Experience The Best of Emilia Romagna With These Day Trips from Bologna
This is our guide to the best day trips from Bologna, including glorious gastronomic cities, beachside party towns, and Italy’s most famous cities
Updated April 2024
The region of Emilia Romagna is ‘real Italy’.
Often an afterthought on any traveller’s Italian bucket list, these golden hills in Italy’s north are home to a bewildering array of cultural, gastronomic, industrial and natural attractions, yet without the crowds of Milan, Venice, Florence or Rome.
Bologna, the capital of the region, is the perfect base for exploring the Emilia Romagna and beyond (it’s an hour to Florence!), which is why we’ve curated this best day trips from Bologna guide, allowing you to explore the best of Italy with minimal fuss and maximum wanderlust.
Bologna itself is one of Italy’s most unique, beautiful, and underrated cities. Medieval terracotta buildings give the city its nickname, La Rossa, while miles of UNESCO heritage-listed porticoes paint the streets with lights, shadows, and deep architectural perspectives like moving artwork. It’s also Italy’s gastronomic capital.
However, it’s also what lies beyond the city that makes this region so special.
Dotted along the historic Via Emilia, laid by the Romans in 187 BC, lies a number of Emilia Romagna’s best cities and attractions, filled with some of Italy’s most glorious and unique architecture including Parma, Modena, Ravenna, Rimini, Ferrara, and Reggio Emilia. All are beautiful, historic and charming, each with its own gastronomic delights - with Modena and Parma, in particular, being home to balsamico and Parmigiano Reggiano cheese, respectively.
There are also the pretty little borgo (villages), which dot the countryside and leave visitors in awe, and of course, the world-famous wine regions, home to Sangiovese and Lambrusco.
The region also happens to be home to a certain company called Ferrari.
This guide runs through what we feel are the best day trips from Bologna, done independently or by tour, including some major Italian cities within two hours that you just can’t ignore. Including directions, this is a definitive guide to exploring the best of Emilia Romagna, Italy’s most underrated region.
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BEST
BOLOGNA
DAY TRIPS
For The Best Food | Parma city and gastronomic tour,
For The Best Culture | Modena, with this 2-hour guided walking tour
For An Adrenalin Hit | Imola home to the F1 Grand Prix, or Maranello (Ferrari home)
For Natural Beauty | Bobbio
For Something Unique | The colourful town of Dozza
BOLOGNA DAY TRIPS - TOURS VS INDEPENDENTLY
We’re aware that most of our readers are an intrepid lot who prefer to travel independently rather than by tour, so this guide is designed with this in mind.
The beauty of Italy, and indeed Europe, is the proximity of destinations, and the exceptional public transport system (read: trains). In this part of Italy, you can get to just about any city or town via train, and in many cases, it’s faster than driving.
There are however, some incredible places we’ve listed that you will need a car for. We totally think they’re worth it, so if you’re up for driving the Italian roads (they’re not as bad as people say!), then we highly recommend renting a car for a few days, and exploring beyond Bologna and into the heart of Italy.
With that being said, some places are better explored as part of a tour, especially if you’re stretched for time. We’ve listed a range of day tours to some destinations, as well as recommended local guided tours.
THE BEST DAY TRIPS FROM BOLOGNA
MODENA
The birthplace of Pavarotti, Enzo Ferrari, and authentic balsamic vinegar, Modena is our bet for one of the best day trips from Bologna. If tasty food, fast cars, and fine wine are your cup of tea, you'll find a home in Modena.
It is a place where pleasure meets hedonism. Apart from luxurious Ferraris and delicious cuisine (don't forget to try Parmigiano Reggiano cheese), Modena has a beautiful historical centre worth a visit (this 2-hour walking tour will show you all the main sites).
The impressive Duomo di Modena Cathedral, symbolic Ghirlandina Towers, and the iconic Piazza Grande (main square) are must-sees.
Afterwards, head over to Osteria Francescana for a top-notch full Michelin experience.
HOW TO GET FROM BOLOGNA TO MODENA
Modena is one of the easiest days trips from Bologna. Take a regional train from Bologna Centrale and within approximately 30 minutes you'll be at your destination. Book your train ticket in advance here
BOOK | We suggest booking these highly recommend tours while in Modena - Balsamic tasting session, and a 2-hour guided walking tour of the city
MARANELLO & FERRARI
One of the best day trips from Bologna that all the car geeks will appreciate is to Maranello (buy your entrance tickets here), the home of Ferrari. Start your epic journey by getting to know the secrets behind the legendary red cars in the Enzo Ferrari Museum and Factory.
Not only will you hear the roar of the Ferrari engine but also get to see where cars are tested for their aerodynamic properties.
For an outstanding experience, book a test drive through the glorious Italian countryside and feel like a race car superstar!
Top the day off with an exceptional meal at Il Cavallino restaurant. Mouth-watering delicacies, flower-decked garden, and sleek design which pays the tribute to Ferrari will blow your mind.
HOW TO GET FROM BOLOGNA TO MARANELLO & FERRARI
Using trains and buses is a winning combo. First, take the train from Bologna Centrale to Modena where you'll need to catch the line 800 bus from Piazza Risorgimento. The whole journey takes around 2 hours. Book your train ticket in advance here
BOOK | Skip the line with your Maranello entrance tickets
PARMA
Home to Parmigiano cheese and Prosciutto ham, Parma is another Italian gem that makes a great day trip from Bologna. Alongside many culinary offerings and fantastic food tours, Parma provides numerous historical ruins, world-class art, and quirky museums to explore. Plus, this university town has vibrant nightlife so bring your dancing shoes!
The Romanesque masterpiece Cattedrale di Parma, Italy's greatest opera house Teatro Regio and the pink marble Baptistery are topping the list of must-visit sights.
After all the sightseeing, treat yourself to lunch at Angiol D'Or. Located in the city’s cultural heart, this elegant restaurant serves pitch-perfect traditional recipes.
HOW TO GET FROM BOLOGNA TO PARMA
The best way to reach Parma is by train. The journey takes less than an hour (99 km). Note that the price of the ticket is usually more expensive if booked on the day of travelling. Book your train ticket in advance here.
Alternatively, take this full-day Parma city and gastronomic tour from Bologna.
BOOK | Full-day Parma city and gastronomic tour, Learn all about Parmagiano Reggiano with this tour, a classic Parma city walking tour
FLORENCE
Captivating, postcard-perfect Florence makes a haven for aesthetes and artists. Exuding history and art at every turn, the soul of Tuscany will steal your heart!
For a great overview of the city, make sure to visit the impressive Duomo, the lively Mercato Centrale, and Palazzo Vecchio, an incredible open-air museum. Take this two-hour walking tour of Florence to make the most of your day trip from Bologna.
While Uffizi Gallery is inevitable for art buffs, Piazzale Michelangelo invites you to take a superb Insta photo. Ready for the elevated gourmet experience? Pop over to Chic Nonna di Vito Mollica and explore the finest culinary delights tucked in a stunning historical palazzo interior.
HOW TO GET FROM BOLOGNA TO FLORENCE
Florence makes one of the easiest Bologna day trips. Take a direct train through the beautiful Italian countryside and within an hour, you'll arrive at this Renaissance masterpiece. Book your train ticket in advance here
BOOK | This highly-rated Florence guided walking tour, Uffizi Gallery skip-the-line tickets
RIMINI
Ready for an Italian beach escape? If lounging on the golden sand beach, sipping cocktails under colourful umbrellas, and soaking up the sun is your thing, Rimini is the place to be. The city also hosts various Renaissance and Medieval landmarks such as Malatestiano Temple, Castel Sismondo, and Piazza Cavour.
After a day of sun and fun, book a table at Guido and immerse into a rich food journey (brodetto and bustrengo are their specialities!) while enjoying mesmerising sea views. Whether you're a history buff or a beach bum, this party town makes a great day trip from Bologna.
HOW TO GET FROM BOLOGNA TO RIMINI
Bologna and Rimini are connected by a regional train which runs several times per day. If you're willing to pay the higher price, the fast train will take you to Rimini station for only 53 minutes instead of a regular 1.5 hours. Book your train ticket in advance here
FERRARA
You’ll come to Ferrara for stunning architecture and relaxed vibes but you'll stay for the food. Plus, it doesn’t draw crowds like Rome or Milan but offers plenty of things to do and see, making it one of the best day trips from Bologna. Stroll around cobbled streets to soak up the charming, medieval atmosphere.
Have a cup of coffee on the Piazza del Municipio lined with stunning Renaissance buildings. Explore the imposing Ferrara Cathedral and the magnificent Castello Estense. Finally, head over to Osteria degli Angeli which perfectly blends traditional cuisine with non-conformist options (their homemade pasta is to die for!).
Oh, and leave space for extra chocolatey Torta Ferrara. Yummy!
HOW TO GET FROM BOLOGNA TO FERRARA
Catch a train from Bologna Centrale to Ferrara. It will take you around half an hour (44 km) for this popular route. Book your train ticket in advance here
IMOLA + WINERIES
Known best for the untimely death of Formula 1 star, Ayrton Senna, Imola is more than its F1 racetrack.
Imola is located just 30 km from the Red City and is filled with a typically beautiful Centro Storico, filled with picturesque streets, palazzo’s and piazzas, making it one of the easiest day trips from Bologna.
One essential place to visit within the city is the Rocca Sforzesca, Imola’s huge fortress, which dates back to the 13th century and is filled with historical artefacts and endless views over the city. Other sites to see in the city include Palazzo Tozzoni and San Domenico Museum.
We suggest taking a guided tour of the racetrack (Autodromo Enzo e Dino Ferrari), even if you aren’t a fan of motorsport, as it provides a wonderful overview of both the track’s history and its importance to the town and region as a whole. You’ll also learn more about Senna’s passing, and the changes made since.
Hostaria 900 serves traditional local fare and is one of the best places we’ve eaten in the region - the pasta was exceptional, as was the local wine, so we highly recommend stopping for lunch (booking ahead is essential).
Close by is the world-class Tre Monti winery, visited by none other than Anthony Bourdain during his time in Emilia Romagna. The wines are award-winning for good reason - the Thea Rosso being our particular favourite, so we suggest joining a tasting session.
HOW TO GET FROM BOLOGNA TO IMOLA
Located just 30km away, it’s super easy to get from Bologna Centrale to Imola station by train. Alternatively, we suggest renting a car and taking in Dozza and Tre Monti winery in one day.
SAN MARINO
One of the lengthy Bologna day trips but definitely worth a visit is San Marino.
With a unique character of its own, the world's oldest republic has it all. From charming castles and hilly, medieval streets to quirky museums, and sophisticated restaurants, San Marino gives a feeling of walking through a movie set. Piazza della Libertà along with the iconic Palazzo Pubblico are must-sees, as well as changing of the guard.
For a view straight out of a fairy tale, be sure to climb the Cesta Tower. In between the tours, immerse into a whirlwind of flavours and aromas at La Terraza.
First-class food and epic views are guaranteed!
HOW TO GET FROM BOLOGNA TO SAN MARINO
There's no direct service from Bologna to San Marino so first take a train from Bologna Centrale to Rimini station. Book your train ticket in advance here. From there, the Bonelli bus will take you to San Marino (3-3.5 hours in total).
BOOK | This epic full-day San Marino tour including lunch from Bologna
VERONA
There’s something very romantic about Verona. A touch of history sprinkles through every corner, and the architecture is nothing short of stunning. Even though Juliet's House is probably one of the top things to see in Verona, don't stop there.
Visit the brilliant Castelvecchio for historical insights, climb Torre dei Lamberti for impressive city views and admire Piazza dei Signori (which also makes a lovely spot for people-watching).
And when it's time for an afternoon Aperitivo, head to the rooftop terrace of Due Torri Hotel. A mix of Aperol and prosecco with complimentary hors-d’oeuvres will taste better with breathtaking views of the nearby attractions.
HOW TO GET FROM BOLOGNA TO VERONA
There are dozens of trains throughout the day connecting Bologna Centrale and Verona Porta Nuova without any changes. It will take you approximately 1 hour for a one-way trip (108 km) - book your train ticket in advance here
BOOK | This full-day Verona & Valpolicella Winelands tour from Bologna
VENICE
A timeless, one-of-a-kind Venice is one of the popular day trips from Bologna.
Numerous historic treasures such as the iconic Piazza and Basilica di San Marco, and Ponte di Rialto are part of UNESCO World Heritage Site and are absolutely must-sees! Libreria Acqua Alta, one of the world's most unique bookshops should also be on your radar.
Head over to Ae Bricoe, sit beside the canal, and enjoy a glass of fine wine while watching the gondolas drift by.
Magical but sometimes overwhelming, the city of canals makes a perfect Instagram photo so be sure to have your camera with you.
HOW TO GET FROM BOLOGNA TO VENICE
From Bologna Centrale, several trains will take you directly to Venice. The journey takes around 1.5 hours and covers 131 km. Book your train ticket in advance here
BOOK | Explore the best of Venice with this three-hour Venice highlights tour
DAY TOURS FROM BOLOGNA WITH A CAR
PIACENZA
If you're looking for a place off the beaten path, look no further. The quiet provincial town with an easygoing atmosphere offers plenty of things to do.
Stroll around the charming Piazza Cavalli square, go shopping at Via XX Settembre or visit one of the many historical palaces with splendid gardens. Duomo di Piacenza, the largest Romanesque cathedral in this region, as well as the beautiful Palazzo Farnese with its museums and art galleries, are inevitable.
Piacenza is also home to gnocchi, tortellini, and other authentic Italian pasta dishes, so be sure to visit Osteria del Trentino for superb local flavours.
HOW TO GET FROM BOLOGNA TO PIACENZA
One of the best day trips from Bologna by car is to Piacenza. The main highway between Bologna and Piacenza will lead you directly to your destination within 2 hours (155 km).
DOZZA
Located amongst the rolling hills and endless vineyards outside of Bologna lies the colourful and curious borgo of Dozza.
Dozza is home to the Biennale del Muro Dipinto (Biennial of the Painted Wall), a festival of contemporary art that uses the ancient facades of Dozza as the canvas. Houses, arches, churches, porticoes, streets and squares are home to over 100 contemporary art pieces.
The result is a mesmerising open-air art gallery that will leave you in awe. It's, for this reason, been named one the 'most beautiful towns in Italy', and a must-do day tour from Bologna, or for those visiting Imola and even Florence.
Of course, it wouldn't be a typical Italian village without its fair share of other attractions, including a middle-aged Fortress, an exceptional wine cellar (Enoteca), and a variety of top restaurants.
But really, it's the murals that shine colourfully in Dozza, and should be reason enough to visit this hidden gem.
HOW TO GET FROM BOLOGNA TO DOZZA
Unless you have a car, Dozza isn't the easiest town to visit. Public transport can take over 1.5 hours and includes multiple stops - however it is possible, as highlighted below.
We highly recommend renting a car to visit Dozza. With a drive time of 45 minutes from Bologna, it is quick and easy to visit the town and other regional attractions with your own vehicle. To hire your own vehicle, click here.
BRISIGHELLA
The hidden medieval village that will make you fall in love at first sight. A maze of ancient alleys dominated by three hills: La Rocca Mafrediana (The Castle), La Torre (The Tower), and Il Monticino (The Sanctuary). Your walking efforts to these symbols of the city will be rewarded with a mesmerizing panorama of vineyards and olive groves extending as far as the eye can see.
In the historic centre, the colourful streets make a perfect opportunity to capture that dreamy Italian village vibe for your Insta!
For a fabulous dining experience in a unique location, head to the exceptional La Grotta restaurant.
HOW TO GET FROM BOLOGNA TO BRISIGHELLA
With approximately 68 km to drive, Brisighella makes one of the quickest day trips from Bologna. Spend the hour driving while admiring the passing-by scenery.
BOBBIO
Bobbio is a “don’t judge a book by its cover” kind of city. Tucked between different regions, this place blends history and culture with the breathtaking landscape of Trebbia River Valley.
Soak up the atmosphere of ancient legends and captivating past stories while strolling around the city's must-sees: Basilica di San Colombano, the Abbey of Bobbio, and the 14th-century Malaspina-Dal Verme castle. Every corner of the city will make you feel like stepping back into medieval times.
Near the iconic Ponte del Gobbo (Devil's Bridge) is a great spot to taste authentic Italian cuisine, Albergo Ristorante Nobile. Buon appetito!
HOW TO GET FROM BOLOGNA TO BOBBIO
The place that even the great Ernest Hemingway entitled the most beautiful village in Italy definitely merits being on the list of the best day trips from Bologna. There's no train station so the best way to reach it is to drive. It will take you around 2 hours (195 km).
ESSENTIAL TRAVEL INFORMATION
OUR BOLOGNA POCKET GUIDE
Our Bologna City Guide is a curated travel guide, designed to be downloaded to your phone and used as your trusty companion when exploring the city.
In this comprehensive guide, you’ll find our personal recommendations on the best things to see, eat and drink, places to stay,and things to know, gathered over many trips to Bologna.
BUY NOW | Bologna City Guide
WHEN TO VISIT BOLOGNA & SURROUNDS
Like most European cities, Bologna comes alive during the warmer months from May - October, when the temperatures are warm and there's barely any rain.
The average temperatures during July and August are around 30 degrees, which might be a little too warm to enjoy exploring the city.
Therefore, the best time to visit Bologna is during June or September, when the days are long, warm but not stifling!
WHERE TO STAY IN BOLOGNA
HOTEL
HOTEL PORTA SAN MAMOLA | Where we stayed in Bologna, Hotel Porta San Mamolo is a little dated, but still in a great location close to all the major city sights.
CANONICA APARTMENTS | A great alternative close to the city centre
HOSTEL
DOPA HOSTEL | in keeping with the rest of Bologna, Dopa is super hip, and the best hostel in town. It's also centrally located to all the best things to do in Bologna. Book Dopa hostel here
SEARCH | Search for availability, the best rates or to book your stay in Bologna using Booking.com
HOW TO GET TO BOLOGNA, ITALY
FLIGHTS
Flights arrive and depart Bologna's G. Marconi International Airport, about 30 minutes from the city.
Check flight prices and availability to Bologna with Skyscanner.
Aerobus runs a service to the Airport from Bologna central station (and return) every 11 minutes from 5:30 am, and is the best way to get to and from the airport. Tickets cost € 6.00 per person.
TRAIN
Bologna is serviced by Italy's high-speed train network, so it's easy to find tickets to and from the city to many other European destinations.
We recommend booking tickets in advance to secure seats, especially during the summer months.
To check departure times, and availability and to book tickets, click here.
Bologna's central railway station is located a 20-minute walk north of the historic city centre and all the city's best attractions.
BOOK | Your Italian train tickets here
TRAVEL INSURANCE | STAY SAFE IN ITALY
If you can't afford travel insurance, you really can't afford to travel. As the current global situation has taught many people, things can go wrong anywhere in the world - and insurance is often the only way of mitigating any issues with minimal expense or stress for you.
Here are our recommendations, based on 8+ years of full-time travel:
FOR TRAVELLERS | HeyMondo - COVID-19 coverage, comprehensive travel + medical insurance, an app with 24-hour medical support, and no out-of-pocket fees. *Get 5% off your policy by booking through our link here.
FOR DIGITAL NOMADS | SafetyWing - COVID-19 coverage, comprehensive travel & medical, and policies can be purchased while already abroad.
CAR INSURANCE | Insurance4CarHire - a great annual car insurance policy
PLANNING A TRIP TO ITALY SOON?
Check out these essential posts to help you have the best trip ever:
BEST OF BOLOGNA | 12 incredibly awesome things to do in Bologna, Italy, Where to stay in Bologna, Our guide to the Asinelli Tower, Bologna Travel Tips, Best Bologna day tours, Hiking the Via Matildica in Italy’s Emilia Romagna
DOZZA | A guide to Italy’s most colourful hill town, Dozza
BEST OF FLORENCE + TUSCANY | The best things to do in Florence, Where to stay in Florence, How to visit Pienza, The best things to do in San Gimignano
DOLOMITES | Our 7-day road trip itinerary for the Dolomites, where to stay in the Dolomites, how to get to the Dolomites, 7 of the best day hikes in the Dolomites, including the famous Tre Cime De Lavaredo loop, Lago di Sorapis, our guide to Lago di Braies
PHOTOGRAPHY | Love our photography? Wondering what gear we use to get all of our photos around the world? Click here to view our detailed photography gear guide, as well as our top travel photography tips!
RESPONSIBLE TRAVEL | Responsible travel is important. REALLY IMPORTANT. Learn our top responsible travel tips to help you, your family and your friends travel more consciously around the globe
ECO-FRIENDLY PACKING ESSENTIALS | Don’t leave home without our favourite eco-friendly travel essentials
EXPLORE THE BEST OF ITALY WITH OUR TRAVEL GUIDES
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