Bologna by Train: Epic Day Trip of Art, history and street food

8 hours (approximately)
Pickup offered
Offered in: English and 2 more

Trade the Rome tourist rush for Italy’s ultimate culinary playground! A quick high-speed train drops you straight into the food-obsessed heart of Bologna, a vibrant city where dining is a way of life.

Forget standard, scripted walking tours. We’re skipping generic monuments to dive straight into Bologna’s soul: its legendary food culture, fiercely guarded ingredients, and the bold stories behind its icon status. Ditching tourist traps, our itinerary leads you to hidden market stalls and family-run shops locals love.

Seasonal bites may include:

Warm, fluffy tigelle and crescentine stuffed with melt-in-your-mouth cured meats.

The Holy Trinity: Mortadella, aged Parmigiano Reggiano, and hand-rolled tagliatelle with slow-cooked ragù.

Crispy fried tortellini and rich lasagna.

Daily market finds handpicked by your local guide.

Come hungry: these generous portions easily make a full meal. You won't just eat you'll experience La Grassa like a true local!

What's Included

1st class train ticket round trip
pick-up and drop-off at hotel
tour leader for the whole trip
Food experience and drinks
Tips

Meeting and pickup

Pickup points
You can choose a pickup location at checkout (multiple pickup locations are available).

Itinerary

Duration: 8 hours (approximately)
  • 1
    Piazza Maggiore

    An undisputed symbol of the city of Bologna, Piazza Maggiore has been the heart of the Bolognese for centuries and represents the center of city life. The square is one of the oldest in Italy: its origins date back to the 13th century, when the municipality decided to purchase land here to dedicate to the market. The square is overlooked by the beautiful Basilica of San Petronio, whose façade is a magnificent contrast of light and dark that becomes even more evocative at sunset. Stop for a coffee or an aperitif while listening to the music of the numerous street artists who enhance the magical atmosphere.

    15 minutes Admission ticket free
  • 2
    Basilica Di San Petronio

    The Basilica of San Petronio, dedicated to the city's patron saint, stands in Piazza Maggiore and is the largest and most important church in Bologna. Construction began in 1390 under the direction of Antonio di Vincenzo.

    30 minutes Admission ticket included
  • 3
    Le Due Torri Torre degli Asinell

    Built between 1109 and 1119 by the Asinelli family, to bring prestige to the family and for defense, it is the tallest medieval leaning tower in Italy. It is one of the 22 towers that still characterize the skyline of Bologna. It is certainly the most famous and can still be visited, accessed from Piazza di Porta Ravegnana, where the entrance is located.

    30 minutes Admission ticket free
  • 4
    Fontana del Nettuno

    One of the city's most famous monuments Commissioned in 1563 by Pope Pius IV, it was designed by architect Tommaso Laureti, while sculptor Giambologna created the bronze statue of the god of the sea, 3.40 meters tall and hence known as "The Giant" by the Bolognese. It is located in Piazza del Nettuno, adjacent to Piazza Maggiore, in the heart of the city. It is a symmetrical work, with an overall vertical thrust, featuring various groups of figures (dolphins, mermaids, cherubs, coats of arms) surrounding the main figure of Neptune. Spring water, a precious resource immediately used by the people of Bologna for their needs, flowed from 38 nozzles in the bronze figures.

    15 minutes Admission ticket free
  • 5
    Quadrilatero

    Il Quadrilatero del Gusto è ubicato nel centro storico di Bologna, dove si concentrano numerose botteghe, specializzate nella realizzazione di piatti tipici della gastronomia emiliana e bolognese. Un perimetro ben definito, tracciato dall’intersezione di 4 strade: via Rizzoli, via dell’Archiginnasio, via Farini e via Castiglione.

    2 hours Admission ticket free

Additional info

  • Infants and small children can ride in a pram or stroller
  • Public transportation options are available nearby
  • Specialized infant seats are available
  • Not recommended for travelers with poor cardiovascular health
  • Suitable for all physical fitness levels
Supplied by Welcome Italy

Tags

Full-day Tours
Private and Luxury
Historical Tours
Rail Tours
Street Food Tours
Culture
Food & Drink

Cancellation Policy

For a full refund, cancel at least 24 hours before the scheduled departure time.

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