Hidden Gems • 3 hours 5.0
(6)

Bologna for literature lovers

Join a literature-loving host and explore the world’s oldest university, spectacular libraries, and the most famous literary spots in the city.

There is no such thing as

What makes this experience special

Key highlights

  • Dive into Bologna's vibrant literary culture beyond ordinary tourist paths
  • Browse charming independent bookstores and community book exchanges
  • Discover literary landmarks where famous writers lived and found inspiration
  • Explore tucked-away libraries that reveal Bologna's intellectual character
  • Visit cozy cafés where writers, students and professors gather to discuss ideas
  • Share stories about Bologna's book world over coffee or an afternoon apéritif

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

Private and personalized experience
3 hours with a Host
Walking experience
Hotel meet-up (available on request for central location)

What’s not included

Food and drink
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

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

Tima Sep 2017

Ilaria has made our day in Bologna. Being very communicative, outgoing and knowledgeable she made Bologna accessible so one can feel and understand the spirit of the city and its people. Thank you Ilaria for all.

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Sharon Feb 2017

Ilaria is a wonderful, friendly and intelligent young woman who added a lovely dimension to our visit to Bologna. Her passion for this beautiful city was immediately evident and she communicated this in a very natural and friendly way. Highly recommended!!!

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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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John Jun 2025

Nicola was a great guide and showed us true Bologna food gems that we would not have found on our own.

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John Jun 2025

Learn about the real Bologna. Claudio was excellent and very passionate about the city. I would highly recommend the experience.

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Blaine Jun 2025

Chair a loved her City, which reflected in how she shared it’s beauty with us

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