Bologna Vacations

BolognaFiere

Rating: 8.6/10 (558 reviews)

BolognaFiere hosts Italy's premier international trade fairs in its expansive, modern exhibition halls. Visitors can explore diverse events from art exhibitions to industrial expos throughout the year.

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Piazza Maggiore

Rating: 9.4/10 (2,525 reviews)

Bologna's historic heart beats in Piazza Maggiore, where medieval palaces frame the magnificent Basilica di San Petronio. As evening falls, join locals for aperitivo while the square glows golden under soft lights.

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Stadio Renato Dall'Ara

Rating: 8.2/10 (74 reviews)

Home to Bologna FC since 1927, Stadio Renato Dall'Ara captivates with its iconic Torre di Maratona tower. Experience the electric atmosphere of an evening match or tour the historic pitch.

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Two Towers

Rating: 9.0/10 (1,087 reviews)

The medieval Due Torri, Bologna's iconic twin towers, offer a glimpse into the city's rich history. Climb the 498 steps of Asinelli Tower for panoramic views of Bologna's terracotta rooftops and surrounding landscapes.

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Ducati Museum

Rating: 8.6/10 (233 reviews)

The Ducati Museum chronicles the legendary Italian motorcycle brand's evolution through vintage bikes and racing trophies. Combine your visit with a factory tour to witness Ducati craftsmanship firsthand.

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Basilica Santo Stefano

Rating: 9.2/10 (735 reviews)

Go for a stroll through this interconnected group of religious buildings, admiring the graceful architecture and valuable artwork in each.

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Basilica of San Petronio

Rating: 9.2/10 (990 reviews)

This immense 14th-century basilica houses chapels adorned with masterpieces and the world's longest indoor sundial. Explore its artistic treasures and unfinished façade, a testament to Bologna's architectural heritage.

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Photo by Giorgia Bachiorri

Via Indipendenza

Rating: 8.2/10 (183 reviews)

Bologna's grand thoroughfare connects Piazza Maggiore to the railway station under elegant porticoes. Stroll this vibrant shopping street on weekends when it transforms into a lively pedestrian-only experience.

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Find out more about Bologna

Things to do in and around Bologna

Bologna offers a rich cultural experience perfect for city-themed vacations. Visitors can enjoy engaging activities such as educational tours, thrilling motor racing experiences, and vibrant local markets. Don't miss out on wine tastings and morning tours, which showcase the city's culinary delights. With a variety of exceptional adventures and numerous guided tours available, Bologna promises an unforgettable getaway filled with interesting experiences.

Shopping

In Bologna, visit Mercato di Mezzo o Quadrilatero for a vibrant public market atmosphere. Galleria Cavour Shopping Center offers a mix of entertainment and family-friendly options. Don't miss Mercato Delle Erbe for a local business vibe. If you're up for a drive, check out larger malls outside the city.

Recreation

In Bologna, immerse yourself in the vibrant atmosphere of Stadio Renato Dall'Ara for exhilarating sports events. Enjoy cultural performances at Parco Nord Arena, perfect for family outings, and catch a movie at Cinema Lumiere, where entertainment meets romance for a delightful evening.

Adventure

Experience the thrill of motor racing at the Autodromo Internazionale Enzo e Dino Ferrari, located 21 miles from Bologna. For a unique cultural adventure, check out the Cento Carnival of Europe, situated 17 miles away. For action-packed fun, head to Bologna Paintball, just 14 miles from the city.

Nightlife

Bologna's nightlife offers a mix of fun and excitement. For a lively evening, head to Bowling San Lazzaro, only 4 miles from the city, for some friendly bowling competition. Alternatively, 21 miles away, the A. Ruggi Sports Complex provides various sports-themed entertainment options for an active night out.

Find the best attractions in Bologna

Bologna is perfect for travelers seeking a cultural, city, or business-themed vacation. Explore its rich history through stunning churches, historic palaces, and fascinating museums. Whether you're a family looking for engaging experiences or a culture enthusiast, Bologna's attractions offer something for everyone, making it an ideal destination for an enriching getaway.

• BolognaFiere: Experience the vibrant energy of BolognaFiere, a premier conference venue in the heart of Bologna. Ideal for business enthusiasts, it hosts numerous events throughout the year, showcasing everything from trade shows to cultural exhibitions, making it a hub of innovation and networking.
• Piazza Maggiore: Immerse yourself in the rich culture at Piazza Maggiore, Bologna’s main square. Surrounded by stunning medieval architecture, this lively square is perfect for people-watching, enjoying local street performances, and savoring delicious gelato at nearby cafés.
• Ducati Museum: Discover the thrilling world of Ducati at the Ducati Museum. Perfect for families and motorcycle enthusiasts, this museum features an impressive collection of iconic bikes, showcasing the brand’s history and engineering excellence, along with interactive exhibits.

Best time to go to Bologna

The best time to visit Bologna can depend on the weather and when visitor numbers rise and fall. The hottest average temperature in Bologna falls in July, when visitor numbers are average and weather is sunny with light rain. The coolest average temperature in Bologna falls in January, visitor numbers are average and weather is mostly sunny with light rain.

Tips to save on your trip to Bologna

• Combine your flights, hotels and car rentals on Expedia—bundling can result in significant savings.
• Consider traveling to Bologna during the low season (January to February and August) for more affordable options.
• Use the Price per traveler filter on Expedia to find a package deal that suits your budget.
• Check the VIP Access properties filter to discover outstanding hotels with added member perks at select properties.

Frequently Asked Questions

What types of vacation packages are available in Bologna?

Bologna, known for its rich cultural attractions, offers vacation packages across several travel styles:

• Budget-friendly: About half of Bologna's hotels fall into a midrange price tier, making it easy to find value. For example, Hotiday Bologna Arena, rated 7.8 out of 10 by travelers, offers an outdoor pool and free breakfast.
• Family-friendly: Nearly a third of hotels offer family rooms, and most provide kids clubs, playgrounds, and babysitting services. Residenza Palazzo Marchesini, a 4-star property rated 9.8 out of 10 by travelers, is a strong choice with family rooms and a game room.
• Pet-friendly: Many hotels in Bologna welcome pets. The 5-star Grand Hotel Majestic già Baglioni, rated 9.4 out of 10 by travelers, is a luxurious pet-friendly option, with travelers praising the ultra-comfortable service and spacious rooms.
• Breakfast-included: Most hotels in Bologna offer free breakfast, a convenient perk for starting your day. The 4.5-star Hotel Corona d'Oro, rated 8.9 out of 10 by travelers, includes free breakfast and is often highlighted by travelers for its excellent staff and spacious rooms.

How can I save money on a Bologna vacation package?

When you bundle, you can save up to 30%*. To save money on a Bologna package, consider traveling during the quieter months or be flexible with your dates to find more options. Bundling your flights and hotel together often unlocks savings compared to booking separately. *Members only. Savings vary.

How much does a Bologna vacation package cost?

A Bologna vacation package typically costs around $1,450 per adult for a week-long trip. Lower-priced bookings start from around $450 per adult, while luxury hotel packages can reach up to $2,650.


*Package prices shown are the average total cost per adult across Expedia bookings over the past year and may change depending on availability, dates, and demand.

How do I find cheap Bologna vacation package deals?

The cheapest Bologna vacation package deals can be as low as around $250 per adult for weekend trips. Separately, July typically has the lowest average monthly price, around $1,220 per adult for a 7-day trip, while April follows closely at around $1,400 per adult for a 6-day trip. Nearly all Bologna vacation package deals include some savings versus booking separately, typically around $65 per adult for a week-long trip. Longer, two-week trips can save even more, often around $70 per adult. Many hotels in Bologna also offer free breakfast, which can help stretch your budget.


Browse cheap vacation packages in Bologna on Expedia for current deals.


*Package prices shown are the average total cost per adult across Expedia bookings over the past year and may change depending on availability, dates, and demand.

What is the best time to go to Bologna?

The best time to go for a Bologna vacation package is during September and May, which are the peak months for demand and offer pleasant weather for exploring the city's cultural attractions. June is also a busy month, making late spring and early autumn popular choices for travelers.


For those seeking a quieter experience and potentially lower prices, January to February and December are typically the quietest months. While cooler, these months can offer a more relaxed atmosphere for your Bologna vacation.

What's included in a Bologna vacation package?

A Bologna vacation package lets you combine round-trip flights, hotel stays, and rental cars. As a central urban destination, Bologna's many hotels offer convenient access to the city's cultural attractions. Most hotels offer airport shuttle service to and from Bologna (BLQ-Guglielmo Marconi) Airport, and most hotels also offer free breakfast, which can be a great value.


Exactly what's included will vary by hotel and package, so it's worth reviewing the details before you confirm your booking.

What's the best vacation package for Bologna?

For a luxury Bologna vacation package, consider a stay at the 5-star Grand Hotel Majestic già Baglioni, rated 9.4 out of 10 by travelers. This hotel offers a spa, free breakfast, family rooms, and pet-friendly options, with travelers praising the ultra comfortable staff and spacious rooms.


Couples might enjoy a package built around the 5-star Casa Faccioli B&B Wellness, rated 9.3 out of 10 by travelers. It features a spa and free breakfast, and travelers often highlight the comfortable rooms and great location.


Families looking for a Bologna vacation package could opt for the 4-star Residenza Palazzo Marchesini, rated 9.8 out of 10 by travelers. This property provides family rooms and a game room, along with free breakfast, making it a convenient base for exploring the city.

Is Bologna better suited for a beach vacation or a cultural trip?

Bologna is primarily a cultural destination, renowned for its rich history, ancient university, and distinctive architecture. Travelers on a Bologna vacation will find themselves immersed in centuries of heritage, from the iconic Piazza Maggiore to the historic Cattedrale di San Pietro. The city is also famed for its medieval towers and the University of Bologna, one of the oldest in the Western world.


Its urban setting provides a wealth of museums, galleries, and culinary experiences. The focus here is on exploring historic sites, enjoying local food traditions, and experiencing Italian city life.

Is Bologna a good choice for a family vacation package?

Bologna can be a good choice for family vacation packages, offering a blend of cultural exploration and family-friendly amenities. While a select few bookings are family trips, most hotels offer playgrounds, babysitting services, and kids clubs, with nearly a third also providing dedicated family rooms.


For a comfortable stay, the 4-star Hotel Re Enzo, rated 8.1 out of 10 by travelers, offers family rooms and free breakfast, making it a practical base for exploring the city.


Families can enjoy walking through the historic center, exploring the Piazza Maggiore, and perhaps visiting the Ducati Museum, about 8 miles from central Bologna, which might appeal to older children and teens. Your Bologna vacation package can be tailored to include activities suitable for all ages.

Are luxury vacation packages in Bologna suitable for couples?

Luxury Bologna vacation packages are well-suited for couples, offering sophisticated stays with amenities designed for a romantic getaway.


The 5-star Grand Hotel Majestic già Baglioni, rated 9.4 out of 10 by travelers, is about a 5-minute walk from Piazza Maggiore. This luxury property features a spa, restaurant, and bar/lounge, with travelers often highlighting the beautiful facilities and spacious rooms.


Another excellent option is the 4.5-star Casa Fluò Relais, rated 8.6 out of 10 by travelers, which offers a spa, restaurant, and bar/lounge, providing a relaxing retreat for couples.


Explore luxury vacation packages in Bologna and romantic vacation packages in Bologna on Expedia to find the perfect couples' stay.

What luxury vacation packages are available in Bologna?

Bologna offers a range of luxury vacation packages, with about 70 high-end hotels available for discerning travelers, many of which feature a spa. Consider these top-rated options for your Bologna vacation package:


Browse luxury Bologna vacation packages on Expedia to compare options.

Which Bologna vacation packages include a pool?

Nearly all hotels in Bologna offer both outdoor and indoor pools, making it easy to find a Bologna vacation package with pool access.


The 4-star Relais Bellaria Hotel & Congressi, rated 8.5 out of 10 by travelers, features an outdoor pool and hot tub, with travelers often highlighting the nice pool.


Another option is the 4-star The Social Hub Bologna, rated 8.7 out of 10 by travelers, which offers an outdoor pool, and travelers frequently praise the great pool.


For an indoor option, the 4-star NH Bologna Villanova, rated 8.5 out of 10 by travelers, includes an indoor pool, and travelers note the great facilities.


When comparing Bologna vacation packages, you can filter by pool type to find the setup that works best for your stay.

Do luxury vacation packages in Bologna include spa or wellness facilities?

Yes, luxury Bologna vacation packages often feature hotels with spa or wellness facilities, though specific treatments might cost extra. Most luxury hotels here offer a spa, and nearly all include hot tubs. Top picks include the 5-star Grand Hotel Majestic già Baglioni, rated 9.4 out of 10 by travelers, the 5-star Casa Faccioli B&B Wellness, rated 9.3 out of 10 by travelers, and the 5-star 4 Star Suite SPA, rated 8.9 out of 10 by travelers.


Browse luxury vacation packages in Bologna on Expedia to compare.

Are airport transfers included in Bologna vacation packages?

Most hotels in Bologna offer airport shuttle service to and from Bologna (BLQ-Guglielmo Marconi) Airport. While airport transfers are not automatically included in every Bologna vacation package, many hotels provide this as a convenient amenity. It's recommended to confirm the availability and any associated costs of shuttle services directly with your chosen hotel or package details before booking.

What is the best time to book a Bologna vacation package?

Book your Bologna vacation package around 8 weeks before you travel. This gives you time to secure your preferred flights and hotel while rates are still competitive. Most travelers book between 4 and 16 weeks out.


April, June, and November are the most popular months for Bologna packages, so booking earlier is advisable if you're traveling during these times.

What are the top things to do in Bologna?

A Bologna vacation offers a deep dive into Italian culture, history, and cuisine, with many attractions concentrated in the city center:


Browse and book things to do in Bologna on Expedia.

How many days do you need for a Bologna vacation?

Most Bologna vacation packages last around 6 days. This allows ample time to explore the city's main cultural attractions, including Piazza Maggiore, the Cattedrale di San Pietro, and the Two Towers, along with enjoying its renowned culinary scene.


About half of travelers choose week-long trips, while some opt for shorter weekend getaways to focus on specific interests. For those wanting to delve deeper or take day trips to nearby regions, around two weeks would provide a more comprehensive Bologna vacation.

Is Bologna a good destination for a weekend vacation?

Bologna is a good destination for a weekend vacation package, especially for travelers looking for a focused cultural and culinary experience. Some travelers choose weekend trips to explore the city's historic center, visit key landmarks like Piazza Maggiore and the Two Towers, and indulge in the local food scene.


In 2 or 3 days, you can comfortably experience Bologna's unique atmosphere and main attractions. While many travelers opt for longer stays to explore more extensively, a weekend offers a rich and memorable Bologna vacation.

Do you need to rent a car in Bologna, or is public transport enough?

Public transport is generally sufficient for exploring Bologna, making a rental car optional for most travelers on a Bologna vacation package. The city center is very walkable, allowing you to reach many major attractions on foot. Bologna also has an extensive public bus and trolleybus network managed by TPER, connecting various neighborhoods and sights.


For arrivals, most hotels offer airport shuttle services to and from Bologna Guglielmo Marconi Airport (BLQ). While not essential for city exploration, a rental car could offer more flexibility for day trips to the Emilia-Romagna region. Travelers booking Bologna vacation packages with flights can easily navigate the city using its public transport system.

Are Bologna vacation package hotels conveniently located?

Bologna vacation package hotels are generally well-located, with many properties placing you within easy reach of the city's historic core and main attractions.


For example, the 5-star Grand Hotel Majestic già Baglioni is about a 5-minute walk from central Bologna and Piazza Maggiore. The 4-star Residenza Palazzo Marchesini is also centrally located, about a 10-minute walk from central Bologna. Further out, La Casa di Fabiano - Self Check-in is about 1 mile from central Bologna, offering good access to the city.


When choosing your Bologna vacation package, consider how close you want to be to specific landmarks or neighborhoods.

Are there vacation package hotels in Bologna within walking distance of restaurants and shops?

Central Bologna vacation package hotels often place you within walking distance of restaurants and shops, especially those located near the city's main square.


For instance, the 4-star Casa Isolani Piazza Maggiore, rated 9.4 out of 10, is about a 5-minute walk from Piazza Maggiore, putting you steps away from dining and retail options. Similarly, the 4-star Art Hotel Commercianti, rated 9.2 out of 10, is also about a 5-minute walk from Piazza Maggiore, offering convenient access to the bustling area.


When selecting your Bologna vacation package, check the hotel's exact location on a map to confirm proximity to your preferred dining and shopping areas.

Can I change or cancel my Bologna vacation package if my plans change?

Yes, you can cancel your vacation package via your itinerary page on Expedia or by contacting customer service. Remember that some packages are fully refundable, but the details vary based on each unique booking. A fully refundable package may depend on how far out from the travel dates you're canceling and what airline you are traveling with.

Do One Key members get extra savings when booking Bologna vacation packages?

Yes, members who join our free One Key™ travel rewards program can instantly unlock additional savings and save 10% or more on over 500,000 stays worldwide with Member Prices and over 1 million car rentals.

Does Expedia offer Book Now, Pay Later Bologna vacation packages?

Yes, with Expedia's Book Now, Pay Later option, powered by Affirm, you can spread the cost of your Bologna vacation over 3, 6, or 12 months. With no late payment fees or hidden costs, it's easy to secure your ideal vacation package as soon as you spot it.

How do I find last-minute vacation packages to Bologna?

To find last-minute vacation packages to Bologna, explore the last-minute deals section for the latest package offers, including flights, departing in the coming weeks. Being flexible with your travel dates and hotel preferences can help you secure the best prices.

How does free cancellation work on Bologna vacation packages?

Free cancellation on a Bologna vacation package depends on the specific hotel and rate combination you book. Many bookings allow free cancellation up to a stated deadline (often a few days before travel) where eligible. Read the cancellation terms carefully when reviewing the package, and visit Expedia help center for further details.

Is it cheaper to book a Bologna vacation as a package or separately?

Booking flights and hotels together can unlock lower overall prices. Better still, you can tailor your Bologna getaway to match your exact preference. Pick your preferred flight time, select the hotel type and add a car rental. Explore our bundles to see how much you can save.

Why should I book my Bologna vacation package with Expedia?

Booking your vacation package on Expedia makes it easier to get more out of your trip from the start. With a wide choice of hotels, you can compare prices, reviews and amenities all in one place, then bundle your hotel with flights which could help you save even more. Flexible booking options on selected stays also make it easier to plan with confidence.

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