Things To Do For Free In Bologna

There are over 600 porticoes (or portici in Italian) in Bologna. They are a series of covered arcades stretching about 45 kilometers. And, they’ve been recognized for their historic significance from UNESCO. 

One way to spend a day seeing the best of Bologna is to wander the porticoes and admire the architecture. The further you explore from Piazza Maggiore the more of a chance there is of witnesses how the locals live in Bologna. This is also a great way to visit Bologna when the weather is not so nice.

The Basilica of Santo Stefano once included seven churches, which is why it is known as le Sette Chiese. The oldest church dates to the 5th Century and was built on top of a pagan temple. Today, only four churches remain. The Piazza Santo Stefano is lovely, with porticoes, bars, and cafes.

The churches that remain are set around quiet courtyards as well. It’s a unique place to visit in Bologna because all of the buildings are connected and you can wander among them while enjoying the architecture. One of the main reasons to visit is to see all the different architectural styles in the complex.

You'll feel as if you've stepped back in time as you step through the doors of the Archiginnasio library. The walls include ornate paintings, symbols, and old family crests.

The library is one of the oldest in Europe and it also houses some ancient manuscripts. It’s like breathing in history. The library is open all day Monday through Friday and on Saturday morning. They are closed on Sunday. You'll find it behind the Basilica and Piazza Maggiore on the Piazza Galvani.

Another free Bologna must-see attraction is just out there in the open on the city walls. Bologna is one of the top spots for street art in Emilia Romagna and in Italy. Some of Italy’s best-known street artists have left their mark on the city.

Although the Bologna Tourist Office used to offer a map to help find some of the best street art in Bologna. But, because the installations change so quickly, it’s best to just explore. One place to look is in Bolognina, north of the train station.

he Archiginnasio used to be one of the main buildings of the University of Bologna and it deserves a visit on its own. But, it now houses the Anatomical Theater, which is a truly unique things to see in Bologna.

It includes carved statues of some of the most famous doctors and medical practitioners of Italy. It’s certainly unique when considering that in the center is an old anatomical table, where students once watched surgery demonstrations. And, perhaps, a few dissections, as far back as the 1600s.