Home to the Western world's oldest university and forty kilometres of porticoes, Bologna gathers around Piazza Maggiore and the leaning Two Towers, Asinelli and Garisenda.
The longest portico on earth climbs 666 arches to the sanctuary of San Luca.
When to visit Bologna
Average highs and lows across the year.
Month by month
- Jan
- Cold winter weather with occasional rain. Layer up and bring a warm coat.
- Feb
- Still winter-like with cold temperatures. Expect some rainy days.
- Mar
- Spring begins with mild temperatures. Weather can be changeable.
- Apr
- Pleasant spring weather with blooming flowers. Light jacket recommended.
- May
- Warm late spring days. Perfect for outdoor activities.
- Jun
- Summer arrives with warm, sunny days. Stay hydrated.
- Jul
- Peak summer heat. Best enjoyed with coastal breezes or air conditioning.
- Aug
- Hot summer continues. Many locals take vacations.
- Sep
- Pleasant early autumn. Still warm enough for light clothing.
- Oct
- Autumn weather sets in. Bring layers for cool evenings.
- Nov
- Cool autumn weather with increasing rain. Light jacket essential.
- Dec
- Winter conditions return. Cold and occasionally rainy.
What to see first
Portico of San Luca
The world's longest covered walkway, 666 arches climbing to the Sanctuary of San Luca.
Read the guide
What to eat, and drink
- The dishPassatelli in meat brothBreadcrumb and Parmigiano Reggiano strands gently cooked in meat broth.
- The dishTagliatelle al Ragù BologneseSlow beef and pancetta ragù on fresh egg tagliatelle, with a little tomato, milk and a long, gentle simmer.
- The wineColli Bolognesi Classico Pignoletto
- The wineRomagna Albana
Eating and drinking in Bologna
Well-loved everyday tables and Michelin stars, each checked open.
- NettunoPizzeria
- Il Portico di San DonatoPizzeria
- MargherìPizzeria
- L'Antica Pizzeria da MichelePizzeria
- La Taverna di RobertoTrattoria
- Trattoria ValerioTrattoria
Michelin-starred
- Casa Mazzucchelli ★
- I Portici ★
- Iacobucci ★
Sleeping in Bologna
Well-reviewed places to stay, each checked open, by town.
- Art Hotel Commercianti4-star
- Grand Hotel Majestic Già Baglioni5-star
- Corte Sant'Orsola 4
- Villa Benni
- Bologna Center Town
- Savoia Hotel Regency4-star
The year in Bologna
The rituals, races, and processions the city still keeps.
More of Emilia-Romagna
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