adventure

Day 1: Historic City Center

Bologna, Italy

9:00AM

Breakfast at Caffè Terzi

Start your day with a traditional Italian espresso and a flaky cornetto to fuel up for a day of exploring.
Walk to Piazza Maggiore, just a 5-minute stroll away.
EUR10, 1 hour

10:00AM

Explore the Piazza Maggiore

Immerse yourself in Bologna’s historic heart, surrounded by stunning architecture including the Basilica di San Petronio.
Continue walking around the square to discover nearby attractions.
Free, 1.5 hours

12:00PM

Lunch at Trattoria Da Cesari

Indulge in traditional Bolognese dishes like tagliatelle al ragù in a familial, authentic setting.
A 10-minute walk from Piazza Maggiore to Via delle Terme.
EUR25, 1.5 hours

2:00PM

Visit the Asinelli Tower

Climb the 498 steps of this iconic medieval tower for unparalleled views of the city.
A 5-minute walk from the restaurant.
EUR5, 1 hour

4:00PM

Stroll through the Quadrilatero Market

Wander the vibrant streets lined with fresh produce, local delicacies, and artisanal products.
Just a 10-minute walk from the tower.
Free (costs of purchases vary), 1 hour

6:00PM

Dinner at Osteria dell'Orsa

Savor traditional Bolognese pasta dishes in a cozy, inviting atmosphere.
A 10-minute stroll back towards the city center.
EUR30, 2 hours
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Day 2: Art and Architecture

Bologna, Italy

9:00AM

Breakfast at Pasticceria Montalti

Enjoy a sweet breakfast with freshly made pastries and a rich cappuccino.
Short walk of 5 minutes from your accommodation.
EUR7, 1 hour

10:00AM

Visit the Archiginnasio of Bologna

Explore this historical university building, famous for its beautiful frescoed hallways and the Anatomical Theatre.
Head to Piazza Galvani, about a 15-minute walk.
EUR3, 1.5 hours

12:00PM

Lunch at Pizzeria Spigola

Feast on delicious Neapolitan-style pizza with local ingredients.
A 10-minute walk from the Archiginnasio.
EUR15, 1.5 hours

2:00PM

Explore the Basilica di Santo Stefano

Discover the complex of ancient churches and appreciate the serenity of this lesser-known gem.
A 15-minute stroll from the pizzeria.
Free, 1 hour

3:30PM

Visit the Museo di Palazzo Poggi

Dive into the history of science and natural history through fascinating exhibits.
Just a 10-minute walk from the basilica.
EUR5, 1.5 hours

6:00PM

Dinner at Ristorante Da Nello

End your day with a hearty meal featuring local specialties and fine wines.
A 10-minute walk from the museum.
EUR35, 2 hours
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Day 3: Food Discovery Day

Bologna, Italy

8:30AM

Breakfast at Cafe Zanarini

Relish in a traditional Italian breakfast with airy pastries and robust coffee.
A 5-minute walk from your hotel.
EUR8, 1 hour

9:30AM

Bologna Food Tour

Join a guided food tour to sample local delicacies such as mortadella and tortellini in the city’s best markets and shops.
Starting point at Piazza Maggiore.
EUR80, 3 hours

12:30PM

Lunch at Mercato di Mezzo

Enjoy a diverse range of flavors from various food stalls in Bologna’s historic food market.
Walking distance from the food tour conclusion.
EUR20, 1.5 hours

2:00PM

Pasta Making Class

Learn to make fresh pasta from a local chef in an engaging, hands-on cooking class.
A short taxi ride or 20-minute walk to a local cooking school.
EUR70, 3 hours

5:30PM

Relax at Parco della Montagnola

Take a leisurely stroll in this charming park and unwind with the locals amidst lush greenery.
A 15-minute walk from your cooking class location.
Free, 1 hour

7:00PM

Dinner at Trattoria di Via Serra

Visit this beloved trattoria for homemade pasta and a welcoming atmosphere.
A 20-minute walk from the park.
EUR30, 2 hours
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Day 4: Cultural Insights

Bologna, Italy

9:00AM

Breakfast at Caffè Cavour

Savor a classic Italian breakfast with vibrant coffee and decadent pastries.
A 10-minute walk from your hotel.
EUR9, 1 hour

10:00AM

Visit Pinacoteca Nazionale

Explore this exceptional art gallery with masterpieces from the Renaissance period to the modern age.
A 15-minute walk from the café.
EUR8, 2 hours

12:30PM

Lunch at Ristorante Al Sanguinaccio

Enjoy a cozy meal featuring seasonal and regional dishes with quality ingredients.
A 10-minute walk from the gallery.
EUR25, 1.5 hours

2:00PM

Explore San Luca Sanctuary

Enjoy a scenic walk or take a taxi to this stunning pilgrimage site situated on a hilltop overlooking Bologna.
Taxi ride or 30-minute walk from the restaurant.
EUR5 (taxi), 2 hours

5:00PM

Visit the Museum of the History of Bologna

Uncover the city's rich history through enlightening exhibits off the beaten path.
A taxi ride back into the city.
EUR6, 1.5 hours

7:00PM

Dinner at Ristorante Da Gianni

Treat yourself to an exquisite dinner with classic Bolognese cuisine in a refined setting.
A short taxi ride back or a 20-minute walk.
EUR40, 2 hours
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Day 5: Relax and Reflect

Bologna, Italy

9:00AM

Breakfast at Caffè Giacomo

Indulge in freshly baked pastries and coffee, the perfect way to start your final day.
A short walk from your accommodation.
EUR10, 1 hour

10:00AM

Walk through the Giardini Margherita

Take a peaceful walk through this expansive park, enjoying the serenity before you leave.
A 20-minute walk or taxi ride from the café.
Free, 1.5 hours

12:00PM

Lunch at La Sorbetteria Castiglione

Cool down with some homemade gelato, perfect for lunch on your last day.
A 15-minute walk back towards the center.
EUR5, 1 hour

1:00PM

Last-minute Shopping

Stroll around Via dell'Indipendenza for souvenirs and local crafts to take home.
A 10-minute walk from the gelateria.
Free (cost of purchases varies), 2 hours

3:00PM

Visit the Bologna Cathedral

Admire the beautiful architecture and frescoes in one of the city’s oldest churches.
A 5-minute walk from the mall.
Free, 1 hour

5:00PM

Farewell Dinner at I Portici Restaurant

Celebrate the end of your Bologna adventure with a luxurious meal overlooking the city skyline.
A short walk or taxi ride to Via Indipendenza.
EUR50, 2 hours
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