Bologna stands out in Italy not just for its delicious cuisine and lively streets, but also for its wealth of historical landmarks and stories that span centuries. This city’s medieval towers, UNESCO-listed porticoes, and ancient university make it a perfect backdrop for engaging and educational tours. We particularly enjoy the Historical Tour of Bologna, where a passionate local guide brings the city’s art, architecture, and legends to life, offering insights beyond the guidebook. It’s ideal for those wanting a rundown in a relaxed 3-hour stroll.
Bologna’s history is so dense that it takes more than just wandering to appreciate it. That’s why we’ve compiled a list of the 12 best historical tours, including guided walks, private explorations, and culinary history adventures. Whether you prefer a quick overview, an in-depth deep dive, or a blend of food and history, there’s something here for you. Below, you’ll find detailed descriptions of each, helping you choose the right experience for your trip.
1. Historical Tour of Bologna
This half-day sightseeing tour offers a detailed look into Bologna’s artistic and architectural heritage. Led by a local art lover, your guide takes you through Piazza Maggiore, the Palazzo d’Accursio, and the Basilica di San Petronio. The tour lasts about 3 to 3.5 hours and features a balanced mix of history, legends, and food stories. The guide’s deep knowledge means you’ll learn not just the facts but the stories that breathe life into Bologna’s buildings and streets.
Guests have praised Riccardo’s passion and depth, noting how he uncovers hidden details most travelers miss. The tour’s focus on Bologna’s artistic evolution, medieval architecture, and local traditions makes it perfect for those wanting a well-rounded introduction. At $167.20, it’s a solid investment for a thoroughly enriching experience.
Bottom Line: A comprehensive, art-focused walk that reveals Bologna’s layered past and lively present in just over three hours.
2. Bologna: Street Food Tour in the Historic Center
If your idea of history includes culinary traditions, this 2-hour street food tour is a must. It combines Bologna’s rich food culture with its historic streets, from crescentine to fried tortellini. The tour takes you from Neptune’s Fountain through alleys packed with stories and hidden corners, all while tasting some of the best local bites.
What makes this tour special is its focus on how food shaped Bologna’s identity. The small-group setting, led by a passionate guide, ensures personalized stories behind each dish. Guests rave about the authentic flavors and the insights into Bologna’s role as Italy’s food capital. It’s a delightful way to combine history and gastronomy in a quick, flavorful experience.
Bottom Line: Perfect for food lovers who want a lively, tasty introduction to Bologna’s culinary history in just 2 hours.
3. Private or semi-private tour of the historic center of Bologna
For travelers seeking a more personalized experience, this private or semi-private tour offers a tailored look at Bologna’s top landmarks. In about 2 hours, you’ll visit Piazza Maggiore, see Palazzo Re Enzo, and marvel at Towers like the Due Torri, all with a knowledgeable guide. The chatty guide also shares insights into Bologna’s famed university and its significance as the oldest in the world.
The small-group format allows for a relaxed pace and plenty of interaction. Reviewers appreciate the guide’s depth and the chance to ask questions without feeling rushed. At $126.10 per person, it’s an excellent choice for those craving an intimate, in-depth introduction to Bologna’s medieval and Renaissance heritage.
Bottom Line: An efficient, customizable way to see Bologna’s highlights with a knowledgeable guide, ideal for couples or small groups.
4. Bologna in one day: Art, History and Gastronomy
This 7-hour tour is a full immersion into Bologna’s art, history, and culinary scene. It packs in visits to Piazza Maggiore, including Nicolo dell’Arca’s terracotta works, and the Fountain of Neptune. You’ll explore Piazza Santo Stefano, the Archiginnasio, and some of Bologna’s most beautiful churches. The highlight is the chance to see frescoed rooms, medieval porticoes, and the Ancient University.
What sets this apart is its balance—covering architectural masterpieces along with food experiences. You get a comprehensive taste of Bologna’s past and present, along with enough time for photos and questions. At $171.95, it’s a value-packed way to see a lot in one day, especially for those with limited time. Reviews praise Riccardo for his encyclopedic knowledge and engaging storytelling.
Bottom Line: The best choice for travelers wanting a deep dive into Bologna’s art, architecture, and cuisine in a single day.
5. Bolognese Cooking Class with Margherita in the Historic Center
For an authentic taste of Bologna’s culinary history, this 3-hour cooking class offers a hands-on experience in a local home. Led by Margherita, a native of Bologna, you’ll learn to make pasta from scratch, including ragù Bolognese—a dish representing the city’s gastronomic pride. The class is perfect for families, beginners, and food lovers eager to recreate traditional Italian flavors.
Guests rave about the personalized approach and the chance to cook in a warm, welcoming atmosphere. After preparing your meal, you’ll enjoy it alongside wine, dessert, and sometimes traditional music. For $106, this experience offers excellent value and a memorable, interactive way to understand Bologna’s food heritage.
Bottom Line: An immersive culinary experience that teaches you to make Bologna’s signature dishes in a cozy setting.
6. Private Afternoon Tour in Historic Acetaia and Ferrari Museum
This luxury 5.5-hour tour combines fast cars and balsamic vinegar, showcasing two of Italy’s most famous products. You start at the Ferrari Museum in Maranello, where you can test the Ferrari simulator and marvel at the sleek vehicles. Then, a private driver takes you to a historic vinegar factory, where you learn about balsamic vinegar production and sample several vintages.
Guests highlight the ease of the private transport and the unique opportunity to combine high-speed engineering with culinary tradition. At $329.59, it’s best suited for car enthusiasts or travelers with a keen interest in luxury brands and gourmet products. The reviews mention the friendly guide and the memorable experiences.
Bottom Line: A luxurious, two-in-one day trip perfect for those wanting to indulge in Italy’s automotive and gastronomic excellence.
7. Bologna: Historical Highlights Walking Tour with Local Guide
This small-group tour offers a condensed yet rich exploration of Bologna’s main landmarks in about 2.5 hours. You’ll see Piazza Maggiore, admire the Fountain of Neptune, and visit San Petronio with its stunning meridian line. The guide shares stories behind the city’s most iconic sites and points out hidden secrets along the way.
Reviewers appreciate the knowledgeable guide and the relaxed pace, making it ideal for travelers who want a quick yet meaningful overview. For $56.77, it’s a budget-friendly way to get oriented, especially if you’re short on time.
Bottom Line: A compact, informative tour perfect for first-timers wanting a taste of Bologna’s history in a relaxed setting.
8. Bologna: discover the history of ancient shops with icecream
This 2.5-hour walking tour takes you through Bologna’s less touristy alleys, uncovering historic shops and their stories. The highlight is visiting a renowned ice cream parlor with a family history rooted in tradition. The guide explains how signs and storefronts evolved over centuries, revealing Bologna’s urban history.
It’s a light-hearted way to explore everyday life in Bologna’s past, combined with sweet treats. It’s ideal for families or those interested in urban history and local crafts. With only three reviews, it’s a newer tour, but the focus on original shops and ice cream makes it stand out.
Bottom Line: A charming, informal tour that combines history and sweets in Bologna’s authentic neighborhoods.
9. Bologna: Small-Group Tour with the Historic Archiginnasio
This 2-hour tour centers on Bologna’s historic university at the Archiginnasio, Italy’s first official seat of learning. Led by a local guide, it explores medieval classrooms, including the famous Teatro Anatomico, where 17th-century medical students studied anatomy. The guide shares stories of scholars and the university’s role in Bologna’s history.
Guests emphasize the depth of historical detail and the private feel of the tour. For $41 per person, it offers a focused look at Bologna’s intellectual heritage, especially appealing to those with an interest in medieval education and medical history.
Bottom Line: An engaging, specialized tour for history lovers eager to explore Bologna’s academic past.
10. Bologna: Historic Center Walking Tour
This 2-hour tour covers Bologna’s main sights like Palazzo d’Accursio, Piazza Maggiore, and the Two Towers. Led by a knowledgeable guide, you’ll see the main tourist attractions and learn the stories behind them, with optional customization to focus on your interests.
Guests appreciate the familiarity of the guide and the flexibility to explore areas of personal interest. It costs about $28 per person, making it an affordable way to get an overview, especially for those with limited time.
Bottom Line: A budget-friendly, flexible tour to get acquainted with Bologna’s key sights.
11. Bologna: a walk into history
This 3-hour walk takes you through Bologna’s medieval streets, uncovering hidden stories behind landmarks like Piazza Maggiore, Quadrilatero, and San Petronio. Led by a knowledgeable guide, the tour emphasizes Bologna’s architectural evolution and cultural treasures.
Reviewers mention the engaging narration and the opportunity to see less obvious sites. At $209.44 for a group of up to 10, it’s suited for families or small groups wanting a deep, personal experience of the city’s history.
Bottom Line: A comprehensive, storytelling-focused walk ideal for those wanting to understand Bologna’s soul.
12. History of Asylums, Spiritism and Mental Health in Milan
While not in Bologna, this 1.5-hour tour in Emilia-Romagna offers a fascinating look at mental health history and spiritualism. It examines how perceptions of madness and psychiatry evolved alongside spiritual movements in the 19th century, providing a different perspective from the typical city tours.
Ideal for those interested in social history or medical curiosities, it adds a unique dimension to your understanding of Italian history. Conducted by experienced licensed guides, it’s perfect for families and history enthusiasts alike.
Bottom Line: A thought-provoking, niche tour for those interested in social and medical history beyond traditional landmarks.
How to Choose the Best Bologna Tour for You
When choosing between these options, consider your interests and time constraints. If you want a rundown that covers art, architecture, and legends, the Historical Tour of Bologna is hard to beat. For foodies, the Street Food Tour offers a tasty way to learn about local traditions.
Travelers who prefer a personalized experience will love the Private Tour of the Historic Center. If your time is limited, the shorter tours like the Bologna Highlights Walking Tour deliver rich insights quickly.
Plus, don’t overlook unique experiences like the Cooking Class for a full immersion in culinary history or the Ferrari & Acetaia Tour for combining motorsport and gastronomy.
Remember to book early during peak seasons—these tours fill up fast! Also, check the duration and group size to match your comfort and social preferences.
Final Thoughts
Bologna offers a wide array of historical tours tailored to different interests and schedules. Whether you’re after an art-filled walk, a private deep dive into the city’s secrets, or an interactive culinary experience, this list helps you find your perfect match. For a balanced mix of history, art, and food, we highly recommend the Art, History and Gastronomy tour or the Historical Highlights Tour.
For those seeking authentic local flavor, the Street Food Tour is unbeatable. And if you want a customized, private experience, the private tours will give you the most intimate look at Bologna’s treasures.
No matter your choice, booking in advance ensures you won’t miss out on these enriching experiences. Bologna’s layers of history are waiting to be uncovered—grab your spot and enjoy exploring this fascinating city.
