5 Must-Do Activities and Sights in Bologna for a Weekend

Bologna is a city bursting with history, culture, and incredible cuisine, offering countless sights and experiences. With only a weekend to explore, it’s impossible to see everything—so how do you make the most of your visit? Here are five unforgettable experiences in Bologna and its surroundings that will make you fall in love with this charming city.

Reach the Top of the Asinelli Tower

The Asinelli Tower stands tall in Piazza di Porta Ravegnana, right in the heart of Bologna. This silent guardian has overlooked the city since the 12th century, witnessing its evolution through the centuries.

Climbing the 498 steps of the Asinelli Tower is an exhilarating experience. The wooden stairs creak underfoot, and pausing at the small windows along the way offers glimpses of the city below, adding a touch of adventure—almost like stepping into an "Indiana Jones" scene.

The ascent may be a bit tiring, as there’s no elevator, but it’s far from impossible. Reaching the top rewards you with a breathtaking view of Bologna’s iconic red rooftops from an impressive height of 96 meters.

According to legend, the tower was commissioned by a humble sand and gravel transporter who, despite his modest background, fell in love with a noblewoman. To win her hand, he needed to offer an extraordinary dowry—the tallest tower in Bologna. Fortune smiled on him when he discovered a hidden chest of gold, which he used to build the Torre degli Asinelli and secure his marriage.

Historically, the earliest records linking the tower to the Asinelli family date back to 1185, when it was owned by Alberto di Munsarello Asinelli. It remained in the family for generations until becoming municipal property in 1398. Over the centuries, the tower served various roles, including as a prison and even a place of execution. On the side facing Via Maggiore, an iron cage was once used to expose condemned prisoners to the elements, a grim reminder of the tower’s darker past.

Explore the Archiginnasio Palace and the Anatomical Theatre

You can’t visit Bologna without stopping at the Archiginnasio, one of the city’s most important historical buildings. Located in the heart of the historic center at Piazza Galvani 1, it has been home to the Municipal Library since 1838.

During World War II, a bombing in 1944 caused severe damage to the palace, but it was quickly restored, preserving its rich academic and architectural heritage.

Inside the Archiginnasio Palace, you'll find the extraordinary Anatomical Theatre, a true masterpiece of craftsmanship. Built in 1637 for anatomy lessons, the entire room is made of finely carved wood, creating a unique and immersive atmosphere.

At the center stands a marble dissection table, where bodies were studied under the watchful eye of an inquisitor, who observed from a small hidden window to ensure religious guidelines were followed. The teacher’s desk, framed by a wooden canopy, is supported by two striking sculptures known as the "skinned statues", depicting the underlying musculature of the human body in astonishing detail. I couldn’t help but admire their precision for several minutes.

According to legend, when students ran out of cadavers for their studies, they would secretly head to the cemetery at night, armed with picks and shovels, to retrieve fresh bodies for dissection.

Discover Palazzo Pepoli – The Museum of Bologna

Palazzo Pepoli is a museum dedicated to the story of Bologna, blending history with modern technology. Through interactive displays, lighting effects, and augmented reality, it offers a unique and engaging experience—perfect even for kids. A visit here takes you on a multimedia journey through 2,500 years of Bologna’s history, making it a must-see for those who want to truly understand the city's past and evolution.

At the heart of the covered courtyard stands the "Tower of Time", a striking steel and glass structure that channels natural light from above. This modern installation, inspired by Bologna’s famous towers, seamlessly connects the ground and first floors, ensuring a smooth flow through the museum.

One of the most immersive experiences at Palazzo Pepoli is the 3D "Time Machine" room, where I tried virtual reality for the first time. By wearing a VR headset, I was transported back to medieval Bologna, walking through its historic streets and exploring its many towers and buildings—a truly unforgettable way to experience the city's past.

Climb Bologna’s Clock Tower for a Stunning View

Yes, another tower! But this time, the climb is much easier than the Asinelli Tower, and the experience is truly special. Palazzo d'Accursio, one of Bologna’s most iconic landmarks, houses the Clock Tower, a symbol of the city’s rhythm and daily life.

Walking up the majestic horse staircase, I reached the heart of the palace—the clock and its mesmerizing gears. Watching the pendulum and intricate mechanism at work, I could feel its significance, as for centuries, Bolognese citizens have relied on its chimes to mark the passing of time.

A short walk up a pair of wooden ramps leads to the balcony, where a breathtaking view of Piazza Maggiore awaits—a picture-perfect moment not to be missed!

Visit the Basilica of San Luca – A Symbol of Bologna

Perched on a hill 3.6 km from Porta Saragozza, the Basilica of San Luca offers a breathtaking panorama. On one side, you can admire Bologna’s skyline, while to the east, the view stretches over the rolling green hills that define the region. The setting alone makes this sanctuary a must-visit for anyone exploring the city.

You have two options to reach the Basilica of San Luca: on foot—following tradition—or by tourist train.

Walking to San Luca

This route is possible year-round, as you’ll be walking under the world’s longest portico, with 666 arches stretching from Porta Saragozza directly to the basilica. For believers, this symbolic walk represents atonement and liberation from negative influences—the number of arches is no coincidence.

Regardless of religious beliefs, it’s an incredible experience that offers a unique perspective on Bologna. Starting from Piazza Maggiore, the total walk is about 5 km and takes roughly 1.5 hours at a steady pace.

Taking the San Luca Express

If you’re short on time or prefer a more relaxed trip, hop on the San Luca Express, a small tourist train departing from Piazza Maggiore every hour. The ride takes 40 minutes, offering a scenic and comfortable alternative.

A Bit of History

The basilica was originally a hermitage in 1149, where a group of young women dedicated themselves to prayer. Later, in 1741, thanks to generous benefactors, the municipality approved the construction of the sanctuary, following a design by Carlo Francesco Dotti.

For an unforgettable experience, don’t miss the climb to the top of the dome. A short staircase leads to a hidden wooden door, revealing one of the most spectacular views of the Bolognese hills—alone worth the visit!

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