Itinerary

1. Bologna Highlights Walking Tour

   • The walking tour starts at the Piazza Maggiore, the heart of the city, for its "Fontana del Nettuno", one of Bologna's symbols. Learn about this beautiful fountain which is dedicated to the sea god.

   • Visit the Palazzo Del Comune (city hall) close by, constructed in the XIIIth and XIVth centuries. On the inside lies a grand staircase. Antidotes and stories dating from the time of its construction bring this beautiful palazzo to life. 

   • Next door is the Sala Borsa. Inside, beneath the glass floor, there is one of Bologna's archaeological sites, once home to the Villanovian and Etruscans.

   • Palazzo Re Enzo (King Enzo's Palace) reveals the legends of King Enzo, son of Emperor Frederick II, who was kept prisoner here.

   • San Petronio Church: Defined the latest monument of the Gotico in Europe. Learn the history of that building, the dream and the pride of the citizens. See the middle portal, and it's bas-reliefs which are outstanding examples of the sculpture of the XV century. The sundial on the floor is also worth seeing.

   • The walking tour will lead to the Palazzo dell'Archiginnasio, the first seat of the University of Bologna. The walls inside are covered with thousands of coats of arms.

   • Visit the Teatro Anatomico covered with wood panels. Part of the building is now a library with 700,000 books, rare manuscripts, and codexes.

   • A walk along the market streets is a must in Bologna. Beyond the splendid buildings, there is a maze of alleys always full of people looking for the typical products of Bolognese cuisine - Parmigiano, prosciutto, fruits and vegetables of many colours.

   • Finish the walking tour under the Two Leaning Towers - The Asinelli Tower and the Garisenda Tower. These towers are Bologna's signature symbols.