Seasonal Highlights • 3 hours 5.0 (6)

Christmas Wonders of Bologna with a Local Host

Explore Bologna's Christmas magic with a local host: Neptune Fountain, festive Piazza Maggiore, vibrant Via dell'Indipendenza, and more!

There is no such thing as

What makes this experience special

Key highlights

  • Experience Bologna's Christmas charm through the eyes of a passionate local, making the city's festive spirit truly come alive.
  • Marvel at the stunning holiday decorations and lights in historic Piazza Maggiore and along the vibrant Via dell'Indipendenza.
  • Savor a complimentary festive drink in the quaint Quadrilatero area, handpicked by your host to reflect Bologna's holiday flavors.
  • Immerse yourself in the Gothic grandeur of San Petronio Basilica, enhanced by Christmas decor and insightful stories from your host.
  • Capture picture-perfect moments in the picturesque Piazza Santo Stefano, adorned with unique architecture and festive embellishments.
  • Enjoy a peaceful stroll through the illuminated Giardini Margherita, offering a serene escape in the heart of Bologna's festive bustle.

What to know before you go

Here’s everything you need to know before your day unfolds.

3 hours
Fully tailored to your preferences
English Other languages may be requested

What’s included

A glass of Vin Brulé (mulled wine), hot chocolate or a soft drink.
A personalized 3-hour experience with a local host
Walking experience

What’s not included

Additional food and drinks from the ones provided in the experience
Tickets to any attractions
Transportation costs
Gratuities (optional)

Meeting point

Your hotel/apartment or any other central location

Cancellation

Free cancellation up to 24 hours before the experience

What to bring

  • We recommend wearing comfortable shoes and carrying a light bag for your essentials.
  • Public transport may be used during the experience - please bring a travel card or small amount of cash for fares.

How your day could unfold

A flexible, unscripted experience designed entirely around your interests. Your host will adapt the day based on what excites you most

What you’ll do

Imagine a magical Christmas journey through Bologna, guided by a host whose knowledge and warmth unlock the true spirit of the city's festive season. Your adventure begins at the striking Neptune Fountain in Piazza Maggiore, an emblematic and easily identifiable landmark in Bologna's historic heart. Here, at this renowned meeting point, your host awaits with a welcoming smile, ready to weave the rich tapestry of Bologna's yuletide traditions.

As you step into the vibrant Piazza Maggiore, the heart of Bologna's festive decorations, your host's narrative brings to life the historic buildings, each adorned with twinkling lights and festive ornaments. The Christmas tree, a beacon of holiday spirit, stands majestically, with your host sharing tales that connect the past and present of this grand square.

Your journey continues along Via dell'Indipendenza, a lively artery of the city known for its dazzling Christmas window displays. As you stroll, your host points out unique decorations and recounts local Christmas lore, making the bustling atmosphere more intimate and familiar.

Next, the San Petronio Basilica unveils its Gothic splendor, further enhanced by its festive adornment. Here, your host's insights transform your visit into an exploration of both architectural majesty and the profound symbolism of Christmas within these ancient walls.

In the enchanting Quadrilatero area, the historic market district, Christmas lights cast a warm glow over the cobblestone streets. Your host guides you to a cozy spot for a complimentary festive drink, where stories of Bologna's yuletide customs and culinary delights are shared.

Piazza Santo Stefano, your next destination, presents a picturesque tableau with its unique architecture and seasonal charm. Your host's engaging narration lends depth to the festive decorations, creating vivid memories in this photogenic square.

Near the journey's end, the tranquil beauty of Giardini Margherita awaits. Here, amidst the gentle illumination of Christmas lights, your host's narration harmonizes with the peaceful surroundings, offering a moment of reflection and serenity.

Your experience culminates at the base of the iconic Torre degli Asinelli. Though the tour concludes outside this symbol of Bologna, the stories and insights shared by your host ensure a memorable and heartfelt conclusion to your Christmas exploration.

1. Select a date
2. Select start time
3. Tailor your experience
Answer a few quick questions to help your host craft the perfect day tailored to you.
1. What’s your preferred hosting style?
2. How would you like the pace of your day?
3. What’s your walking comfort level?
4. Are you celebrating something special?

Real Stories, Real Connections

See our hosts and guests creating memories
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What travelers think of this experience

Ailsa, Dec 2024

Wonderful!!

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Kirsty, Dec 2023

We had a great time. The tour was really interesting and adapted for it interests.

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David, Feb 2025

Giulia was a friendly, knowledgeable guide. She contacted us before the tour to ask us about our interests and what we would like to do in Bologna. She then sent us a brief itinerary and arranged to meet us at our hotel. This personal tour gave us a real insight into the city, we learnt so much about its history and also gained great information on local places to eat! We thoroughly enjoyed our 3 hour tour with Giulia and would recommend booking either a city or food tour with her.

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Sally, Jan 2025

Nicola was very informative and flexible with our interests, we didn’t know much about Bologna when we arrived and now feel like we have a good background into the history and buildings and know how to spend the remainder of our time here. He gave done great recommendations. Many thanks.

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Joren Mark, Jan 2025

Lively Conversation with the guide (Claudio) open and gave clear and concise info about places visited and i appreciate the detailed links of recommendations ( restaurants, activities, events etc). Structured tour but not overdone...overall a tour with value - worth what you paid for.

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Joren Mark, Jan 2025

Great in a sense that i saw value on the tour and exceeded my expectations. For a short period knowing Bologna can really be overwhelming but Claudio did great in bringing clear and concise info about each places we have visited in a lively manner, (Good English commskills), structured tour but not overdone; open and willingly answered my questions on the spot and had effort of bringing 2 way conversation forward not a walking lecture. I appreciate the links of detailed recommendations (restaurants, activities, events etc). Higly Recommended.

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