Bologna in winter – 19 things to do in winter in Bologna

Bologna might not be the first destination you think of when traveling in winter, but Bologna is a vibrant and beautiful city any time of the year, and visiting in winter certainly has some fun perks.

Bologna offers incredible local food (La Grassa), a rich educational heritage (La Dotta), and beautiful red brick architecture (La Rossa). There’s something truly magical about Bologna in the colder months, with Bologna’s red-brick buildings draped in twinkling Christmas lights and hearty, warming dishes around every corner.

In a hurry? Book your Bologna essentials:

Bologna food tour

Bologna walking tour

San Luca Express

Grand Hotel Majestic gia’ Baglioni

Why visit Bologna in Winter

First of all, fewer tourists in winter means cheaper prices, shorter lines, and better service – the holy trinity of a traveler’s dream! Plus, you’ll get a more authentic experience as you mingle with the locals and discover the true essence of Bologna.

Bologna is famous for its mouthwatering cuisine, and winter is the perfect time to indulge your taste buds. Emiglia Romagna has a soft spot for cuisine, and Bologna is the epicenter of all things delicious. Indulge in piping hot bowls of tortellini in brodo, an Italian winter favorite.

Sure, the days may be shorter, but that only means more time to enjoy Bologna’s enchanting nights. As the days grow shorter, Bologna’s twinkling lights illuminate the city, creating a magical ambiance. Embrace the lively atmosphere as locals continue shopping and enjoying aperitivo with friends. Bologna shines even brighter after dark!

With charming Christmas markets and festive decorations, the holiday spirit is in full swing all of December. Don’t miss the chance to try delicious Christmas treats and enjoy the beautifully decorated city.

Don’t let the rain dampen your spirits! Bologna’s iconic porticoes provide shelter as you stroll through the city. Even on rainy days, you can comfortably discover hidden gems under these archways.

With over 50 museums, Bologna offers a warm escape from the winter chill. Explore fascinating exhibitions and immerse yourself in the city’s rich history and art while staying cozy indoors.

Where to stay in Bologna in winter

Bologna is a charming city that is easy to explore by foot, but don’t be fooled by its size – it’s larger than it seems! It can get quite chilly during winter, so it’s best to stay fairly central to avoid waiting for buses or walking longer distances than necessary.

If you’re arriving by train and prefer to be closer to the station, aim for accommodations within the ring rather than north of the station.

19 incredible things to do in Bologna in winter

While the fabulous highlights like the Asinelli Tower are a must-see year-round, winter adds a special touch to the city. Winter in Bologna is the perfect time to join the celebrations and relish in cozy winter food.

To make the most of your winter adventure, join this walking tour. It’s the perfect way to acquaint yourself with the city’s main sights while enjoying the cozy atmosphere.

Refer to this Bologna sightseeing map to find the attractions mentioned below.

Do a food tour

Experience the culinary delights of Bologna on this amazing food tour and indulge in a variety of delicious local specialties.

Led by a knowledgeable guide, you’ll have the opportunity to savor breakfast, taste fresh pasta, sample balsamic vinegar, cheese, wine, gelato, and even try a secret dish. Watch pasta being made, discover the best places to buy Parmigiano Reggiano, and explore an authentic bottega to learn about the art of aging balsamic vinegar.

Book your food tour of Bologna

Celebrate New Year’s eve in Piazza Maggiore

Piazza Maggiore, the vibrant heart of Bologna, has a rich history dating back to 1200. Over the centuries, it has evolved into the magnificent square we know today. It was once the bustling center of one of Europe’s largest open-air markets until the mid-1800s and is also home to some of Bologna’s most notable architectural treasures.

Not only is the square a popular meeting spot for both locals and tourists an the biggest New Year’s Eve celebration takes place in this magnificent Square.

A unique structure in the form of a man, affectionately known as the Vecchione (the old one). This symbolic figure represents the old year, and when the clock strikes midnight, it is lit on fire, sending a powerful message of bidding farewell to the past and embracing the new beginnings that await.

Visit the Christmas markets

The festive Christmas atmosphere in Bologna is brought to life by traditional markets that fill the squares and streets. From beautifully adorned Christmas trees and decorations to twinkling lights, these markets offer much more than just festive cheer. Indulge in a mug of mulled wine and savor a wide array of traditional treats.

In Bologna, there are several must-visit Christmas markets. The oldest market, Santa Lucia Fair, is located under the beautiful arcades of the Church of Servi in Strada Maggiore. It offers a variety of figurines for nativity scenes and everything you need for a colorful Christmas.

The French Christmas Village in Minghetti Square, features typical French products and regional specialties. The Christmas Fair on Via Altabella offers jewelry, sweets, and gifts. Finally, the traditional Antiques Fair under the Voltone del Podestà is a great place to find unique and vintage pieces.

Try Certosino, Bologna’s Christmas Cake

Move over Panettone and Pandoro! In Bologna, the star of the show is the traditional Christmas cake called “certosino”. Also known as “pan speziale”, this round, dark delicacy is made with a heavenly blend of honey, almonds, pine nuts, dark chocolate, candied fruits, cooked fruit, cinnamon, and wine syrup. It is a decadent and indulgent treat!

Visit the Basilica di San Petronio

Named after the city’s patron saint, the Basilica di San Petronio was meant to surpass even St. Peter’s Basilica in Rome. But alas, it remains unfinished due to a rivalry.

Inside, you’ll find three naves, 22 chapels, and the Music Chapel, home to the oldest functioning organ. Don’t miss the Chapel of the Three Wise Men, adorned with heaven and hell frescoes. And check out the floor, you’ll the world’s longest sundial!

But here’s the real gem: the terrace. At 54 meters high, it offers breathtaking views of Piazza Maggiore.

Take in the views from Torre dell’Orologio

The Clock Tower has been keeping time in Bologna since the 13th century and its remarkable mechanical clock measuring 6.40 meters in diameter, is one of Italy’s largest.

Access to the Clock Tower is included with the museum ticket for Palazzo d’Accursio. To reach the top, visitors can ascend the ramp-like stairs or take the elevator at the back, leading to the magnificent Sala Farnese adorned with stunning frescoes.

From the top of the tower, you’ll get a breathtaking 360-degree panoramic view over Piazza Maggiore, the Basilica of San Petronio, the historic center, includin the iconic Asinelli towers, and the beautiful colli Bolognesi in the background.

Climb The Asinelli Tower

Built during the Middle Ages as defensive fortifications, the Asinelli tower offers breathtaking wintery vistas. You’ll need to climb the sketchy 498 stairs to a height of 97 meters, but trust me, the effort is well worth it, especially during this time of year when visibility is crystal clear and snow-clad mountains grace the distant horizon.

As you reach the top, a 360-degree view unfolds before you. To the west, the grand Piazza Maggiore and majestic Basilica of San Luca come into sight. Towards the southwest, the ancient Roman road of Via Emilia stretches into the distance. To the south, the lush green rolling hills of the Emilia Romagna region serve as a stunning backdrop.

And if you dare to lean over the northern railing, you can gaze down at the shorter, leaning Garisenda Tower and the bustling Piazza de Porta Ravegana below.

Book your ticket with audio guide

Feel humble at the Archiginnasio & Anatomical Theatre

Escape the winter chill and embrace the warmth and history of the Archiginnasio, the former main building of the University of Bologna from the 16th century. The visit starts in the atrium of the Archiginnasio where you’ll be greeted with magnificent frescoes and ornaments.

The Teatro Anatomico is the main attction here. This ornate lecture hall, carved entirely out of spruce wood, once hosted lectures for medical students. The amphitheater-style room is decorated with spellati wooden statues displaying the human anatomy and astrological symbols on the ceiling. The marble table at the center is where students would dissect human bodies during lectures.

Book your visit with audio guide and tasting

Eat your way around the Quadrilatero

As you make your way through the labyrinthine streets behind the Palazzo dei Banchi, just off of Piazza Maggiore, the sights and sounds of the Mercato di Mezzo. This market is a sensory overload in the best possible way, a place where the past and present collide in a riot of colors, flavors, and sounds. You’ll hear the vendors shouting out their daily specials, see the colorful produce on display, and catch whiffs of mouth-watering dishes you’ve never seen before.

Family-owned businesses have been passed down from generation to generation, but the Quadrilatero is much more than just a historical district. It’s a foodie’s paradise, a treasure trove of street food and traditional delicacies that will leave your taste buds singing.

Via Calcoliere, at the end of Via Drapperie, is known for all the incredible street food so make sure to stop at Murtadela for the best mortadella bites in town, try the delicious piadine at Piadineria la Piadeina or for something smaller, grab a tigella at Tigellino.

And when you’re ready for a break, there are plenty of cozy cafes and bars to choose from, where you can indulge in a delicious lunch or an afternoon aperitivo. In many of the bars in the area is common to grab a bite from the local deli or street food shop and sit down for a glass of wine.

You can also join this food tour that takes you to both, the Mercato delle Erbe and the Mercato di Mezzo for the ultimate Bologna food experience.

Stroll the Bologna Porticoes

Bologna’s porticoes have rightfully earned their spot on the UNESCO World Heritage List. The porticoes stretch nearly 62 km, with 40 km in the city center alone.

These covered walkways not only symbolize the city’s rich history and prosperity but also serve as excellent shelter from the rain. They make strolling through Bologna a delightful experience, even in the winter months.

The porticoes in the city were constructed during various periods, particularly in the Middle Ages and the early 20th century. These covered walkways, supported by arches and columns, were built above existing walkways to accommodate horse-drawn carriages below and allow for expansions on top.

The portico leading to the Sanctuary of the Madonna di San Luca is the longest and most famous. Each portico in the city has its own unique style, structure, and history. Walking through them feels like stepping into the past, discovering the city’s rich heritage. Don’t miss the impressive porticoes of the Archiginnasio, Basilica of S. Maria dei Servi, Via Altabella, and Via Sanzanome. Other notable porticoes include Casa Isolani, Palazzo d’Accursio, Palazzo Ghisilardi-Fava, and dei Bastardini in Via D’Azeglio.

To truly appreciate the beauty and significance of the porticoes I recommend joining this guided tour is highly recommended. You’ll learn about the intricate designs, the play of light and shadow, the various architectural angles, columns, capitals, and frescoes that adorn these porticoes. These covered walkways create the most fascinating urban landscapes that are hard to resist falling in love with.

Book your porticoes & Madonna di San Luca tour

Take a cooking class

Nothing says Italy like Italian food which is almost a religion for the locals. So why not join a cooking class and unlock the secrets of Bologna’s regional cuisine?

You’ll be warmly welcomed into a local’s home for an intimate lesson and learn to prepare a delicious, authentic Italian meal from scratch. Whether you’re a rookie or an experienced cook, you’ll soon be whipping up famous Bolognese delicacies like a pro, from mouth-watering tortellini to freshly made pasta.

And best of all? You’ll get to enjoy these creations with a glass of wine and you’ll be able to recreate a little piece of Italy even when you return home.

Book your cooking class

Visit St. Stephen Square and the 7 churches

Piazza San Stefano is a welcome retreat from the hustle and bustle of the Quadrilattero.

The Basilica of San Stefano, also referred to as Sette Chiese (Seven Churches), is a collection of religious structures. This maze of interconnected ecclesiastical buildings blends Romanesque, Lombard, and even ancient Roman features. Initially, the complex consisted of seven churches, but only four are still preserved today, including the crypts.

Visit the most delicious theme park in the world

FICO Eataly World is the largest food theme park in the world and a food lover’s paradise with Michelin-starred chefs and fresh ingredients everywhere. With 45 restaurants, food factories, gardens, and even animal farms, at FICO there’s something for every taste.

Book your admission ticket and just take a stroll or delve a little deeper and combine your visit with a pasta, mortadella, gelato, pizza or wine course.

Book your foodie adventure at FICO:

Admission ticket
Pasta course
Mortadella course
Gelato course
Pizza course
Wine course

Climb to the Sanctuary of the Madonna di San Luca

The Portico di San Luca, a UNESCO World Heritage site stretches a whopping 3.8 kilometers and has 664 intricately designed arches. This portico is the longest in the world and a wonder to behold.

Keep an eye out for the Arco del Meloncello as you explore the porticoes. This 18th-century arch solved the problem of an intersection, allowing uninterrupted passage for pilgrims.

The final part of the walk consists of stairs leading to the top of the hill where the Sanctuary of the Madonna di San Luca is located. This sanctuary houses stunning frescoes and artwork by renowned Italian artists. However, the highlight for me was the breathtaking views of Bologna.

If walking up to the Sanctuary of San Luca doesn’t seem like much fun in the cold, you can reach it with the San Luca Express. It runs from Piazza Maggiore, just make sure to book your tickets in advance. You can also book this guided tour of the porticoes in town and the basilica.

Book your visit:

Porticoes & Madonna di San Luca tour

San Luca Express ticket

Hear the engines roar in the Motor Valley

Buckle up and get ready for a journey through the Motor Valley, home to Ferrari, Lamborghini, Maserati, Ducati, and two world-famous racetracks this 50km area is a petrolhead’s paradise.

While I wouldn’t be against a Lambo in my garage, I have to be honest, this really isn’t my field of expertise but for those of you interested here’s the gist of everything you need to experience between Imola and Modena;

• Imola race tracks and the Museo Checco Costa
• Ducati Museum and factory tour
• Museo Ferruccio Lamborghini focused on the brand’s history
• MUDETEC museum and Lamborghini factory tour for the modern models
• Museo Enzo Ferrari
• Maserati showroom & factory tour
• Modena race track
• Test drive a Ferrari in Modena

This is quite a list and it might take you a couple of days if you’re committed to it all, but you should absolutely make some time for this Lamborghini and Ferrari tour. And depending on what you are most interested in, you could book one which also includes the Pagani factory or Ducati museum.

Book your adventure:

Test drive a Ferrari in Modena

Lamborghini and Ferrari tour

Pagani Lamborghini and Ferrari tour

Ducati Lamborghini and Ferrari tour

Climb the Torre Prendiparte

In the middle ages, Bologna had over 90 towers that served as defense and symbols of power. Today, only 22 remain standing, including the impressive Torre Prendiparte, also known as the Coronata Tower.

The Prendiparte Tower, built by the wealthy Prendiparte family in the 12th century. This impressive 60-meter-tall tower is the second tallest tower in the city after the Asinelli.

Climbing the 12 floors leads to a large panoramic terrace at the top, offering breathtaking views of Bologna’s rooftops, buildings, hills, and plains.

Book your ticket in advance

Torre Prendiparte is only open on Sundays

Explore the Ghetto Ebraico

During the winter season, a visit to Ghetto Ebraico becomes even more enchanting with beautiful holiday decorations.

The narrow streets and courtyards, once a seclusion for the Jewish community in medieval times, are now adorned with beautiful holiday decorations. Today the Ghetto Ebraico is a hub of quirky shops, bars, and restaurants, all brimming with progressive residents and university students.

As you explore the area in the cold, take solace in the numerous cozy bars and cafes. Sip on a hot cup of coffee or indulge in a warm mug of mulled wine to warm up after your adventures in chilly Bologna. La Prosciutteria and Camera a Sud are my favorite options for a drink and bite in the Ghetto.

Immerse yourself in art at Pinnacoteca Nazionale

The Pinacoteca Nazionale di Bologna, located in the former Jesuit novitiate on Via delle Belle Arti, boasts a vast collection of Emilian paintings from the 13th to the 18th century, showcasing renowned local and non-Bolognese artists like Giotto, Raphael, Annibale Carracci, and Guido Reni.

With its eight themed sections dedicated to specific periods and artistic movements, the National Gallery offers a comprehensive exploration of Emilian painting throughout history, spanning the Gothic, Renaissance, and Baroque eras.

It’s a perfect winter retreat, providing an opportunity to immerse oneself in the region’s rich artistic heritage and indulge in the beauty of centuries-old masterpieces, all while enjoying the warmth and coziness of the gallery.

Enjoy an aperitivo

Italy is known for its aperitivo culture, a pre-dinner drink served with appetizers. Traditionally, an aperitivo is a low-alcohol fizzy drink, like an Aperol Spritz, and is usually served with a small plate of crackers, olives, meats, cheeses, and bread.

Well, in Bologna the aperitivos start rolling right after lunch and keep going late into the night. Some of my favorite places to grab an aperitivo are Camera a Sud, La Prosciutteria Bologna, Le Vie Dei Briganti and of course Le Serre dei Giardini.

At select places, like Lab16 or Caffè Zamboni you can even get an apericena which is a buffet style selection of food to enjoy with your drink, generally in the 10-15 EUR range.

Winter holidays and events in Bologna

Bologna offers a multitude of events and celebrations throughout the winter season, ensuring a truly unique experience.

It’s important to note that these events may influence the operating hours of shops, attractions, bars, and restaurants. Additionally, availability and prices of accommodations and tours could be affected.

The following list highlights the key dates to consider when planning your winter getaway to Bologna.

8th of December
The Immaculate Conception (Festa della Concezione Immacolata)
Most museums, shops and attractions remain open.

24th of December
Christmas Eve (La Vigilia di Natale)
Expect shops and attractions to close earlier on this day. Dinner reservations are essential.

25th of December
Christmas Day (Natale)
Expect shops, restaurants and tours to function in a limited fashion. Christmas lunch reservations are essential.

31st December
New Year’s Eve (La Vigilia di Capodanno)
Expect shops and attractions to close earlier on this day. Dinner reservations are essential.

1st of January
New Year’s Day (Capodanno)
Shop, restaurant, and tour operating hours might be affected.

6th of January
La Befana
Shop, restaurant and tour operating hours might be affected.

14th of February
Valentine’s Day (San Valentino)
Opening times are not affected. Dinner reservations are reccommended.

School holidays
Italian kids have their school break between Christmas and the Epiphany (exact dates vary each year). Other European countries will also have school holiday breaks during this time so expect a higher influx of visitors.

Carnevale
Dates vary annually, usually in February or early March.

Bologna winter temperature and weather

Winter officially starts in Bologna on December 21st and lasts until late March. However, November often brings a wintry atmosphere, while March feels like the beginning of spring.

Temperatures in Bologna during winter are generally cold to mild, but the presence of humidity can make it feel colder. Even during the day, temperatures can hover around 0 °C (32 °F), especially in January, which is the coldest month.

In recent decades, fog, which used to be quite common, has become less frequent. The wind is usually weak or absent, and there are a moderate number of rainy days, although winter is the driest season.

Does it snow in Bologna?

Bologna no longer gets much snow in the winter and when it does happen, it’s usually light and melts quickly.

What to pack for winter in Bologna

Winter in Bologna can wear many hats and can be pleasant and sunny one day, grey and foggy the next or rainy and wet the day after so you have to be prepared for it all.

Make sure to pack some good quality waterproof boots, warm socks, a (preferably long) winter coat, a compact umbrella, gloves, scarf and hat, warm layers, but also sunglasses and sunscreen as the winter sun can be especially sneaky.

Shop these Winter essentials:

HUNTER Tall Boots

Columbia Long Down Jacket

Merino Socks

Columbia Winter Jacket

Wool Blend Wrap Coat

Windproof Travel Umbrella

USB Hand Warmer

Chelsea Boots

Hat Scarf & Gloves Set

How many days in Bologna in winter

Two days in Bologna are the perfect amount of time to experience this wonderful city. You’ll be able to see all the main sights, do a food tour, visit some of the museums and galleries or walk up to Madonna della Salute.

You can see the main sights in Bologna in just one jam-packed day but ideally, you’ll spend the night here in order to experience the magical evening atmosphere.

With three days or more, you’ll be able to enjoy even more of the delicious food, venture out of the historic center and do some day trips from Bologna.

Getting to Bologna

Bologna is serviced by the Bologna Guglielmo Marconi Airport which is just 5.8 miles (9.3 km) from the city center.

The fastest way to get from the airport to the city is via the Marconi Express. The journey takes just 7 minutes and you can use contactless. Taxis at the airport can be pricey so make sure to book this private transfer instead. The drive from the airport takes 20-40 minutes depending on traffic. For budget travelers, the 944 bus has services into the city every 15 minutes from 5 am.

Itly has a fantastic railway network train and there are high-speed services (Frecciarossa) between Bologna and other major cities across Italy. It’s a short walk from the station to the center of the city.

You can also reach Bologna by car. It is connected to nearby cities via motorway (A1 for Florence and Milan, A13 for Venice). However, bear in mind that central Bologna is a traffic-restricted area and parking in the city is limited.

Getting around Bologna

Bologna is a very walkable city and the old town area can easily be covered on foot. Bologna’s gorgeous porticoes will keep you out of the rain and sun, which makes navigating the city center an absolute pleasure.

Another popular way of getting around includes cycling, as traffic in the city is slow which is perfect for a bike tour. You’ll find many locals and tourists traversing the city on two wheels, and this is one of the best ways to explore at your own pace. And for something a little different, why not try the segway!

For those a little less mobile the city also has an excellent bus service covering all the major points of interest. Taking the hop-on, hop-off bus is one of the best ways to explore the city’s most famous landmarks and includes a commentary on the history of the places you pass. The San Luca Express is a tourist train that departs from Piazza Maggiore and will go past several sights on it’s way to the Basilica of San Luca.

Where to eat and drink in Bologna

Anywhere and everywhere really. I had one kinda average coffee in Bologna and everything else I tried was simply incredible!

I highly recommend Murtadela and Tigellino for quick bites and street food. Sfoglia Rina and La Montanara are great options for lunch or dinner while Camera a Sud, La Prosciutteria Bologna and Le Vie Dei Briganti have the best aperitivo and late bites. For breakfast and coffee head to Impero.

Is Bologna worth visiting?

Bologna is an absolute must for any foodie or foodie-curious. There are just too many regional delicacies that you can only try here, it’s not called La Grassa for no reason after all! La Rossa and La Dotta however will also appeal to all the history and architecture buffs.

Planning a trip to Italy?

Italy is such a stunning country that packs beautiful nature, astonishing architecture, rich history, interesting culture, loads of hand gestures, and delicious food. Oh, don’t even get me started on Italian food!

I’ve prepared a whole plethora of articles to help you plan your Italian adventure so make sure to check out the relevant resources below.