Having been to Florence three times now, I wanted to explore a little bit more of Italy, and decided to do a day trip to Italy’s food capital, Bologna. The train ride to Bologna from Florence is a little over an hour, and a great way to get away from the city without having to move your luggage. So on a sunny March morning, off I went to Bologna.
To be honest, I was expecting Bologna to be a quaint town. I knew it was a university town, but I guess I hadn’t thought what the implications of that would be. So when I arrived in Bologna, you can imagine my surprise upon seeing the fact that it was far from a quaint town. Rather, it was a bustling city!
Since I only went to Bologna for a day trip, I figured it would be fun to share my exact itinerary with you guys!
9am – Coffee and Breakfast
Upon arriving in Bologna, walk from the train station down to the winding streets of the central town. Head over to Pappare for cappuccino and breakfast. If you’d prefer to save your appetite for lunch, grab one of their flakey croissants and cappuccino to go, and head over to explore the town.
10am – Piazza Maggiore and Basilica di San Petro
Now that you’re well fed and caffeinated, head to Piazza Maggiore to revel in the medieval architecture and explore the Basilica di San Petro. Walk down Via dell’Indipendenza and arrive at the famous Neptune Fountain.
11am – Shopping
I’m not talking about clothes. Head over to Gilberto and buy the best olive oil and balsamic vinegar you can get your hands on. Believe me, it’s the best money you’ll spend. My only regret is that I didn’t buy more!
11:30am – Via Drapperie
Admire the beautiful restaurant and boutique-lined cobblestone streets of Via Drapperie. This street looks like it’s straight out of a postcard – the most Instagrammable place in Bologna, without a doubt.
12:30pm – Lunch
Since Bologna is one of the food capitals of Italy, an indulgent lunch is a necessity. Il Sangiovese is the place to go. In order to skip the lunch rush, get there right when the restaurant opens at 12:30pm. Get the truffle risotto or Tagliatelle with Ragu (you are in Bologna, after all)!
2pm – Gelato
Gelato is a must in Bologna, and Cremeria Santo Stefano has the best gelato you’ll ever have in your life. I may have had two servings.
3pm – Walking Tour
I like doing a walking tour in every city I visit. It helps me get a deeper understanding of what the city is about. Bologna has a rich history, so doing a walking tour is well worth it.
6pm – Train Back to Florence
And just like that, your day trip to Bologna comes to an end! Head back to Florence, and have dinner at one of its many amazing restaurants.
PS – if you enjoyed this guide, check out my 4 day guide to Milan or my guide to Florence.