Italy
Day trips in Bologna
Full-day excursions to the places worth leaving the city for. Bologna has about 40 km of porticoes, a UNESCO World Heritage site, and Europe's oldest university, but most visitors come to eat.
Best day trips in Bologna
Free cancellation on most experiences. We may earn a commission at no extra cost to you.
What to expect
Day trips usually run 8 to 12 hours with transport and guide, sometimes lunch and entries. Departure points are central; hotel pickup costs more.
Popular day trips from Bologna: Modena, Parma, Ravenna and Ferrara.
How to choose
- What is included: entries, lunch, guide on site
- Time actually spent at destination vs on the road
- Group size on the bus
- Free cancellation in case of weather
Local tips
- Compare what is included before comparing prices: entries and lunch change the real cost.
- Parmigiano is made early in the morning, so dairy tours start around 8 or 9 am; book an early slot to see the cheese being made.
- The walk to San Luca follows a portico of 666 arches for almost 4 km and climbs steeply in the last stretch.
Combine it with: Parmigiano, prosciutto and balsamic food valley tour, Quadrilatero market food walk and Tortellini and tagliatelle class with a sfoglina.
Frequently asked questions
How long do day trips in Bologna last?
Day trips usually run 8 to 12 hours with transport and guide, sometimes lunch and entries. Departure points are central; hotel pickup costs more.
What is the best way to book day trips in Bologna?
Compare what is included before comparing prices: entries and lunch change the real cost. Parmigiano is made early in the morning, so dairy tours start around 8 or 9 am; book an early slot to see the cheese being made.
Can I cancel day trips in Bologna?
Most experiences listed here offer free cancellation up to 24 hours before the start. Check the conditions on the booking page before paying.
When is the best time to visit Bologna?
April to June and September to October are best; autumn brings truffles and mushrooms to menus. August is very quiet with many restaurants closed, and winter can be foggy.