Bologna is a city that rewards the camera with its striking architecture, lively piazzas, and unique towers. What makes Bologna especially appealing for photography is its blend of medieval charm and vibrant street scenes. We particularly love the Bologna: Photo tour with professional photographer, which offers a quick, focused session capturing the essence of Bologna’s most iconic spots. This tour is ideal if you have limited time but want memorable shots of key landmarks like Piazza Maggiore, the Two Towers, and the porticoes along Via Farini. It’s perfect whether you’re a casual shutterbug or an aspiring photographer wanting professional guidance.
Beyond cityscapes, Bologna’s surrounding landscapes are equally photogenic. For those who want to venture outside the city, the Bologna Surroundings Photo Tour: Rolling Hills and Badlands takes you to lesser-known rural areas, offering a chance to capture dramatic landscapes, medieval villages, and sunset views over the badlands. These experiences have been carefully selected for their distinctive appeal—whether it’s city highlights or the tranquil countryside—and we’ll walk you through each option below.
Here’s a quick look at the two top photography tours in Bologna: one that focuses on capturing the city’s architectural beauty in a short time, and another that explores the natural and rural scenery just outside Bologna. Each offers something different for travelers eager to turn their photos into stories.
1. Bologna: Photo tour with professional photographer
At number 1, this city-focused photo tour is designed for travelers who want to take home high-quality images of Bologna’s most characteristic places. For around $105, you get about an hour of guided photography around key landmarks, starting at Biblioteca Salaborsa and ending back at the same spot. The itinerary includes stops at Piazza Maggiore, Piazza Santo Stefano, the famous Two Towers, the porticoes along Via Farini, the University area, and the Finestrella, among other highlights.
What makes this tour stand out is the personalized guidance from a professional photographer. They’ll help you with framing, lighting, and camera settings to improve your shots—whether you’re using a smartphone or a DSLR. The small group size (or private option) means you’ll get tailored tips, making it suitable for all skill levels. The reviews are perfect, with a 5.0/5 rating from nine travelers, many of whom mention they left with stunning photos they wouldn’t have managed alone. The one-hour duration is perfect if you’re short on time but still want quality images.
Bottom line: If you’re visiting Bologna and want a quick, focused session of city photography with expert help, this tour offers excellent value and lots of practical tips.
2. Bologna Surroundings Photo Tour: Rolling Hills and Badlands
Number 2 on our list is the Bologna Surroundings Photo Tour, a private 5.5-hour journey through the scenic countryside outside Bologna. For about $465 per group (up to three people), this tour is a fantastic choice for those wanting to combine landscape photography with a sense of discovery. Your photographer guide leads you to the most photogenic spots in the region, including rolling hills, medieval villages, and even the striking badlands—an unusual geological formation that offers stunning sunset views.
This tour is designed by a photographer specifically for photographers, so it’s flexible to your interests. The included private transport makes it easy to hop between locations without the hassle of booking taxis or buses. Highlights include a visit to scenic countryside viewpoints and a prime spot to capture the sunset over the badlands, an area with dramatic, eroded terrain that looks like a moonscape. The guide can customize the itinerary based on your preferences, such as focusing on architecture, landscape, or rural life.
Reviewers mention that the tour is a great way to avoid crowded tourist spots and discover lesser-known local gems. It’s particularly suited for travelers with some photography experience who want to improve their landscape shots or just enjoy the serenity of the countryside. The main drawback is the higher cost, which is justified by the personalized experience and private transport.
Bottom line: This private countryside tour offers a chance to capture both iconic rural landscapes and intimate village scenes, perfect for those wanting a more customized and scenic photography outing.
How to Choose Between These Bologna Photography Tours
Deciding between these options depends on your interests, time, and budget. If all you want is a quick, city-centered photography session to capture Bologna’s architecture and lively streets, Bologna: Photo tour with professional photographer is ideal. It requires minimal time and offers professional guidance, making it perfect for a quick city visit.
On the other hand, if you’re eager to explore beyond the city, appreciate rural landscapes, or photograph dramatic sunsets, the Bologna Surroundings Photo Tour is the best choice. It’s more expensive but provides a comprehensive experience with a private guide, transport, and a full half-day of shooting opportunities.
Consider your budget, time constraints, and what kind of scenery excites you most. For example, a family wanting quick city shots might prefer the first tour, while a keen landscape photographer would find the second more rewarding.
Final Thoughts
Bologna offers a range of excellent photography experiences, whether you’re after quick city shots or immersive countryside scenes. The city tour is perfect for capturing Bologna’s iconic architecture and lively street life in a short timeframe, while the countryside tour appeals to those wanting to take stunning landscape photos and discover lesser-known rural spots.
If your trip is limited, the city tour is a great way to get professional results fast. But if you have more time and want to venture outside the city, the countryside tour delivers a memorable, personalized experience with spectacular vistas. Booking early is advisable, especially for the private countryside tour, to ensure the best availability.
No matter which you choose, both tours promise to turn your Bologna visit into a series of unforgettable photographs. Happy shooting!
