Iconic Sights & Hidden Gems • 5 hours 4.9
(28)

Bologna Uncovered: Famous Landmarks & Secret Corners

Discover Bologna's famous landmarks and secret corners in one journey. A perfect blend of iconic sites and local treasures over 5 hours.

There is no such thing as

What makes this experience special

While most visitors stick to the postcard spots, you'll weave between iconic landmarks and tucked-away gems that tell Bologna's real story. The perfect balance for curious travelers who want it all.

Key highlights

  • Explore the grandeur of Piazza Maggiore and the magnificent Basilica di San Petronio.
  • See the famous leaning towers while discovering the quieter side streets nearby.
  • Peek through the
  • Visit the historic Anatomical Theatre where medical science took shape centuries ago.
  • Wander through local food markets and artisan workshops off the tourist track.
  • Experience Bologna through both its celebrated icons and authentic local treasures.

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, Italy

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 (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 most

Here’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

Meeting point

Piazza Maggiore, Piazza Maggiore, 40124 Bologna BO, Italy

Piazza Maggiore & San Petronio

Begin where Bologna's heart beats strongest, surrounded by history

See More

Start in the city's grand square where centuries of history meet daily life. Admire San Petronio's unfinished facade before stepping inside to discover its massive sundial that once helped regulate European time.

The Two Towers & Beyond

Discover a hidden canal through a secret window in the wall.

See More

Slide open an unmarked window to reveal a picturesque canal running between ancient buildings. This hidden waterway offers a glimpse into Bologna's forgotten canal network that once powered the city's prosperity.

Quadrilatero & Market Life

Experience the flavors and energy of Bologna's food scene.

See More

Weave through the lively Quadrilatero district, perhaps stopping at Mercato di Mezzo for a taste of local specialties. Whether you grab a quick bite or simply absorb the atmosphere, you'll connect with Bologna's food traditions.

Archiginnasio & Anatomical Theatre

Step into Europe's oldest university and its fascinating secrets.

See More

Explore the historic university building's arcaded courtyard before discovering the wooden Anatomical Theatre where medical students once learned by candlelight—a hidden treasure speaking to Bologna's legacy of learning.

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
Sunlit Stories in Piazza Maggiore

Sunlit Stories in Piazza Maggiore

A City of Layers and Laughter

A City of Layers and Laughter

Under the Porticoes: Timeless Bologna Comes Alive

Under the Porticoes: Timeless Bologna Comes Alive

A Local’s Embrace in Bologna’s Backstreets

A Local’s Embrace in Bologna’s Backstreets

Flavours and Friendships in Quadrilatero Market

Flavours and Friendships in Quadrilatero Market

Family Explorations at Sala Borsa

Family Explorations at Sala Borsa

Through the Secret Window: Discovering Hidden Bologna

Through the Secret Window: Discovering Hidden Bologna

Sun-Kissed Streets & Big Smiles: A Local Welcome in the Quadrilatero

Sun-Kissed Streets & Big Smiles: A Local Welcome in the Quadrilatero

Medieval Echoes and Modern Joys

Medieval Echoes and Modern Joys

Fountain of Neptune, Moments of Marvel

Fountain of Neptune, Moments of Marvel

Locks of Memory, Stories of the Canal

Locks of Memory, Stories of the Canal

Through the Secret Window: A Rainy Glimpse into Bologna’s Hidden Canal

Through the Secret Window: A Rainy Glimpse into Bologna’s Hidden Canal

Scoops & Stories: Sharing Gelato Outside a Historic Bologna Gelateria

Scoops & Stories: Sharing Gelato Outside a Historic Bologna Gelateria

Chic Stops: Exploring Fashion & Architecture in Galleria Cavour

Chic Stops: Exploring Fashion & Architecture in Galleria Cavour

Legends & Laughter: Posing Proudly at the Fountain of Neptune

Legends & Laughter: Posing Proudly at the Fountain of Neptune

Evening Flavors: A Twilight Stroll Through Bologna’s Market Alleys

Evening Flavors: A Twilight Stroll Through Bologna’s Market Alleys

17,500+ 5-Star Reviews and Counting

Trusted and recommended by travelers worldwide, including 99% on Google and TripAdvisor.

recommended by 99% of travelers on google
recommended by 99% of travelers on tripadvisor
We don’t make deals with businesses - giving you unbiased and authentic local experiences.

What travelers think of this experience

Kim Oct 2023

Daniele was a great guide. We very much appreciated him taking us to the surrounding hills in his car. It was great to see more than just the old town to get a better feel for the area. His lunch spot was excellent. We enjoyed walking in the old city and exploring his hidden gems and “secrets”. A great day.

Show more
Dominik May 2023

I’m in Italy to learn italian and my guide explained everything in italian with a lot of patience for a beginner. Great tour and great experience for me.

Show more
Anna Oct 2021

Loved the history, all the beautiful old historical buildings. My tour guide was very interesting as she told me about Bologna. It is a city I would visit again.

Show more
Joaquin Sep 2021

Lorenza was an extremely excellent tour guide. She has fantastic knowledge, not only for being a local, but due to her knowledge of history, culture, architecture, as well as great delivery in both English and Spanish...and a great sense of humor. She is the kind of guide that visitors enjoy to the max. Thank you Lorenza!!

Show more
Giacomo Aug 2020

I was very happy to share my knowledge about the city with the guys. They've been really curious about Bologna and kind with me. At the end of the tour I had really good time with the. Also I think that now they are all set to see Bologna with the same eyes of a local, like me.

Show more
Ingrid Feb 2020

Der Rundgang mit Lorenza Simoni hat uns sehr gefallen. Sie hat uns viel Wissenswertes über Bologna erzählt. Enjoyed the most: Atmosphäre der Stadt

Show more
SEE ALL REVIEWS

FAQs

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.

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.

What makes City Unscripted different?

We don’t do generic tours. Every experience is crafted around you, ensuring a unique, personal, and authentic way to explore the city. You won’t just see the sights—you’ll connect with the people and stories that bring the city to life.

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.

Will we enter attractions, or just explore from the outside?

That’s up to you! Some experiences include visits inside attractions, while others focus on the city's culture and atmosphere, which can be hard to truly experience without someone who knows the city inside out.