Advice

Let’s take a quick break to tell you about some other points of interest that couldn’t be included in the itinerary. To finish off your visit to Bologna, check out the Sanctuary of the Madonna di San Luca, a major religious symbol of the city. It’s connected to the centre by the Portico di San Luca, the longest covered arcade in the world, and a UNESCO World Heritage Site. This beautiful sanctuary is perched on a lush green hill overlooking the city. After climbing up to San Luca, why not unwind in the peaceful Giardini Margherita, Bologna’s largest park. Opened in 1879, it offers tree-lined pathways, wide lawns perfect for a picnic or a nap, and an artificial lake for a relaxing stroll. Not far from there stands the monastery of San Michele in Bosco, just south of the old city. While the monastery isn’t open to visitors, the adjoining 15th-century church is, and from the top of the hill, you’ll get one of the best panoramic views of Bologna. Bologna is also the birthplace of Italian motor racing and is part of the Motor Valley, a hub for iconic automotive manufacturers in the region. Car lovers can explore several fascinating automobile museums in the city, including the Ferruccio Lamborghini Museum, the Ferrari Museum, the Ducati Museum, and the Maserati Museum. If you have time to explore further, consider a trip to the beautiful city of Ferrara, just 50 minutes from Bologna. A UNESCO World Heritage Site, it boasts a rich Renaissance heritage and cultural legacy. Modena is another nearby destination. Its colourful historic centre, its UNESCO-listed piazza and cathedral, and its excellent museums, including the Enzo Ferrari Museum, make it well worth a visit. A bit further away is Parma, known worldwide for its famous ham, but also home to elegant palaces and stunning churches. On the other side, along the coast, lies Ravenna, famous for its Roman and Byzantine mosaics. The city also has a charming centre that reflects its history as a former capital of the Kingdom of Italy. Its seaside setting and amusement park, the largest in the country, make it ideal for relaxing and having fun. Among the top day trips from Bologna, you’ll find one of Italy’s most beautiful cities, Florence, often described as an open-air museum. Verona is another gem, its entire historic centre is UNESCO-listed, and its unique architecture takes you back through 2,000 years of history. Finally, if you’re on a road trip through the region, you can’t miss visiting Venice. Just under two hours from Bologna, it’s sure to leave you spellbound with its picture-perfect scenery and unique atmosphere. With all this, you definitely won’t run out of things to do if you stay in the region a little longer!