Bologna
First Day in Bologna: Your Perfect Introduction
City Essentials: First Day • 2 hours
5.0
(370)
First Day in Bologna: Your Perfect Introduction
Get oriented in Bologna with a local host on your first day. Discover iconic landmarks and insider tips in 2 hours to enhance the rest of your visit.
What makes this experience special
Get oriented in Bologna with key landmarks, hidden gems, and insider tips. This first-day introduction gives you the confidence to navigate the city for the rest of your trip.
Key highlights
- Enjoy a 2-hour city introduction with a local expert who adapts to your interests.
- Explore Piazza Maggiore and the impressive Basilica di San Petronio.
- Discover the famous leaning towers, symbols of Bologna's medieval past.
- Visit the peaceful Santo Stefano Complex with its churches and courtyards.
- Learn navigation tips and cultural insights to explore Bologna confidently.
- Get personalized recommendations for the rest of your stay in the city.
- Gain insights into daily life in Bologna from someone who calls it home
What to know before you go
Here’s everything you need to know before your day unfolds.
Fully tailored to your preferences
Walking experience may use public transport for long distances
English Other languages may be requested
What’s included
Tailored itinerary based on your preferences
A knowledgeable host who knows the hidden gems
Flexible start times to fit your day
What’s not included
Food, drinks and shopping expenses
Transport fares or attraction entry fees
Meeting point
Piazza Maggiore, Piazza Maggiore, 40124 Bologna BO, ItalyCancellation
Free cancellation up to 24 hours before the experienceWhat 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 (coins or small notes) for bus fares, as tickets must be purchased before boarding.
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 mostHere’s what your experience could look like
These are just suggestions from our hosts to inspire your day. Your host will tailor the experience to suit your interests and tastes
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
A Local’s Embrace in Bologna’s Backstreets
Flavours and Friendships in Quadrilatero Market
A City of Layers and Laughter
Under the Porticoes: Timeless Bologna Comes Alive
Family Explorations at Sala Borsa
Through the Secret Window: Discovering Hidden Bologna
Medieval Echoes and Modern Joys
Locks of Memory, Stories of the Canal
Sun-Kissed Streets & Big Smiles: A Local Welcome in the Quadrilatero
Through the Secret Window: A Rainy Glimpse into Bologna’s Hidden Canal
Chic Stops: Exploring Fashion & Architecture in Galleria Cavour
Scoops & Stories: Sharing Gelato Outside a Historic Bologna Gelateria
Legends & Laughter: Posing Proudly at the Fountain of Neptune
Evening Flavors: A Twilight Stroll Through Bologna’s Market Alleys
Fountain of Neptune, Moments of Marvel
Sunlit Stories in Piazza Maggiore
17,500+ 5-Star Reviews and Counting
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recommended by 99% of travelers on google
recommended by 99% of travelers on tripadvisor
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What travelers think of this experience
Kate
Jun 2025
Jonathan gave us a great tour, entirely at our own pace, taking in many of the sites and pointing us towards others we could visit later. He gave us tips about shopping, transport, food & dining as well as historical context and stories. We can highly recommend Jonathan as your guide to Bologna! He also took charge of the wheelchair so my husband could walk and I could take photos. A very kind man. P.s. he knows a super gelateria.
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Alex
Jun 2025
What an incredible experience. Alex was very knowledgeable and knew historical facts that were very specific to each site. We went off the beaten path to several local spots included an awesome beer garden at the end of the day. I would highly recommend getting a tour guide like Alex to lead you through Bologna. It was truly memorable.
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Joanne
Jun 2025
Claudio made our tour of the city extra special taking time to personalise our experience. Would definitely recommend to a friend.
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Rowena
Jun 2025
The experience was need excellent because of our guide Nicola, his knowledge was understanding and he was very friendly and helpful. The tour gave us an understanding of the history and well as the city in general.
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Stephanie
May 2025
Claudio was extremely knowledgeable and friendly. We were able to experience the beauty of Bologna in a short time. It was a wonderful tour.
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Joseph
May 2025
Alex did a great job showing us Old Town Bologna. The tour was a mix of historical sites and present-day life. It was exactly what we were looking for.
Show moreFAQs
Your questions, answered
Is this a traditional tour?
No. Our experiences are unscripted and designed around you. Instead of following a rigid itinerary, your host will plan a personalized journey that feels natural, immersive, and unique.
How does personalization work?
After booking, you’ll complete a short questionnaire about your interests and travel style. We’ll match you with the best host who will tailor the experience to you. You'll have the opportunity to chat with them before the experience and agree on a plan.
Will I see famous landmarks or just hidden gems?
Both! Your host will take you to iconic sights if you want to see them, but they’ll also introduce you to places and stories most travelers miss.
What if I don’t know what I want to explore?
That’s completely fine! Select an experience theme or a flexible discovery experience, and after booking, answer a few questions so your host can design the perfect experience for you.
Can I mix different themes in one experience?
Absolutely! Whether you want a blend of food, history, local culture, or nightlife, your host will seamlessly weave them together into one immersive experience.
Will I know my itinerary in advance?
Yes, you will have the opportunity to chat with your host directly and agree on a plan for the day. However, there’s always room for spontaneity and local surprises!
Can I request specific places to visit?
Yes! After booking, you will receive a questionnaire where you can highlight must-visit spots and anything else you’d like to include, and your host will craft your experience around them.
Can I adjust the plan on the day?
Of course! Your experience is flexible, so you can explore at your own pace and make changes along the way.
What kind of stories and insights will my host share?
Each host has their own personal relationship with the city. You'll experience the city through their eyes—hearing stories about places they love, discovering hidden gems, and learning what makes their city special in a way that goes beyond a typical tour.
How much walking is involved?
This depends on the experience, but your host can adjust the pace to suit your comfort level.
Can my host meet me at my accommodation?
Hotel meet-ups are available upon request in central areas. If you're staying outside the city, your host will recommend the best meeting spot and guide you with directions.